5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c 2ee267e4-831c-44cf-ab16-af2a014a924b ea4296d2-2374-4c07-a376-b27200eeaa83 f232cca6-ef23-4c6d-a6c1-b27200eeaede en-US https://www.omnycontent.com/d/playlist/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/ea4296d2-2374-4c07-a376-b27200eeaa83/f232cca6-ef23-4c6d-a6c1-b27200eeaede/podcast.rss Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast https://www.lifeaudio.com/ episodic Your Hope-Filled Perspective draws on Dr. Michelle Bengtson’s almost 3 decades of clinical expertise as a neuropsychologist to help her listeners regain hope, renew their minds, and transform their lives. With a perfect balance of clinical expertise, compassion, and vulnerability, Dr. Bengtson and her guests purpose to share Biblically-based hope-filled perspectives for real-life issues, struggles, and concerns. Voted #2 in 2022's Podcast Magazine's Top 50 Moms in Podcasting. Dr. Michelle Bengtson DrMichelle@DrMichelleBengtson.com Dr. Michelle Bengtson no https://www.omnycontent.com/d/playlist/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/ea4296d2-2374-4c07-a376-b27200eeaa83/f232cca6-ef23-4c6d-a6c1-b27200eeaede/image.jpg?t=1739816617&size=Large Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast https://www.lifeaudio.com/ Why We Crave Comfort When Life Feels Overwhelming Why We Crave Comfort When Life Feels Overwhelming Episode Summary:

Have you ever found yourself standing in front of the refrigerator even though you're not hungry? Or scrolling social media long after you intended to put your phone down?

Maybe you've filled your online shopping cart after a stressful day. Maybe you've stayed busy from sunrise to sunset because slowing down would force you to feel what you've been trying to avoid.

Most of us think those moments are about lack of discipline. But what if they're actually revealing something much deeper? What if your brain isn't craving food, social media, shopping, busyness, or distraction at all? What if what you're really craving is comfort?

Today in honor of World Mental Health Day, Rev Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about why we seek comfort when life feels overwhelming, what happens inside the brain during seasons of stress, and how God offers something far more healing than temporary relief.

 

Quotables from the episode:

  • The problem isn't that we need comfort. The problem is that we often look for comfort in places that were never designed to heal us. Those things may soothe us temporarily, but they can't restore us permanently.
  • God never asks us to deny our humanity. He invites us to bring our humanity to Him.
  • When we're overwhelmed, the brain becomes less concerned with what's best long term and more concerned with what feels better immediately
  • The brain isn't trying to sabotage you. It's trying to help you feel better. The problem is that temporary relief can masquerade as genuine healing.
  • Healthy comfort helps us process life. Unhealthy comfort helps us avoid life.
  • When we numb our emotions, we may temporarily reduce discomfort, but we also delay healing. Emotions that are buried don't disappear. They often resurface later in different forms such as anxiety, irritability, resentment, exhaustion, or depression.
  • Martha was seeking relief through activity. Mary was seeking comfort through presence.
  • Every time we pause, become aware, and choose restoration over escape, we're strengthening new pathways in the brain.
  • Distraction helps us forget our pain for a little while. God's comfort helps us carry it.
  • Healing isn't merely the absence of unhealthy coping. Healing is the presence of healthy living.

 

Scripture References:

  • Psalm 34:18 tells us: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

 

Recommended Resources:

 

Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

Website / Instagram / Facebook

Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

Co-Host:

Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

]]> Episode Summary:

Have you ever found yourself standing in front of the refrigerator even though you're not hungry? Or scrolling social media long after you intended to put your phone down?

Maybe you've filled your online shopping cart after a stressful day. Maybe you've stayed busy from sunrise to sunset because slowing down would force you to feel what you've been trying to avoid.

Most of us think those moments are about lack of discipline. But what if they're actually revealing something much deeper? What if your brain isn't craving food, social media, shopping, busyness, or distraction at all? What if what you're really craving is comfort?

Today in honor of World Mental Health Day, Rev Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about why we seek comfort when life feels overwhelming, what happens inside the brain during seasons of stress, and how God offers something far more healing than temporary relief.

 

Quotables from the episode:

  • The problem isn't that we need comfort. The problem is that we often look for comfort in places that were never designed to heal us. Those things may soothe us temporarily, but they can't restore us permanently.
  • God never asks us to deny our humanity. He invites us to bring our humanity to Him.
  • When we're overwhelmed, the brain becomes less concerned with what's best long term and more concerned with what feels better immediately
  • The brain isn't trying to sabotage you. It's trying to help you feel better. The problem is that temporary relief can masquerade as genuine healing.
  • Healthy comfort helps us process life. Unhealthy comfort helps us avoid life.
  • When we numb our emotions, we may temporarily reduce discomfort, but we also delay healing. Emotions that are buried don't disappear. They often resurface later in different forms such as anxiety, irritability, resentment, exhaustion, or depression.
  • Martha was seeking relief through activity. Mary was seeking comfort through presence.
  • Every time we pause, become aware, and choose restoration over escape, we're strengthening new pathways in the brain.
  • Distraction helps us forget our pain for a little while. God's comfort helps us carry it.
  • Healing isn't merely the absence of unhealthy coping. Healing is the presence of healthy living.

 

Scripture References:

  • Psalm 34:18 tells us: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

 

Recommended Resources:

 

Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

Website / Instagram / Facebook

Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

Co-Host:

Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

]]> full 391 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 99eab72d-b368-43e4-a2ed-b4dd001406ae 99eab72d-b368-43e4-a2ed-b4dd001406ae Thu, 08 Oct 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2189 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/why-we-crave-comfort-when-life-feels-overwhelming How to Recognize Hidden Emotional Baggage You Didn’t Know You Were Carrying How to Recognize Hidden Emotional Baggage You Didn’t Know You Were Carrying Episode Summary:

Today’s episode with Laurie Davies brings a powerful lens to a struggle many of us don’t even realize we have: emotional hoarding. We joke about “emotional baggage,” but most of us are carrying far more than a suitcase—we’re holding closets full of unprocessed feelings like worry, panic, regret, false guilt, anger, or shame. Our guest’s new Moody Publishers release offers a gentle, insightful, biblical pathway to recognize the emotional clutter weighing us down and step into the freedom Christ provides. This is a conversation that will help you name what’s been holding you back and learn how to release it for good.

 

Quotables from the episode:

  • I have a luggage tag that I put on my carry-on bag, and it says, “My emotional baggage won't fit into the overhead bin,” and it always gets a lot of laughs. We talk about that in a light way sometimes.  My thesis in the book is that we don't actually have an emotional baggage problem.  We're emotional hoarders.
  • I think hoarded hearts are very much like hoarded homes.  We can let emotional kind of skyscrapers build in our hearts.  Before we know it, we're maneuvering our way around with all this clutter, which actually is a lack of freedom.
  • All these kinds of emotions that God doesn't want us to haul all of these out to the dumpster.  But I do think he wants us to look at them, acknowledge them, process them, and see kind of what he's showing us through them.
  • I think any of us who want to put forth that we're 100 percent healed.  I mean, we'll all be looking at each other in heaven, 100 percent healed.  And until then, aren't we glad for the grace of God and the tenderness of the Holy Spirit?
  • We know these emotions are not good.  They don't even feel good.  But if we go back to bitterness, I think if we're being honest, sometimes we like the way the grudge feels in our hands.  It gives us that little feeling of “I'm not going to let them off the hook.”
  • Galatians 5:1 “It is for freedom that Christ set us free.”  So why would we go back to wearing a yoke of slavery?  Freedom is of high value to the Lord.  It's why he came to set the captives free, to set the prisoners free.
  • When we start to face the things that are keeping us stuck, we'll taste a freedom that we won't want to turn back from. It’s a life changer, and we won't want to go back to the chains we once wore.  They just won't fit anymore.
  • Grace fills all those gaps where we wish we would have gone left instead of right.
  • There's no room for shame.  There is plenty of room for conviction.  And conviction is offered to us as a gift to restore our relationship with God.

 

Scripture References:

  • Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, God, and know my heart…See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

 

Recommended Resources: 

     

    Social Media Links for Host:

    Connect with Laurie Davies:

    Website / Instagram

    For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

    Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

     

    Guest:

    Laurie Davies is a writer, national speaker, and lay counselor who helps women deal with their “emotional accumulation,” letting go of things like regret, grudges, false guilt, and shame. Her debut book, Emotional Hoarding: Letting Go of the Stuff That Keeps You Stuck, released with Moody Publishers in March 2026. Laurie’s writing has been featured in Guideposts and the Proverbs 31 First 5 app, and she also serves as lead editor on Shaunti Feldhahn’s Atlanta-based ministry staff. Laurie lives in the Phoenix area with her husband of 30 years. Their adult son lives nearby.

     

    Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

    Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    ]]>     Episode Summary:

    Today’s episode with Laurie Davies brings a powerful lens to a struggle many of us don’t even realize we have: emotional hoarding. We joke about “emotional baggage,” but most of us are carrying far more than a suitcase—we’re holding closets full of unprocessed feelings like worry, panic, regret, false guilt, anger, or shame. Our guest’s new Moody Publishers release offers a gentle, insightful, biblical pathway to recognize the emotional clutter weighing us down and step into the freedom Christ provides. This is a conversation that will help you name what’s been holding you back and learn how to release it for good.

     

    Quotables from the episode:

    • I have a luggage tag that I put on my carry-on bag, and it says, “My emotional baggage won't fit into the overhead bin,” and it always gets a lot of laughs. We talk about that in a light way sometimes.  My thesis in the book is that we don't actually have an emotional baggage problem.  We're emotional hoarders.
    • I think hoarded hearts are very much like hoarded homes.  We can let emotional kind of skyscrapers build in our hearts.  Before we know it, we're maneuvering our way around with all this clutter, which actually is a lack of freedom.
    • All these kinds of emotions that God doesn't want us to haul all of these out to the dumpster.  But I do think he wants us to look at them, acknowledge them, process them, and see kind of what he's showing us through them.
    • I think any of us who want to put forth that we're 100 percent healed.  I mean, we'll all be looking at each other in heaven, 100 percent healed.  And until then, aren't we glad for the grace of God and the tenderness of the Holy Spirit?
    • We know these emotions are not good.  They don't even feel good.  But if we go back to bitterness, I think if we're being honest, sometimes we like the way the grudge feels in our hands.  It gives us that little feeling of “I'm not going to let them off the hook.”
    • Galatians 5:1 “It is for freedom that Christ set us free.”  So why would we go back to wearing a yoke of slavery?  Freedom is of high value to the Lord.  It's why he came to set the captives free, to set the prisoners free.
    • When we start to face the things that are keeping us stuck, we'll taste a freedom that we won't want to turn back from. It’s a life changer, and we won't want to go back to the chains we once wore.  They just won't fit anymore.
    • Grace fills all those gaps where we wish we would have gone left instead of right.
    • There's no room for shame.  There is plenty of room for conviction.  And conviction is offered to us as a gift to restore our relationship with God.

     

    Scripture References:

    • Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, God, and know my heart…See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

     

    Recommended Resources: 

       

      Social Media Links for Host:

      Connect with Laurie Davies:

      Website / Instagram

      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

       

      Guest:

      Laurie Davies is a writer, national speaker, and lay counselor who helps women deal with their “emotional accumulation,” letting go of things like regret, grudges, false guilt, and shame. Her debut book, Emotional Hoarding: Letting Go of the Stuff That Keeps You Stuck, released with Moody Publishers in March 2026. Laurie’s writing has been featured in Guideposts and the Proverbs 31 First 5 app, and she also serves as lead editor on Shaunti Feldhahn’s Atlanta-based ministry staff. Laurie lives in the Phoenix area with her husband of 30 years. Their adult son lives nearby.

       

      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

      ]]>       full 390 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 3c2abebe-9fee-4c1c-b3c2-b4d6002a029a 3c2abebe-9fee-4c1c-b3c2-b4d6002a029a Thu, 01 Oct 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1791 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-recognize-hidden-emotional-baggage-you-didn-t-know-you-were-carrying       How to Improve Your Gut Health to Support Your Emotional Health How to Improve Your Gut Health to Support Your Emotional Health Episode Summary:

      Have you ever felt like stress is living inside your body, no matter how much you pray, rest, or try to stay positive? For so many people, stress isn't just emotional or mental. It's actually deeply embedded in the nervous system, shaping how we respond, react, and even relate to God and others.

      In today's episode, we're diving into why stress becomes chronic, how emotional and relational stress can quietly accumulate over time, and what it looks like to heal rather than simply cope. We'll explore why willpower isn't enough, how the body remembers stress even when the mind wants to move on, and how a compassionate, faith-informed approach can lead to lasting freedom.

      This conversation is especially for you who feel overwhelmed, emotionally depleted, or stuck in survival mode, yet long for peace that feels real, sustainable, and aligned with how God designed us to live. In this episode of your Hope Filled Perspective, we will talk about how to improve your gut health to support your emotional health.

       

      Quotables from the episode:

      • Stress is no longer just a lifestyle issue. It's a whole person issue affecting the brain, body, emotions, and spiritual well-being. Many people try to manage stress by changing their schedules, their diets, or their thinking patterns. Yet they still feel stuck in exhaustion, anxiety, and overwhelm. What if the real key to healing stress isn't found outside of us, but within.
      • The gut brain connection is also called your HPA axis. It is that two way highway between your brain and your gut.
      • When we are in that state of chronic stress, it can be caused by external factors like a really intense job. It can be caused by internal factors like a poor diet, inflammation, things like that.
      • Why is healing the gut so essential for healing stress from the inside out? When you're healing your gut, you're helping to heal that inflammation internally, which then allows your body to go into that rest and digest state so that you're absorbing your nutrients, you're actually getting the vitamins, the minerals that your body needs to fully function.
      • I think that's one thing that people really don't understand is that nutrition absolutely plays a big role in helping regulate cortisol, helping it stay normal and level.
      • I like to tell people, pick one thing, just one small thing. Do that for two weeks. And if you can do that for two weeks, then you know you found something that works for you.
      • How can faith-based practices support gut health and emotional healing?  When we do faith-based practices like prayer or meditation, it is actually activating our parasympathetic nervous system. It's activating that rest and digest system. It triggers the vagus nerve. The Lord built that in to naturally happen when we pray, when we meditate.
      • When I finally came awake spiritually again, I started to realize what the word says about my identity in Christ. It was a slow undoing of the lies that I had been telling myself to reclaiming that truth that in Christ that he tells us our identity is in him.
      • The beauty of neuroplasticity is that God created our minds and our bodies to change.
      • Proverbs 14:30 that says, "A heart at peace gives life to the body.” You too can heal your gut and heal from the inside out. 

       

      Scripture References:

      • 3 John 1:2 “I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well."
      • Proverbs 14:30 "A heart at peace gives life to the body.”

       

      Recommended Resources: 

         

        Social Media Links for Host:

        Connect with Holly Andrews:

        Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / LinkedIn / YouTube

        For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

        Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

         

        Guest:

        Holly Andrews was born and raised in Orlando, Florida. She holds a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Covenant College and a Master’s in Russian from Middlebury College. Her early career took her overseas to Russia, where she lived for three years before joining the National Security Agency in 2005. Over the next 17 years, Holly rose to an executive leadership role, overseeing cutting-edge technology operations, leading high-profile teams and projects until her departure in 2022.

         

        In 2019, a personal health crisis became the unexpected turning point that changed everything. As Holly began to heal physically, she rediscovered a deeper sense of purpose that led her to pursue health coaching. She is now a certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and the founder of Andrews Coaching & Transformation, where she helps others reduce stress, restore balance, and reclaim their well-being.

        Holly is the author of Heal Your Stress from the Inside Out, a guide to addressing stress through a holistic, root-cause approach. She is passionate about empowering others to transform their health from the inside out.

         

        Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

        Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

         

         

        Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

        ]]>         Episode Summary:

        Have you ever felt like stress is living inside your body, no matter how much you pray, rest, or try to stay positive? For so many people, stress isn't just emotional or mental. It's actually deeply embedded in the nervous system, shaping how we respond, react, and even relate to God and others.

        In today's episode, we're diving into why stress becomes chronic, how emotional and relational stress can quietly accumulate over time, and what it looks like to heal rather than simply cope. We'll explore why willpower isn't enough, how the body remembers stress even when the mind wants to move on, and how a compassionate, faith-informed approach can lead to lasting freedom.

        This conversation is especially for you who feel overwhelmed, emotionally depleted, or stuck in survival mode, yet long for peace that feels real, sustainable, and aligned with how God designed us to live. In this episode of your Hope Filled Perspective, we will talk about how to improve your gut health to support your emotional health.

         

        Quotables from the episode:

        • Stress is no longer just a lifestyle issue. It's a whole person issue affecting the brain, body, emotions, and spiritual well-being. Many people try to manage stress by changing their schedules, their diets, or their thinking patterns. Yet they still feel stuck in exhaustion, anxiety, and overwhelm. What if the real key to healing stress isn't found outside of us, but within.
        • The gut brain connection is also called your HPA axis. It is that two way highway between your brain and your gut.
        • When we are in that state of chronic stress, it can be caused by external factors like a really intense job. It can be caused by internal factors like a poor diet, inflammation, things like that.
        • Why is healing the gut so essential for healing stress from the inside out? When you're healing your gut, you're helping to heal that inflammation internally, which then allows your body to go into that rest and digest state so that you're absorbing your nutrients, you're actually getting the vitamins, the minerals that your body needs to fully function.
        • I think that's one thing that people really don't understand is that nutrition absolutely plays a big role in helping regulate cortisol, helping it stay normal and level.
        • I like to tell people, pick one thing, just one small thing. Do that for two weeks. And if you can do that for two weeks, then you know you found something that works for you.
        • How can faith-based practices support gut health and emotional healing?  When we do faith-based practices like prayer or meditation, it is actually activating our parasympathetic nervous system. It's activating that rest and digest system. It triggers the vagus nerve. The Lord built that in to naturally happen when we pray, when we meditate.
        • When I finally came awake spiritually again, I started to realize what the word says about my identity in Christ. It was a slow undoing of the lies that I had been telling myself to reclaiming that truth that in Christ that he tells us our identity is in him.
        • The beauty of neuroplasticity is that God created our minds and our bodies to change.
        • Proverbs 14:30 that says, "A heart at peace gives life to the body.” You too can heal your gut and heal from the inside out. 

         

        Scripture References:

        • 3 John 1:2 “I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well."
        • Proverbs 14:30 "A heart at peace gives life to the body.”

         

        Recommended Resources: 

           

          Social Media Links for Host:

          Connect with Holly Andrews:

          Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / LinkedIn / YouTube

          For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

          Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

           

          Guest:

          Holly Andrews was born and raised in Orlando, Florida. She holds a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Covenant College and a Master’s in Russian from Middlebury College. Her early career took her overseas to Russia, where she lived for three years before joining the National Security Agency in 2005. Over the next 17 years, Holly rose to an executive leadership role, overseeing cutting-edge technology operations, leading high-profile teams and projects until her departure in 2022.

           

          In 2019, a personal health crisis became the unexpected turning point that changed everything. As Holly began to heal physically, she rediscovered a deeper sense of purpose that led her to pursue health coaching. She is now a certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and the founder of Andrews Coaching & Transformation, where she helps others reduce stress, restore balance, and reclaim their well-being.

          Holly is the author of Heal Your Stress from the Inside Out, a guide to addressing stress through a holistic, root-cause approach. She is passionate about empowering others to transform their health from the inside out.

           

          Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

          Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

           

           

          Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

          ]]>           full 389 Dr. Michelle Bengtson e7236a0d-f2af-4f2c-9484-b4cf002e1ca8 e7236a0d-f2af-4f2c-9484-b4cf002e1ca8 Thu, 24 Sep 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2232 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-improve-your-gut-health-to-support-your-emotional-health           How to Move from Surviving to Truly Living Again, Even After the Deepest Hurts How to Move from Surviving to Truly Living Again, Even After the Deepest Hurts Episode Summary:

          Trauma can shatter our sense of safety, identity, and trust—especially when it comes at the hands of someone who vowed to love us. In today’s episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist whose story of surviving attempted murder is both heartbreaking and incredibly inspiring. Through her faith and her training, she has transformed her pain into purpose, helping others heal from grief, loss, and trauma. Today she shares how God meets us in our darkest moments and how we can reclaim our lives after the deepest wounds. This story is not about a villain and a victim. Instead, it is about a woman who, despite being victimized, chose healing and emerged victorious. Today we’re going to be talking about how to move from surviving to truly living again, even after the deepest hurts.

           

          Quotables from the episode:

          • I will not be a victim. I was victimized.  And on that day, I was a victim.  But from that point on, I became I had been victimized, but I was not going to be a victim.
          • I said, “I want you to know I will forgive you.“ I kept declaring these things over myself without even realizing it.  Now, I did not forgive him that day, although I prayed for him that night when he was in jail. I had to work through that, but I knew that I will be forgiving.  I will be joyful.  I knew this is not going to be the end of my story because the devil will not have the last word.
          • Let me maybe clarify too, because even though I declared all that over me, that doesn't mean I wasn't falling apart at times.  You know, healing is not linear.  I was weeping.  I'd have good days and I'd had bad days.  So, I don't want to give the impression that I just said, okay, life will be great.
          • When people say, “where's God when bad things happen?”  You know, sometimes we say it as an accusation, like God wasn't there. I love to say, ask the Lord where he was because he was there.
          • I didn't know if I was going to live or die.  But in that moment, I knew I would not have died alone.  That it was Psalm 23 come alive that said, “yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you're with me.” So many people think, “well, we shouldn't walk through any valleys.”  But the Bible says we're going to walk through the shadow of the valley, the shadow of death.  The promise is he's not going to leave us.
          • The hardest person to forgive was myself.
          • I had to go back and rewrite those beliefs because I hadn't failed. I told myself and the enemy told me I had.
          • I've come to learn that you can heal without forgiveness, but you can't be whole.
          • I love to tell people that God is in the restoration business.  There is no story that is too far gone. There is nothing he cannot redeem because that's what God's specialty is, is bringing beauty from ashes.
          • Just because you don't see it doesn't mean it can't happen.  Hold on to God, who is the author of hope.  He's not going to let you down. 

           

          Recommended Resources: 

             

            Social Media Links for Host:

            For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

            Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

             

            Guest:

            Kimberly Haar, LPC, LMFT, is a survivor of domestic violence, a licensed professional counselor, and a license marriage and family therapist with nearly two decades of experience helping others find healing and wholeness in life. Her therapy practice is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she continues to inspire hope and strength in those facing life’s challenges.

             

            Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

            Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

            Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

            ]]>             Episode Summary:

            Trauma can shatter our sense of safety, identity, and trust—especially when it comes at the hands of someone who vowed to love us. In today’s episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist whose story of surviving attempted murder is both heartbreaking and incredibly inspiring. Through her faith and her training, she has transformed her pain into purpose, helping others heal from grief, loss, and trauma. Today she shares how God meets us in our darkest moments and how we can reclaim our lives after the deepest wounds. This story is not about a villain and a victim. Instead, it is about a woman who, despite being victimized, chose healing and emerged victorious. Today we’re going to be talking about how to move from surviving to truly living again, even after the deepest hurts.

             

            Quotables from the episode:

            • I will not be a victim. I was victimized.  And on that day, I was a victim.  But from that point on, I became I had been victimized, but I was not going to be a victim.
            • I said, “I want you to know I will forgive you.“ I kept declaring these things over myself without even realizing it.  Now, I did not forgive him that day, although I prayed for him that night when he was in jail. I had to work through that, but I knew that I will be forgiving.  I will be joyful.  I knew this is not going to be the end of my story because the devil will not have the last word.
            • Let me maybe clarify too, because even though I declared all that over me, that doesn't mean I wasn't falling apart at times.  You know, healing is not linear.  I was weeping.  I'd have good days and I'd had bad days.  So, I don't want to give the impression that I just said, okay, life will be great.
            • When people say, “where's God when bad things happen?”  You know, sometimes we say it as an accusation, like God wasn't there. I love to say, ask the Lord where he was because he was there.
            • I didn't know if I was going to live or die.  But in that moment, I knew I would not have died alone.  That it was Psalm 23 come alive that said, “yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you're with me.” So many people think, “well, we shouldn't walk through any valleys.”  But the Bible says we're going to walk through the shadow of the valley, the shadow of death.  The promise is he's not going to leave us.
            • The hardest person to forgive was myself.
            • I had to go back and rewrite those beliefs because I hadn't failed. I told myself and the enemy told me I had.
            • I've come to learn that you can heal without forgiveness, but you can't be whole.
            • I love to tell people that God is in the restoration business.  There is no story that is too far gone. There is nothing he cannot redeem because that's what God's specialty is, is bringing beauty from ashes.
            • Just because you don't see it doesn't mean it can't happen.  Hold on to God, who is the author of hope.  He's not going to let you down. 

             

            Recommended Resources: 

               

              Social Media Links for Host:

              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

               

              Guest:

              Kimberly Haar, LPC, LMFT, is a survivor of domestic violence, a licensed professional counselor, and a license marriage and family therapist with nearly two decades of experience helping others find healing and wholeness in life. Her therapy practice is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she continues to inspire hope and strength in those facing life’s challenges.

               

              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

              ]]>               full 388 Dr. Michelle Bengtson a3323f23-5693-4455-b97c-b4c8002b205b a3323f23-5693-4455-b97c-b4c8002b205b Thu, 17 Sep 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2480 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-move-from-surviving-to-truly-living-again-even-after-the-deepest-hurts               How Disappointment Affects Your Mental Health, and How to Move Forward How Disappointment Affects Your Mental Health, and How to Move Forward Episode Summary:

              Have you ever found yourself asking, "God, what happened?"

              Not because you've stopped believing. Not because you've lost your faith. But because life unfolded so differently than you expected that you're still trying to make sense of it.

              Perhaps you prayed faithfully for healing, but the diagnosis remained. Perhaps you believed a relationship would last, only to watch it fall apart. Perhaps you worked diligently toward a goal, only to have the opportunity slip through your fingers. Maybe you carried a dream for years—something you genuinely believed God had placed on your heart—and yet that dream never materialized.

              One of the hardest realities of life is that sometimes our greatest pain comes not from what happened, but from what didn't happen.

              Disappointment has a unique kind of grief attached to it. It's the grief of unmet expectations. It's the grief of unanswered questions. It's the grief of looking at your life and realizing it doesn't resemble the picture you once carried in your heart.

              What many people don't realize is that disappointment affects far more than our emotions. It affects our thinking. It affects our stress levels. It affects our motivation. It affects our relationships. It affects our faith. And it even affects our brains.

              In honor of the National Day of Encouragement, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about what happens when expectations are shattered, why disappointment can become so emotionally heavy, and how we can move forward without becoming stuck in discouragement or cynicism.

              If you've ever wrestled with a dream that didn't happen, a prayer that seemed unanswered, or a season that didn't unfold the way you hoped, this conversation is for you.

               

              Quotables from the episode:

              • Disappointment isn't evidence of weak faith. It's evidence that you're human.
              • But disappointment often involves grieving an anticipated future. We're grieving what we thought would happen. We're grieving what we expected. We're grieving the story we imagined.
              • But minimizing pain doesn't heal pain. It simply buries it. And buried disappointment has a way of resurfacing later.
              • And the larger the gap between expectation and reality, the more emotionally significant that disruption becomes. Which explains why disappointment can feel so destabilizing.
              • That's where disappointment creates such tension. Our brains crave certainty, but our faith requires trust. Learning to navigate that tension is an important part of emotional and spiritual maturity.
              • We cannot surrender something to God that we're unwilling to admit exists.
              • Honest emotion is not the enemy of faith. In many ways, honest emotion becomes the doorway through which deeper faith develops.
              • Yet pain is not always an accurate interpreter of reality.
              • But biblical hope was never intended to rest on outcomes. It was intended to rest on God's character.
              • Hope isn't certainty about the future. It's confidence in the One who holds the future.

              Recommended Resources:

               

              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

              Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

              Website / Instagram / Facebook

              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

              Co-Host:

              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

              ]]>               Episode Summary:

              Have you ever found yourself asking, "God, what happened?"

              Not because you've stopped believing. Not because you've lost your faith. But because life unfolded so differently than you expected that you're still trying to make sense of it.

              Perhaps you prayed faithfully for healing, but the diagnosis remained. Perhaps you believed a relationship would last, only to watch it fall apart. Perhaps you worked diligently toward a goal, only to have the opportunity slip through your fingers. Maybe you carried a dream for years—something you genuinely believed God had placed on your heart—and yet that dream never materialized.

              One of the hardest realities of life is that sometimes our greatest pain comes not from what happened, but from what didn't happen.

              Disappointment has a unique kind of grief attached to it. It's the grief of unmet expectations. It's the grief of unanswered questions. It's the grief of looking at your life and realizing it doesn't resemble the picture you once carried in your heart.

              What many people don't realize is that disappointment affects far more than our emotions. It affects our thinking. It affects our stress levels. It affects our motivation. It affects our relationships. It affects our faith. And it even affects our brains.

              In honor of the National Day of Encouragement, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about what happens when expectations are shattered, why disappointment can become so emotionally heavy, and how we can move forward without becoming stuck in discouragement or cynicism.

              If you've ever wrestled with a dream that didn't happen, a prayer that seemed unanswered, or a season that didn't unfold the way you hoped, this conversation is for you.

               

              Quotables from the episode:

              • Disappointment isn't evidence of weak faith. It's evidence that you're human.
              • But disappointment often involves grieving an anticipated future. We're grieving what we thought would happen. We're grieving what we expected. We're grieving the story we imagined.
              • But minimizing pain doesn't heal pain. It simply buries it. And buried disappointment has a way of resurfacing later.
              • And the larger the gap between expectation and reality, the more emotionally significant that disruption becomes. Which explains why disappointment can feel so destabilizing.
              • That's where disappointment creates such tension. Our brains crave certainty, but our faith requires trust. Learning to navigate that tension is an important part of emotional and spiritual maturity.
              • We cannot surrender something to God that we're unwilling to admit exists.
              • Honest emotion is not the enemy of faith. In many ways, honest emotion becomes the doorway through which deeper faith develops.
              • Yet pain is not always an accurate interpreter of reality.
              • But biblical hope was never intended to rest on outcomes. It was intended to rest on God's character.
              • Hope isn't certainty about the future. It's confidence in the One who holds the future.

              Recommended Resources:

               

              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

              Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

              Website / Instagram / Facebook

              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

              Co-Host:

              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

              ]]>               full 387 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 5b4641c2-b40e-4f30-85d5-b4c1002eec3a 5b4641c2-b40e-4f30-85d5-b4c1002eec3a Thu, 10 Sep 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2054 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-disappointment-affects-your-mental-health-and-how-to-move-forward               How to Strengthen Your Family's Mental Health This School Year How to Strengthen Your Family's Mental Health This School Year Episode Summary: 

              What if the most important thing you prepare your child for this school year isn't academic success—but emotional resilience? While parents are busy buying school supplies, organizing schedules, and preparing for the first day of class, many children are quietly carrying anxiety, stress, loneliness, pressure, and fear into the new school year.

              And if we're honest, many parents are carrying those same burdens. The truth is that a child's mental health affects everything—from learning and memory to relationships, confidence, and spiritual well-being. So before the homework starts piling up and the calendar fills to overflowing, let's talk about how to create a home where every member of the family can thrive emotionally, mentally, and spiritually throughout the school year. Today we're talking about something that affects nearly every family this time of year: How to Strengthen Your Family's Mental Health This School Year.

               

              Quotables from the episode:

              • As a neuropsychologist, I often explain that the brain functions best when it feels safe.
              • Neuroscience teaches us about emotional contagion. Our nervous systems influence one another. Children often borrow emotional cues from the adults around them.
              • When parents remain calm during stressful situations, children learn calmness. When parents model healthy coping skills, children learn resilience. When parents prioritize emotional health, children learn that mental health matters.
              • One of the greatest gifts you can give your family is predictability. Our brains love predictability because predictability creates safety. When life feels chaotic, the brain remains on high alert. When life feels structured, the brain can relax.
              • If I could give families one neuroscience-based recommendation, it would be this: Protect sleep. Sleep is not a luxury. Sleep is a necessity. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories. It processes emotions. It restores energy. It strengthens attention and learning.
              • Many children struggle not because they have emotions but because they don't know what to do with them. One of the most valuable skills we can teach children is emotional awareness. Help them identify what they're feeling.
              • As parents, we must consistently remind our children that their value comes from who they are, not what they achieve.
              • Many parents want to protect their children from every hardship. I understand that instinct. But resilience develops when children learn they can survive challenges. The goal isn't a stress-free life. The goal is learning how to navigate stress in healthy ways.
              • Research consistently shows that strong family relationships reduce the risk of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and other mental health concerns. Connection doesn't require perfection. It requires presence. Children spell love T-I-M-E.
              • The world teaches self-reliance. Scripture teaches God-reliance.

               

              Recommended Resources: 

                 

                Social Media Links for Host:

                For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                 

                Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                 

                Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                ]]>                 Episode Summary: 

                What if the most important thing you prepare your child for this school year isn't academic success—but emotional resilience? While parents are busy buying school supplies, organizing schedules, and preparing for the first day of class, many children are quietly carrying anxiety, stress, loneliness, pressure, and fear into the new school year.

                And if we're honest, many parents are carrying those same burdens. The truth is that a child's mental health affects everything—from learning and memory to relationships, confidence, and spiritual well-being. So before the homework starts piling up and the calendar fills to overflowing, let's talk about how to create a home where every member of the family can thrive emotionally, mentally, and spiritually throughout the school year. Today we're talking about something that affects nearly every family this time of year: How to Strengthen Your Family's Mental Health This School Year.

                 

                Quotables from the episode:

                • As a neuropsychologist, I often explain that the brain functions best when it feels safe.
                • Neuroscience teaches us about emotional contagion. Our nervous systems influence one another. Children often borrow emotional cues from the adults around them.
                • When parents remain calm during stressful situations, children learn calmness. When parents model healthy coping skills, children learn resilience. When parents prioritize emotional health, children learn that mental health matters.
                • One of the greatest gifts you can give your family is predictability. Our brains love predictability because predictability creates safety. When life feels chaotic, the brain remains on high alert. When life feels structured, the brain can relax.
                • If I could give families one neuroscience-based recommendation, it would be this: Protect sleep. Sleep is not a luxury. Sleep is a necessity. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories. It processes emotions. It restores energy. It strengthens attention and learning.
                • Many children struggle not because they have emotions but because they don't know what to do with them. One of the most valuable skills we can teach children is emotional awareness. Help them identify what they're feeling.
                • As parents, we must consistently remind our children that their value comes from who they are, not what they achieve.
                • Many parents want to protect their children from every hardship. I understand that instinct. But resilience develops when children learn they can survive challenges. The goal isn't a stress-free life. The goal is learning how to navigate stress in healthy ways.
                • Research consistently shows that strong family relationships reduce the risk of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and other mental health concerns. Connection doesn't require perfection. It requires presence. Children spell love T-I-M-E.
                • The world teaches self-reliance. Scripture teaches God-reliance.

                 

                Recommended Resources: 

                   

                  Social Media Links for Host:

                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                   

                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                  Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                   

                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                  ]]>                   full 386 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 55b089c5-634d-4dab-8593-b4ba000a659a 55b089c5-634d-4dab-8593-b4ba000a659a Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1380 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-strengthen-your-familys-mental-health-this-school-year                   Daring to Hope When Your Heart Is Shattered: Trusting God Through Pain and Loss Daring to Hope When Your Heart Is Shattered: Trusting God Through Pain and Loss Episode Summary:

                  When you are crushed and broken hearted, where do you go to find hope? Jesus said that in this life we will have pain, heartbreak, and trials. So how do we deal with our pain? What does it look like to walk with God in our grief. Our guest today has experienced her share of pain including a traumatic brain injury as well as cancer diagnoses for two of her daughters. In her suffering, Linda boldly asked God tough questions like How do I keep going? God, where are you? And How do I keep trusting. In honor of Grief Awareness Day, today we’re going to be talking about Daring to Hope When Your Heart Is Shattered: Trusting God Through Pain and Loss.

                   

                  Quotables from the episode:

                  • I'm going to dare to hope anyway. I am going to dare to hope.
                  • God, I can't give up. I have to keep trusting you.
                  • I will not give up. I will not give up. I will not give up.
                  • Hope does not come from a change in your circumstances, but from a change in your thinking.
                  • I had to look up, I had to look at him, and I had to say ‘I won't give up.’
                  • You are my hope, God, and my hope will be in you.
                  • If I got on my knees and opened my hands and surrendered to him, I got my perspective right because my eyes were lifted up to him.
                  • The greatest way to pour hope into your hurting heart is to sink deep into the love of God.
                  • Because being with you, my beloved, is the most important thing in my life.
                  • Peace can't be in our circumstances. It has to be in him.

                   

                  Scripture References:

                  • Lamentations 3:21-24 “Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my inheritance;’ therefore, I will hope in him!”
                  • Habakkuk 2:4 “The just shall live by faith.”
                  • Romans 15:13 “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

                   

                  Recommended Resources: 

                     

                    Social Media Links for Host:

                    For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                    Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                     

                    About Linda Dillow:

                    Linda Dillow is a bestselling author and a respected Bible teacher and conference speaker. She is the author of Calm My Anxious Heart and her new book Hope for My Hurting Heart. Linda is the mother of four children including one who is now with Jesus, and the grandmother of ten. She and her husband Jody make their home in Monument, Colorado.

                     

                    Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                    Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                    ]]>                     Episode Summary:

                    When you are crushed and broken hearted, where do you go to find hope? Jesus said that in this life we will have pain, heartbreak, and trials. So how do we deal with our pain? What does it look like to walk with God in our grief. Our guest today has experienced her share of pain including a traumatic brain injury as well as cancer diagnoses for two of her daughters. In her suffering, Linda boldly asked God tough questions like How do I keep going? God, where are you? And How do I keep trusting. In honor of Grief Awareness Day, today we’re going to be talking about Daring to Hope When Your Heart Is Shattered: Trusting God Through Pain and Loss.

                     

                    Quotables from the episode:

                    • I'm going to dare to hope anyway. I am going to dare to hope.
                    • God, I can't give up. I have to keep trusting you.
                    • I will not give up. I will not give up. I will not give up.
                    • Hope does not come from a change in your circumstances, but from a change in your thinking.
                    • I had to look up, I had to look at him, and I had to say ‘I won't give up.’
                    • You are my hope, God, and my hope will be in you.
                    • If I got on my knees and opened my hands and surrendered to him, I got my perspective right because my eyes were lifted up to him.
                    • The greatest way to pour hope into your hurting heart is to sink deep into the love of God.
                    • Because being with you, my beloved, is the most important thing in my life.
                    • Peace can't be in our circumstances. It has to be in him.

                     

                    Scripture References:

                    • Lamentations 3:21-24 “Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my inheritance;’ therefore, I will hope in him!”
                    • Habakkuk 2:4 “The just shall live by faith.”
                    • Romans 15:13 “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

                     

                    Recommended Resources: 

                       

                      Social Media Links for Host:

                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                       

                      About Linda Dillow:

                      Linda Dillow is a bestselling author and a respected Bible teacher and conference speaker. She is the author of Calm My Anxious Heart and her new book Hope for My Hurting Heart. Linda is the mother of four children including one who is now with Jesus, and the grandmother of ten. She and her husband Jody make their home in Monument, Colorado.

                       

                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                      ]]>                       full 385 Dr. Michelle Bengtson d7619b98-902e-42e9-a654-b4b300250e76 d7619b98-902e-42e9-a654-b4b300250e76 Thu, 27 Aug 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1741 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/daring-to-hope-when-your-heart-is-shattered-trusting-god-through-pain-and-loss                       How to Hear from God and Find Peace Without Knowing What’s Next How to Hear from God and Find Peace Without Knowing What’s Next Episode Summary:

                      The God of the universe is trying to communicate with you. Are you listening?

                      Have you ever felt like God was prompting you to do something but questioned whether it was his voice? Instead of acting, you waited for another sign. What if God has already given us what we need to know if a word is from him?

                      Today’s guest, Abby McDonald, addresses a key misconception about God's voice: that it will tell what will happen tomorrow. We've mistaken God's voice in our lives for a means of obtaining knowledge instead of embracing its power to give us peace for today. Since the fall in the garden of Eden, humanity has carried the same deception that misled Eve. We think more information will give us more freedom. But if we look at Jesus's teachings, we see that his direction was never intended to give us a roadmap.

                      We can trade the yoke of certainty we carry for a better one: Jesus's yoke. By focusing on three promises Jesus gave us in John 10, Abby McDonald, addresses a key misconception about God's voice: that it will tell what shows a better way to live, empowered by God's Word instead of a false sense of security. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we’re going to be talking about How to Hear from God and Find Peace Without Knowing What’s Next.

                       

                      Quotables from the episode:

                      • Jesus never promised to give us a guarantee about what's going to happen now his presence with us is a guarantee absolutely but he doesn't promise to show us what's going to happen.
                      • We can trade that yoke, that need for certainty for Jesus' yoke. And he tells us his yoke is easy and his burden is light. And that doesn't promise that our lives are going to be easy and light. He doesn't promise us that, but he does promise to give us what we need for today. And there's so much more peace living in today.
                      • Until we surrender those questions that, like you said, we're just going to live in that state of anxiety, and we're going to be worrying and trying to control what is not in our ability to control.
                      • If we focus on what God has given us, the truth that He has given us, then we can live in His peace and we can have joy and abundant life.
                      • Let your fear propel you toward Jesus.
                      • Most of the time in my experience, hearing from God is more like a gentle nudge. It's more like a prompt or just this burning that I fill in my heart and I just know that I have to do something.
                      • We don't learn to recognize those nudges until we act on them.
                      • What can look like a closed door may actually just be a detour in the path that he has to get us where he wants us ultimately to go.
                      • We cannot know the voice of God if we do not know what his word says.

                       

                      Scripture References:

                      • John 10:27 “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, they will follow me.”
                      • John 10:9 “They will come in and go out, and find pasture.”
                      • John 10:28 “No one will snatch them out of my hand.”

                       

                      Recommended Resources: 

                         

                        Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                        Connect with Abby McDonald:

                        Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / LinkedIn

                         

                        For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                        Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                         

                        About Abby McDonald:

                        Abby McDonald is the author of Shift and Surrendering Certainty. She is also a writer, speaker, wife and mom whose work has been featured on (in)Courage, For Every Mom, Crosswalk, and more. She writes for Proverbs 31 Ministries' daily devotional, Encouragement for Today, and her passion is to empower women to grow in faith and hope, even when life is messy. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English from the 

                        University of South Carolina, and loves to teach at writing conferences each year. When she's not reading or writing, you can find her wrangling her three kids and black lab while drinking copious amounts of coffee. Abby lives with her husband and three children in western Maryland.

                         

                        Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                        Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                        Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                        ]]>                         Episode Summary:

                        The God of the universe is trying to communicate with you. Are you listening?

                        Have you ever felt like God was prompting you to do something but questioned whether it was his voice? Instead of acting, you waited for another sign. What if God has already given us what we need to know if a word is from him?

                        Today’s guest, Abby McDonald, addresses a key misconception about God's voice: that it will tell what will happen tomorrow. We've mistaken God's voice in our lives for a means of obtaining knowledge instead of embracing its power to give us peace for today. Since the fall in the garden of Eden, humanity has carried the same deception that misled Eve. We think more information will give us more freedom. But if we look at Jesus's teachings, we see that his direction was never intended to give us a roadmap.

                        We can trade the yoke of certainty we carry for a better one: Jesus's yoke. By focusing on three promises Jesus gave us in John 10, Abby McDonald, addresses a key misconception about God's voice: that it will tell what shows a better way to live, empowered by God's Word instead of a false sense of security. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we’re going to be talking about How to Hear from God and Find Peace Without Knowing What’s Next.

                         

                        Quotables from the episode:

                        • Jesus never promised to give us a guarantee about what's going to happen now his presence with us is a guarantee absolutely but he doesn't promise to show us what's going to happen.
                        • We can trade that yoke, that need for certainty for Jesus' yoke. And he tells us his yoke is easy and his burden is light. And that doesn't promise that our lives are going to be easy and light. He doesn't promise us that, but he does promise to give us what we need for today. And there's so much more peace living in today.
                        • Until we surrender those questions that, like you said, we're just going to live in that state of anxiety, and we're going to be worrying and trying to control what is not in our ability to control.
                        • If we focus on what God has given us, the truth that He has given us, then we can live in His peace and we can have joy and abundant life.
                        • Let your fear propel you toward Jesus.
                        • Most of the time in my experience, hearing from God is more like a gentle nudge. It's more like a prompt or just this burning that I fill in my heart and I just know that I have to do something.
                        • We don't learn to recognize those nudges until we act on them.
                        • What can look like a closed door may actually just be a detour in the path that he has to get us where he wants us ultimately to go.
                        • We cannot know the voice of God if we do not know what his word says.

                         

                        Scripture References:

                        • John 10:27 “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, they will follow me.”
                        • John 10:9 “They will come in and go out, and find pasture.”
                        • John 10:28 “No one will snatch them out of my hand.”

                         

                        Recommended Resources: 

                           

                          Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                          Connect with Abby McDonald:

                          Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / LinkedIn

                           

                          For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                          Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                           

                          About Abby McDonald:

                          Abby McDonald is the author of Shift and Surrendering Certainty. She is also a writer, speaker, wife and mom whose work has been featured on (in)Courage, For Every Mom, Crosswalk, and more. She writes for Proverbs 31 Ministries' daily devotional, Encouragement for Today, and her passion is to empower women to grow in faith and hope, even when life is messy. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English from the 

                          University of South Carolina, and loves to teach at writing conferences each year. When she's not reading or writing, you can find her wrangling her three kids and black lab while drinking copious amounts of coffee. Abby lives with her husband and three children in western Maryland.

                           

                          Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                          Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                          Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                          ]]>                           full 384 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 60994f50-1914-4fe4-b851-b4ac00208870 60994f50-1914-4fe4-b851-b4ac00208870 Thu, 20 Aug 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2036 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-hear-from-god-and-find-peace-without-knowing-what-s-next                           How Can I Help My Child Overcome Back-to-School Anxiety Without Making It Worse? How Can I Help My Child Overcome Back-to-School Anxiety Without Making It Worse? Episode Summary:

                          What if the tears, stomachaches, or sudden mood swings your child is experiencing right now aren’t just “back-to-school nerves”…but signs of anxiety their brain doesn’t yet know how to process?

                          As backpacks are packed and school doors reopen, many families are quietly navigating a surge of stress, fear, and emotional overwhelm. Your child may not have the words to explain what they’re feeling—but their behavior is speaking loudly. And if you’ve ever felt unsure how to respond…wondered whether to push them forward or pull them close…or questioned if you’re helping or accidentally making it worse—you are not alone. In today’s episode, we’re uncovering what’s really happening beneath the surface of back-to-school anxiety and equipping you with both the neuroscience and the Scripture-based truth you need to help your child move from fear to peace—and from overwhelm to confidence.

                          Quotables from the episode:

                          • At its core, anxiety is the brain’s response to perceived threat or uncertainty. Back-to-school introduces a lot of “unknowns”—new teachers, new routines, social dynamics, academic expectations.
                          • What looks like defiance or avoidance is often distress.
                          • Anxiety in children is often expressed through the body or behavior rather than words. You might see stomachaches, headaches, irritability, tears, avoidance, or even perfectionism.
                          • As a parent, I encourage you to look at three things: intensity, duration, and impact. If your child’s distress is ongoing, escalating, or interfering with daily life—like sleep, appetite, or school attendance—it’s likely more than typical stress.
                          • The key is that we need to learn how to better respond to anxiety, NOT try to avoid it.
                          • Comforting is good, but what children need first is validation, not correction.
                          • The goal isn’t to remove anxiety—it’s to teach children how to move through it with confidence.
                          • Children borrow our nervous system. If we are anxious, they will feel it. But when we are calm, we communicate safety.
                          • Confidence comes from experience—not avoidance. Each time a child faces something hard and gets through it, the brain rewires to say, “I can handle this.”
                          • Your presence matters more than your perfection. Your child doesn’t need a flawless parent—they need a connected one.

                          Scripture References:

                          • Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.”
                          • Colossians 3:12 encourages us to “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
                          • 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
                          • Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
                          • Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.”
                          • Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you and help you.”
                          • Galatians 6:2 reminds us to “carry each other’s burdens.”
                          • Proverbs 11:14 says, “In the multitude of counselors there is safety.”
                          • Philippians 4:6–7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God…”
                          • Isaiah 26:3 says, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.”

                          Recommended Resources:

                           

                          Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                          Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                          Website / Instagram / Facebook

                          Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                          Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                          Co-Host:

                          Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                          Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                          Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                          Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                          ]]>                           Episode Summary:

                          What if the tears, stomachaches, or sudden mood swings your child is experiencing right now aren’t just “back-to-school nerves”…but signs of anxiety their brain doesn’t yet know how to process?

                          As backpacks are packed and school doors reopen, many families are quietly navigating a surge of stress, fear, and emotional overwhelm. Your child may not have the words to explain what they’re feeling—but their behavior is speaking loudly. And if you’ve ever felt unsure how to respond…wondered whether to push them forward or pull them close…or questioned if you’re helping or accidentally making it worse—you are not alone. In today’s episode, we’re uncovering what’s really happening beneath the surface of back-to-school anxiety and equipping you with both the neuroscience and the Scripture-based truth you need to help your child move from fear to peace—and from overwhelm to confidence.

                          Quotables from the episode:

                          • At its core, anxiety is the brain’s response to perceived threat or uncertainty. Back-to-school introduces a lot of “unknowns”—new teachers, new routines, social dynamics, academic expectations.
                          • What looks like defiance or avoidance is often distress.
                          • Anxiety in children is often expressed through the body or behavior rather than words. You might see stomachaches, headaches, irritability, tears, avoidance, or even perfectionism.
                          • As a parent, I encourage you to look at three things: intensity, duration, and impact. If your child’s distress is ongoing, escalating, or interfering with daily life—like sleep, appetite, or school attendance—it’s likely more than typical stress.
                          • The key is that we need to learn how to better respond to anxiety, NOT try to avoid it.
                          • Comforting is good, but what children need first is validation, not correction.
                          • The goal isn’t to remove anxiety—it’s to teach children how to move through it with confidence.
                          • Children borrow our nervous system. If we are anxious, they will feel it. But when we are calm, we communicate safety.
                          • Confidence comes from experience—not avoidance. Each time a child faces something hard and gets through it, the brain rewires to say, “I can handle this.”
                          • Your presence matters more than your perfection. Your child doesn’t need a flawless parent—they need a connected one.

                          Scripture References:

                          • Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.”
                          • Colossians 3:12 encourages us to “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
                          • 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
                          • Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
                          • Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.”
                          • Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you and help you.”
                          • Galatians 6:2 reminds us to “carry each other’s burdens.”
                          • Proverbs 11:14 says, “In the multitude of counselors there is safety.”
                          • Philippians 4:6–7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God…”
                          • Isaiah 26:3 says, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.”

                          Recommended Resources:

                           

                          Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                          Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                          Website / Instagram / Facebook

                          Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                          Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                          Co-Host:

                          Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                          Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                          Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                          Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                          ]]>                           full 383 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 8c13206d-bc3a-42a9-95f5-b4a5001dccbe 8c13206d-bc3a-42a9-95f5-b4a5001dccbe Thu, 13 Aug 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2817 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-can-i-help-my-child-overcome-back-to-school-anxiety-without-making-it-worse                           When Friendships Change: Trusting God Through Seasons of Relational Transition When Friendships Change: Trusting God Through Seasons of Relational Transition Episode Summary:

                          Photographs tell the story of time passed. People move in and out of the frame. Babies grow from child to adult. Moms and dad gain wrinkles and gray hair. Just as our physical selves change over time, so do relationships, including friendships.

                          Friendships are one of God’s sweetest gifts, but they can be one of life’s most painful areas of change. Some friendships deepen over time. Some drift and some end unexpectedly. Yet God, our forever friend, remains faithful through every changing season.

                          Quotables from the episode:

                          • Friendships rarely end all at once. Most often, they change quietly, little by little, until one day we realize something is different. We may be closer or we may have drifted apart. Our lives may be richer because of the deepening friendship, or we may feel the pain of a lost companion. In honor of National Friendship Day, today we’re going talking about when friendships change and how to trust God through seasons of relational transition.
                          • The memories between two friends become a sacred space. Within that space we found safety and belonging.
                          • Losing closeness can feel like grief. We grieve a version of life we once enjoyed and found the comfort our hearts needed. We often expect friendships to remain unchanged forever, forgetting that life isn’t static. It’s dynamic. We mature, heal, and find hope. Friendships also change. Sometimes for the better, like gold refined in fire. Other times, they go through the fire and don’t make it out.
                          • But not every drifting relationship is evidence of rejection. Sometimes friendships were meant for a particular season, assignment, or stage of growth.
                          • What feels like abandonment may actually be God lovingly reshaping your circle, pruning unhealthy dependence, or making room for new connections that better align with where he is taking you.
                          • Not all friendships are meant to look the same forever—and that doesn’t always mean something went wrong.
                          • Not every friend can meet our every need for the rest of our lives. That’s Jesus’ job and he does it better than any expectation we might place on a friend.
                          • Some people are meant to walk beside you forever. Others were meant to help carry you through a portion of the journey. Both are gifts and because of God’s constant faithfulness we can thank him for both.

                          Scripture References:

                          • Proverbs 27:9 Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.
                          • Proverbs 18:24 A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
                          • Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.

                          Recommended Resources:

                           

                          Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                          Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                          Website / Instagram / Facebook

                          Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                          Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                          Co-Host:

                          Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                          Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                          Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                          Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                          ]]>                           Episode Summary:

                          Photographs tell the story of time passed. People move in and out of the frame. Babies grow from child to adult. Moms and dad gain wrinkles and gray hair. Just as our physical selves change over time, so do relationships, including friendships.

                          Friendships are one of God’s sweetest gifts, but they can be one of life’s most painful areas of change. Some friendships deepen over time. Some drift and some end unexpectedly. Yet God, our forever friend, remains faithful through every changing season.

                          Quotables from the episode:

                          • Friendships rarely end all at once. Most often, they change quietly, little by little, until one day we realize something is different. We may be closer or we may have drifted apart. Our lives may be richer because of the deepening friendship, or we may feel the pain of a lost companion. In honor of National Friendship Day, today we’re going talking about when friendships change and how to trust God through seasons of relational transition.
                          • The memories between two friends become a sacred space. Within that space we found safety and belonging.
                          • Losing closeness can feel like grief. We grieve a version of life we once enjoyed and found the comfort our hearts needed. We often expect friendships to remain unchanged forever, forgetting that life isn’t static. It’s dynamic. We mature, heal, and find hope. Friendships also change. Sometimes for the better, like gold refined in fire. Other times, they go through the fire and don’t make it out.
                          • But not every drifting relationship is evidence of rejection. Sometimes friendships were meant for a particular season, assignment, or stage of growth.
                          • What feels like abandonment may actually be God lovingly reshaping your circle, pruning unhealthy dependence, or making room for new connections that better align with where he is taking you.
                          • Not all friendships are meant to look the same forever—and that doesn’t always mean something went wrong.
                          • Not every friend can meet our every need for the rest of our lives. That’s Jesus’ job and he does it better than any expectation we might place on a friend.
                          • Some people are meant to walk beside you forever. Others were meant to help carry you through a portion of the journey. Both are gifts and because of God’s constant faithfulness we can thank him for both.

                          Scripture References:

                          • Proverbs 27:9 Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.
                          • Proverbs 18:24 A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
                          • Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.

                          Recommended Resources:

                           

                          Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                          Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                          Website / Instagram / Facebook

                          Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                          Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                          Co-Host:

                          Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                          Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                          Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                          Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                          ]]>                           full 384 Dr. Michelle Bengtson e14786f2-2e0f-4597-bd76-b49e002efa69 e14786f2-2e0f-4597-bd76-b49e002efa69 Thu, 06 Aug 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2025 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/when-friendships-change-trusting-god-through-seasons-of-relational-transition                           Summertime Sadness: Why Depression Can Spike in Summer and How to Find Hope Summertime Sadness: Why Depression Can Spike in Summer and How to Find Hope Episode Summary:

                          Summer is supposed to be the season of sunshine, vacations, and smiling social media photos—but for many people, it’s when depression quietly deepens. If you’ve ever felt more anxious, lonely, or emotionally exhausted during the summer months, you are not imagining it—and you are not alone.

                          In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we’re talking about summertime sadness, why depression and mental health struggles can actually spike during summer, and what brain science, psychology, and Scripture reveal about this misunderstood phenomenon.

                          Whether you’re battling low mood, disrupted sleep, increased comparison, or the pressure to “feel happy,” this conversation will help you understand what’s happening in your mind and body—and how God meets you with hope even in the brightest seasons.

                          Today, we’re going to talk about Summertime Sadness: Why Depression Can Spike in Summer and How to Find Hope.

                          Quotables from the episode:

                          • Summer often comes with an unspoken expectation: you should be happy right now. Longer days, family gatherings, beach trips, and backyard barbecues can amplify joy—or they can magnify grief, loneliness, exhaustion, and depression. If summer feels heavier instead of lighter, this episode is for you.
                          • I want to say this clearly from the start: Struggling in summer does not mean you are broken. It does not mean your faith is weak. And it does not mean you’re failing at gratitude.
                          • And when we don’t talk about it, shame fills the silence.
                          • And when sleep suffers, mood regulation suffers.
                          • That is not a moral failure. That is your nervous system responding to environmental changes.
                          • God addresses emotional suffering with compassion, not condemnation.
                          • Biblical faith does not deny pain—it brings pain into the presence of God.
                          • Now let’s talk about hope—not as a feeling, but as a practice.
                          • First, restore rhythm before chasing relief.

                           

                          Recommended Resources: 

                             

                            Social Media Links for Host:

                            For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                            Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                             

                            Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                            Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                            Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                            ]]>                             Episode Summary:

                            Summer is supposed to be the season of sunshine, vacations, and smiling social media photos—but for many people, it’s when depression quietly deepens. If you’ve ever felt more anxious, lonely, or emotionally exhausted during the summer months, you are not imagining it—and you are not alone.

                            In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we’re talking about summertime sadness, why depression and mental health struggles can actually spike during summer, and what brain science, psychology, and Scripture reveal about this misunderstood phenomenon.

                            Whether you’re battling low mood, disrupted sleep, increased comparison, or the pressure to “feel happy,” this conversation will help you understand what’s happening in your mind and body—and how God meets you with hope even in the brightest seasons.

                            Today, we’re going to talk about Summertime Sadness: Why Depression Can Spike in Summer and How to Find Hope.

                            Quotables from the episode:

                            • Summer often comes with an unspoken expectation: you should be happy right now. Longer days, family gatherings, beach trips, and backyard barbecues can amplify joy—or they can magnify grief, loneliness, exhaustion, and depression. If summer feels heavier instead of lighter, this episode is for you.
                            • I want to say this clearly from the start: Struggling in summer does not mean you are broken. It does not mean your faith is weak. And it does not mean you’re failing at gratitude.
                            • And when we don’t talk about it, shame fills the silence.
                            • And when sleep suffers, mood regulation suffers.
                            • That is not a moral failure. That is your nervous system responding to environmental changes.
                            • God addresses emotional suffering with compassion, not condemnation.
                            • Biblical faith does not deny pain—it brings pain into the presence of God.
                            • Now let’s talk about hope—not as a feeling, but as a practice.
                            • First, restore rhythm before chasing relief.

                             

                            Recommended Resources: 

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host:

                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                               

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               full 381 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 53887e5e-a02b-436e-9474-b497002a0d6c 53887e5e-a02b-436e-9474-b497002a0d6c Thu, 30 Jul 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1495 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/summertime-sadness-why-depression-can-spike-in-summer-and-how-to-find-hope                               What to Do When You Feel Spiritually Dry or Disconnected from God What to Do When You Feel Spiritually Dry or Disconnected from God Episode Summary: Have you ever sat down to pray and felt like your words were hitting the ceiling? Opened your Bible and felt nothing stir in your heart? Or gone through your day knowing all the “right” spiritual things to do, yet feeling strangely distant from God? If so, let me say this clearly right from the start: you are not alone, and you are not failing God.

                              Spiritual dryness is far more common than we talk about, especially among believers who genuinely love the Lord and want to walk closely with Him. And yet, when it happens, many of us quietly wonder, What’s wrong with me? Why do I feel so disconnected?

                              On this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I are having an honest, hope-filled conversation about what to do when you feel spiritually dry or distant from God, and how to walk through those seasons without shame, panic, or self-condemnation.

                               

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • Let’s begin by naming something that often goes unspoken: spiritual dryness does not mean spiritual failure.
                              • Here’s something critical to understand: feelings are not the same as faith. God’s presence does not fluctuate based on our emotional experience.
                              • And that fear doesn’t come from theology. It comes from wiring. The human brain is designed to associate meaning with emotional feedback. When something once produced warmth, peace, or reassurance and suddenly doesn’t, the brain interprets that as loss, even if nothing has actually been taken away. This is why spiritual dryness doesn’t just feel neutral — it feels alarming. But here’s an important distinction: absence of emotional response is not absence of relationship.
                              • So, what you’re saying is that the dryness isn’t necessarily a spiritual message — it’s a nervous system signal.
                              • Often, yes. And when we misinterpret that signal spiritually, we add shame to exhaustion. This is where people start striving — more prayer, more discipline, more intensity — which ironically deepens the sense of distance. Because forced intimacy rarely restores connection.
                              • Sometimes God feels silent not because He’s absent, but because He’s inviting us into a deeper, quieter trust.
                              • There comes a point when faith matures beyond sensation. This doesn’t mean feelings are bad. It means feelings are no longer the foundation.
                              • Some of the deepest spiritual maturity is formed in seasons where God feels quiet. I challenge you instead of wishing away this dry season, to look at it as a gift.
                              • There comes a point when faith matures beyond sensation. This doesn’t mean feelings are bad. It means feelings are no longer the foundation.
                              • If God feels distant right now, resist the urge to diagnose yourself. Instead, consider this: What if this season isn’t about fixing your faith, but strengthening its foundation? Faith that endures silence is not weaker faith. It’s anchored faith!

                              Scripture References:

                              • Psalm 42 “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You, my God.”
                              • Hebrews 13:5 “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
                              • Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Co-Host:

                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               Episode Summary: Have you ever sat down to pray and felt like your words were hitting the ceiling? Opened your Bible and felt nothing stir in your heart? Or gone through your day knowing all the “right” spiritual things to do, yet feeling strangely distant from God? If so, let me say this clearly right from the start: you are not alone, and you are not failing God.

                              Spiritual dryness is far more common than we talk about, especially among believers who genuinely love the Lord and want to walk closely with Him. And yet, when it happens, many of us quietly wonder, What’s wrong with me? Why do I feel so disconnected?

                              On this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I are having an honest, hope-filled conversation about what to do when you feel spiritually dry or distant from God, and how to walk through those seasons without shame, panic, or self-condemnation.

                               

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • Let’s begin by naming something that often goes unspoken: spiritual dryness does not mean spiritual failure.
                              • Here’s something critical to understand: feelings are not the same as faith. God’s presence does not fluctuate based on our emotional experience.
                              • And that fear doesn’t come from theology. It comes from wiring. The human brain is designed to associate meaning with emotional feedback. When something once produced warmth, peace, or reassurance and suddenly doesn’t, the brain interprets that as loss, even if nothing has actually been taken away. This is why spiritual dryness doesn’t just feel neutral — it feels alarming. But here’s an important distinction: absence of emotional response is not absence of relationship.
                              • So, what you’re saying is that the dryness isn’t necessarily a spiritual message — it’s a nervous system signal.
                              • Often, yes. And when we misinterpret that signal spiritually, we add shame to exhaustion. This is where people start striving — more prayer, more discipline, more intensity — which ironically deepens the sense of distance. Because forced intimacy rarely restores connection.
                              • Sometimes God feels silent not because He’s absent, but because He’s inviting us into a deeper, quieter trust.
                              • There comes a point when faith matures beyond sensation. This doesn’t mean feelings are bad. It means feelings are no longer the foundation.
                              • Some of the deepest spiritual maturity is formed in seasons where God feels quiet. I challenge you instead of wishing away this dry season, to look at it as a gift.
                              • There comes a point when faith matures beyond sensation. This doesn’t mean feelings are bad. It means feelings are no longer the foundation.
                              • If God feels distant right now, resist the urge to diagnose yourself. Instead, consider this: What if this season isn’t about fixing your faith, but strengthening its foundation? Faith that endures silence is not weaker faith. It’s anchored faith!

                              Scripture References:

                              • Psalm 42 “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You, my God.”
                              • Hebrews 13:5 “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
                              • Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Co-Host:

                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               full 380 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 682531b9-8214-48fb-ace7-b490001f3886 682531b9-8214-48fb-ace7-b490001f3886 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2215 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/what-to-do-when-you-feel-spiritually-dry-or-disconnected-from-god                               How to Find Lasting Freedom from Addiction Through Christ How to Find Lasting Freedom from Addiction Through Christ Episode Summary:

                              Welcome to Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson for Part 2 of my conversation with Jonathan M. Seidl, author of Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic. If you missed Part 1, I encourage you to listen to that episode first, where Jon vulnerably shared how, as a Christian leader, he found himself entangled in the grip of alcoholism.

                              In today's episode, we pick up where we left off, diving deeper into Jon's road to recovery, what breaking free actually looked like, and how others can find lasting hope from their own battles with addiction, shame, and secrecy. Jon doesn't just tell a story of struggle. He gives us a roadmap for surrender, accountability, and freedom through Christ. Whether you're facing your own entanglement or walking alongside someone who is, this episode is packed with truth, grace, and the kind of hope that transforms lives.

                              If you or someone you love has ever struggled with hidden pain, addiction, or the pressure to keep up appearances, this conversation is for you. Jon's story is a testimony to the power of grace, truth, and the freedom found in Christ.

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • I’m the Christian that became an alcoholic, not the other way around.
                              • The church is usually okay with and knows how to handle the other way around. The alcoholics who become Christians. But what do you do with the Christians who become alcoholics or the Christians who become adulterers, or the Christians who become addicts, the Christians who become bulimics… what do you do with those people?
                              • Salvation is a lifeline, but sanctification is a lifetime process.
                              • Healing is like an onion. God helps heal the outside layer and lets us live in that healing for a little bit. And then at a later time, it's time to peel back the next layer. And then it's time to peel back the next layer. God is gentle and gracious that way. Healing is for a lifetime.
                              • I don't want you to just be sober. I want you to be here, especially if your drinking is so destructive, it's killing you. I want you to be here. So please get sober. But don't stop there. Because there's something better for you. There's something better waiting for you than just sobriety.
                              • Healing starts with abiding in Christ. I think for a lot of my life having grown up in the church, it's like, you know, you get these kind of trite phrases and whatnot. And what I can tell you is that when I get to the end of my rope, you realize how precious Jesus is when he's all you have to cling on to. This is the only step that must be done first. But it has to start with step one: you have to spend time with Jesus.
                              • The third step is radical vulnerability. That adjective there is really important. We're okay with talking about the vulnerability. I think it's become kind of in vogue lately. I'm talking about being radically vulnerable—a whole new level of vulnerability.
                              • The four steps of healing include abiding with Christ, finding your true identity, practicing radical vulnerability, and being obedient to God.
                              • I can tell you by following those four steps, I kicked alcohol, I found sobriety, but most importantly, I found more of Jesus, and I can't overstate what that has done in my life.

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Jon Seidl:

                              Website / Instagram / Facebook / X

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Guest:

                              Jonathon M. Seidl has been telling stories his whole life. In fact, he’s written over 10,000 of them, first after helping start a successful news website and then as the editor in chief of the popular nonprofit I Am Second. He’s the author of the new book Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic, a radically vulnerable story of being the Christian who became an alcoholic and his climb out of addiction and how others can break free from life’s entanglements. He currently runs the popular daily devotional website The Veritas Daily (theveritasdaily.com), where he writes on faith, culture, and addiction while also completing his master’s in theological studies from Southwestern Seminary.  Originally from Wisconsin, he lives in Frisco, Texas, with his wife, Brett, and their children, Annie and Jack.

                               

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               Episode Summary:

                              Welcome to Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson for Part 2 of my conversation with Jonathan M. Seidl, author of Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic. If you missed Part 1, I encourage you to listen to that episode first, where Jon vulnerably shared how, as a Christian leader, he found himself entangled in the grip of alcoholism.

                              In today's episode, we pick up where we left off, diving deeper into Jon's road to recovery, what breaking free actually looked like, and how others can find lasting hope from their own battles with addiction, shame, and secrecy. Jon doesn't just tell a story of struggle. He gives us a roadmap for surrender, accountability, and freedom through Christ. Whether you're facing your own entanglement or walking alongside someone who is, this episode is packed with truth, grace, and the kind of hope that transforms lives.

                              If you or someone you love has ever struggled with hidden pain, addiction, or the pressure to keep up appearances, this conversation is for you. Jon's story is a testimony to the power of grace, truth, and the freedom found in Christ.

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • I’m the Christian that became an alcoholic, not the other way around.
                              • The church is usually okay with and knows how to handle the other way around. The alcoholics who become Christians. But what do you do with the Christians who become alcoholics or the Christians who become adulterers, or the Christians who become addicts, the Christians who become bulimics… what do you do with those people?
                              • Salvation is a lifeline, but sanctification is a lifetime process.
                              • Healing is like an onion. God helps heal the outside layer and lets us live in that healing for a little bit. And then at a later time, it's time to peel back the next layer. And then it's time to peel back the next layer. God is gentle and gracious that way. Healing is for a lifetime.
                              • I don't want you to just be sober. I want you to be here, especially if your drinking is so destructive, it's killing you. I want you to be here. So please get sober. But don't stop there. Because there's something better for you. There's something better waiting for you than just sobriety.
                              • Healing starts with abiding in Christ. I think for a lot of my life having grown up in the church, it's like, you know, you get these kind of trite phrases and whatnot. And what I can tell you is that when I get to the end of my rope, you realize how precious Jesus is when he's all you have to cling on to. This is the only step that must be done first. But it has to start with step one: you have to spend time with Jesus.
                              • The third step is radical vulnerability. That adjective there is really important. We're okay with talking about the vulnerability. I think it's become kind of in vogue lately. I'm talking about being radically vulnerable—a whole new level of vulnerability.
                              • The four steps of healing include abiding with Christ, finding your true identity, practicing radical vulnerability, and being obedient to God.
                              • I can tell you by following those four steps, I kicked alcohol, I found sobriety, but most importantly, I found more of Jesus, and I can't overstate what that has done in my life.

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Jon Seidl:

                              Website / Instagram / Facebook / X

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Guest:

                              Jonathon M. Seidl has been telling stories his whole life. In fact, he’s written over 10,000 of them, first after helping start a successful news website and then as the editor in chief of the popular nonprofit I Am Second. He’s the author of the new book Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic, a radically vulnerable story of being the Christian who became an alcoholic and his climb out of addiction and how others can break free from life’s entanglements. He currently runs the popular daily devotional website The Veritas Daily (theveritasdaily.com), where he writes on faith, culture, and addiction while also completing his master’s in theological studies from Southwestern Seminary.  Originally from Wisconsin, he lives in Frisco, Texas, with his wife, Brett, and their children, Annie and Jack.

                               

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               full 379 Dr. Michelle Bengtson cf26b8f2-d719-4ed4-bbee-b489001937ac cf26b8f2-d719-4ed4-bbee-b489001937ac Thu, 16 Jul 2026 10:30:00 +0000 3256 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-find-lasting-freedom-from-addiction-through-christ                               How to Get to the Root of Hidden Addiction and Break Free How to Get to the Root of Hidden Addiction and Break Free Episode Summary:

                              Today’s episode is a powerful one. We’re joined by Jonathan M. Seidl—author, speaker, and previous Editor-in-Chief of the widely followed nonprofit I Am Second—as he courageously shares his personal journey detailed in his latest book, Confessions of a Christian. Alcoholic. It’s a raw, honest, and redemptive conversation about how a man of faith found himself battling addiction, the shame that came with it, and what it took to break free.

                              If you—or someone you love—have ever struggled with hidden pain, addiction, or the pressure to keep up appearances, this conversation is for you. Jon’s story is a testimony to the power of grace, truth, and the freedom found in Christ. 

                              The Christian community loves stories of salvation but often struggles with stories of sanctification—especially messy sanctification. Today’s guest, Jonathon Seidl, is breaking the stigma with a radically vulnerable work that’s not only for those struggling with secret sins, but also for every person on a journey to overcome nagging issues (which is really everyone). In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we’re going to delve into one man’s story about the raw and messy details of his secret battle with addiction, and how to break free from hidden addictions.

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • Alcohol was the solution to my problems, a bad solution, but an easy one, a quick one so now you took away my solution, and now I had to deal with everything that I was using alcohol to numb or escape from.
                              • Anything that is mis-ordered is disordered.
                              • I did have a rock-bottom moment and there's a lot of people that do-and I know in your work I'm sure you've heard a lot of those stories-I've had my own, but what I want to encourage people that you don't have to have a rock bottom moment in order to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol or food or gambling or work or exercise.
                              • The drinking was a symptom of something else going on. You must get to the root.
                              • When you know that something is bad for you, and you know that what you're doing is unhealthy right and you still do it anyways there's something deeper, there's always something deeper.
                              • But what happens as a child, is when those things happen, your brain literally cannot make sense of them. So, you look to escape and at six that's tonka trucks. At 36 that's tequila.
                              • What I'd come to find is, I was never able to completely give up drinking because I was always trying to give up drinking. And so, I wrote this article, "How were you able to stop drinking?" I said, “ I stopped trying to stop drinking."
                              • If you are someone who has gone through addiction, there is a difference between worldly shame and godly grief. Yes. Worldly shame beats yourself up, and I beat myself up for years. And you know what I did with that worldly shame? I drank it away. Like I just kept going back to the bottle, right? But when I finally got to the point of godly grief, that very quickly led me to repentance.
                              • I think an overarching message is don't fall under the lie that you have to do this recovery journey alone because Satan thrives in isolating us, but that could be AA, it could be celebrate recovery, it could be a therapist, it could be a church mentor, but please share it with a trusted individual.
                              • Millions of people have gotten sober without Jesus, but you're not going to live the most flourishing and fulfilled life without Jesus and that's what I want for you, and I'm telling you that's available on the other side. 

                               

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Jon Seidl:

                              Website / Instagram / Facebook / X

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Guest:

                              Jonathon M. Seidl has been telling stories his whole life. In fact, he’s written over 10,000 of them, first after helping start a successful news website and then as the editor in chief of the popular nonprofit I Am Second. He’s the author of the new book Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic, a radically vulnerable story of being the Christian who became an alcoholic and his climb out of addiction and how others can break free from life’s entanglements. He currently runs the popular daily devotional website The Veritas Daily (theveritasdaily.com), where he writes on faith, culture, and addiction while also completing his master’s in theological studies from Southwestern Seminary.  Originally from Wisconsin, he lives in Frisco, Texas, with his wife, Brett, and their children, Annie and Jack.

                               

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               Episode Summary:

                              Today’s episode is a powerful one. We’re joined by Jonathan M. Seidl—author, speaker, and previous Editor-in-Chief of the widely followed nonprofit I Am Second—as he courageously shares his personal journey detailed in his latest book, Confessions of a Christian. Alcoholic. It’s a raw, honest, and redemptive conversation about how a man of faith found himself battling addiction, the shame that came with it, and what it took to break free.

                              If you—or someone you love—have ever struggled with hidden pain, addiction, or the pressure to keep up appearances, this conversation is for you. Jon’s story is a testimony to the power of grace, truth, and the freedom found in Christ. 

                              The Christian community loves stories of salvation but often struggles with stories of sanctification—especially messy sanctification. Today’s guest, Jonathon Seidl, is breaking the stigma with a radically vulnerable work that’s not only for those struggling with secret sins, but also for every person on a journey to overcome nagging issues (which is really everyone). In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we’re going to delve into one man’s story about the raw and messy details of his secret battle with addiction, and how to break free from hidden addictions.

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • Alcohol was the solution to my problems, a bad solution, but an easy one, a quick one so now you took away my solution, and now I had to deal with everything that I was using alcohol to numb or escape from.
                              • Anything that is mis-ordered is disordered.
                              • I did have a rock-bottom moment and there's a lot of people that do-and I know in your work I'm sure you've heard a lot of those stories-I've had my own, but what I want to encourage people that you don't have to have a rock bottom moment in order to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol or food or gambling or work or exercise.
                              • The drinking was a symptom of something else going on. You must get to the root.
                              • When you know that something is bad for you, and you know that what you're doing is unhealthy right and you still do it anyways there's something deeper, there's always something deeper.
                              • But what happens as a child, is when those things happen, your brain literally cannot make sense of them. So, you look to escape and at six that's tonka trucks. At 36 that's tequila.
                              • What I'd come to find is, I was never able to completely give up drinking because I was always trying to give up drinking. And so, I wrote this article, "How were you able to stop drinking?" I said, “ I stopped trying to stop drinking."
                              • If you are someone who has gone through addiction, there is a difference between worldly shame and godly grief. Yes. Worldly shame beats yourself up, and I beat myself up for years. And you know what I did with that worldly shame? I drank it away. Like I just kept going back to the bottle, right? But when I finally got to the point of godly grief, that very quickly led me to repentance.
                              • I think an overarching message is don't fall under the lie that you have to do this recovery journey alone because Satan thrives in isolating us, but that could be AA, it could be celebrate recovery, it could be a therapist, it could be a church mentor, but please share it with a trusted individual.
                              • Millions of people have gotten sober without Jesus, but you're not going to live the most flourishing and fulfilled life without Jesus and that's what I want for you, and I'm telling you that's available on the other side. 

                               

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Jon Seidl:

                              Website / Instagram / Facebook / X

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Guest:

                              Jonathon M. Seidl has been telling stories his whole life. In fact, he’s written over 10,000 of them, first after helping start a successful news website and then as the editor in chief of the popular nonprofit I Am Second. He’s the author of the new book Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic, a radically vulnerable story of being the Christian who became an alcoholic and his climb out of addiction and how others can break free from life’s entanglements. He currently runs the popular daily devotional website The Veritas Daily (theveritasdaily.com), where he writes on faith, culture, and addiction while also completing his master’s in theological studies from Southwestern Seminary.  Originally from Wisconsin, he lives in Frisco, Texas, with his wife, Brett, and their children, Annie and Jack.

                               

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               full 378 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 7d576548-43f3-4636-b9b5-b4820025c5ce 7d576548-43f3-4636-b9b5-b4820025c5ce Thu, 09 Jul 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2988 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-get-to-the-root-of-hidden-addiction-and-break-free                               How to Find True Freedom in Christ How to Find True Freedom in Christ Episode Summary:

                              Have you ever noticed how free you feel when no one’s telling you what to do? Or maybe you wake up in the morning with an appointment free day. The day lays before you and you can do anything you want. I love a day without any expectations in it. I make all these plans to paint or play the piano or read a good book, but then I open YouTube and before I know it, my day of freedom turned into a slog of senseless videos. My day of freedom no longer feels free. The lure of endless entertainment trapped me, and I felt guilty for getting stuck. This lack of freedom shows up in other places like faith, relationships, or even creativity. We want freedom but end up experiencing more pressure and regret.

                              In recognition of Independence Day in the United States, today we’re going to be talking about How to Find True Freedom in Christ.

                               

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • Think about all the ways we save time—we can start our ovens from our smartphones, our fridges send us notifications when we need to replace a filter, and we can set our washing machine apps to send a message to someone to change the loads. These modern features save us time, which technically, gives us more freedom to do other things. But we find ourselves entrapped by our devices.
                              • We say we want freedom but end up more stuck. One of the reasons so many Christians love the idea of freedom in Christ, but don’t feel free, is because they struggle with the split-life problem.
                              • We live in two realities which are the spiritual reality and the worldly reality. Or an easier way to describe it is we have a church life and an everyday life. Sermons, bible studies, devotions talk about true freedom found in Christ. We talk about sin as the worst form of slavery and Jesus sets us free from it in church. Then, there’s the “rest” of our lives where we look for freedom in self-expression, creativity, free speech, liberation from traditions and societal constraints. We want more stuff and less rules. This kind of freedom avoids commitment and wants as many choices as possible. Modern culture defines freedom as absence of restraint.
                              • Freedom in Christ is becoming who Christ intends for us to be. It’s when we make freedom a reason for self-indulgence that we become enslaved to making us the main character of our life instead of God. We are to be in the world and not of the world, but when we separate our church life and everyday life, we suffer the impact of allowing self-indulgence to shape how we read Scripture.
                              • That looks like reading Scripture and saying, “God doesn’t really mean that applies to me.” For example, Hebrews 12:1 says, Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” It’s easy to find the sin that entangles someone else’s life but excuse it away when we see it in our own life.
                              • By nature, we are proud people and don’t like to have our weaknesses highlighted or the struggles we may have. Allowing sin that entangles to stay in our lives doesn’t have to be dramatic rebellion, it can be something small we justify like self-sufficiency instead of complete dependence on God.
                              • We experience false freedom when we have spiritual liberation without spiritual transformation. People can receive spiritual freedom through the forgiveness Jesus bought with his blood called justification. Many people think that’s all there is to it, but there’s a transformation over time that happens in a life completely surrendered to God. This is called sanctification. Think of it as justification is the door and sanctification is learning how to live once you walk through the door. And many people who believe in Christ stop at the door.
                              • John 8:32 says, “then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” And Romans 6:4 tells us there’s more to do, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
                              • We are set free to live a new life. It’s an ongoing, daily journey. And it’s when we reject the ongoing work of transformation that freedom can feel like a fancy theory instead of daily reality.
                              • We want to shift our attention to what Jesus actually means when he says we are free.  Jesus sets us free from the power of sin and from the effects of sin on our daily lives.
                              • A common mistake we make regarding understanding freedom is misunderstanding what it means to belong to Christ. The Apostle Paul referred to himself as a bondservant in Romans 12:1. This introduced the concept of belonging and ownership.
                              • The Greek word for bondservant is doulos. This belonging to God does not mean we are a servant expecting a wage. Receiving a wage is a transaction between employer and employee. Work for rewards. When Paul calls himself a bondservant, he indicates that we are not hired by God; we belong to him. The Christian has nothing to offer the Lord in payment for forgiveness, which means a Christian is totally owned by the Master who bought him with His shed blood on the cross. We are purchased by him and we belong to him.
                              • Romans 6:16-18, “Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.”
                              • The word slave feels heavy so let’s talk about why Scripture uses it. Romans clearly states that everyone belongs to something. Bondage to sin leads to death. But bondage to Christ leads to life, inheritance, and adoption.
                              • Galatians 5:24-25 says, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
                              • The biggest struggle I’ve had with experiencing daily freedom is when I’ve resisted letting go of an old habit, identity, or area of control. It’s often been tied to a loss of self, pleasure, or autonomy.
                              • When I gave my “leftovers” to my little family and God clearly said they needed my best self. For a time, he called me to lay down my volunteering in the church (I was involved in every area) so I could focus on my littles. I resisted because I didn’t want to lose myself in motherhood, but I underestimated what I gained. I learned that God knows what’s best and he used that time to make me a more well-rounded woman of God.
                              • To belong to Christ is not oppressive, but freedom. Jesus set us free from the law of sin and death. Our “bondage” to Christ makes us sons and heirs of the Most High God. As heirs, we partake in that inheritance—eternal life. Everyone is in bondage to either sin and death or Jesus and eternal life. We rebel and refuse to obey him by clinging to our old lives rather than embracing our new life in Christ.
                              • First, identify what or who you’re obeying. Are you obeying sin, self, or your Savior? It could be a sinful thought or behavior that pulls you away from freedom in Christ. Self-care can slide into self-obsession if we’re not careful. Or are we walking in step with Jesus?
                              • Second, implement the put off/put on practice. Ephesians 4:22-23 tells us to put off our old way of living which was corrupted by deceitful desires and to be made new in the attitude of your minds.
                              • Third, replace habits. Replacing habits happens when we set our hearts and mind on seeking Jesus Christ. Develop the habits of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love.
                              • Fourth, live from identity and not effort. “…for we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” (Romans 6:6-7).
                              • Freedom isn’t doing whatever you want. It’s about surrendering control of every part of your life such as what you say and how you say it. Or what we watch.
                              • It’s also about being aware of your thoughts and bringing them in line with what honors God and brings him glory. Freedom is becoming who you were redeemed to be. A child of God living a righteous life.

                               

                              Scripture References:

                              • Galatians 5:1 “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
                              • John 8:32 “then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
                              • Romans 6:4 “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
                              • Romans 6:16-18 “Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.”
                              • Galatians 5:24-25 “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
                              • Romans 6:6-7 “for we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.”

                               

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Co-Host:

                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               Episode Summary:

                              Have you ever noticed how free you feel when no one’s telling you what to do? Or maybe you wake up in the morning with an appointment free day. The day lays before you and you can do anything you want. I love a day without any expectations in it. I make all these plans to paint or play the piano or read a good book, but then I open YouTube and before I know it, my day of freedom turned into a slog of senseless videos. My day of freedom no longer feels free. The lure of endless entertainment trapped me, and I felt guilty for getting stuck. This lack of freedom shows up in other places like faith, relationships, or even creativity. We want freedom but end up experiencing more pressure and regret.

                              In recognition of Independence Day in the United States, today we’re going to be talking about How to Find True Freedom in Christ.

                               

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • Think about all the ways we save time—we can start our ovens from our smartphones, our fridges send us notifications when we need to replace a filter, and we can set our washing machine apps to send a message to someone to change the loads. These modern features save us time, which technically, gives us more freedom to do other things. But we find ourselves entrapped by our devices.
                              • We say we want freedom but end up more stuck. One of the reasons so many Christians love the idea of freedom in Christ, but don’t feel free, is because they struggle with the split-life problem.
                              • We live in two realities which are the spiritual reality and the worldly reality. Or an easier way to describe it is we have a church life and an everyday life. Sermons, bible studies, devotions talk about true freedom found in Christ. We talk about sin as the worst form of slavery and Jesus sets us free from it in church. Then, there’s the “rest” of our lives where we look for freedom in self-expression, creativity, free speech, liberation from traditions and societal constraints. We want more stuff and less rules. This kind of freedom avoids commitment and wants as many choices as possible. Modern culture defines freedom as absence of restraint.
                              • Freedom in Christ is becoming who Christ intends for us to be. It’s when we make freedom a reason for self-indulgence that we become enslaved to making us the main character of our life instead of God. We are to be in the world and not of the world, but when we separate our church life and everyday life, we suffer the impact of allowing self-indulgence to shape how we read Scripture.
                              • That looks like reading Scripture and saying, “God doesn’t really mean that applies to me.” For example, Hebrews 12:1 says, Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” It’s easy to find the sin that entangles someone else’s life but excuse it away when we see it in our own life.
                              • By nature, we are proud people and don’t like to have our weaknesses highlighted or the struggles we may have. Allowing sin that entangles to stay in our lives doesn’t have to be dramatic rebellion, it can be something small we justify like self-sufficiency instead of complete dependence on God.
                              • We experience false freedom when we have spiritual liberation without spiritual transformation. People can receive spiritual freedom through the forgiveness Jesus bought with his blood called justification. Many people think that’s all there is to it, but there’s a transformation over time that happens in a life completely surrendered to God. This is called sanctification. Think of it as justification is the door and sanctification is learning how to live once you walk through the door. And many people who believe in Christ stop at the door.
                              • John 8:32 says, “then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” And Romans 6:4 tells us there’s more to do, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
                              • We are set free to live a new life. It’s an ongoing, daily journey. And it’s when we reject the ongoing work of transformation that freedom can feel like a fancy theory instead of daily reality.
                              • We want to shift our attention to what Jesus actually means when he says we are free.  Jesus sets us free from the power of sin and from the effects of sin on our daily lives.
                              • A common mistake we make regarding understanding freedom is misunderstanding what it means to belong to Christ. The Apostle Paul referred to himself as a bondservant in Romans 12:1. This introduced the concept of belonging and ownership.
                              • The Greek word for bondservant is doulos. This belonging to God does not mean we are a servant expecting a wage. Receiving a wage is a transaction between employer and employee. Work for rewards. When Paul calls himself a bondservant, he indicates that we are not hired by God; we belong to him. The Christian has nothing to offer the Lord in payment for forgiveness, which means a Christian is totally owned by the Master who bought him with His shed blood on the cross. We are purchased by him and we belong to him.
                              • Romans 6:16-18, “Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.”
                              • The word slave feels heavy so let’s talk about why Scripture uses it. Romans clearly states that everyone belongs to something. Bondage to sin leads to death. But bondage to Christ leads to life, inheritance, and adoption.
                              • Galatians 5:24-25 says, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
                              • The biggest struggle I’ve had with experiencing daily freedom is when I’ve resisted letting go of an old habit, identity, or area of control. It’s often been tied to a loss of self, pleasure, or autonomy.
                              • When I gave my “leftovers” to my little family and God clearly said they needed my best self. For a time, he called me to lay down my volunteering in the church (I was involved in every area) so I could focus on my littles. I resisted because I didn’t want to lose myself in motherhood, but I underestimated what I gained. I learned that God knows what’s best and he used that time to make me a more well-rounded woman of God.
                              • To belong to Christ is not oppressive, but freedom. Jesus set us free from the law of sin and death. Our “bondage” to Christ makes us sons and heirs of the Most High God. As heirs, we partake in that inheritance—eternal life. Everyone is in bondage to either sin and death or Jesus and eternal life. We rebel and refuse to obey him by clinging to our old lives rather than embracing our new life in Christ.
                              • First, identify what or who you’re obeying. Are you obeying sin, self, or your Savior? It could be a sinful thought or behavior that pulls you away from freedom in Christ. Self-care can slide into self-obsession if we’re not careful. Or are we walking in step with Jesus?
                              • Second, implement the put off/put on practice. Ephesians 4:22-23 tells us to put off our old way of living which was corrupted by deceitful desires and to be made new in the attitude of your minds.
                              • Third, replace habits. Replacing habits happens when we set our hearts and mind on seeking Jesus Christ. Develop the habits of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love.
                              • Fourth, live from identity and not effort. “…for we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” (Romans 6:6-7).
                              • Freedom isn’t doing whatever you want. It’s about surrendering control of every part of your life such as what you say and how you say it. Or what we watch.
                              • It’s also about being aware of your thoughts and bringing them in line with what honors God and brings him glory. Freedom is becoming who you were redeemed to be. A child of God living a righteous life.

                               

                              Scripture References:

                              • Galatians 5:1 “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
                              • John 8:32 “then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
                              • Romans 6:4 “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
                              • Romans 6:16-18 “Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.”
                              • Galatians 5:24-25 “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
                              • Romans 6:6-7 “for we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.”

                               

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Co-Host:

                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               full 377 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f0de5856-a180-4fce-8a93-b47b0023a5f8 f0de5856-a180-4fce-8a93-b47b0023a5f8 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1947 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-find-true-freedom-in-christ                               How to Overcome the Lasting Damage of Trauma Through God’s Word How to Overcome the Lasting Damage of Trauma Through God’s Word Episode Summary:

                              Have you ever wondered why trauma seems to leave lasting marks on your mind, heart, and even relationships?  In today's conversation, I sit down with Dr. J. Otis Ledbetter, author of Set Free, Released from the Damage of Trauma, to uncover how we can overcome the destructive effects of trauma and move towards God's peace and restoration.

                               

                              Drawing from scripture and real-life experiences, Dr. Ledbetter reveals how even biblical heroes wrestled with trauma and how we can learn from their stories to create tranquil paths of healing and wholeness.  If you've been searching for hope after loss, abuse, crisis, or disappointment, this episode will encourage you that freedom is possible. Today, we're going to be talking about how to overcome the lasting damage of trauma through God's word. 

                               

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • Trauma is not the event. Trauma is the chronic reaction to that event. Trauma is ongoing.  An event can happen and then it can be in your past.  You may never forget it, but it no longer identifies you.  And it no longer points the direction that you should go, whether life or death.
                              • The first emotion that somebody faces after a traumatic event is fear.
                              • Fear leads to anxiety. Anxiety leads to mood swings.  Mood swings will lead you into isolation.
                              • Isolation brings the worst. It brings hopelessness. And it brings despair, and loss of purpose.
                              • The truth is what heals. God does not heal deceit.  He heals truth.
                              • The one word for parents to pass a heritage to their children their faith, is intentionality. Just do something.  Don't think it can be done by accident. Be intentional.
                              • The trauma of the unknown is, I think, the most garden variety trauma you can have.
                              • Don't leave out the spiritual because there is a God who loves you and he is a God of hope.
                              • God knows us so intimately that he knows what we need and willingly provides it. God says, come to me if you're heavy laden.  I'll give you rest.  He didn't say I'll rescue you.  He's not going to rescue you.  But he's going to give you a place of rest. 

                               

                              Scripture References:

                              • Isaiah 61:1—“He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.”
                              • Psalm 40:2 (NIV) – “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.”
                              • Joel 2:25 (ESV) – “I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten.”

                               

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Dr. J. Otis Ledbetter:

                              Website / Facebook / X

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Guest:

                              Otis Ledbetter lives in Clovis, California, with his wife Gail. He is an author, conference speaker, and the Lead Pastor at Sonrise Church. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Liberty University’s Theological Seminary.  He and Gail have three grown children and twelve grandchildren.  He has written numerous articles for magazines and specializes in Heritage Builders workshops nationally and internationally, which teach parents and grandparents the spiritual, emotional, and social components of the heritage they are passing to the next generation.  His books include Your Heritage, In the Secret Place, Soul Hunger : Satisfy Your Heart’s Deepest Longing, and his latest 2022 release Set Free: Released from the Damage of Trauma. He has been featured on numerous radio and television broadcasts. His book Your Heritage was distributed as a premium offer on Billy Graham’s Hour of Decision.

                               

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               Episode Summary:

                              Have you ever wondered why trauma seems to leave lasting marks on your mind, heart, and even relationships?  In today's conversation, I sit down with Dr. J. Otis Ledbetter, author of Set Free, Released from the Damage of Trauma, to uncover how we can overcome the destructive effects of trauma and move towards God's peace and restoration.

                               

                              Drawing from scripture and real-life experiences, Dr. Ledbetter reveals how even biblical heroes wrestled with trauma and how we can learn from their stories to create tranquil paths of healing and wholeness.  If you've been searching for hope after loss, abuse, crisis, or disappointment, this episode will encourage you that freedom is possible. Today, we're going to be talking about how to overcome the lasting damage of trauma through God's word. 

                               

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • Trauma is not the event. Trauma is the chronic reaction to that event. Trauma is ongoing.  An event can happen and then it can be in your past.  You may never forget it, but it no longer identifies you.  And it no longer points the direction that you should go, whether life or death.
                              • The first emotion that somebody faces after a traumatic event is fear.
                              • Fear leads to anxiety. Anxiety leads to mood swings.  Mood swings will lead you into isolation.
                              • Isolation brings the worst. It brings hopelessness. And it brings despair, and loss of purpose.
                              • The truth is what heals. God does not heal deceit.  He heals truth.
                              • The one word for parents to pass a heritage to their children their faith, is intentionality. Just do something.  Don't think it can be done by accident. Be intentional.
                              • The trauma of the unknown is, I think, the most garden variety trauma you can have.
                              • Don't leave out the spiritual because there is a God who loves you and he is a God of hope.
                              • God knows us so intimately that he knows what we need and willingly provides it. God says, come to me if you're heavy laden.  I'll give you rest.  He didn't say I'll rescue you.  He's not going to rescue you.  But he's going to give you a place of rest. 

                               

                              Scripture References:

                              • Isaiah 61:1—“He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.”
                              • Psalm 40:2 (NIV) – “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.”
                              • Joel 2:25 (ESV) – “I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten.”

                               

                              Recommended Resources:

                               

                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                              Connect with Dr. J. Otis Ledbetter:

                              Website / Facebook / X

                              Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                              Guest:

                              Otis Ledbetter lives in Clovis, California, with his wife Gail. He is an author, conference speaker, and the Lead Pastor at Sonrise Church. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Liberty University’s Theological Seminary.  He and Gail have three grown children and twelve grandchildren.  He has written numerous articles for magazines and specializes in Heritage Builders workshops nationally and internationally, which teach parents and grandparents the spiritual, emotional, and social components of the heritage they are passing to the next generation.  His books include Your Heritage, In the Secret Place, Soul Hunger : Satisfy Your Heart’s Deepest Longing, and his latest 2022 release Set Free: Released from the Damage of Trauma. He has been featured on numerous radio and television broadcasts. His book Your Heritage was distributed as a premium offer on Billy Graham’s Hour of Decision.

                               

                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                              Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                              ]]>                               full 376 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 7f6214e2-a677-48eb-a8ed-b474003b7424 7f6214e2-a677-48eb-a8ed-b474003b7424 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1723 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-overcome-the-lasting-damage-of-trauma-through-god-s-word                               When Father’s Day Is Complicated: How to Heal from Wounds and Discover God as the Perfect Father When Father’s Day Is Complicated: How to Heal from Wounds and Discover God as the Perfect Father Episode Summary:

                              Father’s Day can be a complicated day—one that quietly reopens wounds many people work hard to keep closed. While social media fills with tributes to loving dads, laughter around backyard grills, and heartfelt cards, there are countless individuals listening today who feel something very different: grief over a father who has died, sadness for a relationship that never was, pain from abandonment or abuse, or longing for a father they never knew. If Father’s Day brings mixed emotions, confusion, or even dread, I want you to know - you are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you.

                              On this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we will gently explore why Father’s Day can be emotionally charged, how our experiences with our earthly fathers shape our emotional and spiritual lives, and - most importantly - how healing is possible. We will talk about how God meets us in the complexity, how He reveals Himself as the perfect Father when human fathers fall short, and how your story does not end with the wounds you’ve endured.

                              We are talking about When Father’s Day Is Complicated: How to Heal from Wounds and Discover God as the Perfect Father

                               

                              Quotables from the episode:

                              • For many people, Father's Day isn't just a holiday. It's a trigger.
                              • Scripture reminds us that God is not intimidated by our complicated emotions. He invites honesty, not performance.
                              • That doesn't mean you're weak. It means you're human.
                              • Many people don't realize that their struggle to experience God as loving isn't a spiritual failure. It's often a relational wound.
                              • Recognizing this connection isn't about blaming. It's about understanding.
                              • One of the most important healing steps is learning to separate who God is from who your father was.
                              • God does not inherit the flaws of human fathers.
                              • Healing begins when we allow God to redefine fatherhood for us.
                              • God does not merely fill the gap. He heals the wound.
                              • Healing doesn't erase the past, but it loosens its grip.
                              • You are seen by a Father who delights in you, not because of what you do, but because of who you are.

                               

                              Scripture References:

                              • Matthew 7:9–11 “Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?  So if you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!”
                              • Psalm 27:10 – “Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”
                              • Psalm 68:5 – that He is “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling.”

                               

                              Recommended Resources: 

                                 

                                Social Media Links for Host:

                                For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                 

                                Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                 

                                Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                ]]>                                 Episode Summary:

                                Father’s Day can be a complicated day—one that quietly reopens wounds many people work hard to keep closed. While social media fills with tributes to loving dads, laughter around backyard grills, and heartfelt cards, there are countless individuals listening today who feel something very different: grief over a father who has died, sadness for a relationship that never was, pain from abandonment or abuse, or longing for a father they never knew. If Father’s Day brings mixed emotions, confusion, or even dread, I want you to know - you are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you.

                                On this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we will gently explore why Father’s Day can be emotionally charged, how our experiences with our earthly fathers shape our emotional and spiritual lives, and - most importantly - how healing is possible. We will talk about how God meets us in the complexity, how He reveals Himself as the perfect Father when human fathers fall short, and how your story does not end with the wounds you’ve endured.

                                We are talking about When Father’s Day Is Complicated: How to Heal from Wounds and Discover God as the Perfect Father

                                 

                                Quotables from the episode:

                                • For many people, Father's Day isn't just a holiday. It's a trigger.
                                • Scripture reminds us that God is not intimidated by our complicated emotions. He invites honesty, not performance.
                                • That doesn't mean you're weak. It means you're human.
                                • Many people don't realize that their struggle to experience God as loving isn't a spiritual failure. It's often a relational wound.
                                • Recognizing this connection isn't about blaming. It's about understanding.
                                • One of the most important healing steps is learning to separate who God is from who your father was.
                                • God does not inherit the flaws of human fathers.
                                • Healing begins when we allow God to redefine fatherhood for us.
                                • God does not merely fill the gap. He heals the wound.
                                • Healing doesn't erase the past, but it loosens its grip.
                                • You are seen by a Father who delights in you, not because of what you do, but because of who you are.

                                 

                                Scripture References:

                                • Matthew 7:9–11 “Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?  So if you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!”
                                • Psalm 27:10 – “Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”
                                • Psalm 68:5 – that He is “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling.”

                                 

                                Recommended Resources: 

                                   

                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                   

                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                  Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                   

                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                  ]]>                                   full 375 Dr. Michelle Bengtson d7d3c095-54fc-4cee-97ab-b46d0025fa07 d7d3c095-54fc-4cee-97ab-b46d0025fa07 Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1022 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/when-father-s-day-is-complicated-how-to-heal-from-wounds-and-discover-god-as-the-perfect-father                                   How to Help a Loved One Who Is Struggling with PTSD: What to Do and What Not to Do How to Help a Loved One Who Is Struggling with PTSD: What to Do and What Not to Do Episode Summary:

                                  When someone you love is living with PTSD, it can leave you feeling helpless, confused, and afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing. You want to help—but what if your well-intended words make things worse?

                                  In honor of PTSD Awareness Month, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I address the questions so many caregivers, spouses, friends, and family members quietly ask: How do I support someone with PTSD? What helps? What hurts? And how do I walk with them without losing myself? This conversation offers practical guidance, psychological insight, and biblical hope for anyone loving someone through trauma. 

                                  On a recent episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I offered an episode discussing Understanding PTSD: What it Is, What It Isn't, and How God Meets Us in the Aftermath of Trauma. We are continuing this important discussion with How to Help a Loved One Who Is Struggling with PTSD: What to Do and What Not to Do.

                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                  • PTSD is not a character issue or a lack of effort. It's a nervous system injury.
                                  • What looks like withdrawal, irritability, or emotional distance is often the brain doing its best to keep a person safe.
                                  • Change does not mean broken beyond repair. The brain is wounded, but it's also capable of healing.
                                  • When we name trauma responses accurately, we reduce shame and increase compassion.
                                  • PTSD behaviors are not about a lack of love. They're about a lack of felt safety.
                                  • A regulated nervous system helps regulate another nervous system.
                                  • You don't have to fix the trauma, but your calm, consistent presence communicates safety.
                                  • Validation quiets the brain's alarm system and reduces emotional intensity.
                                  • Trauma healing doesn't follow a timeline. It follows safety.
                                  • Loving someone with PTSD is not about doing everything right. It's about doing your best with compassion.

                                  Scripture References:

                                  • Romans 15:1 “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.”
                                  • Isaiah 42:3 “A bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench.”
                                  • Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

                                  Recommended Resources:

                                   

                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                  Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                  Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                  Co-Host:

                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                  Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                  ]]>                                   Episode Summary:

                                  When someone you love is living with PTSD, it can leave you feeling helpless, confused, and afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing. You want to help—but what if your well-intended words make things worse?

                                  In honor of PTSD Awareness Month, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I address the questions so many caregivers, spouses, friends, and family members quietly ask: How do I support someone with PTSD? What helps? What hurts? And how do I walk with them without losing myself? This conversation offers practical guidance, psychological insight, and biblical hope for anyone loving someone through trauma. 

                                  On a recent episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I offered an episode discussing Understanding PTSD: What it Is, What It Isn't, and How God Meets Us in the Aftermath of Trauma. We are continuing this important discussion with How to Help a Loved One Who Is Struggling with PTSD: What to Do and What Not to Do.

                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                  • PTSD is not a character issue or a lack of effort. It's a nervous system injury.
                                  • What looks like withdrawal, irritability, or emotional distance is often the brain doing its best to keep a person safe.
                                  • Change does not mean broken beyond repair. The brain is wounded, but it's also capable of healing.
                                  • When we name trauma responses accurately, we reduce shame and increase compassion.
                                  • PTSD behaviors are not about a lack of love. They're about a lack of felt safety.
                                  • A regulated nervous system helps regulate another nervous system.
                                  • You don't have to fix the trauma, but your calm, consistent presence communicates safety.
                                  • Validation quiets the brain's alarm system and reduces emotional intensity.
                                  • Trauma healing doesn't follow a timeline. It follows safety.
                                  • Loving someone with PTSD is not about doing everything right. It's about doing your best with compassion.

                                  Scripture References:

                                  • Romans 15:1 “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.”
                                  • Isaiah 42:3 “A bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench.”
                                  • Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

                                  Recommended Resources:

                                   

                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                  Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                  Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                  Co-Host:

                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                  Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                  ]]>                                   full 374 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 370dfcb5-0755-44a5-b5df-b466002c9daa 370dfcb5-0755-44a5-b5df-b466002c9daa Thu, 11 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1921 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-help-a-loved-one-who-is-struggling-with-ptsd-what-to-do-and-what-not-to-do                                   Understanding PTSD: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and How God Meets Us in the Aftermath of Trauma Understanding PTSD: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and How God Meets Us in the Aftermath of Trauma Episode Summary:

                                  What if the reactions you’ve judged yourself for—your hypervigilance, emotional numbness, sudden panic, or exhaustion—aren’t signs of spiritual weakness or personal failure, but evidence of a brain that has been doing everything it can to keep you alive? Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, especially within faith communities. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we are going to gently untangle what PTSD truly is, what it is not, and how God meets us not just in the trauma itself—but in the long, tender aftermath that follows. Today, in honor of PTSD Awareness Month, we’re going to talk about Understanding PTSD: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and How God Meets Us in the Aftermath of Trauma.

                                   

                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                  • PTSD is not a failure of faith. It is the result of a nervous system that adapted to survive overwhelming circumstances."
                                  • Your trauma responses are not moral failures. They are survival responses.
                                  • The body remembers what the mind would rather forget.
                                  • The same brain that learned to protect you can also learn safety again.
                                  • God does not rush the healing He Himself designed to unfold gently.
                                  • God is not disappointed by your symptoms. He is present in your healing.
                                  • Scripture never teaches that faith erases biology.
                                  • Your faith resides in your heart and mind, but trauma often lives in the body. And God cares about both.
                                  • Healing from PTSD does not mean erasing your story. It means integrating it.
                                  • Your trauma may have changed you, but it does not disqualify you.

                                   

                                  Scripture References:

                                  • Lamentations 3:31–32 “For the Lord will not cast off forever… He will show compassion.”
                                  • 2 Corinthians 4:16 “Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”

                                   

                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                     

                                    Social Media Links for Host:

                                    For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                    Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                     

                                    Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                    Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                     

                                    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                    ]]>                                     Episode Summary:

                                    What if the reactions you’ve judged yourself for—your hypervigilance, emotional numbness, sudden panic, or exhaustion—aren’t signs of spiritual weakness or personal failure, but evidence of a brain that has been doing everything it can to keep you alive? Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, especially within faith communities. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we are going to gently untangle what PTSD truly is, what it is not, and how God meets us not just in the trauma itself—but in the long, tender aftermath that follows. Today, in honor of PTSD Awareness Month, we’re going to talk about Understanding PTSD: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and How God Meets Us in the Aftermath of Trauma.

                                     

                                    Quotables from the episode:

                                    • PTSD is not a failure of faith. It is the result of a nervous system that adapted to survive overwhelming circumstances."
                                    • Your trauma responses are not moral failures. They are survival responses.
                                    • The body remembers what the mind would rather forget.
                                    • The same brain that learned to protect you can also learn safety again.
                                    • God does not rush the healing He Himself designed to unfold gently.
                                    • God is not disappointed by your symptoms. He is present in your healing.
                                    • Scripture never teaches that faith erases biology.
                                    • Your faith resides in your heart and mind, but trauma often lives in the body. And God cares about both.
                                    • Healing from PTSD does not mean erasing your story. It means integrating it.
                                    • Your trauma may have changed you, but it does not disqualify you.

                                     

                                    Scripture References:

                                    • Lamentations 3:31–32 “For the Lord will not cast off forever… He will show compassion.”
                                    • 2 Corinthians 4:16 “Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”

                                     

                                    Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 373 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 20f7fd88-0c4b-44c3-b3ed-b45f00074910 20f7fd88-0c4b-44c3-b3ed-b45f00074910 Thu, 04 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1471 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/understanding-ptsd-what-it-is-what-it-isn-t-and-how-god-meets-us-in-the-aftermath-of-trauma                                       How to Hold On to Hope in a World Full of Fear and Despair How to Hold On to Hope in a World Full of Fear and Despair Episode Summary:

                                      Have you ever felt like life knocked you down so hard you weren’t sure you’d ever get back up again? Today’s guest, Greg J. Horn, knows that kind of pain firsthand. After losing three close friends to suicide and experiencing the devastating collapse of his own business, marriage, and home—all within 24 hours—Greg was left at rock bottom. But God met him there. From that place of brokenness, a new ministry was born: Hope is Here. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Greg shares how to move from fear to hope, how gratitude can transform our outlook, and how we can live each day with a renewed sense of purpose.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • I lost my business, my home, and my marriage in about a 24-hour period and I’ll say it, I was hopeless.
                                      • Honestly, my faith in Jesus is what really kept me alive during that season.”
                                      • Fear, we see it, but so many times it’s not real.
                                      • Even though I did feel fearful, I could stay hopeful as I read God’s Word and didn’t give in to my feelings of fear.
                                      • Biblical hope is when you say, ‘God, even though I don’t see You working, and I don’t feel You working, I’m going to trust You because You are my source of hope.’
                                      • I can tell you now on the other side of it, 20 years later, that all things do work together.”
                                      • No matter how hopeless it may look, no matter how hopeless it may feel, God truly will use all of it for His glory.
                                      • As I leaned into Jesus, He slowly but surely started healing the broken pieces of my heart and my mind.
                                      • You have to choose to be resilient, but with Jesus’ help you can do that.
                                      • Instead of asking why so much, say, ‘God, what do You want me to learn from this, and how can I be a blessing to other people through it?’

                                      • God, through this process, gave me an acronym when I started Hope Is Here, the word HOPE:

                                        • H-Hold On --everything can change in 24 hours. I mean, something can change for the better. Yes, it can change for the worse, just like my situation did, but just to simply hold on. know God may show up in a way that'll just blow your mind and give you hope, even though things seem hopeless at the time.

                                        • O-Open up to at least one person--So many times the enemy lies to it and just says, you know, this is hopeless, you're never going to climb out of this situation. And I'm thankful that I was able to open up the others and tell them when I was hopeless and having suicidal thoughts. And that was just amazing the difference that made. Once again, Jesus modeled that when he asked Peter, James, and John, hey man, I've got this overwhelming situation.

                                        • P-shift your perspective and do something different/put yourself in a new environment

                                        • E-Expect to see change

                                           

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 15:13 (NIV) “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
                                      • Psalm 27:7 "The Lord is my strength and my shield. My heart trusts in you, Lord, and I am helped."
                                      • Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding but in all your ways acknowledge God and he will make your path straight.”
                                      • Psalm 118:24 “"This is the day the Lord has made. I shall be glad and rejoice in it.”
                                      • Galatians 6:9 “"Do not grow weary and doing good, for at the proper time you will reap a harvest if you do not give up."
                                      • Proverbs 11:25 “Those who refresh others will be refreshed.”
                                      • Lamentations 3:21–23 (NIV) “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Greg Horn:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / X

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Greg Horn is best known as an encourager, coach, motivator, and speaker. He speaks regularly to organizations, civic groups and churches on the topics of fear, gratitude, and hope. He also hosts the radio show and podcast, Hope is Here, that broadcasts daily, Monday through Friday on multiple radio stations in Central Kentucky. His ministry, Hope is Here, began in December 2017 from a holy discontent that was growing within in him after losing three friends to suicide.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Have you ever felt like life knocked you down so hard you weren’t sure you’d ever get back up again? Today’s guest, Greg J. Horn, knows that kind of pain firsthand. After losing three close friends to suicide and experiencing the devastating collapse of his own business, marriage, and home—all within 24 hours—Greg was left at rock bottom. But God met him there. From that place of brokenness, a new ministry was born: Hope is Here. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Greg shares how to move from fear to hope, how gratitude can transform our outlook, and how we can live each day with a renewed sense of purpose.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • I lost my business, my home, and my marriage in about a 24-hour period and I’ll say it, I was hopeless.
                                      • Honestly, my faith in Jesus is what really kept me alive during that season.”
                                      • Fear, we see it, but so many times it’s not real.
                                      • Even though I did feel fearful, I could stay hopeful as I read God’s Word and didn’t give in to my feelings of fear.
                                      • Biblical hope is when you say, ‘God, even though I don’t see You working, and I don’t feel You working, I’m going to trust You because You are my source of hope.’
                                      • I can tell you now on the other side of it, 20 years later, that all things do work together.”
                                      • No matter how hopeless it may look, no matter how hopeless it may feel, God truly will use all of it for His glory.
                                      • As I leaned into Jesus, He slowly but surely started healing the broken pieces of my heart and my mind.
                                      • You have to choose to be resilient, but with Jesus’ help you can do that.
                                      • Instead of asking why so much, say, ‘God, what do You want me to learn from this, and how can I be a blessing to other people through it?’

                                      • God, through this process, gave me an acronym when I started Hope Is Here, the word HOPE:

                                        • H-Hold On --everything can change in 24 hours. I mean, something can change for the better. Yes, it can change for the worse, just like my situation did, but just to simply hold on. know God may show up in a way that'll just blow your mind and give you hope, even though things seem hopeless at the time.

                                        • O-Open up to at least one person--So many times the enemy lies to it and just says, you know, this is hopeless, you're never going to climb out of this situation. And I'm thankful that I was able to open up the others and tell them when I was hopeless and having suicidal thoughts. And that was just amazing the difference that made. Once again, Jesus modeled that when he asked Peter, James, and John, hey man, I've got this overwhelming situation.

                                        • P-shift your perspective and do something different/put yourself in a new environment

                                        • E-Expect to see change

                                           

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 15:13 (NIV) “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
                                      • Psalm 27:7 "The Lord is my strength and my shield. My heart trusts in you, Lord, and I am helped."
                                      • Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding but in all your ways acknowledge God and he will make your path straight.”
                                      • Psalm 118:24 “"This is the day the Lord has made. I shall be glad and rejoice in it.”
                                      • Galatians 6:9 “"Do not grow weary and doing good, for at the proper time you will reap a harvest if you do not give up."
                                      • Proverbs 11:25 “Those who refresh others will be refreshed.”
                                      • Lamentations 3:21–23 (NIV) “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Greg Horn:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / X

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Greg Horn is best known as an encourager, coach, motivator, and speaker. He speaks regularly to organizations, civic groups and churches on the topics of fear, gratitude, and hope. He also hosts the radio show and podcast, Hope is Here, that broadcasts daily, Monday through Friday on multiple radio stations in Central Kentucky. His ministry, Hope is Here, began in December 2017 from a holy discontent that was growing within in him after losing three friends to suicide.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 372 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9325f97f-3908-4024-9052-b45800294814 9325f97f-3908-4024-9052-b45800294814 Thu, 28 May 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2329 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-hold-on-to-hope-in-a-world-full-of-fear-and-despair                                       How to Break Free from Shame and Embrace Who God Says You Are How to Break Free from Shame and Embrace Who God Says You Are Episode Summary: Shame is one of the most powerful and painful emotions we experience, often leaving us feeling unworthy, unseen, and disconnected from God and others. But what if both neuroscience and Scripture revealed a pathway out of shame and into healing?

                                       

                                      In this hope-filled episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by cohost Jessica Van Roekel to unpack how shame affects the brain, body, and spirit and how God’s truth can rewire our thinking, renew our identity, and restore our relationships. If you’ve ever wrestled with feelings of not being enough, this conversation will offer both the science and biblical encouragement you need to break free from shame and embrace who God says you are.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Shame is a heavy burden that whispers lies about our worth and keeps us stuck in cycles of fear, hiding, and disconnection. Yet both science and Scripture point us toward freedom.
                                      • God’s truth can rewire negative thought patterns, renew your sense of identity, and restore your relationship with Him and others.
                                      • When shame is triggered, we don’t just feel bad—we literally lose access to clear thinking. That’s why people spiral, ruminate, and get stuck.
                                      • The fascinating part is this: neuroscience shows that shame isn’t just an emotion—It affects our nervous system, our relationships, and even our physical health.
                                      • Guilt and shame are very different. Guilt says, ‘I did something wrong.’ Shame says, ‘I am something wrong.’
                                      • Shame is the enemy’s weapon to distort our identity and keep us from God’s love and community.
                                      • But notice what God did. He came looking for them. He clothed them. That’s a picture of His heart. He moves toward us in our shame.
                                      • When shame whispers, ‘You’re not enough,’ the cross declares, ‘You are covered. You are loved. You are free.’
                                      • What’s beautiful is that neuroscience confirms what Scripture has always said—connection heals shame.
                                      • Shame may be loud, but it is not your identity. Your mistakes, your past, your wounds—they don’t define you. God does. And He says you are chosen, beloved, forgiven, and free.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 34:5 “Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
                                      • Isaiah 54:4 “Do not be afraid; you will not be put to shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated.”
                                      • Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
                                      • Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary: Shame is one of the most powerful and painful emotions we experience, often leaving us feeling unworthy, unseen, and disconnected from God and others. But what if both neuroscience and Scripture revealed a pathway out of shame and into healing?

                                       

                                      In this hope-filled episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by cohost Jessica Van Roekel to unpack how shame affects the brain, body, and spirit and how God’s truth can rewire our thinking, renew our identity, and restore our relationships. If you’ve ever wrestled with feelings of not being enough, this conversation will offer both the science and biblical encouragement you need to break free from shame and embrace who God says you are.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Shame is a heavy burden that whispers lies about our worth and keeps us stuck in cycles of fear, hiding, and disconnection. Yet both science and Scripture point us toward freedom.
                                      • God’s truth can rewire negative thought patterns, renew your sense of identity, and restore your relationship with Him and others.
                                      • When shame is triggered, we don’t just feel bad—we literally lose access to clear thinking. That’s why people spiral, ruminate, and get stuck.
                                      • The fascinating part is this: neuroscience shows that shame isn’t just an emotion—It affects our nervous system, our relationships, and even our physical health.
                                      • Guilt and shame are very different. Guilt says, ‘I did something wrong.’ Shame says, ‘I am something wrong.’
                                      • Shame is the enemy’s weapon to distort our identity and keep us from God’s love and community.
                                      • But notice what God did. He came looking for them. He clothed them. That’s a picture of His heart. He moves toward us in our shame.
                                      • When shame whispers, ‘You’re not enough,’ the cross declares, ‘You are covered. You are loved. You are free.’
                                      • What’s beautiful is that neuroscience confirms what Scripture has always said—connection heals shame.
                                      • Shame may be loud, but it is not your identity. Your mistakes, your past, your wounds—they don’t define you. God does. And He says you are chosen, beloved, forgiven, and free.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 34:5 “Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
                                      • Isaiah 54:4 “Do not be afraid; you will not be put to shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated.”
                                      • Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
                                      • Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 371 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 7a7a55f7-0494-4e4f-8dd4-b45100116c76 7a7a55f7-0494-4e4f-8dd4-b45100116c76 Thu, 21 May 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1848 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-break-free-from-shame-and-embrace-who-god-says-you-are                                       How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts Through Biblical Truth & Brain Science How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts Through Biblical Truth & Brain Science Episode Summary:

                                      If you’ve ever felt ambushed by intrusive thoughts, unwanted mental spirals, or the kind of anxious loops that hijack your peace, you’re not alone—and you’re not powerless. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we’re diving into the intersection of biblical truth and brain science, exploring how God designed your mind, why intrusive thoughts show up, and how to interrupt them with evidence-based strategies and Scripture-anchored truth. Whether you struggle with anxiety, guilt, catastrophizing, or “what-if” thinking, you’ll learn practical, hope-filled tools to renew your mind, reclaim your thought life, and experience the calm your soul has been craving. In honor of mental health awareness month, today we’re going to talk about How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts Through Biblical Truth & Brain Science.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • You are not at the mercy of your mind.
                                      • A thought is not a fact. A thought is not a sin. A thought is not your identity. A thought is not your destiny.
                                      • The amygdala can’t tell the difference between a genuine threat, a hypothetical threat, or a lie masquerading as danger.
                                      • Romans 12:2 isn’t metaphor, it’s biology: ‘Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.’
                                      • You can’t control the first thought, but you can control the next one.
                                      • Intrusive thoughts thrive in internal chaos; they shrink in stillness.
                                      • This is just a thought, not a truth, and not a command.
                                      • You cannot ‘stop thinking’ your way out of intrusive thoughts; you must redirect them.
                                      • When the body calms down, the amygdala shuts off, and intrusive thoughts lose their volume.
                                      • You are not losing your mind. You are learning to renew it.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 12:2 “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
                                      • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “Take every thought captive.”
                                      • Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above.”
                                      • Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God.”
                                      • Philippians 4:8 “Whatever is true… think about such things.”
                                      • Romans 8:6 “The mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace”
                                      • Psalm 46:1 “God is my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
                                      • Romans 8:1 “There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.”
                                      • 2 Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you.”
                                      • 1 John 4:18 “Perfect love casts out fear.”
                                      • Matthew 6:34 “Do not worry about tomorrow.”
                                      • Philippians 1:6 “He who began a good work in you will carry it to completion.”

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      If you’ve ever felt ambushed by intrusive thoughts, unwanted mental spirals, or the kind of anxious loops that hijack your peace, you’re not alone—and you’re not powerless. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we’re diving into the intersection of biblical truth and brain science, exploring how God designed your mind, why intrusive thoughts show up, and how to interrupt them with evidence-based strategies and Scripture-anchored truth. Whether you struggle with anxiety, guilt, catastrophizing, or “what-if” thinking, you’ll learn practical, hope-filled tools to renew your mind, reclaim your thought life, and experience the calm your soul has been craving. In honor of mental health awareness month, today we’re going to talk about How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts Through Biblical Truth & Brain Science.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • You are not at the mercy of your mind.
                                      • A thought is not a fact. A thought is not a sin. A thought is not your identity. A thought is not your destiny.
                                      • The amygdala can’t tell the difference between a genuine threat, a hypothetical threat, or a lie masquerading as danger.
                                      • Romans 12:2 isn’t metaphor, it’s biology: ‘Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.’
                                      • You can’t control the first thought, but you can control the next one.
                                      • Intrusive thoughts thrive in internal chaos; they shrink in stillness.
                                      • This is just a thought, not a truth, and not a command.
                                      • You cannot ‘stop thinking’ your way out of intrusive thoughts; you must redirect them.
                                      • When the body calms down, the amygdala shuts off, and intrusive thoughts lose their volume.
                                      • You are not losing your mind. You are learning to renew it.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 12:2 “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
                                      • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “Take every thought captive.”
                                      • Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above.”
                                      • Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God.”
                                      • Philippians 4:8 “Whatever is true… think about such things.”
                                      • Romans 8:6 “The mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace”
                                      • Psalm 46:1 “God is my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
                                      • Romans 8:1 “There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.”
                                      • 2 Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you.”
                                      • 1 John 4:18 “Perfect love casts out fear.”
                                      • Matthew 6:34 “Do not worry about tomorrow.”
                                      • Philippians 1:6 “He who began a good work in you will carry it to completion.”

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 370 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9db55e9a-1750-4d8e-9237-b44a0009b566 9db55e9a-1750-4d8e-9237-b44a0009b566 Thu, 14 May 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1407 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-manage-intrusive-thoughts-through-biblical-truth-brain-science                                       How to Have Honest Conversations with God When You Don’t Know What to Say How to Have Honest Conversations with God When You Don’t Know What to Say Episode Summary: 

                                      In the chaos of life—when the bills pile up, when fear creeps in, or even when joy overflows—sometimes the words just don’t come. That’s where prayer steps in, grounding us in God’s presence and reminding us we’re never alone.

                                      On this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, in honor of the National Day of Prayer, I’m talking with Tama Fortner, bestselling author of over sixty books, about her newest release Prayers for Each Moment. This powerful book offers heartfelt conversations with God for real-life situations, helping us move beyond scripted words into authentic, soul-deep connection. Whether you’re struggling to pray or simply longing for a deeper rhythm of communion with God, this conversation will meet you right where you are.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Prayer is one of the greatest gifts God has given us, yet for many of us, it can also feel like one of the hardest disciplines to practice consistently. Do we have the right words? Are we doing it "enough"? And how do we bring our real struggles and everyday moments before a holy God?
                                      • Today’s guest, Tama Fortner, award-winning and bestselling author of Prayers for Each Moment: 100 Conversations with God About Real Life and Real Stuff, joins us to remind us that prayer isn’t about performance—it’s about relationship. Together we’ll explore how prayer can be both an invitation and a lifeline, and how it connects our everyday lives to God’s extraordinary love.
                                      • I've also seen it play out in the lives of others and some of the comments and feedback that I've gotten is an uncomfortableness with prayer.
                                      • We hear these beautiful public prayers in our churches, in different venues, and they're wonderful, and they're beautiful, and necessary, and needed, but they can also be a little bit intimidating. We get this notion that we have to have the right setting, the right words, that it has to be a certain structure, a certain time of day, and it doesn't. It doesn't. It just has to have a heart that's turned to God. I think that gets it in our way a lot.
                                      • Prayer is a conversation, and we never want to minimize that we're talking to the God of all creation. We never want to make it an unholy space or lessen the holiness of his invitation, but we also don't have to be intimidated by it. We don't have to figure out exactly the right words. We don't have to have ourselves all cleaned up and perfected before we come to him. So, it's a willingness to reframe prayer as that conversation. And so, we're turning to him maybe with half form sentences in the middle of doing something else.
                                      • I need God in every moment of my life. And the prayer without ceasing, something that I've come to realize reading some, some books like Brother Lawrence and then just some life experiences is that prayer may not always look like what we think it will look like. Maybe what we've been led or taught or grown up seeing it. It's not always head bowed, and eyes closed and stillness. Sometimes it's going for a walk. Sometimes it's a really quick prayer while you're on the run. But most of all, whether we use words or not in our prayers, it is a heart that's turned toward God, ready to listen, ready to be led.
                                      • Isn't it wonderful that he is bending down his ear to listen whenever we approach him with a heart of prayer. And I love that we never get a busy signal. You know, I'm not a big one for talking on the telephone, but it can be frustrating when you need to get hold of someone, and you get that voicemail. And you have to wait for a response, but we never have to wait on that response from God, because he is always attentive to our prayers.
                                      • I don't know what to pray. And I struggled, as you talked about earlier, with some doubts. But there are those verses where the man brings his son to Jesus, to heal, and Jesus says, "Do you believe?" And the man says, "I believe, but help my unbelief." Because even when we're struggling, even when we're doubting, even when we don't know what to pray, as long as we are taking those struggles and doubts to God, oh my goodness, His love and grace meets us in that moment. And our prayers don't always have to have words.
                                      • God wants to hear from you. God wants to speak into your life. Take a moment, and I know you're busy, so, it doesn't even have to be a moment of stillness, but take a moment and have a conversation with him, and then take one more moment and let him have a conversation with you.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 116:2 NIV “Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.”
                                      • Romans 8:34 “Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Tama Fortner:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Tama Fortner is an ECPA award-winning and bestselling author with more than sixty titles to her credit, including Everyday Joys Devotional and Simply Christmas. Tama has collaborated with some of the biggest names in Christian publishing to create inspirational books for all ages. But her greatest accomplishments happen in a happy little home on the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee, where she lives with her family and two feisty little pups who are convinced, they’re people too.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary: 

                                      In the chaos of life—when the bills pile up, when fear creeps in, or even when joy overflows—sometimes the words just don’t come. That’s where prayer steps in, grounding us in God’s presence and reminding us we’re never alone.

                                      On this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, in honor of the National Day of Prayer, I’m talking with Tama Fortner, bestselling author of over sixty books, about her newest release Prayers for Each Moment. This powerful book offers heartfelt conversations with God for real-life situations, helping us move beyond scripted words into authentic, soul-deep connection. Whether you’re struggling to pray or simply longing for a deeper rhythm of communion with God, this conversation will meet you right where you are.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Prayer is one of the greatest gifts God has given us, yet for many of us, it can also feel like one of the hardest disciplines to practice consistently. Do we have the right words? Are we doing it "enough"? And how do we bring our real struggles and everyday moments before a holy God?
                                      • Today’s guest, Tama Fortner, award-winning and bestselling author of Prayers for Each Moment: 100 Conversations with God About Real Life and Real Stuff, joins us to remind us that prayer isn’t about performance—it’s about relationship. Together we’ll explore how prayer can be both an invitation and a lifeline, and how it connects our everyday lives to God’s extraordinary love.
                                      • I've also seen it play out in the lives of others and some of the comments and feedback that I've gotten is an uncomfortableness with prayer.
                                      • We hear these beautiful public prayers in our churches, in different venues, and they're wonderful, and they're beautiful, and necessary, and needed, but they can also be a little bit intimidating. We get this notion that we have to have the right setting, the right words, that it has to be a certain structure, a certain time of day, and it doesn't. It doesn't. It just has to have a heart that's turned to God. I think that gets it in our way a lot.
                                      • Prayer is a conversation, and we never want to minimize that we're talking to the God of all creation. We never want to make it an unholy space or lessen the holiness of his invitation, but we also don't have to be intimidated by it. We don't have to figure out exactly the right words. We don't have to have ourselves all cleaned up and perfected before we come to him. So, it's a willingness to reframe prayer as that conversation. And so, we're turning to him maybe with half form sentences in the middle of doing something else.
                                      • I need God in every moment of my life. And the prayer without ceasing, something that I've come to realize reading some, some books like Brother Lawrence and then just some life experiences is that prayer may not always look like what we think it will look like. Maybe what we've been led or taught or grown up seeing it. It's not always head bowed, and eyes closed and stillness. Sometimes it's going for a walk. Sometimes it's a really quick prayer while you're on the run. But most of all, whether we use words or not in our prayers, it is a heart that's turned toward God, ready to listen, ready to be led.
                                      • Isn't it wonderful that he is bending down his ear to listen whenever we approach him with a heart of prayer. And I love that we never get a busy signal. You know, I'm not a big one for talking on the telephone, but it can be frustrating when you need to get hold of someone, and you get that voicemail. And you have to wait for a response, but we never have to wait on that response from God, because he is always attentive to our prayers.
                                      • I don't know what to pray. And I struggled, as you talked about earlier, with some doubts. But there are those verses where the man brings his son to Jesus, to heal, and Jesus says, "Do you believe?" And the man says, "I believe, but help my unbelief." Because even when we're struggling, even when we're doubting, even when we don't know what to pray, as long as we are taking those struggles and doubts to God, oh my goodness, His love and grace meets us in that moment. And our prayers don't always have to have words.
                                      • God wants to hear from you. God wants to speak into your life. Take a moment, and I know you're busy, so, it doesn't even have to be a moment of stillness, but take a moment and have a conversation with him, and then take one more moment and let him have a conversation with you.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 116:2 NIV “Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.”
                                      • Romans 8:34 “Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Tama Fortner:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Tama Fortner is an ECPA award-winning and bestselling author with more than sixty titles to her credit, including Everyday Joys Devotional and Simply Christmas. Tama has collaborated with some of the biggest names in Christian publishing to create inspirational books for all ages. But her greatest accomplishments happen in a happy little home on the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee, where she lives with her family and two feisty little pups who are convinced, they’re people too.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 369 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 181d0c98-2660-41f9-aba7-b4430028dfa8 181d0c98-2660-41f9-aba7-b4430028dfa8 Thu, 07 May 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1693 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-have-honest-conversations-with-god-when-you-don-t-know-what-to-say                                       Overcoming Stress with Scripture & Science: A Guide for Stress Awareness Overcoming Stress with Scripture & Science: A Guide for Stress Awareness Episode Summary:

                                      Whether you’re battling chronic stress, emotional overload, burnout, or simply the pressures of everyday life, today we’re diving deep into Overcoming Stress with Scripture and Science. We’ll explore what stress does to your brain and body, how to recognize when it’s taking a toll, and—most importantly—God’s proven blueprint for peace, renewal, and rest. If you’ve been craving practical tools rooted in neuroscience and anchored in biblical truth, this episode will speak directly to your heart.

                                       

                                      Today’s episode is especially timely because April is Stress Awareness Month. And if there is one thing I’ve consistently seen in 30+ years as a neuropsychologist, it’s this: stress is universal, but suffering under it doesn’t have to be.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • In recognition of stress awareness month, I want to remind you that stress doesn’t simply come from “big problems.” Science shows that your brain can interpret noise, clutter, constant notifications, unresolved emotions, lack of sleep, and even chronic busyness the same way it interprets danger.
                                      • Chronic stress literally shrinks the brain regions involved in emotional regulation and clarity. But the good news? They can also be strengthened—God built neuroplasticity into your biology.
                                      • Stress is not a spiritual failure. It’s a signal—an invitation—to lean into God’s design for restoration.
                                      • God doesn’t offer stress management tips—He offers Himself. Peace isn’t a principle. Peace is a person.
                                      • God created your brain and body with built-in “calm switches."
                                      • This isn’t just spiritual—it’s neurological. Meditation strengthens the very brain networks stress weakens. “When your mind stays on Him, your brain rewires toward peace.”
                                      • Replace Fear Thoughts with Scripture-Based Truth. Science calls this cognitive reframing. Scripture calls it taking thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5).
                                      • Neuroscience shows that short pauses throughout the day reduce cumulative stress load. Scripture calls this Selah—a holy pause.
                                      • Stress may be a reality of life, but peace is the promise of God.
                                      • Don’t just become aware of stress. Become aware of God—right in the middle of it.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 94:19 “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”
                                      • Exodus 33:14 “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
                                      • Isaiah 26:3 “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you.”
                                      • Proverbs 12:25 “Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad.”
                                      • Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Whether you’re battling chronic stress, emotional overload, burnout, or simply the pressures of everyday life, today we’re diving deep into Overcoming Stress with Scripture and Science. We’ll explore what stress does to your brain and body, how to recognize when it’s taking a toll, and—most importantly—God’s proven blueprint for peace, renewal, and rest. If you’ve been craving practical tools rooted in neuroscience and anchored in biblical truth, this episode will speak directly to your heart.

                                       

                                      Today’s episode is especially timely because April is Stress Awareness Month. And if there is one thing I’ve consistently seen in 30+ years as a neuropsychologist, it’s this: stress is universal, but suffering under it doesn’t have to be.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • In recognition of stress awareness month, I want to remind you that stress doesn’t simply come from “big problems.” Science shows that your brain can interpret noise, clutter, constant notifications, unresolved emotions, lack of sleep, and even chronic busyness the same way it interprets danger.
                                      • Chronic stress literally shrinks the brain regions involved in emotional regulation and clarity. But the good news? They can also be strengthened—God built neuroplasticity into your biology.
                                      • Stress is not a spiritual failure. It’s a signal—an invitation—to lean into God’s design for restoration.
                                      • God doesn’t offer stress management tips—He offers Himself. Peace isn’t a principle. Peace is a person.
                                      • God created your brain and body with built-in “calm switches."
                                      • This isn’t just spiritual—it’s neurological. Meditation strengthens the very brain networks stress weakens. “When your mind stays on Him, your brain rewires toward peace.”
                                      • Replace Fear Thoughts with Scripture-Based Truth. Science calls this cognitive reframing. Scripture calls it taking thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5).
                                      • Neuroscience shows that short pauses throughout the day reduce cumulative stress load. Scripture calls this Selah—a holy pause.
                                      • Stress may be a reality of life, but peace is the promise of God.
                                      • Don’t just become aware of stress. Become aware of God—right in the middle of it.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 94:19 “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”
                                      • Exodus 33:14 “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
                                      • Isaiah 26:3 “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you.”
                                      • Proverbs 12:25 “Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad.”
                                      • Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 368 Dr. Michelle Bengtson d928c01d-1eb1-4c83-a72b-b43c00367a20 d928c01d-1eb1-4c83-a72b-b43c00367a20 Thu, 30 Apr 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1852 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/overcoming-stress-with-scripture-science-a-guide-for-stress-awareness                                       How to Release Hustle Culture and Create Sustainable Wellness How to Release Hustle Culture and Create Sustainable Wellness Episode Summary:

                                      Are you weary from constantly striving, juggling endless responsibilities, and living at a pace that leaves you burned out and exhausted? You’re not alone. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by Dr. Portia Preston, a public health expert, two-time TEDx speaker, and author of Hustle, Flow, or Let It Go? Her compassionate, shame-free approach to wellness helps us release hustle culture and create sustainable wellness so we can live with greater balance, peace, and joy.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • This chronic stress is when I lose connection with myself. That's really the best way I know. Where am I in relation to myself and the things that I value most? If I am being irritable in my relationships, something's off. Because these are people that I love.
                                      • If you had asked me a decade ago about my experience with burnout, I would have pointed directly to my career. And always feeling like it was on me to provide because who else would do it? But it's only been in recent years when I've found that burnout extends to all facets of my life.
                                      • Surrender isn't about what you can do.
                                      • The to-do list narrows our perspective. It's asking us to show up as the person who does these things. So immediately we are taken out of connection with our reality and our capacity. And we've been conditioned to say, well, that's the way that it should be. So, if what I have today doesn't measure up to that, then I'm the problem. And I'm not saying the list is bad.
                                      • There is a saying that says that we are human beings, not human doings.
                                      • You were born with worth. That it was a part of you. And it's not something that can be taken away from you.
                                      • God never designed us to go full speed all the time. And recognizing the rhythm of the seasons frees us to honor time of work and time of rest.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Isaiah 30:15 (NLT) “This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength.’”
                                      • Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NRSV) “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Dr. Portia Preston:

                                      Website / Instagram

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Dr. Portia Preston is a public health expert, two-time TEDx speaker, and founder of Empowered to Exhale. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Michigan, and UCLA, and currently serves as a faculty member at California State University, Fullerton. Through her groundbreaking work, Dr. Preston helps individuals and organizations create a culture of sustainable wellness and performance. Her new book, Hustle, Flow, or Let It Go?, offers a compassionate, shame-free roadmap to releasing hustle culture and embracing wellness that truly honors our unique realities.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Are you weary from constantly striving, juggling endless responsibilities, and living at a pace that leaves you burned out and exhausted? You’re not alone. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by Dr. Portia Preston, a public health expert, two-time TEDx speaker, and author of Hustle, Flow, or Let It Go? Her compassionate, shame-free approach to wellness helps us release hustle culture and create sustainable wellness so we can live with greater balance, peace, and joy.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • This chronic stress is when I lose connection with myself. That's really the best way I know. Where am I in relation to myself and the things that I value most? If I am being irritable in my relationships, something's off. Because these are people that I love.
                                      • If you had asked me a decade ago about my experience with burnout, I would have pointed directly to my career. And always feeling like it was on me to provide because who else would do it? But it's only been in recent years when I've found that burnout extends to all facets of my life.
                                      • Surrender isn't about what you can do.
                                      • The to-do list narrows our perspective. It's asking us to show up as the person who does these things. So immediately we are taken out of connection with our reality and our capacity. And we've been conditioned to say, well, that's the way that it should be. So, if what I have today doesn't measure up to that, then I'm the problem. And I'm not saying the list is bad.
                                      • There is a saying that says that we are human beings, not human doings.
                                      • You were born with worth. That it was a part of you. And it's not something that can be taken away from you.
                                      • God never designed us to go full speed all the time. And recognizing the rhythm of the seasons frees us to honor time of work and time of rest.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Isaiah 30:15 (NLT) “This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength.’”
                                      • Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NRSV) “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Dr. Portia Preston:

                                      Website / Instagram

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Dr. Portia Preston is a public health expert, two-time TEDx speaker, and founder of Empowered to Exhale. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Michigan, and UCLA, and currently serves as a faculty member at California State University, Fullerton. Through her groundbreaking work, Dr. Preston helps individuals and organizations create a culture of sustainable wellness and performance. Her new book, Hustle, Flow, or Let It Go?, offers a compassionate, shame-free roadmap to releasing hustle culture and embracing wellness that truly honors our unique realities.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 367 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 43bf38ca-7a0b-4af2-b302-b435001d2fdc 43bf38ca-7a0b-4af2-b302-b435001d2fdc Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2146 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-release-hustle-culture-and-create-sustainable-wellness                                       How Trauma-Informed Support Brings Hope to the Homeless and Restores Dignit How Trauma-Informed Support Brings Hope to the Homeless and Restores Dignit Episode Summary:

                                      Homelessness is often viewed only through the lens of what we see on the surface—tents on sidewalks, individuals holding signs, or people who seem lost in the crowd. Yet behind every face is a story marked by trauma, loss, survival, and a longing for dignity. Today we are pulling back the curtain to look deeper into the emotional, psychological, and spiritual factors that contribute to homelessness, and more importantly, the pathways that lead toward healing, restoration, and lasting hope.

                                      Our guest, Baron King, serves on the front lines, offering trauma-informed care, emotional support, and compassionate advocacy to individuals fighting their way out of crisis. You’ll hear what truly makes a difference, how healing begins, and how we can each play a role in restoring hope to those who feel forgotten. Whether you’ve experienced instability yourself or want to better understand how to support those who do, this conversation will open your heart and strengthen your faith in the God who sees, knows, and redeems every story.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Too often, homelessness is reduced to statistics, stereotypes, or oversimplified assumptions about personal choices. But for many individuals, homelessness is the culmination of unhealed trauma, mental health challenges, broken systems, and overwhelming life circumstances.
                                      • Yet, every face is a story, sometimes marked by trauma, loss, survival, even a longing for dignity.
                                      • To every complex problem, there's a simple answer and it's always wrong.
                                      • It's rare that somebody presents themselves to our agency and the only reason that they are unsheltered or homeless is because of lack of housing.
                                      • Perhaps they have physical or psychological disabilities or challenges.  Perhaps they're a caregiver of somebody that's dependent and they lack some of these social safety nets that other people have and they don't have.  So, it's usually very multifactorial.
                                      • But I would propose that if any of us were unsheltered for 6, 8, 12 months, that we would be demonstrating signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and despondency.
                                      • What I've realized is they can't sleep at night, and they come into our facility because they won't get assaulted and they can get sleep.
                                      • I think one of the things that people really struggle with, and I think that most people probably wouldn't realize this, is a loss of identity.
                                      • You know, dignity is the first thing people lose when they become homeless.
                                      • No one, no one chooses to be unsheltered.  No one chooses to be homeless. 

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Isaiah 58:10 “If you spend yourselves on behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.”
                                      • Proverbs 19:17 “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Baron King:

                                      Website CHATT Foundation / Facebook / Instagram / Podcast

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Baron S King, LPC, NCC, is the current President and Chief Executive Officer of The CHATT Foundation, formerly the Chattanooga Community Kitchen, a non-profit corporation serving the homeless community in the greater Chattanooga region.  Prior to that Mr. King served as the CEO of Liberty Ministries, Inc., a large non-profit serving men and women inside state and county prisons of Pennsylvania and those upon release in residential transition programs.

                                      Prior to that, Mr. King served as the Director of Health and Counseling services, Clinical Director, and Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Cairn University in southeastern PA.  Mr. King holds a BS degree in Theology, a MS in Clinical Psychology, and has an extensive background in Organizational Leadership and Development.  Mr. King is passionate about providing services and support to underserved people groups and providing pathways to self-sustainability.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Homelessness is often viewed only through the lens of what we see on the surface—tents on sidewalks, individuals holding signs, or people who seem lost in the crowd. Yet behind every face is a story marked by trauma, loss, survival, and a longing for dignity. Today we are pulling back the curtain to look deeper into the emotional, psychological, and spiritual factors that contribute to homelessness, and more importantly, the pathways that lead toward healing, restoration, and lasting hope.

                                      Our guest, Baron King, serves on the front lines, offering trauma-informed care, emotional support, and compassionate advocacy to individuals fighting their way out of crisis. You’ll hear what truly makes a difference, how healing begins, and how we can each play a role in restoring hope to those who feel forgotten. Whether you’ve experienced instability yourself or want to better understand how to support those who do, this conversation will open your heart and strengthen your faith in the God who sees, knows, and redeems every story.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Too often, homelessness is reduced to statistics, stereotypes, or oversimplified assumptions about personal choices. But for many individuals, homelessness is the culmination of unhealed trauma, mental health challenges, broken systems, and overwhelming life circumstances.
                                      • Yet, every face is a story, sometimes marked by trauma, loss, survival, even a longing for dignity.
                                      • To every complex problem, there's a simple answer and it's always wrong.
                                      • It's rare that somebody presents themselves to our agency and the only reason that they are unsheltered or homeless is because of lack of housing.
                                      • Perhaps they have physical or psychological disabilities or challenges.  Perhaps they're a caregiver of somebody that's dependent and they lack some of these social safety nets that other people have and they don't have.  So, it's usually very multifactorial.
                                      • But I would propose that if any of us were unsheltered for 6, 8, 12 months, that we would be demonstrating signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and despondency.
                                      • What I've realized is they can't sleep at night, and they come into our facility because they won't get assaulted and they can get sleep.
                                      • I think one of the things that people really struggle with, and I think that most people probably wouldn't realize this, is a loss of identity.
                                      • You know, dignity is the first thing people lose when they become homeless.
                                      • No one, no one chooses to be unsheltered.  No one chooses to be homeless. 

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Isaiah 58:10 “If you spend yourselves on behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.”
                                      • Proverbs 19:17 “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Baron King:

                                      Website CHATT Foundation / Facebook / Instagram / Podcast

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Baron S King, LPC, NCC, is the current President and Chief Executive Officer of The CHATT Foundation, formerly the Chattanooga Community Kitchen, a non-profit corporation serving the homeless community in the greater Chattanooga region.  Prior to that Mr. King served as the CEO of Liberty Ministries, Inc., a large non-profit serving men and women inside state and county prisons of Pennsylvania and those upon release in residential transition programs.

                                      Prior to that, Mr. King served as the Director of Health and Counseling services, Clinical Director, and Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Cairn University in southeastern PA.  Mr. King holds a BS degree in Theology, a MS in Clinical Psychology, and has an extensive background in Organizational Leadership and Development.  Mr. King is passionate about providing services and support to underserved people groups and providing pathways to self-sustainability.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 366 Dr. Michelle Bengtson fd79f2d7-6cd4-4172-9369-b42e00247563 fd79f2d7-6cd4-4172-9369-b42e00247563 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1998 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-trauma-informed-support-brings-hope-to-the-homeless-and-restores-dignit                                       How to Care for Your Whole Self: Biblical and Brain-Based Health for Mind, Body, and Spirit How to Care for Your Whole Self: Biblical and Brain-Based Health for Mind, Body, and Spirit Episode Summary:

                                      If you’ve been doing “all the right things” but still feel depleted, disconnected, or out of balance, this episode is for you. In honor of World Health Day, Your Hope-Filled Perspective takes a compassionate look at whole-person health—addressing the deep connection between mental wellness, physical vitality, and spiritual nourishment. Through faith-based insight and practical application, you’ll be encouraged to move beyond survival mode and toward sustainable, Christ-centered well-being that honors how God designed you to live. Today we’re marking World Health Day by talking about something that sounds simple but is anything but—How to Care for Your Whole Self: Biblical and Brain-Based Health for Mind, Body, and Spirit.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • We often try to fix one area of our lives in isolation. We focus on our spiritual life but ignore our emotional health. Or we tend to our bodies while our thought life runs unchecked. But God designed us as integrated beings, and when one area is suffering, the others are usually affected too.
                                      • Some early mental and emotional signs include:
                                        • Increased irritability or emotional numbness
                                        • Difficulty concentrating or remembering
                                        • Racing or repetitive negative thoughts
                                        • Losing interest in things that once brought joy
                                        • Feeling overwhelmed by decisions that used to feel manageable
                                      • These aren’t character flaws—they’re signals from your nervous system.
                                      • And spiritually, those same signals often show up as disconnection. You might notice prayer feels harder, Scripture feels flat, or you’re more reactive than reflective. Sometimes we label that as a “faith problem,” when it’s actually exhaustion or emotional overload.
                                      • Or you find yourself pushing through fatigue, telling yourself, “I’ll rest later,” without realizing later never comes. Ignoring the body’s signals doesn’t make us more faithful—it often makes us more fragile.
                                      • Spiritually, we often confuse endurance with faithfulness. We forget that Jesus regularly withdrew to rest, pray, and recalibrate. If the Son of God needed rhythms of restoration, so do we.
                                      • When you notice the slide, the goal isn’t to fix everything—it’s to create safety and regulation.
                                      • Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is eat a balanced meal, drink water, or get some sleep. Sleep deprivation alone increases anxiety, depression, and emotional reactivity. Caring for your body is not separate from caring for your soul.
                                      • We don’t heal by striving—we heal by abiding.
                                      • Whole health isn’t about doing more—it’s about listening better. To your body. To your mind. To the Spirit of God within you.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • 3 John 1:2 (NASB) “Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.”
                                      • Proverbs 4:20–23 (CSB) “My son, pay attention to my words; listen closely to my sayings. Don’t lose sight of them; keep them within your heart, for they are life to those who find them, and health to one’s whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      If you’ve been doing “all the right things” but still feel depleted, disconnected, or out of balance, this episode is for you. In honor of World Health Day, Your Hope-Filled Perspective takes a compassionate look at whole-person health—addressing the deep connection between mental wellness, physical vitality, and spiritual nourishment. Through faith-based insight and practical application, you’ll be encouraged to move beyond survival mode and toward sustainable, Christ-centered well-being that honors how God designed you to live. Today we’re marking World Health Day by talking about something that sounds simple but is anything but—How to Care for Your Whole Self: Biblical and Brain-Based Health for Mind, Body, and Spirit.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • We often try to fix one area of our lives in isolation. We focus on our spiritual life but ignore our emotional health. Or we tend to our bodies while our thought life runs unchecked. But God designed us as integrated beings, and when one area is suffering, the others are usually affected too.
                                      • Some early mental and emotional signs include:
                                        • Increased irritability or emotional numbness
                                        • Difficulty concentrating or remembering
                                        • Racing or repetitive negative thoughts
                                        • Losing interest in things that once brought joy
                                        • Feeling overwhelmed by decisions that used to feel manageable
                                      • These aren’t character flaws—they’re signals from your nervous system.
                                      • And spiritually, those same signals often show up as disconnection. You might notice prayer feels harder, Scripture feels flat, or you’re more reactive than reflective. Sometimes we label that as a “faith problem,” when it’s actually exhaustion or emotional overload.
                                      • Or you find yourself pushing through fatigue, telling yourself, “I’ll rest later,” without realizing later never comes. Ignoring the body’s signals doesn’t make us more faithful—it often makes us more fragile.
                                      • Spiritually, we often confuse endurance with faithfulness. We forget that Jesus regularly withdrew to rest, pray, and recalibrate. If the Son of God needed rhythms of restoration, so do we.
                                      • When you notice the slide, the goal isn’t to fix everything—it’s to create safety and regulation.
                                      • Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is eat a balanced meal, drink water, or get some sleep. Sleep deprivation alone increases anxiety, depression, and emotional reactivity. Caring for your body is not separate from caring for your soul.
                                      • We don’t heal by striving—we heal by abiding.
                                      • Whole health isn’t about doing more—it’s about listening better. To your body. To your mind. To the Spirit of God within you.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • 3 John 1:2 (NASB) “Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.”
                                      • Proverbs 4:20–23 (CSB) “My son, pay attention to my words; listen closely to my sayings. Don’t lose sight of them; keep them within your heart, for they are life to those who find them, and health to one’s whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 365 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f02fa68b-de74-440f-9091-b42601640ae9 f02fa68b-de74-440f-9091-b42601640ae9 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2154 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-care-for-your-whole-self-biblical-and-brain-based-health-for-mind-body-and-spirit                                       How Easter Transforms our Mental and Emotional Battles - Living in Resurrection Hope How Easter Transforms our Mental and Emotional Battles - Living in Resurrection Hope Episode Summary:

                                      Have you ever noticed how Easter morning feels light and bright? It’s not necessarily because the sunrise seems extra colorful or because the church lilies release their fragrance. It’s because something shifts inside us and whispers, “Hope is still alive.” This hope isn’t fragile and it doesn’t evaporate when bills pile up or when anxiety keeps you awake in the night or when the ache you prayed would be gone is still there.

                                      We’re talking about resurrection hope, the nitty gritty kind that Jesus bought for us the moment he walked out of the tomb. Easter has everything to do with the battles happening in our minds and emotions. Today, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about the kind of hope that transforms us. It’s not pastel colored nor is it a once-a-year kind of hope, but an everyday hope.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Jesus didn’t just rise for the world; he rose for you.
                                      • Resurrection isn’t only a historical and theological event. It’s a mental and emotional revolution.
                                      • The power that resurrected a dead body is the same power God places in our inner world to bring back to life hope, peace, and joy when they feel gone. Yet Christians often live like Easter is a spiritual anniversary, not their present reality.
                                      • Easter isn’t a bandage. It’s a breakthrough and it announces the defeat of our mental and emotional battles.
                                      • Resurrection hope doesn’t promise me an easy life, but it does promise me God’s presence, which settles my anxious heart.
                                      • That reminds me that resurrection hope means the darkness is not permanent.
                                      • But the empty tomb is God’s megaphone saying, “Shame doesn’t get to define you.” Jesus didn’t walk out of that grave dragging your failures behind him.
                                      • Every disappointment is just Friday and every breakthrough is Sunday.
                                      • Easter is not a holiday we recognize once a year. It’s the reality we live in, and it transforms every inner battle, not by removing struggle, but by giving us a power greater than the struggle.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 8:11, NIV “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.”
                                      • 2 Corinthians 12:10 “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong”
                                      • 2 Corinthians 2:3-5 reminds us, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.”
                                      • Isaiah 43:19, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
                                      • Romans 8:11, “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Have you ever noticed how Easter morning feels light and bright? It’s not necessarily because the sunrise seems extra colorful or because the church lilies release their fragrance. It’s because something shifts inside us and whispers, “Hope is still alive.” This hope isn’t fragile and it doesn’t evaporate when bills pile up or when anxiety keeps you awake in the night or when the ache you prayed would be gone is still there.

                                      We’re talking about resurrection hope, the nitty gritty kind that Jesus bought for us the moment he walked out of the tomb. Easter has everything to do with the battles happening in our minds and emotions. Today, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about the kind of hope that transforms us. It’s not pastel colored nor is it a once-a-year kind of hope, but an everyday hope.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Jesus didn’t just rise for the world; he rose for you.
                                      • Resurrection isn’t only a historical and theological event. It’s a mental and emotional revolution.
                                      • The power that resurrected a dead body is the same power God places in our inner world to bring back to life hope, peace, and joy when they feel gone. Yet Christians often live like Easter is a spiritual anniversary, not their present reality.
                                      • Easter isn’t a bandage. It’s a breakthrough and it announces the defeat of our mental and emotional battles.
                                      • Resurrection hope doesn’t promise me an easy life, but it does promise me God’s presence, which settles my anxious heart.
                                      • That reminds me that resurrection hope means the darkness is not permanent.
                                      • But the empty tomb is God’s megaphone saying, “Shame doesn’t get to define you.” Jesus didn’t walk out of that grave dragging your failures behind him.
                                      • Every disappointment is just Friday and every breakthrough is Sunday.
                                      • Easter is not a holiday we recognize once a year. It’s the reality we live in, and it transforms every inner battle, not by removing struggle, but by giving us a power greater than the struggle.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 8:11, NIV “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.”
                                      • 2 Corinthians 12:10 “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong”
                                      • 2 Corinthians 2:3-5 reminds us, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.”
                                      • Isaiah 43:19, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
                                      • Romans 8:11, “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 364 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6cce2166-af77-42d6-9363-b420000ec41a 6cce2166-af77-42d6-9363-b420000ec41a Thu, 02 Apr 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1862 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-easter-transforms-our-mental-and-emotional-battles-living-in-resurrection-hope                                       How to Rise from Life’s Wreckage and Reclaim Your Hope How to Rise from Life’s Wreckage and Reclaim Your Hope Episode Summary: 

                                      Have you ever wondered how you would respond if life completely unraveled in an instant? My guest today, Sheryl Ramstad, knows that reality all too well. After surviving a catastrophic plane crash with less than a 1% chance of survival, she could have easily given in to despair. Instead, she chose to rise—reclaiming her life, reinventing her future, and redefining what it means to live with purpose. From the ashes of tragedy, Sheryl’s story shines as a powerful testimony of resilience, grit, and the sustaining grace of God.

                                      Most of us will never experience the devastation of a plane crash, but all of us face moments when life feels shattered beyond repair. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by Sheryl Ramstad—a woman who not only survived the unthinkable but has gone on to thrive. With perseverance, faith, and courage, she rebuilt her life, pursued new careers, climbed one of the world’s highest mountains, and continues to inspire others to press forward no matter the odds. Her journey is a living reminder that hope can rise from despair and that our greatest challenges can become the very places God’s strength shines brightest.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • What would you do if your life changed in an instant, and nothing looked the way you thought it would?
                                      • Sheryl survived a catastrophic plane crash with less than a 1% chance of survival, she could have easily given in to despair.
                                      • I can only imagine doctors walking in and saying, you have less than a 1 % chance of survival. So, what role did faith and determination play in you beating those odds? It was everything, Michelle. My faith was what carried me through.
                                      • When I was in the hospital, instead of asking “why me?”, I would ask “what next?” And the Lord always had an answer for me. And that became my future question that I'd always ask, what's next, Lord?
                                      • I had been thinking that the hospital would be the end of my journey, but it wasn't. It was only the beginning. It was a years-long journey, seven major surgeries.
                                      • I would give others the advice that it's when it's bigger than you when your recovery is bigger than you When your life is out of control, when you feel like you just don't have a place to turn, turn your attention to the Lord and read your Bible and ask for the Lord's help. Ask Him to walk beside you, surround yourself with people who are faithful, who can help you in those times of doubt, who can lift you up and encourage you. And that's what got me through.
                                      • Sheryl, my listeners know that I've written a book "Sacred Scars," resting in God's promise that your past is not wasted, and your story begs the question, "Because you have lived with both the physical scars from the burns as well as emotional scars, how have you embraced your scars as part of your story rather than as setbacks?" I've, it's turned my life into one of purpose, Michelle. It's given me direction, I focused on service over survival, tried to encourage others, and that's been my goal.
                                      • How did you hold onto your hope during that process? - Well, I knew I wasn't in it alone. I reached out to others, in particular people who I knew had faith, and would ask them, "What's next?" They wouldn't have the answers, but then I'd ask the Lord, and I'd see a path that made no sense to me at the time, but that I felt called to follow. And I can't explain that calling, Michelle other than to say it was a still small voice inside of me.
                                      • I would give others the advice that it's when it's bigger than you when your recovery is bigger than you When your life is out of control, when you feel like you just don't have a place to turn, turn your attention to the Lord and read your Bible and ask for the Lord's help. Ask Him to walk beside you, surround yourself with people who are faithful, who can help you in those times of doubt, who can lift you up and encourage you. And that's what got me through.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Jeremiah 32:27 “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?”
                                      • Luke 18:27 “The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Sheryl Ramstad:

                                      Website

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Sheryl Ramstad is a burn survivor, former criminal trial attorney, and Minnesota Commissioner of Corrections who rebuilt her life after a devastating plane crash. Now a nurse practitioner with a doctorate in nursing, she brings a unique perspective to conversations about trauma,

                                      reinvention, and public service leadership. Above all, she treasures her role as a mother to three adult children, and grandmother to several littles. She resides in Minneapolis with her husband, Lee.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary: 

                                      Have you ever wondered how you would respond if life completely unraveled in an instant? My guest today, Sheryl Ramstad, knows that reality all too well. After surviving a catastrophic plane crash with less than a 1% chance of survival, she could have easily given in to despair. Instead, she chose to rise—reclaiming her life, reinventing her future, and redefining what it means to live with purpose. From the ashes of tragedy, Sheryl’s story shines as a powerful testimony of resilience, grit, and the sustaining grace of God.

                                      Most of us will never experience the devastation of a plane crash, but all of us face moments when life feels shattered beyond repair. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by Sheryl Ramstad—a woman who not only survived the unthinkable but has gone on to thrive. With perseverance, faith, and courage, she rebuilt her life, pursued new careers, climbed one of the world’s highest mountains, and continues to inspire others to press forward no matter the odds. Her journey is a living reminder that hope can rise from despair and that our greatest challenges can become the very places God’s strength shines brightest.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • What would you do if your life changed in an instant, and nothing looked the way you thought it would?
                                      • Sheryl survived a catastrophic plane crash with less than a 1% chance of survival, she could have easily given in to despair.
                                      • I can only imagine doctors walking in and saying, you have less than a 1 % chance of survival. So, what role did faith and determination play in you beating those odds? It was everything, Michelle. My faith was what carried me through.
                                      • When I was in the hospital, instead of asking “why me?”, I would ask “what next?” And the Lord always had an answer for me. And that became my future question that I'd always ask, what's next, Lord?
                                      • I had been thinking that the hospital would be the end of my journey, but it wasn't. It was only the beginning. It was a years-long journey, seven major surgeries.
                                      • I would give others the advice that it's when it's bigger than you when your recovery is bigger than you When your life is out of control, when you feel like you just don't have a place to turn, turn your attention to the Lord and read your Bible and ask for the Lord's help. Ask Him to walk beside you, surround yourself with people who are faithful, who can help you in those times of doubt, who can lift you up and encourage you. And that's what got me through.
                                      • Sheryl, my listeners know that I've written a book "Sacred Scars," resting in God's promise that your past is not wasted, and your story begs the question, "Because you have lived with both the physical scars from the burns as well as emotional scars, how have you embraced your scars as part of your story rather than as setbacks?" I've, it's turned my life into one of purpose, Michelle. It's given me direction, I focused on service over survival, tried to encourage others, and that's been my goal.
                                      • How did you hold onto your hope during that process? - Well, I knew I wasn't in it alone. I reached out to others, in particular people who I knew had faith, and would ask them, "What's next?" They wouldn't have the answers, but then I'd ask the Lord, and I'd see a path that made no sense to me at the time, but that I felt called to follow. And I can't explain that calling, Michelle other than to say it was a still small voice inside of me.
                                      • I would give others the advice that it's when it's bigger than you when your recovery is bigger than you When your life is out of control, when you feel like you just don't have a place to turn, turn your attention to the Lord and read your Bible and ask for the Lord's help. Ask Him to walk beside you, surround yourself with people who are faithful, who can help you in those times of doubt, who can lift you up and encourage you. And that's what got me through.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Jeremiah 32:27 “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?”
                                      • Luke 18:27 “The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Sheryl Ramstad:

                                      Website

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Guest:

                                      Sheryl Ramstad is a burn survivor, former criminal trial attorney, and Minnesota Commissioner of Corrections who rebuilt her life after a devastating plane crash. Now a nurse practitioner with a doctorate in nursing, she brings a unique perspective to conversations about trauma,

                                      reinvention, and public service leadership. Above all, she treasures her role as a mother to three adult children, and grandmother to several littles. She resides in Minneapolis with her husband, Lee.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 363 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 0985857f-e341-4c19-b6ea-b41900238982 0985857f-e341-4c19-b6ea-b41900238982 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:30:00 +0000 2249 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-rise-from-life-s-wreckage-and-reclaim-your-hope                                       How to Cultivate Joy Even on Difficult Days How to Cultivate Joy Even on Difficult Days Episode Summary:

                                      In a world that pulls our attention toward stress, exhaustion, and discouragement, many of us wonder how to cultivate joy on the days when life feels overwhelmingly heavy. What if joy is not something we wait for but something we intentionally build into our minds and our spirits even during difficult seasons. Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I share how we can experience joy as a steady anchor rather than an unpredictable emotion, using both biblical truth and the latest neuroscience research to guide us.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Some days feel like a battle from the moment our feet hit the floor. Yet the Bible describes joy not as the absence of hardship but as a powerful spiritual resource that strengthens us from the inside out.
                                      • We are talking about cultivating joy on difficult days. Not the easy days. Not the days when everything goes right. We are talking about the days when joy feels far away, and our circumstances feel like they are pressing in on every side.
                                      • God never intended joy to be reserved only for ideal circumstances.
                                      • One of the first things we need to understand is that joy and happiness are not the same. Happiness depends on what happens around us. Joy depends on the unchanging character of God within us.
                                      • When we intentionally focus on what is true and life-giving the brain becomes better at recognizing hope even in hard situations.
                                      • We can train our minds to recognize God’s presence and goodness even on difficult days.
                                      • And most people do not realize that chronic stress suppresses the parts of the brain responsible for joy, connection, creativity, and problem solving.
                                      • Joy is not built on our feelings. Joy is built on our confidence that God is in control even when life is not.
                                      • Joy may begin as a flicker, not a blaze.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • James 1:2-4 “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
                                      • Isaiah 26:3 “God will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are stayed on Him because they trust Him.”
                                      • Psalm 94:18-19 “When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your unfailing love, LORD, supported me. When anxiety was great within me your consolation brought me joy.”
                                      • Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He takes great delight in you. He rejoices over you with singing.”
                                      • Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      In a world that pulls our attention toward stress, exhaustion, and discouragement, many of us wonder how to cultivate joy on the days when life feels overwhelmingly heavy. What if joy is not something we wait for but something we intentionally build into our minds and our spirits even during difficult seasons. Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I share how we can experience joy as a steady anchor rather than an unpredictable emotion, using both biblical truth and the latest neuroscience research to guide us.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Some days feel like a battle from the moment our feet hit the floor. Yet the Bible describes joy not as the absence of hardship but as a powerful spiritual resource that strengthens us from the inside out.
                                      • We are talking about cultivating joy on difficult days. Not the easy days. Not the days when everything goes right. We are talking about the days when joy feels far away, and our circumstances feel like they are pressing in on every side.
                                      • God never intended joy to be reserved only for ideal circumstances.
                                      • One of the first things we need to understand is that joy and happiness are not the same. Happiness depends on what happens around us. Joy depends on the unchanging character of God within us.
                                      • When we intentionally focus on what is true and life-giving the brain becomes better at recognizing hope even in hard situations.
                                      • We can train our minds to recognize God’s presence and goodness even on difficult days.
                                      • And most people do not realize that chronic stress suppresses the parts of the brain responsible for joy, connection, creativity, and problem solving.
                                      • Joy is not built on our feelings. Joy is built on our confidence that God is in control even when life is not.
                                      • Joy may begin as a flicker, not a blaze.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • James 1:2-4 “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
                                      • Isaiah 26:3 “God will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are stayed on Him because they trust Him.”
                                      • Psalm 94:18-19 “When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your unfailing love, LORD, supported me. When anxiety was great within me your consolation brought me joy.”
                                      • Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He takes great delight in you. He rejoices over you with singing.”
                                      • Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 362 Dr. Michelle Bengtson dc5c754d-ff4a-46f2-a52a-b41200380f7f dc5c754d-ff4a-46f2-a52a-b41200380f7f Thu, 19 Mar 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1574 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-cultivate-joy-even-on-difficult-days                                       10 Things I Wish I Knew 10 Years Ago 10 Things I Wish I Knew 10 Years Ago Episode Summary:

                                      What if you could go back 10 years? Have you ever wished you could go back ten years and whisper something life-changing to your younger self? In this week’s episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective podcast, in recognition of my birthday this week, we’re diving into the 10 powerful truths I wish I had known a decade ago—biblical insights, neuroscience-backed wisdom, and lessons God taught me through some of the hardest seasons of my life.

                                      If you have ever wrestled with self-doubt, carried the weight of other people's expectations, feared what others think, or wondered whether God was really working behind the scenes, this episode will speak straight to your heart we are going to talk about rest, resilience, purpose, identity, joy, boundaries, emotional freedom, and how God faithfully redeems every part of our story. If you want to encouragement, clarity, or a fresh start anchored in scripture and science you're in the right place.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Breathe. God is not disappointed in you.
                                      • Rest is not a reward for finishing the work, it’s part of the process of work. Rest is not a luxury. Rest is obedience.
                                      • Rest is not weakness. It’s worship.
                                      • Hardship is never wasted.
                                      • Trying to live for the approval of people rewires the brain to depend on external validation.
                                      • You are already approved.
                                      • Joy is not circumstantial. Joy is relational. Joy is the awareness of God’s presence with us.
                                      • They’re not thinking about you nearly as much as you think they are.
                                      • You don’t have to be the strong one all the time. Let others in.
                                      • God was working all along. Silently. Slowly. Faithfully.

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      What if you could go back 10 years? Have you ever wished you could go back ten years and whisper something life-changing to your younger self? In this week’s episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective podcast, in recognition of my birthday this week, we’re diving into the 10 powerful truths I wish I had known a decade ago—biblical insights, neuroscience-backed wisdom, and lessons God taught me through some of the hardest seasons of my life.

                                      If you have ever wrestled with self-doubt, carried the weight of other people's expectations, feared what others think, or wondered whether God was really working behind the scenes, this episode will speak straight to your heart we are going to talk about rest, resilience, purpose, identity, joy, boundaries, emotional freedom, and how God faithfully redeems every part of our story. If you want to encouragement, clarity, or a fresh start anchored in scripture and science you're in the right place.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Breathe. God is not disappointed in you.
                                      • Rest is not a reward for finishing the work, it’s part of the process of work. Rest is not a luxury. Rest is obedience.
                                      • Rest is not weakness. It’s worship.
                                      • Hardship is never wasted.
                                      • Trying to live for the approval of people rewires the brain to depend on external validation.
                                      • You are already approved.
                                      • Joy is not circumstantial. Joy is relational. Joy is the awareness of God’s presence with us.
                                      • They’re not thinking about you nearly as much as you think they are.
                                      • You don’t have to be the strong one all the time. Let others in.
                                      • God was working all along. Silently. Slowly. Faithfully.

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 361 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9a129823-decd-48d2-9bb1-b40b002863fc 9a129823-decd-48d2-9bb1-b40b002863fc Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:30:00 +0000 1337 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/10-things-i-wish-i-knew-10-years-ago                                       How to Learn from the Proverbs 31 Woman Instead of Feeling Shame How to Learn from the Proverbs 31 Woman Instead of Feeling Shame Episode Summary:

                                      Have you ever met someone who’s so impressive that you instantly think, “Yeah, I’m not doing enough with my life?” I feel that way when someone casually mentions they ran a marathon, baked fresh sourdough bread, and taught their toddler how to read, all before noon. That’s how a lot of us feel when we meet the Proverbs 31 woman. She’s the biblical overachiever who makes the rest of us want to hide behind our laundry piles.

                                      She’s up before dawn, she’s running a business, she’s serving the community, she’s investing, she’s sewing clothes, meanwhile I’m celebrating if I remember to move the clothes from the washer to the dryer before they mildew. For years, she’s kind of intimidated us. She’s been quoted at women’s conferences, printed on coffee mugs, and held up as the gold standard for biblical womanhood. And somewhere along the way, many of us started to wonder: “Is this who I’m supposed to be? And if so, how?

                                      But here’s the problem: we’ve read her as a checklist instead of a celebration. As a pressure instead of a poem. And what if—just go with me here---she’s not actually here to exhaust and shame us? What if she’s here to equip us? What if this isn’t a picture of a perfect woman doing everything flawlessly, but a picture of what God can grow in a woman over a lifetime?

                                      If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the Proverbs 31 woman, or maybe even avoided her, today’s conversation is for you. We’re talking about why she scares us, why she inspires us, and how to live out her wisdom without losing her mind. In recognition of International Women’s Day, today we’re going to be talking about How to Learn from the Proverbs 31 Woman Instead of Feeling Shame.

                                      Quotables:

                                      • Today we’re diving into a passage that can make women everywhere either want to grab a journal and praise the Lord, or crawl into a closet and hide in shame. She’s the woman who wakes up before dawn, runs a business, takes care of her kids, feeds the poor, respects her husband, handles investments, sews clothes, and—apparently—never gets tired. Ever. In honor of International Women’s Day, we are going to discuss How to Learn from the Proverbs 31 Woman Instead of Feeling Shame.
                                      • The Proverbs 31 woman feels impossible. Like the spiritual version of a Pinterest mom mixed with a CEO and Mother Theresa. You read it and think, “I’m just trying to get my laundry out of the washer before it sours and she’s over here buying fields and planting vineyards. Not to mention she’s up before dawn. I don’t even want to be up before I’ve had my coffee.
                                      • For many women, this passage has been used as a check list. A measuring stick. A pressure cooker. We’ve heard sermons that sound like: “Real women do all of this, all of the time, and with a smile.” And most of us end up feeling like we’re failing at biblical womanhood. So, part of the reason we resist her is because we’ve misunderstood her. We’ve made her into a standard we’re supposed to copy, instead of a picture of wisdom lived out in a variety of ways.
                                      • Here’s the twist about the Proverbs 31 woman. She’s actually incredibly inspiring because this passage isn’t about perfection. It’s a portrait of character, not a job description. Her life is rooted in the fear of the Lord. That’s the anchor and the heart of the whole poem.
                                      • She’s strong. She’s compassionate. She’s wise. She’s resourceful. She’s dignified. She laughs at the future, which means she’s walking in confidence, not anxiety. The fear of the Lord—honoring him above all else, understanding his place as ruler in her life—creates a confident woman.
                                      • There’s something else to consider. Proverbs 31:10-31 was written as a celebration. This isn’t God laying out the requirements for biblical womanhood. This is a husband bragging on his wife and a mother teaching her son what to value in a woman.
                                      • One of the most helpful things for me was realizing this passage is an acrostic poem. Every verse starts with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. It’s basically the “A to Z of a Wise Woman.” It’s poetic, not literal. No one woman is doing or can do all these things at once. It’s describing a lifetime of faithfulness. Not a single day of the week.
                                      • Shame is a tactic the enemy uses, and we fall for it so easily, especially when we make success, approval, or accumulating things our motivation. Our value doesn’t come from productivity or perfection. It comes from intimacy with God. If we start there, everything else flows from our relationship with him.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Proverbs 31:29 “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Have you ever met someone who’s so impressive that you instantly think, “Yeah, I’m not doing enough with my life?” I feel that way when someone casually mentions they ran a marathon, baked fresh sourdough bread, and taught their toddler how to read, all before noon. That’s how a lot of us feel when we meet the Proverbs 31 woman. She’s the biblical overachiever who makes the rest of us want to hide behind our laundry piles.

                                      She’s up before dawn, she’s running a business, she’s serving the community, she’s investing, she’s sewing clothes, meanwhile I’m celebrating if I remember to move the clothes from the washer to the dryer before they mildew. For years, she’s kind of intimidated us. She’s been quoted at women’s conferences, printed on coffee mugs, and held up as the gold standard for biblical womanhood. And somewhere along the way, many of us started to wonder: “Is this who I’m supposed to be? And if so, how?

                                      But here’s the problem: we’ve read her as a checklist instead of a celebration. As a pressure instead of a poem. And what if—just go with me here---she’s not actually here to exhaust and shame us? What if she’s here to equip us? What if this isn’t a picture of a perfect woman doing everything flawlessly, but a picture of what God can grow in a woman over a lifetime?

                                      If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the Proverbs 31 woman, or maybe even avoided her, today’s conversation is for you. We’re talking about why she scares us, why she inspires us, and how to live out her wisdom without losing her mind. In recognition of International Women’s Day, today we’re going to be talking about How to Learn from the Proverbs 31 Woman Instead of Feeling Shame.

                                      Quotables:

                                      • Today we’re diving into a passage that can make women everywhere either want to grab a journal and praise the Lord, or crawl into a closet and hide in shame. She’s the woman who wakes up before dawn, runs a business, takes care of her kids, feeds the poor, respects her husband, handles investments, sews clothes, and—apparently—never gets tired. Ever. In honor of International Women’s Day, we are going to discuss How to Learn from the Proverbs 31 Woman Instead of Feeling Shame.
                                      • The Proverbs 31 woman feels impossible. Like the spiritual version of a Pinterest mom mixed with a CEO and Mother Theresa. You read it and think, “I’m just trying to get my laundry out of the washer before it sours and she’s over here buying fields and planting vineyards. Not to mention she’s up before dawn. I don’t even want to be up before I’ve had my coffee.
                                      • For many women, this passage has been used as a check list. A measuring stick. A pressure cooker. We’ve heard sermons that sound like: “Real women do all of this, all of the time, and with a smile.” And most of us end up feeling like we’re failing at biblical womanhood. So, part of the reason we resist her is because we’ve misunderstood her. We’ve made her into a standard we’re supposed to copy, instead of a picture of wisdom lived out in a variety of ways.
                                      • Here’s the twist about the Proverbs 31 woman. She’s actually incredibly inspiring because this passage isn’t about perfection. It’s a portrait of character, not a job description. Her life is rooted in the fear of the Lord. That’s the anchor and the heart of the whole poem.
                                      • She’s strong. She’s compassionate. She’s wise. She’s resourceful. She’s dignified. She laughs at the future, which means she’s walking in confidence, not anxiety. The fear of the Lord—honoring him above all else, understanding his place as ruler in her life—creates a confident woman.
                                      • There’s something else to consider. Proverbs 31:10-31 was written as a celebration. This isn’t God laying out the requirements for biblical womanhood. This is a husband bragging on his wife and a mother teaching her son what to value in a woman.
                                      • One of the most helpful things for me was realizing this passage is an acrostic poem. Every verse starts with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. It’s basically the “A to Z of a Wise Woman.” It’s poetic, not literal. No one woman is doing or can do all these things at once. It’s describing a lifetime of faithfulness. Not a single day of the week.
                                      • Shame is a tactic the enemy uses, and we fall for it so easily, especially when we make success, approval, or accumulating things our motivation. Our value doesn’t come from productivity or perfection. It comes from intimacy with God. If we start there, everything else flows from our relationship with him.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Proverbs 31:29 “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 360 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9ce8900e-e43d-43a9-8b0c-b404002285f5 9ce8900e-e43d-43a9-8b0c-b404002285f5 Thu, 05 Mar 2026 11:30:00 +0000 2029 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-learn-from-the-proverbs-31-woman-instead-of-feeling-shame                                       How to Find God’s Refuge in the Middle of Crisis How to Find God’s Refuge in the Middle of Crisis Episode Summary:

                                      Trials and crises are inevitable. Jesus warned us they would come. While we cannot choose the trials we face, we can choose how we respond to them and look at them as opportunities to grow and learn more about God. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I am joined by Lynne Rienstra, author of the inspiring book Sacred Refuge: Finding Unexpected Shelter in Your Crisis. Lynne shares how her personal life crisis became a gateway to discovering God’s indestructible shelter. Through her book, she introduces women to a sacred sisterhood that unites modern and biblical stories of overcoming fear, loss, debt, and loneliness. Together, we explore how God’s love and compassion provide a soul-safe refuge, even in the midst of the most difficult challenges.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • When COVID hit and like a lot of people, I just kind of went under fear. And after a week of not sleeping well, not eating well, kind of like what's happening and what's coming, I said, "This is crazy. "I am a blood bought and beloved child of the living God. "I am not going to let the enemy have any more time in my headspace or my spirit. And it was a time to boot him out and say, “you're done. I will not live in fear.”
                                      • The Bible actually says, do not fear 365 times, right? One for every day of the year. And that was over. And then I started realizing if I'm dealing with fear, maybe other women are dealing with fear and struggling to find this safe refuge in who God is for us.
                                      • This is an invitation, as you mentioned, for women to come out of hiding, which is what fear, of course, puts us in, and into a soul -safe place that Jesus has built for us in the gospel.
                                      • He is so good and so powerful he can actually use the worst of circumstances for our good, which is to draw us to himself and to make us more like Jesus.
                                      • I've learned how to do this over the years, to identify his lies. And then because he's a liar and the father of lies, you flip them and you begin to hear in scripture and in the voice of the Lord, the truth.
                                      • So, all three persons of the Trinity have something very specific to tell me about who I am.
                                      • And that means that his Father's heart is delighted in us. That's the invitation to take off the masks. That's the freedom that Jesus has purchased for us.
                                      • Crisis comes with a gift. It's the gift nobody wants.
                                      • I've had seasons of my life as a Christian speaker, as a pastor's wife, as a leader, all those things, where I'm just like, you know, I just want to veg out. I just want to take three hours and binge something on Netflix, or I just want to eat that half thing, a half carton of ice cream, or I just, I want to check out. And I call those my other lovers, the things I go to apart from Jesus, who is our first love, Revelation tells us, right? - Yes. - When we turn to those other lovers over anything, overeating, over drinking, working, busy -ness can be another lover.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
                                      • Isaiah 61:10 “I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.”
                                      • Isaiah 49:16 “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands…”
                                      • Psalm 91:1-16 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler, and from the deadly plague. He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge;  His faithfulness is a shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the calamity that destroys at noon. Though a thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, no harm will come near you. You will only see it with your eyes and witness the punishment of the wicked. Because you have made the LORD your dwelling—my refuge, the Most High—no evil will befall you, no plague will approach your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent. “Because he loves Me, I will deliver him; because he knows My name, I will protect him. When he calls out to Me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Lynne Rienstra:

                                      Website / Instagram

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Guest:

                                      Lynne Rienstra serves Samaritan’s Purse as a regional director and has seen crises up close through her travels. She recently navigated her own crisis through cancer. Trained in English at Smith College, she also holds a certificate in Spiritual Formation. Along with her callings as pastor’s wife, women’s event speaker, and writer, Lynne finds joy in traveling, family and friends.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Trials and crises are inevitable. Jesus warned us they would come. While we cannot choose the trials we face, we can choose how we respond to them and look at them as opportunities to grow and learn more about God. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I am joined by Lynne Rienstra, author of the inspiring book Sacred Refuge: Finding Unexpected Shelter in Your Crisis. Lynne shares how her personal life crisis became a gateway to discovering God’s indestructible shelter. Through her book, she introduces women to a sacred sisterhood that unites modern and biblical stories of overcoming fear, loss, debt, and loneliness. Together, we explore how God’s love and compassion provide a soul-safe refuge, even in the midst of the most difficult challenges.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • When COVID hit and like a lot of people, I just kind of went under fear. And after a week of not sleeping well, not eating well, kind of like what's happening and what's coming, I said, "This is crazy. "I am a blood bought and beloved child of the living God. "I am not going to let the enemy have any more time in my headspace or my spirit. And it was a time to boot him out and say, “you're done. I will not live in fear.”
                                      • The Bible actually says, do not fear 365 times, right? One for every day of the year. And that was over. And then I started realizing if I'm dealing with fear, maybe other women are dealing with fear and struggling to find this safe refuge in who God is for us.
                                      • This is an invitation, as you mentioned, for women to come out of hiding, which is what fear, of course, puts us in, and into a soul -safe place that Jesus has built for us in the gospel.
                                      • He is so good and so powerful he can actually use the worst of circumstances for our good, which is to draw us to himself and to make us more like Jesus.
                                      • I've learned how to do this over the years, to identify his lies. And then because he's a liar and the father of lies, you flip them and you begin to hear in scripture and in the voice of the Lord, the truth.
                                      • So, all three persons of the Trinity have something very specific to tell me about who I am.
                                      • And that means that his Father's heart is delighted in us. That's the invitation to take off the masks. That's the freedom that Jesus has purchased for us.
                                      • Crisis comes with a gift. It's the gift nobody wants.
                                      • I've had seasons of my life as a Christian speaker, as a pastor's wife, as a leader, all those things, where I'm just like, you know, I just want to veg out. I just want to take three hours and binge something on Netflix, or I just want to eat that half thing, a half carton of ice cream, or I just, I want to check out. And I call those my other lovers, the things I go to apart from Jesus, who is our first love, Revelation tells us, right? - Yes. - When we turn to those other lovers over anything, overeating, over drinking, working, busy -ness can be another lover.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
                                      • Isaiah 61:10 “I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.”
                                      • Isaiah 49:16 “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands…”
                                      • Psalm 91:1-16 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler, and from the deadly plague. He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge;  His faithfulness is a shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the calamity that destroys at noon. Though a thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, no harm will come near you. You will only see it with your eyes and witness the punishment of the wicked. Because you have made the LORD your dwelling—my refuge, the Most High—no evil will befall you, no plague will approach your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent. “Because he loves Me, I will deliver him; because he knows My name, I will protect him. When he calls out to Me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Lynne Rienstra:

                                      Website / Instagram

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Guest:

                                      Lynne Rienstra serves Samaritan’s Purse as a regional director and has seen crises up close through her travels. She recently navigated her own crisis through cancer. Trained in English at Smith College, she also holds a certificate in Spiritual Formation. Along with her callings as pastor’s wife, women’s event speaker, and writer, Lynne finds joy in traveling, family and friends.

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 359 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 7240a990-e793-4a9e-ab41-b3fd002699fc 7240a990-e793-4a9e-ab41-b3fd002699fc Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000 2103 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-find-god-s-refuge-in-the-middle-of-crisis                                       Honoring Caregivers: How to Find Strength, Rest, and Renewal When You're Pouring Out Constantly Honoring Caregivers: How to Find Strength, Rest, and Renewal When You're Pouring Out Constantly Episode Summary:

                                      Caring for others is one of the most beautiful expressions of Christlike love, yet it can also be one of the most exhausting. Whether someone is caring for an aging parent, a chronically ill spouse, a child with special needs, or a friend struggling through a difficult diagnosis, caregivers often experience emotional fatigue, compassion overload, and spiritual depletion.

                                      In honor of National Caregiver’s Day, today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective we are shining a bright and honoring spotlight on caregivers who quietly pour out strength and tenderness day after day. If you are a caregiver who feels seen and unseen all at once, this conversation is for you.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • In this episode we want to acknowledge the deep emotional and spiritual cost that comes with caregiving, whether it’s caring for children, spouses, parents or someone else. Many caregivers love fiercely yet carry silent burdens. They often neglect their own rest while tending to the needs of others. They juggle responsibilities, appointments, medications, medical decisions, financial pressures, and emotional strain until their own souls feel frayed. If that describes you, know that God sees every moment of sacrifice. He understands every tear cried in private. He knows how heavy this calling can feel. Whether you are in a short-term caregiving season or you have been carrying this responsibility for years, we want to help you find strength, rest, and spiritual renewal.
                                      • Yet God created rest not as a luxury but as a divine necessity. He invites caregivers to receive the strength they need directly from His presence.
                                      • Caregivers often do not realize how overwhelmed they are until they are already close to burnout. They believe they should be able to keep going. They think rest is selfish. They feel guilty for asking for help. But caregiving is not meant to be a one-person mission.
                                      • Caregiver burnout does not happen overnight. It happens slowly and quietly, often while someone is trying to be strong for everyone else.
                                      • God never intended caregiving to be an isolating burden. Galatians teaches us to carry one another’s burdens. That includes the weight of caregiving. Asking for help is not a failure. It is a biblical principle
                                      • If you have begun feeling resentful or emotionally disconnected, that is a powerful signal that your soul is in need of restoration. You cannot pour out what has not been filled.
                                      • I want caregivers to hear this truth. You are not responsible for outcomes. You are responsible to love well and to walk faithfully, but God holds the results.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Isaiah 40:29 “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
                                      • Psalm 73:26 “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
                                      • Psalm 18:28 “You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.”
                                      • Jeremiah 31:25 “I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Caring for others is one of the most beautiful expressions of Christlike love, yet it can also be one of the most exhausting. Whether someone is caring for an aging parent, a chronically ill spouse, a child with special needs, or a friend struggling through a difficult diagnosis, caregivers often experience emotional fatigue, compassion overload, and spiritual depletion.

                                      In honor of National Caregiver’s Day, today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective we are shining a bright and honoring spotlight on caregivers who quietly pour out strength and tenderness day after day. If you are a caregiver who feels seen and unseen all at once, this conversation is for you.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • In this episode we want to acknowledge the deep emotional and spiritual cost that comes with caregiving, whether it’s caring for children, spouses, parents or someone else. Many caregivers love fiercely yet carry silent burdens. They often neglect their own rest while tending to the needs of others. They juggle responsibilities, appointments, medications, medical decisions, financial pressures, and emotional strain until their own souls feel frayed. If that describes you, know that God sees every moment of sacrifice. He understands every tear cried in private. He knows how heavy this calling can feel. Whether you are in a short-term caregiving season or you have been carrying this responsibility for years, we want to help you find strength, rest, and spiritual renewal.
                                      • Yet God created rest not as a luxury but as a divine necessity. He invites caregivers to receive the strength they need directly from His presence.
                                      • Caregivers often do not realize how overwhelmed they are until they are already close to burnout. They believe they should be able to keep going. They think rest is selfish. They feel guilty for asking for help. But caregiving is not meant to be a one-person mission.
                                      • Caregiver burnout does not happen overnight. It happens slowly and quietly, often while someone is trying to be strong for everyone else.
                                      • God never intended caregiving to be an isolating burden. Galatians teaches us to carry one another’s burdens. That includes the weight of caregiving. Asking for help is not a failure. It is a biblical principle
                                      • If you have begun feeling resentful or emotionally disconnected, that is a powerful signal that your soul is in need of restoration. You cannot pour out what has not been filled.
                                      • I want caregivers to hear this truth. You are not responsible for outcomes. You are responsible to love well and to walk faithfully, but God holds the results.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Isaiah 40:29 “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
                                      • Psalm 73:26 “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
                                      • Psalm 18:28 “You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.”
                                      • Jeremiah 31:25 “I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 358 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 0151b7c5-2b5b-443a-9261-b3f600292f95 0151b7c5-2b5b-443a-9261-b3f600292f95 Thu, 19 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000 1532 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/honoring-caregivers-how-to-find-strength-rest-and-renewal-when-youre-pouring-out-constantly                                       How to Overcome Rejection and Abandonment with God’s Love How to Overcome Rejection and Abandonment with God’s Love Episode Summary:

                                      Does it ever seem like God loves other people more than he loves you? Maybe it looks like everything goes their way. Or their families are put together, not a prodigal in sight, and everyone enjoys each other. We, however, see our lives at a hot mess, unanswered prayers everywhere, and trouble after trouble. When we equate blessing and favor with love, we can begin to feel rejected and abandoned by God when we don’t feel blessed or favored by him. In this episode, my co-host, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about Overcoming Rejection and Abandonment with God’s Love.

                                      Almost all of us carry rejection and abandonment because most of us have experienced someone walking away, excluding us, or making us feel like we don’t belong. Those wounds run deep. They are not just “hurt feelings.”

                                      They can shape how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and how we imagine God sees us. Today we want to walk into the truth that Christ’s love actually heals these hurt places.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Rejection isn’t just a moment. It’s a story our hearts can start telling us, and often on repeat. It says, “See? You’re not enough.” “See? People always leave.” “See? You’re not worth choosing.” The rejection narrative comes from the oldest human experiences: a parent who wasn’t present, a spouse who checked out emotionally, a friend group that stopped inviting us, a church that didn’t know what to do with our pain.
                                      • I’m not going to be everyone’s cup of tea and they’re not mine, my value or lack thereof in someone else’s eyes doesn’t determine my worth. Even those who know me the most, only know a small piece of me, but God knows me completely.
                                      • It’s that time of year when love seems to be commercialized, but Christ’s love isn’t for sale. It’s offered freely…
                                      • If you’ve ever felt unwanted, unseen, or left—Jesus understands. You are not alone.
                                      • That’s why Romans 12:2 is so powerful. It says, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Our minds are powerful and what we tell ourselves matters. Your brain listens to your thoughts. When you think something like “I can’t handle this” or “I am loved”, your brain treats that thought as important information. It begins to adjust your mood, your energy, and even your physical reactions based on what you’re saying to yourself.
                                      • 5 practical ways Jesus Christ’s love heals the wounds from rejection and abandonment.
                                      • We can’t heal what we hide.
                                      • Every rejection writes a script in our minds.
                                      • Healing doesn’t begin with convincing ourselves people won’t leave. Healing begins when we realize Jesus Christ’s love stays.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Jeremiah 31:3 NIV “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness”
                                      • John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.”
                                      • Isaiah 53:3 says, “He was despised and rejected by humanity by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.”
                                      • Hebrews 13:5  “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”
                                      • Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
                                      • Romans 12:2 “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
                                      • Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
                                      • John 15:9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love”
                                      • 1 Peter 2:9 “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light”
                                      • Ephesians 1:4 “In love, he destined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will”
                                      • Isaiah 43:1b “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine”
                                      • John 15:4 “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Does it ever seem like God loves other people more than he loves you? Maybe it looks like everything goes their way. Or their families are put together, not a prodigal in sight, and everyone enjoys each other. We, however, see our lives at a hot mess, unanswered prayers everywhere, and trouble after trouble. When we equate blessing and favor with love, we can begin to feel rejected and abandoned by God when we don’t feel blessed or favored by him. In this episode, my co-host, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about Overcoming Rejection and Abandonment with God’s Love.

                                      Almost all of us carry rejection and abandonment because most of us have experienced someone walking away, excluding us, or making us feel like we don’t belong. Those wounds run deep. They are not just “hurt feelings.”

                                      They can shape how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and how we imagine God sees us. Today we want to walk into the truth that Christ’s love actually heals these hurt places.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Rejection isn’t just a moment. It’s a story our hearts can start telling us, and often on repeat. It says, “See? You’re not enough.” “See? People always leave.” “See? You’re not worth choosing.” The rejection narrative comes from the oldest human experiences: a parent who wasn’t present, a spouse who checked out emotionally, a friend group that stopped inviting us, a church that didn’t know what to do with our pain.
                                      • I’m not going to be everyone’s cup of tea and they’re not mine, my value or lack thereof in someone else’s eyes doesn’t determine my worth. Even those who know me the most, only know a small piece of me, but God knows me completely.
                                      • It’s that time of year when love seems to be commercialized, but Christ’s love isn’t for sale. It’s offered freely…
                                      • If you’ve ever felt unwanted, unseen, or left—Jesus understands. You are not alone.
                                      • That’s why Romans 12:2 is so powerful. It says, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Our minds are powerful and what we tell ourselves matters. Your brain listens to your thoughts. When you think something like “I can’t handle this” or “I am loved”, your brain treats that thought as important information. It begins to adjust your mood, your energy, and even your physical reactions based on what you’re saying to yourself.
                                      • 5 practical ways Jesus Christ’s love heals the wounds from rejection and abandonment.
                                      • We can’t heal what we hide.
                                      • Every rejection writes a script in our minds.
                                      • Healing doesn’t begin with convincing ourselves people won’t leave. Healing begins when we realize Jesus Christ’s love stays.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Jeremiah 31:3 NIV “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness”
                                      • John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.”
                                      • Isaiah 53:3 says, “He was despised and rejected by humanity by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.”
                                      • Hebrews 13:5  “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”
                                      • Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
                                      • Romans 12:2 “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
                                      • Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
                                      • John 15:9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love”
                                      • 1 Peter 2:9 “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light”
                                      • Ephesians 1:4 “In love, he destined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will”
                                      • Isaiah 43:1b “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine”
                                      • John 15:4 “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      Connect with Dr. Bengtson:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 357 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9c2edfcc-6fb9-4487-9835-b3ef0011cf82 9c2edfcc-6fb9-4487-9835-b3ef0011cf82 Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000 1935 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-overcome-rejection-and-abandonment-with-god-s-love                                       The Role of Unconditional Respect in a Healthy Marriage The Role of Unconditional Respect in a Healthy Marriage Episode Summary:

                                      We all need to work a little harder at resting in contentment… realizing that sometimes marriage is a spectator sport. In a culture that encourages us to find our own happiness, fulfill self, give in to what brings us pleasure, lasting relationships must take a different approach. True selflessness is a reflection of God’s character.

                                      Although recent polls seem to indicate an equal divorce rate between Christians and non-believers, this is not exactly true. People who identify as Christians but rarely attend church have a 60% divorce rate while those who attend church regularly, just 38% have been divorced.

                                      It is easy to get caught up in the tyranny of the urgent and forget the very ingredients that build a healthy marriage. Join me with Nina Roesner as we discuss the role of unconditional respect in a healthy marriage.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Most people have heard the idea that women need love and men need respect, but in reality, don't we all need a combination of both?
                                      • Yes. I think the Bible uses that language to communicate very specifically to husbands and wives about some very specific stuff.
                                      • All relationships have challenges but the best ones surmount the hard times, allow these times to build the relationship instead of destroy it, and learn from one another.
                                      • Do you respect yourself and others in your relationship through your communication? And I think we need to respect everybody and I think that's a loving thing to do. That's the key. It affects our communication and we can develop resentment, bitterness and unforgiveness over those little things that then stack up and they morph into a life of their own until one day the straw breaks and our spouses left going, "That was not a big deal. You could have just said put your cup in the dishwasher. But the truth is it's built up resentment over time because we don't communicate over the little things until they become a big thing.
                                      • We do take things personally and it seems maybe I'm wrong but it just seems like over the past decade we're more quick to take offense over things that really don't need to be offended over all you have to do is turn to social media and see how quickly people are offended. If anyone had a right to be offended, it was Jesus. And yet he modeled for us good communication, forgiveness, love, and respect.
                                      • The idea that men need respect is not just part of some formula but an aspect of the gender differences. Men are wired to protect and provide, and knowing they are appreciated is one of the primary ingredients in lasting marriages.
                                      • When we get our identity from the Lord, then we're able to appreciate the strengths that God gave us and then bring forth those strengths in the relationship in a way that we weren't before. We are actually useful in that relationship in a way that deeply impacts everything. But so often we buy the lives of the culture and we go down these paths of thinking we're worthless or we're not valued and you know people treat us this way so it reinforces it or we're looking for that because if you have a belief like that you're gonna find it everywhere. But when we really have a solid identity in Christ and I don't pretend I'd be fully there, but I'm so much more there than I used to be. It doesn't matter what people say or do.
                                      • On a biological level, God designed this so well, because your brain chemistry changes when you forgive. The other thing is, is it's a humbling activity that puts us in the proper alignment with the Lord because we don't have the right to harbor unforgiveness. We're not judge and jury over this other person, and by the way Christ already paid for that. So who do we think we are? Excuse me, the seat on the throne has been taken. get off, right? So, when we forgive, it's like the brain chemistry changes and we're able to then have a clean slate here.
                                      • God uses pain in our lives to mold and shape us. Pain is the biblical path to growth.
                                      • It’s not just the church itself that’s the key to a successful marriage; it’s all aspects of faith—prayer, Bible study, gratitude, God-awareness.
                                      • It is easy to get caught up in the tyranny of the urgent and forget the very ingredients that build a healthy marriage.
                                      • According to recent studies, being a committed, faithful believer makes a measurable difference in marriage.

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Nina Roesner:

                                      Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Guest:

                                      Nina Roesner is the author of The Respect Dare and With All Due Respect. She serves as the executive director of Greater Impact Ministries. She has more than 20 years in the communications and training industry and has coached church staffs, pastors, executives, and managers. She and her husband, and their three children, live near Cincinnati.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      We all need to work a little harder at resting in contentment… realizing that sometimes marriage is a spectator sport. In a culture that encourages us to find our own happiness, fulfill self, give in to what brings us pleasure, lasting relationships must take a different approach. True selflessness is a reflection of God’s character.

                                      Although recent polls seem to indicate an equal divorce rate between Christians and non-believers, this is not exactly true. People who identify as Christians but rarely attend church have a 60% divorce rate while those who attend church regularly, just 38% have been divorced.

                                      It is easy to get caught up in the tyranny of the urgent and forget the very ingredients that build a healthy marriage. Join me with Nina Roesner as we discuss the role of unconditional respect in a healthy marriage.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Most people have heard the idea that women need love and men need respect, but in reality, don't we all need a combination of both?
                                      • Yes. I think the Bible uses that language to communicate very specifically to husbands and wives about some very specific stuff.
                                      • All relationships have challenges but the best ones surmount the hard times, allow these times to build the relationship instead of destroy it, and learn from one another.
                                      • Do you respect yourself and others in your relationship through your communication? And I think we need to respect everybody and I think that's a loving thing to do. That's the key. It affects our communication and we can develop resentment, bitterness and unforgiveness over those little things that then stack up and they morph into a life of their own until one day the straw breaks and our spouses left going, "That was not a big deal. You could have just said put your cup in the dishwasher. But the truth is it's built up resentment over time because we don't communicate over the little things until they become a big thing.
                                      • We do take things personally and it seems maybe I'm wrong but it just seems like over the past decade we're more quick to take offense over things that really don't need to be offended over all you have to do is turn to social media and see how quickly people are offended. If anyone had a right to be offended, it was Jesus. And yet he modeled for us good communication, forgiveness, love, and respect.
                                      • The idea that men need respect is not just part of some formula but an aspect of the gender differences. Men are wired to protect and provide, and knowing they are appreciated is one of the primary ingredients in lasting marriages.
                                      • When we get our identity from the Lord, then we're able to appreciate the strengths that God gave us and then bring forth those strengths in the relationship in a way that we weren't before. We are actually useful in that relationship in a way that deeply impacts everything. But so often we buy the lives of the culture and we go down these paths of thinking we're worthless or we're not valued and you know people treat us this way so it reinforces it or we're looking for that because if you have a belief like that you're gonna find it everywhere. But when we really have a solid identity in Christ and I don't pretend I'd be fully there, but I'm so much more there than I used to be. It doesn't matter what people say or do.
                                      • On a biological level, God designed this so well, because your brain chemistry changes when you forgive. The other thing is, is it's a humbling activity that puts us in the proper alignment with the Lord because we don't have the right to harbor unforgiveness. We're not judge and jury over this other person, and by the way Christ already paid for that. So who do we think we are? Excuse me, the seat on the throne has been taken. get off, right? So, when we forgive, it's like the brain chemistry changes and we're able to then have a clean slate here.
                                      • God uses pain in our lives to mold and shape us. Pain is the biblical path to growth.
                                      • It’s not just the church itself that’s the key to a successful marriage; it’s all aspects of faith—prayer, Bible study, gratitude, God-awareness.
                                      • It is easy to get caught up in the tyranny of the urgent and forget the very ingredients that build a healthy marriage.
                                      • According to recent studies, being a committed, faithful believer makes a measurable difference in marriage.

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Nina Roesner:

                                      Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Guest:

                                      Nina Roesner is the author of The Respect Dare and With All Due Respect. She serves as the executive director of Greater Impact Ministries. She has more than 20 years in the communications and training industry and has coached church staffs, pastors, executives, and managers. She and her husband, and their three children, live near Cincinnati.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 356 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6ebd79d6-5933-4fde-b1b0-b3e800500f43 6ebd79d6-5933-4fde-b1b0-b3e800500f43 Thu, 05 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000 2058 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/the-role-of-unconditional-respect-in-a-healthy-marriage                                       Tools for Managing Chronic Stress and Mental Fatigue Tools for Managing Chronic Stress and Mental Fatigue Episode Summary:

                                      Today we are diving into a topic that affects millions of people who feel stretched too thin and overwhelmed by life. We are talking about real world tools for managing chronic stress and mental fatigue so you can regain clarity, rebuild your strength, and restore your hope. Chronic stress is not simply an inconvenience. It quietly infiltrates every area of life and disrupts sleep, relationships, thought patterns, mood, and even your sense of spiritual connection. Our goal today is to equip you with proven strategies that help you move from exhaustion to renewal so you can thrive again.

                                      When mental fatigue sets in and stress feels unending, many people assume that feeling overwhelmed is their new normal. But God offers a better way. You can experience renewed strength, restored clarity, and a calm mind even in the middle of challenging seasons. If you long for sustainable emotional wellness, Christ centered stress management tools, and practical ways to quiet your mind, this episode is for you. We want to help you step out of survival mode and experience the peace that God promises. Today we’re going to be talking about Tools for Managing Chronic Stress and Mental Fatigue.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Chronic stress affects the whole person. It impacts the body, mind, emotions, and even our sense of spiritual grounding.
                                      • As a neuropsychologist, I see how the stress response system affects the brain. When people experience stress for long periods of time, the brain becomes over activated. Concentration decreases. Memory becomes foggy. Emotional regulation becomes harder. We feel more reactive and less resilient.
                                      • The good news is that the brain is both adaptable and changeable. With consistent tools, we can retrain the mind and restore mental clarity.
                                      • It is critical to remember that God did not design our bodies to live in chronic stress.
                                      • Chronic stress is the type of ongoing stress that does not resolve quickly. It comes from situations that continue to require emotional or physical energy without enough recovery time.
                                      • Chronic stress and mental fatigue are not signs of weakness. They are signs that your body and mind need care. With intentional tools and God’s help, your mind can heal, your body can recover, and your spirit can strengthen.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Today we are diving into a topic that affects millions of people who feel stretched too thin and overwhelmed by life. We are talking about real world tools for managing chronic stress and mental fatigue so you can regain clarity, rebuild your strength, and restore your hope. Chronic stress is not simply an inconvenience. It quietly infiltrates every area of life and disrupts sleep, relationships, thought patterns, mood, and even your sense of spiritual connection. Our goal today is to equip you with proven strategies that help you move from exhaustion to renewal so you can thrive again.

                                      When mental fatigue sets in and stress feels unending, many people assume that feeling overwhelmed is their new normal. But God offers a better way. You can experience renewed strength, restored clarity, and a calm mind even in the middle of challenging seasons. If you long for sustainable emotional wellness, Christ centered stress management tools, and practical ways to quiet your mind, this episode is for you. We want to help you step out of survival mode and experience the peace that God promises. Today we’re going to be talking about Tools for Managing Chronic Stress and Mental Fatigue.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Chronic stress affects the whole person. It impacts the body, mind, emotions, and even our sense of spiritual grounding.
                                      • As a neuropsychologist, I see how the stress response system affects the brain. When people experience stress for long periods of time, the brain becomes over activated. Concentration decreases. Memory becomes foggy. Emotional regulation becomes harder. We feel more reactive and less resilient.
                                      • The good news is that the brain is both adaptable and changeable. With consistent tools, we can retrain the mind and restore mental clarity.
                                      • It is critical to remember that God did not design our bodies to live in chronic stress.
                                      • Chronic stress is the type of ongoing stress that does not resolve quickly. It comes from situations that continue to require emotional or physical energy without enough recovery time.
                                      • Chronic stress and mental fatigue are not signs of weakness. They are signs that your body and mind need care. With intentional tools and God’s help, your mind can heal, your body can recover, and your spirit can strengthen.

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.”

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 355 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6405bee0-2f6e-4086-a7c3-b3e1001db51b 6405bee0-2f6e-4086-a7c3-b3e1001db51b Thu, 29 Jan 2026 11:30:00 +0000 1718 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/tools-for-managing-chronic-stress-and-mental-fatigue                                       How to Break Free from Digital Overload: A Christian Guide to Healthy Social Media Use How to Break Free from Digital Overload: A Christian Guide to Healthy Social Media Use Episode Summary:

                                      In a world where constant notifications, curated feeds, and digital pressure shape how we see ourselves, many are left feeling more anxious, isolated, and distracted than ever. We long for a life that is full of deep connection with God, ourselves, and others. And yet we’ve become programmed to seek peace, contentment, and happiness from our phones. Deep down, we know this isn’t how we were created to live. As endless scrolling leaves us feeling anxious, depressed, distracted, ad alone, we realize our true needs can’t be met by turning to social media in every slow, mundane moment. If you feel like your digital life could use a reset, this episode is for you.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Social media can so easily steal our peace, distort our identity, and drain the joy God intends for us, especially when we are already struggling with anxiety, insecurity, or loneliness. That is why I am delighted to welcome Allie Marie Smith, author of Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, and Reclaim Your Joy. Allie has spent years helping women cultivate mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, and her newest book offers a practical and faith-filled path to break free from digital overwhelm and rediscover God’s voice above the noise.
                                      • In a world where constant notifications, curated feeds, and digital pressure shape how we see ourselves, many are left feeling anxious, isolated, and distracted than ever.  We long for a life that is full of deep connection with God, ourselves, and others.
                                      • As endless scrolling leaves us feeling anxious, depressed, distracted, and alone, we realize our true needs can't be met by turning to digital media in every slow, mundane moment.  If you feel like your digital life could use a reset, this is the episode for you.
                                      • Romans 12. 2 summarizes what we're talking about today: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
                                      • It impacts each one of us on such a profound level, on a soul level, on a spiritual level, an emotional level, even in our brains and in our bodies.  

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
                                      • Isaiah 30:15 – “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength…”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      Connect with Allie Marie Smith:

                                      Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      About Allie Marie Smith:

                                      Allie Marie Smith is an award-winning author, speaker, and life coach. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping girls and women know their God-given value and lead flourishing lives. She lives in Santa Barbara County, where she loves writing, playing with horses, surfing, and adventuring up and down the California coast.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      In a world where constant notifications, curated feeds, and digital pressure shape how we see ourselves, many are left feeling more anxious, isolated, and distracted than ever. We long for a life that is full of deep connection with God, ourselves, and others. And yet we’ve become programmed to seek peace, contentment, and happiness from our phones. Deep down, we know this isn’t how we were created to live. As endless scrolling leaves us feeling anxious, depressed, distracted, ad alone, we realize our true needs can’t be met by turning to social media in every slow, mundane moment. If you feel like your digital life could use a reset, this episode is for you.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Social media can so easily steal our peace, distort our identity, and drain the joy God intends for us, especially when we are already struggling with anxiety, insecurity, or loneliness. That is why I am delighted to welcome Allie Marie Smith, author of Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, and Reclaim Your Joy. Allie has spent years helping women cultivate mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, and her newest book offers a practical and faith-filled path to break free from digital overwhelm and rediscover God’s voice above the noise.
                                      • In a world where constant notifications, curated feeds, and digital pressure shape how we see ourselves, many are left feeling anxious, isolated, and distracted than ever.  We long for a life that is full of deep connection with God, ourselves, and others.
                                      • As endless scrolling leaves us feeling anxious, depressed, distracted, and alone, we realize our true needs can't be met by turning to digital media in every slow, mundane moment.  If you feel like your digital life could use a reset, this is the episode for you.
                                      • Romans 12. 2 summarizes what we're talking about today: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
                                      • It impacts each one of us on such a profound level, on a soul level, on a spiritual level, an emotional level, even in our brains and in our bodies.  

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
                                      • Isaiah 30:15 – “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength…”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      Connect with Allie Marie Smith:

                                      Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      About Allie Marie Smith:

                                      Allie Marie Smith is an award-winning author, speaker, and life coach. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping girls and women know their God-given value and lead flourishing lives. She lives in Santa Barbara County, where she loves writing, playing with horses, surfing, and adventuring up and down the California coast.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 354 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 13b3a988-5a70-4916-9a13-b3da00299da8 13b3a988-5a70-4916-9a13-b3da00299da8 Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:30:00 +0000 1647 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-break-free-from-digital-overload-a-christian-guide-to-healthy-social-media-use                                       Beating the Winter Blues: Finding Hope When “Blue Monday” Hits Beating the Winter Blues: Finding Hope When “Blue Monday” Hits Episode Summary:

                                      Today we’re tackling a topic that hits many people hard each January: “Blue Monday.” You may have heard it called “the most depressing day of the year”: a day when motivation runs low, bills come due, and the sparkle of the holidays fades into the grayness of winter. But is “Blue Monday” real? Why do so many people feel down this time of year? And what can you do, spiritually, emotionally, and physically, to climb out of the slump and find renewed hope?

                                      If you’ve ever felt like the light of Christmas faded too fast or that you’re struggling to find joy in January, this episode is for you. In this episode, I share How to Beat the Blues: Finding Hope When “Blue Monday” Hits. We unpack where the idea of “Blue Monday” came from, what really contributes to winter sadness, how to recognize when it’s more than just a passing mood, and how God invites us to nurture our mind and soul even in the darkest season.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      Every January, the search engines light up with people looking for answers about “Blue Monday.” Some call it the most depressing day of the year. But here’s the truth: God doesn’t mark any day on His calendar as hopeless. Even when science can explain some of the factors that make us feel low, Scripture reminds us in John 1:5 that “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

                                      So today, let’s uncover both the science and the Savior’s invitation to find peace, joy, and renewed perspective, no matter what your calendar says.

                                       

                                      Part 1: Where “Blue Monday” Came From

                                      The term “Blue Monday” actually originated not from a psychologist or neuroscientist, but from a marketing campaign in the early 2000s. A British travel company wanted to boost winter vacation sales and partnered with a psychologist to create a formula that supposedly calculated the “most depressing day of the year.”

                                      They based it on factors like weather, debt level, time since Christmas, failed New Year’s resolutions, and low motivation. The date usually lands on the third Monday in January.

                                      But here’s what’s interesting: the science behind it was never validated. It was largely pseudoscience; a catchy idea meant to sell trips to sunny places!

                                      Yet it resonated with people because, truthfully, many do feel a dip in mood this time of year. Why? There’s a real physiological and psychological basis for that.

                                      • Shorter daylight hours disrupt our circadian rhythm and lower serotonin levels—our brain’s natural mood stabilizer.
                                      • Colder temperatures mean less outdoor activity and fewer endorphins.
                                      • Holiday aftermath leaves us financially stretched and emotionally fatigued.
                                      • Unmet resolutions of ourselves or others stir up shame or disappointment.

                                      So while “Blue Monday” may not be an official scientific day, it does point to something many experience: what we might call the post-holiday blues or seasonal affective slump.

                                      Part 2: How to Identify It

                                      Let’s talk about how you can tell if what you’re feeling is just a short-term dip or something more concerning.

                                      Here are some common symptoms of the “Blue Monday” slump:

                                      • Low motivation or energy
                                      • Irritability or tearfulness
                                      • Difficulty concentrating
                                      • Changes in sleep or appetite
                                      • Feeling disconnected or unproductive
                                      • Hopeless thoughts like “What’s the point?”

                                      If you’ve noticed these for a few days after the holidays, you’re not alone. Our brains and bodies crave rhythm and light—and winter often disrupts both.

                                      But sometimes, what starts as a temporary funk can evolve into something more serious like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or Major Depression.

                                      Part 3: When to Seek Professional Help

                                      Seek professional help if:

                                      • Your sadness lasts more than two weeks.
                                      • You lose interest in things you usually enjoy.
                                      • Your sleep or appetite drastically change.
                                      • You feel worthless, helpless, or hopeless.
                                      • You find yourself withdrawing from others.
                                      • You experience thoughts of death or suicide.

                                      Those are not signs of weakness—they’re signals from your body and brain that you need care and support. Just as you’d seek medical help for persistent pain, it’s wise to seek mental health help for persistent sadness.

                                      As a neuropsychologist, I’ve seen firsthand that depression and anxiety are treatable. There are excellent therapies, medical interventions, and lifestyle approaches that can help. But the first step is reaching out.

                                      And as a believer, I want you to know this: needing help does not make you a failure of faith. God often works through professionals to bring healing. He created our minds and bodies with complexity, and He delights when we care for them wisely.

                                      Remember Elijah in 1 Kings 19? He was exhausted, afraid, and said, “It is enough; now, Lord, take my life.” God didn’t rebuke him. God fed him, let him rest, and then gently spoke truth to him. That’s a model of divine compassion toward our emotional distress.

                                      Part 4: How to Take Care of Yourself

                                      If you’re feeling those “Blue Monday” blues—or a longer winter sadness—here are practical, biblically grounded ways to care for your mind, body, and spirit.

                                      1. Get More Light

                                      Exposure to sunlight—or a light therapy box—can boost serotonin and regulate your circadian rhythm.

                                      Genesis 1:3 says, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” Light was His first gift to creation, and it still brings life today.

                                      2. Move Your Body

                                      Exercise increases endorphins and dopamine, improving both energy and outlook.

                                      You don’t need to run a marathon—start with a short walk or stretch.

                                      1 Corinthians 6:19–20 reminds us our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Caring for them is an act of worship.

                                      3. Nurture Connection

                                      When we isolate, sadness grows louder.

                                      Reach out to a friend, attend a Bible study, or volunteer.

                                      Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 says, “Two are better than one… if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.

                                      4. Adjust Your Expectations

                                      After the holidays, it’s easy to compare today’s ordinary moments to the excitement of December.

                                      Give yourself permission to slow down, to reset. The Bible gives us multiple examples of Jesus, the Son of God, taking time to rest. If He needed rest, why would we expect differently of ourselves?

                                      Matthew 11:28—“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”*

                                      5. Feed Your Spirit

                                      Immerse yourself in Scripture, prayer, and worship music.

                                      Depression dims perspective, but God’s Word renews it.

                                      Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.”

                                      6. Practice Gratitude

                                      Gratitude activates brain regions associated with joy and resilience.

                                      Even small blessings count—warm coffee, a friend’s text, a sunset.

                                      1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

                                      7. Set Rhythms of Rest

                                      Winter is nature’s reminder to rest.

                                      God Himself modeled rest on the seventh day—not from exhaustion, but completion.

                                      Rest refuels your mind and aligns your soul with His peace.

                                      Part 5: Reframing the Season

                                      Maybe this January feels heavy. Maybe you’re tired of gray skies or unmet resolutions. But let’s reframe it:

                                      What if winter isn’t a punishment, but an invitation?

                                      An invitation to slow down.

                                      To nurture your inner life.

                                      To rediscover hope not in circumstances, but in Christ Himself.

                                      Remember:  no day is truly “blue” when it’s covered by God’s grace.

                                      He specializes in turning mourning into dancing, ashes into beauty, and despair into praise (Isaiah 61:3).

                                      The same God who paints the sunrise after the darkest night will bring light to your soul again.

                                      Friend, if you’re listening today and feeling the weight of winter, know this: you are not alone. God sees you. He is not disappointed by your sadness; He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).

                                      There’s no shame in reaching for help—from Him, from loved ones, or from professionals. Healing doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine; it means letting God meet you in the reality of your pain.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • John 1:5 “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
                                      • 1 Kings 19 “It is enough; now, Lord, take my life.”
                                      • Genesis 1:3 says, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.”
                                      • 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;  you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
                                      • Ecclesiastes 4:9–10, “Two are better than one… if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
                                      • Matthew 11:28 “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
                                      • Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.”
                                      • 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
                                      • Isaiah 61:3 “and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment  of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”
                                      • Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                       

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Today we’re tackling a topic that hits many people hard each January: “Blue Monday.” You may have heard it called “the most depressing day of the year”: a day when motivation runs low, bills come due, and the sparkle of the holidays fades into the grayness of winter. But is “Blue Monday” real? Why do so many people feel down this time of year? And what can you do, spiritually, emotionally, and physically, to climb out of the slump and find renewed hope?

                                      If you’ve ever felt like the light of Christmas faded too fast or that you’re struggling to find joy in January, this episode is for you. In this episode, I share How to Beat the Blues: Finding Hope When “Blue Monday” Hits. We unpack where the idea of “Blue Monday” came from, what really contributes to winter sadness, how to recognize when it’s more than just a passing mood, and how God invites us to nurture our mind and soul even in the darkest season.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      Every January, the search engines light up with people looking for answers about “Blue Monday.” Some call it the most depressing day of the year. But here’s the truth: God doesn’t mark any day on His calendar as hopeless. Even when science can explain some of the factors that make us feel low, Scripture reminds us in John 1:5 that “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

                                      So today, let’s uncover both the science and the Savior’s invitation to find peace, joy, and renewed perspective, no matter what your calendar says.

                                       

                                      Part 1: Where “Blue Monday” Came From

                                      The term “Blue Monday” actually originated not from a psychologist or neuroscientist, but from a marketing campaign in the early 2000s. A British travel company wanted to boost winter vacation sales and partnered with a psychologist to create a formula that supposedly calculated the “most depressing day of the year.”

                                      They based it on factors like weather, debt level, time since Christmas, failed New Year’s resolutions, and low motivation. The date usually lands on the third Monday in January.

                                      But here’s what’s interesting: the science behind it was never validated. It was largely pseudoscience; a catchy idea meant to sell trips to sunny places!

                                      Yet it resonated with people because, truthfully, many do feel a dip in mood this time of year. Why? There’s a real physiological and psychological basis for that.

                                      • Shorter daylight hours disrupt our circadian rhythm and lower serotonin levels—our brain’s natural mood stabilizer.
                                      • Colder temperatures mean less outdoor activity and fewer endorphins.
                                      • Holiday aftermath leaves us financially stretched and emotionally fatigued.
                                      • Unmet resolutions of ourselves or others stir up shame or disappointment.

                                      So while “Blue Monday” may not be an official scientific day, it does point to something many experience: what we might call the post-holiday blues or seasonal affective slump.

                                      Part 2: How to Identify It

                                      Let’s talk about how you can tell if what you’re feeling is just a short-term dip or something more concerning.

                                      Here are some common symptoms of the “Blue Monday” slump:

                                      • Low motivation or energy
                                      • Irritability or tearfulness
                                      • Difficulty concentrating
                                      • Changes in sleep or appetite
                                      • Feeling disconnected or unproductive
                                      • Hopeless thoughts like “What’s the point?”

                                      If you’ve noticed these for a few days after the holidays, you’re not alone. Our brains and bodies crave rhythm and light—and winter often disrupts both.

                                      But sometimes, what starts as a temporary funk can evolve into something more serious like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or Major Depression.

                                      Part 3: When to Seek Professional Help

                                      Seek professional help if:

                                      • Your sadness lasts more than two weeks.
                                      • You lose interest in things you usually enjoy.
                                      • Your sleep or appetite drastically change.
                                      • You feel worthless, helpless, or hopeless.
                                      • You find yourself withdrawing from others.
                                      • You experience thoughts of death or suicide.

                                      Those are not signs of weakness—they’re signals from your body and brain that you need care and support. Just as you’d seek medical help for persistent pain, it’s wise to seek mental health help for persistent sadness.

                                      As a neuropsychologist, I’ve seen firsthand that depression and anxiety are treatable. There are excellent therapies, medical interventions, and lifestyle approaches that can help. But the first step is reaching out.

                                      And as a believer, I want you to know this: needing help does not make you a failure of faith. God often works through professionals to bring healing. He created our minds and bodies with complexity, and He delights when we care for them wisely.

                                      Remember Elijah in 1 Kings 19? He was exhausted, afraid, and said, “It is enough; now, Lord, take my life.” God didn’t rebuke him. God fed him, let him rest, and then gently spoke truth to him. That’s a model of divine compassion toward our emotional distress.

                                      Part 4: How to Take Care of Yourself

                                      If you’re feeling those “Blue Monday” blues—or a longer winter sadness—here are practical, biblically grounded ways to care for your mind, body, and spirit.

                                      1. Get More Light

                                      Exposure to sunlight—or a light therapy box—can boost serotonin and regulate your circadian rhythm.

                                      Genesis 1:3 says, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” Light was His first gift to creation, and it still brings life today.

                                      2. Move Your Body

                                      Exercise increases endorphins and dopamine, improving both energy and outlook.

                                      You don’t need to run a marathon—start with a short walk or stretch.

                                      1 Corinthians 6:19–20 reminds us our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Caring for them is an act of worship.

                                      3. Nurture Connection

                                      When we isolate, sadness grows louder.

                                      Reach out to a friend, attend a Bible study, or volunteer.

                                      Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 says, “Two are better than one… if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.

                                      4. Adjust Your Expectations

                                      After the holidays, it’s easy to compare today’s ordinary moments to the excitement of December.

                                      Give yourself permission to slow down, to reset. The Bible gives us multiple examples of Jesus, the Son of God, taking time to rest. If He needed rest, why would we expect differently of ourselves?

                                      Matthew 11:28—“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”*

                                      5. Feed Your Spirit

                                      Immerse yourself in Scripture, prayer, and worship music.

                                      Depression dims perspective, but God’s Word renews it.

                                      Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.”

                                      6. Practice Gratitude

                                      Gratitude activates brain regions associated with joy and resilience.

                                      Even small blessings count—warm coffee, a friend’s text, a sunset.

                                      1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

                                      7. Set Rhythms of Rest

                                      Winter is nature’s reminder to rest.

                                      God Himself modeled rest on the seventh day—not from exhaustion, but completion.

                                      Rest refuels your mind and aligns your soul with His peace.

                                      Part 5: Reframing the Season

                                      Maybe this January feels heavy. Maybe you’re tired of gray skies or unmet resolutions. But let’s reframe it:

                                      What if winter isn’t a punishment, but an invitation?

                                      An invitation to slow down.

                                      To nurture your inner life.

                                      To rediscover hope not in circumstances, but in Christ Himself.

                                      Remember:  no day is truly “blue” when it’s covered by God’s grace.

                                      He specializes in turning mourning into dancing, ashes into beauty, and despair into praise (Isaiah 61:3).

                                      The same God who paints the sunrise after the darkest night will bring light to your soul again.

                                      Friend, if you’re listening today and feeling the weight of winter, know this: you are not alone. God sees you. He is not disappointed by your sadness; He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).

                                      There’s no shame in reaching for help—from Him, from loved ones, or from professionals. Healing doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine; it means letting God meet you in the reality of your pain.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • John 1:5 “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
                                      • 1 Kings 19 “It is enough; now, Lord, take my life.”
                                      • Genesis 1:3 says, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.”
                                      • 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;  you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
                                      • Ecclesiastes 4:9–10, “Two are better than one… if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
                                      • Matthew 11:28 “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
                                      • Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.”
                                      • 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
                                      • Isaiah 61:3 “and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment  of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”
                                      • Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                       

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 353 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 23dc70bf-aa57-4637-bdce-b3d300262283 23dc70bf-aa57-4637-bdce-b3d300262283 Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:30:00 +0000 1722 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/beating-the-blues-finding-hope-when-blue-monday-hits                                       Healing From Emotional Exhaustion and Holiday Burnout Healing From Emotional Exhaustion and Holiday Burnout Episode Summary:

                                      Emotional Exhaustion and holiday burnout are very real experiences. Today we’re going to be talking about the post-holiday aftermath that many of us feel for a myriad of reasons. We are going to cover expectations—unmet and unspoken; the subsequent disappointment which follows and the straight up exhaustion of making Christmas happen for our loved ones. If we don’t pause for a moment following the holidays, we rush headlong into the long winter months with unresolved sadness, which impacts our mental and emotional well-being, making those January blues stronger.

                                       

                                      Our goal today is to equip you with space to process what happened or didn’t happen, reminders that you are not alone, and practical hope-filled tools to apply to the post-holiday aftermath you may be experiencing.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • The living room is scattered with wrapping paper, ornaments are askew on the tree, and a fine layer of dust covers everything. Family has wandered off to pursue individual pursuits and you’re sitting alone. You did it. You curated gifts based on personal interests and desires. You planned special meals and made the once-a-year Christmas treats. But now the exhaustion sets in. You wonder if your family appreciates your effort, and you question whether it’s worth it. Crawling into bed and skipping the big family get together later that day sounds great. Instead, you pull yourself up and put another foot in front of the other. “Do the next thing,” you whisper, but wonder if you actually can. Today we are talking about How to Heal from Emotional Burnout and Holiday Exhaustion.
                                      • Emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion is a real experience that many of us deal with. It can start as early as October or November and lingers into January.
                                      • I love the reminders in Psalm 46 to be still, but it can be so hard to do. But when I keep reading, I see that knowing God and bringing him glory helps me frame being still inside the comforting knowledge that God is with me through it all. It’s the “all” that trips us up during the holidays. How do we determine how much or how little to do? How do we manage our expectations within the framework of stillness wrapped in God’s presence?
                                      • One of the contributing factors in emotional exhaustion and holiday burnout comes from a motive to serve others and to create a special experience for them. It’s a good and noble desire to do this. The gift of hospitality, even to our own families, is a special way to show them God’s love. That’s where my desire comes from: I want to show my family love by doing for them.  But when we neglect the best thing, we find ourselves running through the holidays in our own strength, which creates emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion.
                                      • I love the sisters, Mary and Martha, found in Luke 10:38-42. These two women show us how to both serve and be still.
                                      • I’ve never liked how Martha is shown as wrong and Mary as right. If we take the time to read what Jesus said, we learn there is a good way and a better way. Martha had good motives in serving Jesus and the other guests. In the context of healing from holiday exhaustion and emotional burnout, the desire to create a beautiful holiday experience is a good desire. Martha’s mistake was her unspoken expectation that her sister should be helping her create this amazing experience for the Lord.
                                      • However, Mary spent her time listening at the feet of Jesus. While it looked like she was doing nothing, she shows us how being still is an active response. Spending time with Jesus is a better desire. It changes us from the inside out. Let’s explore how to hold both the good and the better in the same space and time.
                                      • I’ve always had mixed feelings when it comes to the account of Mary and Martha. I want to be a Mary, but I definitely relate to Martha’s personally as a get-it-done kind of person. I can’t tell you how often I hear “I don’t know how you do all you do!” And in transparency, for many years, I wore that as a badge of honor, until doing became my downfall.
                                      • One thing that has always stood out to me in the account of these two sisters is when Scripture says But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. It’s not that what Martha was doing was bad…it just wasn’t the best thing. It’s so easy to set aside our private, personal time with Jesus during the crazy, busy holiday season, and embarrassingly, I have succumbed to that at times. But what you’re saying is that healing from emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion starts with being still with Jesus.
                                      • It’s within the stillness with Jesus where we can be refreshed and guided for our next thing. We can ask the Holy Spirit to show us where we may have expectations that could lead to disappointment. I must continually remind myself that life is not a movie script, with perfectly plotted responses. There is no call for “Cut!” or “Go again.” Our family members deal with their own internal angsts, expectations, and disappointments, which clash with ours. If we start the day with Jesus and invite him into every part of our day, we can hold the good with the better and reveal both a Martha and a Mary side to our families and ourselves.
                                      • Unmet expectations (of others and ourselves) can contribute to emotional exhaustion and holiday burnout. The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior, so we have to be intentional when we want to change course. Addressing expectations by making time with Jesus a priority during the holiday season is vital, but let’s turn our attention to some practical steps.
                                      • One step we can do post-holiday is to ask our families what traditions or activities are important to them.  We may be doing all the things, but maybe we don’t need too. Taking the time to talk about expectations, and adjusting them going forward both helps to heal, and create self-guards going forward.
                                      • A second aspect that crucial for our healing from emotional exhaustion and holiday burnout is to Create space in your life to rest and recover.
                                      • There’s no universal required day to take down the decorations and return the gift bags to their storage space. Lay on the couch post-Christmas and New Years. Turn off the lamps and turn on the Christmas lights. Take time to rejoice in Jesus coming to earth for you. Contemplate God with us. Be still and know he is God.
                                      • Depending on how depleted, fatigued, or burned out you may feel, I would add to that to create a “recovery zone”. Pick a short window every day, even if only 10-20 minutes, where you intentionally do nothing that requires output. Instead, sit with a cozy drink, listen to calm music, step outside for a breath of fresh air. This sends your nervous system the message: “I am safe. I can rest.”
                                      • The fourth suggestion we have for how to heal from emotional exhaustion and holiday burnout is where we can learn from Mary. I’d suggest a brief post-holiday evaluation can be very helpful by answering two questions. First, What wore you out? Second, What gave you life?
                                      • Taking the time for a post-holiday evaluation helps heal from emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion because self-reflection helps our brain release what is internally keeping our mind in a state of stress, and is a way to prepare and protect your mental and emotional strength for the next year.
                                      • This is where we realize where we may have lost sight of “God with us.” It’s easy to keep saying yes and to add more. Some years we have the capacity for a lot and other years we need to scale back. Three of my kids have birthdays in November, January, and February. Reserving energy for their births changed how I did Christmas, from the décor to the gifts to the food. And I discovered an important truth—it’s not so much what we do that makes Christmas special but the who. Who we are with and who we focus on.
                                      • A fifth tip, which is really important, is to Replenish What Was Depleted. To do this, I would add a third question to the self-evaluation, and that is to ask yourself What did the holidays season drain the most? If it was sleep, commit to earlier nights for a week or two. If it was social energy, block out quiet evenings. If it was finances, enact a low-spend month or two. If it was emotions, journal what you carried and release it to God.
                                      • We know that the level of emotional exhaustion or holiday burnout is different for everyone, and some years are worse than others, but with a shift in our perspective, a bit of self-reflection, communicating with our family, creating space to rest and recover, and intentionally replenishing what was depleted, we can experience healing from emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 46:11-12 “He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”
                                      • Luke 10:38-42 “As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Emotional Exhaustion and holiday burnout are very real experiences. Today we’re going to be talking about the post-holiday aftermath that many of us feel for a myriad of reasons. We are going to cover expectations—unmet and unspoken; the subsequent disappointment which follows and the straight up exhaustion of making Christmas happen for our loved ones. If we don’t pause for a moment following the holidays, we rush headlong into the long winter months with unresolved sadness, which impacts our mental and emotional well-being, making those January blues stronger.

                                       

                                      Our goal today is to equip you with space to process what happened or didn’t happen, reminders that you are not alone, and practical hope-filled tools to apply to the post-holiday aftermath you may be experiencing.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • The living room is scattered with wrapping paper, ornaments are askew on the tree, and a fine layer of dust covers everything. Family has wandered off to pursue individual pursuits and you’re sitting alone. You did it. You curated gifts based on personal interests and desires. You planned special meals and made the once-a-year Christmas treats. But now the exhaustion sets in. You wonder if your family appreciates your effort, and you question whether it’s worth it. Crawling into bed and skipping the big family get together later that day sounds great. Instead, you pull yourself up and put another foot in front of the other. “Do the next thing,” you whisper, but wonder if you actually can. Today we are talking about How to Heal from Emotional Burnout and Holiday Exhaustion.
                                      • Emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion is a real experience that many of us deal with. It can start as early as October or November and lingers into January.
                                      • I love the reminders in Psalm 46 to be still, but it can be so hard to do. But when I keep reading, I see that knowing God and bringing him glory helps me frame being still inside the comforting knowledge that God is with me through it all. It’s the “all” that trips us up during the holidays. How do we determine how much or how little to do? How do we manage our expectations within the framework of stillness wrapped in God’s presence?
                                      • One of the contributing factors in emotional exhaustion and holiday burnout comes from a motive to serve others and to create a special experience for them. It’s a good and noble desire to do this. The gift of hospitality, even to our own families, is a special way to show them God’s love. That’s where my desire comes from: I want to show my family love by doing for them.  But when we neglect the best thing, we find ourselves running through the holidays in our own strength, which creates emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion.
                                      • I love the sisters, Mary and Martha, found in Luke 10:38-42. These two women show us how to both serve and be still.
                                      • I’ve never liked how Martha is shown as wrong and Mary as right. If we take the time to read what Jesus said, we learn there is a good way and a better way. Martha had good motives in serving Jesus and the other guests. In the context of healing from holiday exhaustion and emotional burnout, the desire to create a beautiful holiday experience is a good desire. Martha’s mistake was her unspoken expectation that her sister should be helping her create this amazing experience for the Lord.
                                      • However, Mary spent her time listening at the feet of Jesus. While it looked like she was doing nothing, she shows us how being still is an active response. Spending time with Jesus is a better desire. It changes us from the inside out. Let’s explore how to hold both the good and the better in the same space and time.
                                      • I’ve always had mixed feelings when it comes to the account of Mary and Martha. I want to be a Mary, but I definitely relate to Martha’s personally as a get-it-done kind of person. I can’t tell you how often I hear “I don’t know how you do all you do!” And in transparency, for many years, I wore that as a badge of honor, until doing became my downfall.
                                      • One thing that has always stood out to me in the account of these two sisters is when Scripture says But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. It’s not that what Martha was doing was bad…it just wasn’t the best thing. It’s so easy to set aside our private, personal time with Jesus during the crazy, busy holiday season, and embarrassingly, I have succumbed to that at times. But what you’re saying is that healing from emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion starts with being still with Jesus.
                                      • It’s within the stillness with Jesus where we can be refreshed and guided for our next thing. We can ask the Holy Spirit to show us where we may have expectations that could lead to disappointment. I must continually remind myself that life is not a movie script, with perfectly plotted responses. There is no call for “Cut!” or “Go again.” Our family members deal with their own internal angsts, expectations, and disappointments, which clash with ours. If we start the day with Jesus and invite him into every part of our day, we can hold the good with the better and reveal both a Martha and a Mary side to our families and ourselves.
                                      • Unmet expectations (of others and ourselves) can contribute to emotional exhaustion and holiday burnout. The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior, so we have to be intentional when we want to change course. Addressing expectations by making time with Jesus a priority during the holiday season is vital, but let’s turn our attention to some practical steps.
                                      • One step we can do post-holiday is to ask our families what traditions or activities are important to them.  We may be doing all the things, but maybe we don’t need too. Taking the time to talk about expectations, and adjusting them going forward both helps to heal, and create self-guards going forward.
                                      • A second aspect that crucial for our healing from emotional exhaustion and holiday burnout is to Create space in your life to rest and recover.
                                      • There’s no universal required day to take down the decorations and return the gift bags to their storage space. Lay on the couch post-Christmas and New Years. Turn off the lamps and turn on the Christmas lights. Take time to rejoice in Jesus coming to earth for you. Contemplate God with us. Be still and know he is God.
                                      • Depending on how depleted, fatigued, or burned out you may feel, I would add to that to create a “recovery zone”. Pick a short window every day, even if only 10-20 minutes, where you intentionally do nothing that requires output. Instead, sit with a cozy drink, listen to calm music, step outside for a breath of fresh air. This sends your nervous system the message: “I am safe. I can rest.”
                                      • The fourth suggestion we have for how to heal from emotional exhaustion and holiday burnout is where we can learn from Mary. I’d suggest a brief post-holiday evaluation can be very helpful by answering two questions. First, What wore you out? Second, What gave you life?
                                      • Taking the time for a post-holiday evaluation helps heal from emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion because self-reflection helps our brain release what is internally keeping our mind in a state of stress, and is a way to prepare and protect your mental and emotional strength for the next year.
                                      • This is where we realize where we may have lost sight of “God with us.” It’s easy to keep saying yes and to add more. Some years we have the capacity for a lot and other years we need to scale back. Three of my kids have birthdays in November, January, and February. Reserving energy for their births changed how I did Christmas, from the décor to the gifts to the food. And I discovered an important truth—it’s not so much what we do that makes Christmas special but the who. Who we are with and who we focus on.
                                      • A fifth tip, which is really important, is to Replenish What Was Depleted. To do this, I would add a third question to the self-evaluation, and that is to ask yourself What did the holidays season drain the most? If it was sleep, commit to earlier nights for a week or two. If it was social energy, block out quiet evenings. If it was finances, enact a low-spend month or two. If it was emotions, journal what you carried and release it to God.
                                      • We know that the level of emotional exhaustion or holiday burnout is different for everyone, and some years are worse than others, but with a shift in our perspective, a bit of self-reflection, communicating with our family, creating space to rest and recover, and intentionally replenishing what was depleted, we can experience healing from emotional burnout and holiday exhaustion.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 46:11-12 “He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”
                                      • Luke 10:38-42 “As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 352 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 0a95da05-f024-4512-a0b1-b3cb018aeaed 0a95da05-f024-4512-a0b1-b3cb018aeaed Thu, 08 Jan 2026 11:30:00 +0000 2338 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/healing-from-emotional-exhaustion-and-holiday-burnout                                       A Fresh Start: Trusting God's Redemption Over Your Past A Fresh Start: Trusting God's Redemption Over Your Past Episode Summary:

                                      Welcome to a brand-new year! If you’re like many, today might bring a mix of emotions. Excitement for a fresh start, anxiety over the unknown, or maybe even a lingering weight from the past. So many of us enter the new year feeling burdened by past mistakes, failures, or regrets. The enemy would love nothing more than to keep us stuck in shame, replaying the moments we wish we could erase. But here’s the truth: Our God is a God of redemption, of new beginnings, of fresh mercies every morning including this very one.

                                      Today, we talk about Trusting God's Redemption Over Your Past. We’ll explore what it means to step forward in faith instead of shame, to trust in God’s plans instead of our past, and to fully embrace the fresh start He offers us through His love and grace.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • If stepping into this new year has felt more like stepping into a cloud of uncertainty, I want you to know that you are not alone. More importantly, you are not without hope. Today, we’re going to explore what God’s Word says about new beginnings and how we can release the past to walk confidently into His plans for our future.
                                      • God is in the business of making things new.
                                      • If you’re struggling to let go of past failures, hear this today—God is doing a new thing in your life. Will you embrace it?
                                      • No matter what yesterday held, today is a new day, and His mercies are fresh and waiting for you.
                                      • Practical Tip 1: Release What You Cannot Change
                                        • Holding onto past regrets won’t change them. Take a moment to pray and surrender those memories to God, repenting where necessary and trusting Him to use even your mistakes for His glory.
                                      • Practical Tip 2: Replace Shame with Truth
                                        • The enemy often whispers lies of unworthiness and failure, but God calls you redeemed. Meditate on scriptures that remind you of your identity in Christ—because you are loved, valued, and renewed every day.
                                      • Practical Tip 3: Set Your Eyes on the Future, Not the Past
                                        • In Philippians 3:13-14, the apostle Paul encourages us, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal...” Today, commit to focusing on God’s promises for your future. Each new day is a step toward the plans He has for you—plans filled with hope and purpose. Where there is uncertainty, seek God’s will for your future.
                                      • Practical Tip 4: Surround Yourself with Encouragement
                                        • Fellowship is key. The enemy would love to isolate you, but we were not created to be alone. Whether it’s through Christian friends, a church community, or inspirational books and podcasts, fill your life with voices that affirm your worth and point you toward God’s truth. When you're surrounded by encouragement, the journey to healing and new beginnings becomes much more manageable.
                                      • Practical Tip 5: Start Each Day with a Fresh Perspective
                                        • Begin every morning by thanking God for a new day and seeking His guidance. A short prayer or a moment of reflection can reset your mindset, reminding you that His mercies are new every day. Consider journaling your thoughts and prayers to track the fresh starts and breakthroughs God is bringing into your life. If you need a resource to start your day in God’s word, reflecting on His promises, I encourage you to pick up a copy of my book Today Is Going to Be a Good Day: 90 Promises From God to Start Your Day Off Right.
                                      • Take a moment now to reflect on these steps. Ask yourself: What past burdens do I need to surrender? Which scriptures will I meditate on to replace shame with truth? Allow God to fill you with hope as you anticipate the new things He’s ready to do in your life.
                                      • Friend, I don’t know what your past holds, but I do know this—God is bigger than your mistakes, greater than your failures, and ever faithful in His love. As you step into this new year, hold onto the promise that He is doing a new thing in your life. You no longer have to be weighed down by what was. Instead, embrace what is to come, knowing that God’s plans for you are filled with hope, purpose, and renewal.
                                      • As you leave this episode, I encourage you to put these steps into practice. Tonight, reflect on the scriptures we discussed and commit to a fresh start tomorrow morning. Trust that each new day is a gift from God—a day filled with His mercy and love.
                                      • Let’s pray together: “Lord, thank You for the promise of new beginnings. Help us to let go of the past and step boldly into the future You have planned. May we embrace Your truth over our shame, and may Your mercies renew us each morning. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Isaiah 43:18-19: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
                                      • Lamentations 3:22-23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Welcome to a brand-new year! If you’re like many, today might bring a mix of emotions. Excitement for a fresh start, anxiety over the unknown, or maybe even a lingering weight from the past. So many of us enter the new year feeling burdened by past mistakes, failures, or regrets. The enemy would love nothing more than to keep us stuck in shame, replaying the moments we wish we could erase. But here’s the truth: Our God is a God of redemption, of new beginnings, of fresh mercies every morning including this very one.

                                      Today, we talk about Trusting God's Redemption Over Your Past. We’ll explore what it means to step forward in faith instead of shame, to trust in God’s plans instead of our past, and to fully embrace the fresh start He offers us through His love and grace.

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • If stepping into this new year has felt more like stepping into a cloud of uncertainty, I want you to know that you are not alone. More importantly, you are not without hope. Today, we’re going to explore what God’s Word says about new beginnings and how we can release the past to walk confidently into His plans for our future.
                                      • God is in the business of making things new.
                                      • If you’re struggling to let go of past failures, hear this today—God is doing a new thing in your life. Will you embrace it?
                                      • No matter what yesterday held, today is a new day, and His mercies are fresh and waiting for you.
                                      • Practical Tip 1: Release What You Cannot Change
                                        • Holding onto past regrets won’t change them. Take a moment to pray and surrender those memories to God, repenting where necessary and trusting Him to use even your mistakes for His glory.
                                      • Practical Tip 2: Replace Shame with Truth
                                        • The enemy often whispers lies of unworthiness and failure, but God calls you redeemed. Meditate on scriptures that remind you of your identity in Christ—because you are loved, valued, and renewed every day.
                                      • Practical Tip 3: Set Your Eyes on the Future, Not the Past
                                        • In Philippians 3:13-14, the apostle Paul encourages us, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal...” Today, commit to focusing on God’s promises for your future. Each new day is a step toward the plans He has for you—plans filled with hope and purpose. Where there is uncertainty, seek God’s will for your future.
                                      • Practical Tip 4: Surround Yourself with Encouragement
                                        • Fellowship is key. The enemy would love to isolate you, but we were not created to be alone. Whether it’s through Christian friends, a church community, or inspirational books and podcasts, fill your life with voices that affirm your worth and point you toward God’s truth. When you're surrounded by encouragement, the journey to healing and new beginnings becomes much more manageable.
                                      • Practical Tip 5: Start Each Day with a Fresh Perspective
                                        • Begin every morning by thanking God for a new day and seeking His guidance. A short prayer or a moment of reflection can reset your mindset, reminding you that His mercies are new every day. Consider journaling your thoughts and prayers to track the fresh starts and breakthroughs God is bringing into your life. If you need a resource to start your day in God’s word, reflecting on His promises, I encourage you to pick up a copy of my book Today Is Going to Be a Good Day: 90 Promises From God to Start Your Day Off Right.
                                      • Take a moment now to reflect on these steps. Ask yourself: What past burdens do I need to surrender? Which scriptures will I meditate on to replace shame with truth? Allow God to fill you with hope as you anticipate the new things He’s ready to do in your life.
                                      • Friend, I don’t know what your past holds, but I do know this—God is bigger than your mistakes, greater than your failures, and ever faithful in His love. As you step into this new year, hold onto the promise that He is doing a new thing in your life. You no longer have to be weighed down by what was. Instead, embrace what is to come, knowing that God’s plans for you are filled with hope, purpose, and renewal.
                                      • As you leave this episode, I encourage you to put these steps into practice. Tonight, reflect on the scriptures we discussed and commit to a fresh start tomorrow morning. Trust that each new day is a gift from God—a day filled with His mercy and love.
                                      • Let’s pray together: “Lord, thank You for the promise of new beginnings. Help us to let go of the past and step boldly into the future You have planned. May we embrace Your truth over our shame, and may Your mercies renew us each morning. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Isaiah 43:18-19: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
                                      • Lamentations 3:22-23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 351 Dr. Michelle Bengtson dd02bd1e-913f-403d-8653-b3c5002e3ed0 dd02bd1e-913f-403d-8653-b3c5002e3ed0 Thu, 01 Jan 2026 11:30:00 +0000 739 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/a-fresh-start-trusting-gods-redemption-over-your-past                                       350 Hope For the Weary Soul 350 Hope For the Weary Soul Episode Summary:

                                      Christmas is often called the most wonderful time of the year, yet for many, it’s also one of the most exhausting. Between the holiday to-do lists, family obligations, and the weight of expectations - both our own and others’- this season can leave us physically weary, emotionally drained, and even spiritually depleted. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. Today, we’re talking about how to release those expectations, embrace true rest in Christ, and find renewal in Him. If your soul feels weary, this conversation is especially for you. Today we’ll be talking about Hope for the Weary Soul.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • It’s no surprise that Christmas can leave us feeling depleted. We put pressure on ourselves to create the perfect holiday - perfect gifts, perfect décor, perfect meals and table settings, and perfect gatherings. Social media only adds to this burden, making it seem like everyone else has it all together. But the truth is, exhaustion isn’t just about being physically tired. It’s about the weight we carry in our hearts - disappointment, grief, unmet expectations, and the struggle to meet everyone’s needs, often while neglecting our own.
                                      • Jesus knew we would experience this. That’s why in Matthew 11:28, He says, Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. He invites us to exchange our striving for His peace. But that requires us to let go of what we were never meant to carry in the first place.
                                      • If you’re feeling weary, I encourage you to take a moment and ask yourself: What am I holding onto that God never asked me to carry? Maybe it’s the expectation of making everyone happy. Maybe it’s guilt over what you can’t do. Maybe it’s the grief of a loved one who isn’t here this Christmas. Whatever it is, the first step toward rest is recognizing what is making us weary and laying it at Jesus’ feet.
                                      • Christmas is a busy time with many annual traditions and expectations. Others have expectations of us, we have expectations of others, and we have expectations of ourselves. As a result, sadly, it’s a recipe for failure.
                                      • Part of the problem with expectations is that it’s impossible to meet unvoiced expectations. Everyone’s picture of the holiday varies. Some celebrate with family on Christmas Eve, others celebrate on Christmas. Some families draw names for gifts and possibly set a monetary limit, while other families give gifts to everyone. Some families get up early while others sleep in late.
                                      • There is as much variability to the who, what, when, and where of the celebration as there are people celebrating.
                                      • So how do we actually release those expectations? It starts with shifting our perspective. The world tells us Christmas is about performance, about how much we do, how beautiful we make it, how much we give.  But God’s Word tells us something different. Christmas is about receiving. Receiving the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ.
                                      • Martha was distracted by all the preparations, while Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, simply being with Him. And what did Jesus say? Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Does that ever sound like you? I’ve certainly been guilty.
                                      • This season, instead of being like Martha - running from one thing to the next, trying to make everything perfect, and meet a list of unspoken expectations - what if we chose to be like Mary? What if we sat at His feet, even in the middle of the chaos, and let His presence be enough?
                                      • One practical way to do this is by setting boundaries. Say no to the things that drain you. Say yes to the things that nourish your soul. You don’t have to attend every event, bake every cookie, or create a Pinterest-worthy Christmas. Choose rest. Choose Jesus.
                                      • Releasing expectations is only part of the equation. True renewal comes when we replace striving with abiding. John 15:4 says, Abide in me, and I in you. When we stay connected to Jesus, He renews our strength.
                                      • One way to abide in Him this Christmas is by spending time in His Word. Even if it’s just a few minutes a day, let Scripture be your source of renewal. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. When we take time to be with God, He refreshes our weary souls.
                                      • Christmas isn’t about what we do. It’s about what’s already been done for us through Christ.
                                      • No matter how much is on your plate, you don’t have to carry it alone. Jesus came to bring us peace, not pressure. So this Christmas, let’s step out of striving and into His rest.
                                      • Prayer for the Weary Soul
                                        • Heavenly Father, we come before You weary, but we know that You are our source of strength. Help us release the burdens we were never meant to carry and rest in Your perfect peace. Teach us to abide in You, to embrace Your presence above all else, and to find renewal in Your love. Thank You for the gift of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. In His name, we pray. Amen.

                                       

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
                                      • Luke 10:38-42 tells the story of Mary and Martha. “Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
                                      • John 15:4 says, Abide in me, and I in you.
                                      • Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. 

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Christmas is often called the most wonderful time of the year, yet for many, it’s also one of the most exhausting. Between the holiday to-do lists, family obligations, and the weight of expectations - both our own and others’- this season can leave us physically weary, emotionally drained, and even spiritually depleted. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. Today, we’re talking about how to release those expectations, embrace true rest in Christ, and find renewal in Him. If your soul feels weary, this conversation is especially for you. Today we’ll be talking about Hope for the Weary Soul.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • It’s no surprise that Christmas can leave us feeling depleted. We put pressure on ourselves to create the perfect holiday - perfect gifts, perfect décor, perfect meals and table settings, and perfect gatherings. Social media only adds to this burden, making it seem like everyone else has it all together. But the truth is, exhaustion isn’t just about being physically tired. It’s about the weight we carry in our hearts - disappointment, grief, unmet expectations, and the struggle to meet everyone’s needs, often while neglecting our own.
                                      • Jesus knew we would experience this. That’s why in Matthew 11:28, He says, Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. He invites us to exchange our striving for His peace. But that requires us to let go of what we were never meant to carry in the first place.
                                      • If you’re feeling weary, I encourage you to take a moment and ask yourself: What am I holding onto that God never asked me to carry? Maybe it’s the expectation of making everyone happy. Maybe it’s guilt over what you can’t do. Maybe it’s the grief of a loved one who isn’t here this Christmas. Whatever it is, the first step toward rest is recognizing what is making us weary and laying it at Jesus’ feet.
                                      • Christmas is a busy time with many annual traditions and expectations. Others have expectations of us, we have expectations of others, and we have expectations of ourselves. As a result, sadly, it’s a recipe for failure.
                                      • Part of the problem with expectations is that it’s impossible to meet unvoiced expectations. Everyone’s picture of the holiday varies. Some celebrate with family on Christmas Eve, others celebrate on Christmas. Some families draw names for gifts and possibly set a monetary limit, while other families give gifts to everyone. Some families get up early while others sleep in late.
                                      • There is as much variability to the who, what, when, and where of the celebration as there are people celebrating.
                                      • So how do we actually release those expectations? It starts with shifting our perspective. The world tells us Christmas is about performance, about how much we do, how beautiful we make it, how much we give.  But God’s Word tells us something different. Christmas is about receiving. Receiving the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ.
                                      • Martha was distracted by all the preparations, while Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, simply being with Him. And what did Jesus say? Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Does that ever sound like you? I’ve certainly been guilty.
                                      • This season, instead of being like Martha - running from one thing to the next, trying to make everything perfect, and meet a list of unspoken expectations - what if we chose to be like Mary? What if we sat at His feet, even in the middle of the chaos, and let His presence be enough?
                                      • One practical way to do this is by setting boundaries. Say no to the things that drain you. Say yes to the things that nourish your soul. You don’t have to attend every event, bake every cookie, or create a Pinterest-worthy Christmas. Choose rest. Choose Jesus.
                                      • Releasing expectations is only part of the equation. True renewal comes when we replace striving with abiding. John 15:4 says, Abide in me, and I in you. When we stay connected to Jesus, He renews our strength.
                                      • One way to abide in Him this Christmas is by spending time in His Word. Even if it’s just a few minutes a day, let Scripture be your source of renewal. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. When we take time to be with God, He refreshes our weary souls.
                                      • Christmas isn’t about what we do. It’s about what’s already been done for us through Christ.
                                      • No matter how much is on your plate, you don’t have to carry it alone. Jesus came to bring us peace, not pressure. So this Christmas, let’s step out of striving and into His rest.
                                      • Prayer for the Weary Soul
                                        • Heavenly Father, we come before You weary, but we know that You are our source of strength. Help us release the burdens we were never meant to carry and rest in Your perfect peace. Teach us to abide in You, to embrace Your presence above all else, and to find renewal in Your love. Thank You for the gift of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. In His name, we pray. Amen.

                                       

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
                                      • Luke 10:38-42 tells the story of Mary and Martha. “Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
                                      • John 15:4 says, Abide in me, and I in you.
                                      • Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. 

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                       

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 350 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f7aee7cb-abb1-4390-a80c-b3bd00fc0532 f7aee7cb-abb1-4390-a80c-b3bd00fc0532 Thu, 25 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000 867 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/350-hope-for-the-weary-soul                                       Biblical Literacy and Why It’s Important to Learn Who God Is Biblical Literacy and Why It’s Important to Learn Who God Is Episode Summary:

                                      Christians often think theology is only for scholars or the spiritually elite. But this simply isn’t true. While theology is, in one sense, an academic discipline, it can also be understood as the art of knowing our creator. God invites us to know him, as we are fully known by him.

                                       

                                      Theology goes beyond the study of the character of God, and into the art of knowing the One who already knows and intimately loves His believers. Flash Theology leads readers through thirty-one bite-size truths, highlighting key aspects of who God is and what that means for the reader. 


                                      Theology is important for everyone, but if it’s too dense, it can be hard to digest. Today we’re going to talk about biblical literacy and why it’s important to learn who God is.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • We all carry a theological bias. So, we all enter into a variety of conversations and our own circumstances within our life, carrying a bias towards who we think God is. And that is based on a whole bunch of different things, how we are raised, different things you hear over time, the media you consume, the church you attend, all these different facets of how we view God and the way we absorb information can help us view God biblically or not biblically at all.
                                      • I believe the Westernized church and social media has created a self-help gospel that is void of God’s truth.
                                      • That word is associated, as you already mentioned, is associated with academics and scholars. So, there is kind of hefty price tag to it, but theology is simply the study of God. So, then if you open up the Bible, you are studying the Christian God. So, everybody that opens up the Bible is a “theologian.” Now of course there are the academic theologians but I like to say we're all theologians and we should take ownership of that because that helps us realize it is a worthy pursuit to understand God and his text.
                                      • We miss out on so much because we're leaving it to those that are called to lead us, right? We're saying, okay, which is good. We should trust our leaders, but we should also question if something actually biblically accurate? I love if I go to teach the Bible somewhere. I love when people do their digging afterwards and make sure that I actually taught the text properly.
                                      • We should have a hunger and an understanding to pursue a depth of who God is, and that's not always going to be accurate in the different areas of consumption, like those 20 -second reels on social media that we come across.
                                      • Through Genesis to Revelation, there's a line of scripture that's happening, and it is revealing Christ all throughout scripture, who Christ is, is being revealed.
                                      • God knows us already, right? So it's really this question of do we embrace the fact that he fully knows us? Do we understand the depth of his love? And I can only imagine that it's a consistently, we're walking out understanding the depths of his love until we're face to face with Jesus.
                                      • **So when we can embrace the truth that we are fully known by a God who loves us, by a God that is for us, by a God that knows the beginning from the end, it creates this stabilizing truth in our life that will carry us when our circumstances are out of control, when the world feels like it's mass chaos, when something comes at us, when we're not prepared, like there is a stabilizing truth that God is good, He is sovereign, He is my Savior (for those that declare Christ as their Lord and Savior.) And that stabilizing truth in itself is something that will help you continue to move forward until we are again face to face with Jesus.
                                      • God has always fully known us. And when we can really start to accept that and receive that, I think that's when we really start to live in the abundant life that Jesus came to give. Who else loves us despite knowing our every fault? Nobody but God. I think that's really the stepping stone to walk into that abundant life that Jesus came to give.
                                      • One of the biggest wrestling matches I’ve seen in ministry is people understanding God as Father. Sometimes we have to have this wrestling match with the Holy Spirit to be able to fully embrace the fullness of what that means to understand God as Father.
                                      • So often our view of God as Father is directly impacted by our relationship with the parental figures that we're in our life. And the problem with that is that we're relating to a perfect God using a flawed metric. But the thing that has been most helpful in working with patients is helping them explore the fact that even if they were abandoned by their earthly father or their earthly father was not a kind person, God as father specifically chose us, made the loving choice that he wanted us to be a child.
                                      • I remember I was driving around one day in Hollywood and it's just, it's such a fun city because almost everyone there is like dreamers. They moved to Hollywood because they have a big dream to pursue. So I'm driving around listening to worship music. Just I'm in love with the city and I felt this deep conviction from God where he was like, “you've been making this calling, you've been making this all about yourself.” And it was that like gut punch of like, oh gosh, I better pay attention. And what I felt him saying in my spirit was, "You've been making this all about you. This really has nothing to do with you. Do you trust that I can fill the spaces between you and this dream that I've called you to pursue?" So of course, I ugly cried, I repented. I said, "I'm so sorry, God." And I've tried to be faithful with what he's asked me to do.
                                      • The enemy makes it all about us, because he doesn't want it to be all about God.
                                      • I wonder how many people are listening today, who have felt the unction of God calling them into something and self-doubt has interfered. Friends, if that is you, if God is calling you into something, he's going to equip you. He's going to walk with you. He's going to train you. He's going to bring along mentors. He's going to provide the finances. Listen to Jenny's story. It's not all about you. It's about him.
                                      • Dig in and also invite the Holy Spirit into your reading process because like I said, we can we can read and or listen to the text, but it's one thing to say, “Holy Spirit make this come alive and show me how to apply this to my life as well.” I love that last recommendation because when Jesus left, he said, “I'm going to send one to remind you of all truth.” He was talking about the Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit can't remind us of truth that we haven't already taken in. So, when you're reading the word, do just as Jenny says and invite the Holy Spirit to teach you truth. And those words are going to come alive off the page.
                                      • When we understand the Gospel and who triune God really is, the end result is knowing and enjoying God more!
                                      • Theology and getting to know God doesn’t have to be intimating or boring! Start where you are and learn to wrestle with God’s word. Don’t just read it, but make time to study it. It’s life-changing!

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Numbers 23:19 ESV God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should  change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?
                                      • Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Jenny Randle:

                                      Website / Holy Spirit Ministry Center Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      About Guest Jenny Randle:

                                      Jenny Randle is an Emmy®-award-winning editor who went on a journey to discover what it really means to live on purpose. From a career in the heart of Hollywood to an academic theologian, communicator, and author, her creative ventures over the last twenty years have reached millions. Her search for meaning in life's everyday moments led her to create resources that merge profound gospel-centered truths with practical application. Since 2008, she has been in vocational ministry, creating discipleship tools and content for local churches and international ministries. She is the President of the Holy Spirit Ministry Center, an organization that helps people learn theology and live it out.

                                      Jenny is the author of Courageous Creative, Getting to Know God’s Voice, Dream Come True (Harvest House), Promised Presence (Esther Press), and the co-author of Flash Theology (David C Cook). 

                                      With a Master's from Asbury Theological Seminary and ministry ordination, Jenny combines academic depth and authority to advocate for a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit in the Church. Jenny teaches the Bible across denominational lines and has witnessed countless testimonies of God ministering personal transformation, healing, and revelation through these engagements. She’s contending for Holy Spirit renewal for the everyday Christ-follower.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Christians often think theology is only for scholars or the spiritually elite. But this simply isn’t true. While theology is, in one sense, an academic discipline, it can also be understood as the art of knowing our creator. God invites us to know him, as we are fully known by him.

                                       

                                      Theology goes beyond the study of the character of God, and into the art of knowing the One who already knows and intimately loves His believers. Flash Theology leads readers through thirty-one bite-size truths, highlighting key aspects of who God is and what that means for the reader. 


                                      Theology is important for everyone, but if it’s too dense, it can be hard to digest. Today we’re going to talk about biblical literacy and why it’s important to learn who God is.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • We all carry a theological bias. So, we all enter into a variety of conversations and our own circumstances within our life, carrying a bias towards who we think God is. And that is based on a whole bunch of different things, how we are raised, different things you hear over time, the media you consume, the church you attend, all these different facets of how we view God and the way we absorb information can help us view God biblically or not biblically at all.
                                      • I believe the Westernized church and social media has created a self-help gospel that is void of God’s truth.
                                      • That word is associated, as you already mentioned, is associated with academics and scholars. So, there is kind of hefty price tag to it, but theology is simply the study of God. So, then if you open up the Bible, you are studying the Christian God. So, everybody that opens up the Bible is a “theologian.” Now of course there are the academic theologians but I like to say we're all theologians and we should take ownership of that because that helps us realize it is a worthy pursuit to understand God and his text.
                                      • We miss out on so much because we're leaving it to those that are called to lead us, right? We're saying, okay, which is good. We should trust our leaders, but we should also question if something actually biblically accurate? I love if I go to teach the Bible somewhere. I love when people do their digging afterwards and make sure that I actually taught the text properly.
                                      • We should have a hunger and an understanding to pursue a depth of who God is, and that's not always going to be accurate in the different areas of consumption, like those 20 -second reels on social media that we come across.
                                      • Through Genesis to Revelation, there's a line of scripture that's happening, and it is revealing Christ all throughout scripture, who Christ is, is being revealed.
                                      • God knows us already, right? So it's really this question of do we embrace the fact that he fully knows us? Do we understand the depth of his love? And I can only imagine that it's a consistently, we're walking out understanding the depths of his love until we're face to face with Jesus.
                                      • **So when we can embrace the truth that we are fully known by a God who loves us, by a God that is for us, by a God that knows the beginning from the end, it creates this stabilizing truth in our life that will carry us when our circumstances are out of control, when the world feels like it's mass chaos, when something comes at us, when we're not prepared, like there is a stabilizing truth that God is good, He is sovereign, He is my Savior (for those that declare Christ as their Lord and Savior.) And that stabilizing truth in itself is something that will help you continue to move forward until we are again face to face with Jesus.
                                      • God has always fully known us. And when we can really start to accept that and receive that, I think that's when we really start to live in the abundant life that Jesus came to give. Who else loves us despite knowing our every fault? Nobody but God. I think that's really the stepping stone to walk into that abundant life that Jesus came to give.
                                      • One of the biggest wrestling matches I’ve seen in ministry is people understanding God as Father. Sometimes we have to have this wrestling match with the Holy Spirit to be able to fully embrace the fullness of what that means to understand God as Father.
                                      • So often our view of God as Father is directly impacted by our relationship with the parental figures that we're in our life. And the problem with that is that we're relating to a perfect God using a flawed metric. But the thing that has been most helpful in working with patients is helping them explore the fact that even if they were abandoned by their earthly father or their earthly father was not a kind person, God as father specifically chose us, made the loving choice that he wanted us to be a child.
                                      • I remember I was driving around one day in Hollywood and it's just, it's such a fun city because almost everyone there is like dreamers. They moved to Hollywood because they have a big dream to pursue. So I'm driving around listening to worship music. Just I'm in love with the city and I felt this deep conviction from God where he was like, “you've been making this calling, you've been making this all about yourself.” And it was that like gut punch of like, oh gosh, I better pay attention. And what I felt him saying in my spirit was, "You've been making this all about you. This really has nothing to do with you. Do you trust that I can fill the spaces between you and this dream that I've called you to pursue?" So of course, I ugly cried, I repented. I said, "I'm so sorry, God." And I've tried to be faithful with what he's asked me to do.
                                      • The enemy makes it all about us, because he doesn't want it to be all about God.
                                      • I wonder how many people are listening today, who have felt the unction of God calling them into something and self-doubt has interfered. Friends, if that is you, if God is calling you into something, he's going to equip you. He's going to walk with you. He's going to train you. He's going to bring along mentors. He's going to provide the finances. Listen to Jenny's story. It's not all about you. It's about him.
                                      • Dig in and also invite the Holy Spirit into your reading process because like I said, we can we can read and or listen to the text, but it's one thing to say, “Holy Spirit make this come alive and show me how to apply this to my life as well.” I love that last recommendation because when Jesus left, he said, “I'm going to send one to remind you of all truth.” He was talking about the Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit can't remind us of truth that we haven't already taken in. So, when you're reading the word, do just as Jenny says and invite the Holy Spirit to teach you truth. And those words are going to come alive off the page.
                                      • When we understand the Gospel and who triune God really is, the end result is knowing and enjoying God more!
                                      • Theology and getting to know God doesn’t have to be intimating or boring! Start where you are and learn to wrestle with God’s word. Don’t just read it, but make time to study it. It’s life-changing!

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Numbers 23:19 ESV God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should  change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?
                                      • Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Jenny Randle:

                                      Website / Holy Spirit Ministry Center Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      About Guest Jenny Randle:

                                      Jenny Randle is an Emmy®-award-winning editor who went on a journey to discover what it really means to live on purpose. From a career in the heart of Hollywood to an academic theologian, communicator, and author, her creative ventures over the last twenty years have reached millions. Her search for meaning in life's everyday moments led her to create resources that merge profound gospel-centered truths with practical application. Since 2008, she has been in vocational ministry, creating discipleship tools and content for local churches and international ministries. She is the President of the Holy Spirit Ministry Center, an organization that helps people learn theology and live it out.

                                      Jenny is the author of Courageous Creative, Getting to Know God’s Voice, Dream Come True (Harvest House), Promised Presence (Esther Press), and the co-author of Flash Theology (David C Cook). 

                                      With a Master's from Asbury Theological Seminary and ministry ordination, Jenny combines academic depth and authority to advocate for a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit in the Church. Jenny teaches the Bible across denominational lines and has witnessed countless testimonies of God ministering personal transformation, healing, and revelation through these engagements. She’s contending for Holy Spirit renewal for the everyday Christ-follower.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 349 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 0f41a005-7d5a-44f4-9245-b3b7002776b0 0f41a005-7d5a-44f4-9245-b3b7002776b0 Thu, 18 Dec 2025 14:01:00 +0000 1649 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/biblical-literacy-and-why-it-s-important-to-learn-who-god-is                                       How God Wired Our Brains for Advent Hope: Why Anticipation Fuels Our Faith How God Wired Our Brains for Advent Hope: Why Anticipation Fuels Our Faith Episode Summary:

                                      Have you ever noticed that sometimes the waiting feels almost better than the having? A child counting down the days until Christmas morning… the thrill of planning a vacation… even the little rush when you hear your phone buzz with a new message. That’s anticipation at work. But what if I told you that the very chemical in your brain that makes anticipation so powerful was actually designed by God to teach us something about Advent? Today we’re going to talk about dopamine, anticipation, and the kind of holy hope that not only prepares us for Christmas, but points us to the greater joy of Christ’s return.

                                      As we step into this Advent season, I want to share something that’s been on my heart—how anticipation affects our brain chemistry, our spiritual lives, and even the way we approach hope. Specifically, I want us to consider the beautiful connection between anticipation, dopamine, and Advent hope.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Did you know your brain starts celebrating before the party even begins? That’s right—long before you open the gift, taste the dessert, or hug the loved one, your brain is already releasing dopamine, the chemical of anticipation. But here’s the deeper truth: God wired us that way on purpose. Advent is the season where science and faith collide, inviting us to see how holy anticipation points our hearts beyond the moment to the eternal. In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, you’ll learn how your brain chemistry mirrors the biblical call to wait with joyful hope.
                                      • Anticipation is the act of looking forward to something. It’s more than just waiting—it’s waiting with expectancy. It’s that feeling when you know something is coming, and you start to prepare for it in your heart, in your mind, and sometimes even in your body.
                                      • Think about a child waiting for Christmas morning. They might count down the days, peek under the tree, maybe even have trouble falling asleep on Christmas Eve. That’s anticipation.
                                      • Anticipation can be both positive and negative. We can anticipate a joyful event—like a wedding, the birth of a child, or a holiday gathering—or we can anticipate something difficult, like a doctor’s appointment or a hard conversation.
                                      • But here’s the key: anticipation changes the way we think, feel, and behave, even before the actual event takes place.
                                      • Now let’s bring in a bit of brain science. You’ve probably heard of dopamine. It’s often referred to as the “feel-good chemical,” but that’s not entirely accurate. Dopamine isn’t about pleasure itself—it’s about anticipation of pleasure.
                                      • When our brains release dopamine, it motivates us to pursue something. It’s tied to the reward system in our brains. For example, when you anticipate a delicious meal, your brain releases dopamine—not when you’re eating the food, but when you think about eating it.
                                      • Dopamine helps us focus, motivates us to take action, and gives us energy to pursue what we expect will be rewarding.
                                      • Here’s an example: Have you ever noticed that planning a vacation can be almost as enjoyable as the vacation itself? That’s because anticipation—through dopamine—creates joy, motivation, and excitement.
                                      • Now here’s where it gets interesting. When we lack healthy anticipation—when we don’t have things to look forward to—dopamine levels can drop, leading to discouragement, low motivation, and even depression.
                                      • But God, in His wisdom, created us with this system of anticipation for a reason. He designed our brains to look forward, to seek reward, to long for something beyond the present moment.
                                      • Advent is a season of holy anticipation.
                                      • For centuries, Christians have marked the four weeks before Christmas as a time of preparation, reflection, and expectation. We look back and remember the long anticipation of Israel waiting for the promised Messiah. And we look forward in anticipation of Christ’s second coming.
                                      • Advent teaches us not to rush through waiting but to savor it, to sit in it, to let it shape our hearts.
                                      • In the same way dopamine motivates us to move toward something good, Advent hope motivates us to move toward God’s promises.
                                      • Think about Simeon and Anna in Luke chapter 2. They spent their lives anticipating the Messiah. The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die before seeing the Lord’s Christ. Imagine the daily anticipation he must have lived with. And then one day, he held the baby Jesus in his arms and declared, “My eyes have seen your salvation.”
                                      • That is the fulfillment of holy anticipation.
                                      • And yet, we too live in anticipation. We celebrate Jesus’ birth, yes—but we also anticipate His return. That’s what Advent reminds us: we live between the “already” and the “not yet.” Jesus has come, and Jesus is coming again.
                                      • Here’s the challenge. In our culture, anticipation often gets hijacked. We anticipate Amazon packages, text message replies, or the next social media notification. Those things give us little dopamine hits, but they don’t satisfy our souls.
                                      • If we’re not careful, we can train our brains to anticipate the wrong things—things that don’t last, things that can’t fulfill us.
                                      • But Advent invites us to retrain our anticipation. Instead of craving fleeting rewards, we can learn to anticipate eternal hope.
                                      • So, let’s ask ourselves:
                                        • What am I anticipating most right now?
                                        • Is it something temporary, or is it something eternal?
                                        • How can I align my anticipation with God’s promises?
                                      • Romans 8:24–25 says, “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”
                                      • That’s the essence of anticipation: waiting with patience, grounded in hope.
                                      • Let me suggest a few practical steps:
                                        • Build rhythms of anticipation. Light an Advent candle each week. Read the Scriptures that point to Christ’s coming. These small practices create anticipation and remind your brain and your spirit of the greater hope to come.
                                        • Practice gratitude in the waiting. Each time you feel anticipation rising—whether for a holiday gathering or even for your morning coffee—use it as a cue to thank God for something eternal. Gratitude shifts dopamine toward holy anticipation.
                                        • Anchor your anticipation in God’s promises. Write down verses about Christ’s return. For example, John 14:3, where Jesus says, “I will come back and take you to be with me.” Let those promises fuel your waiting.
                                        • Fast from empty anticipations. Maybe that means stepping back from constant scrolling or instant gratification. Fasting helps retrain our brains to anticipate what truly matters.
                                        • Invite others into your anticipation. Just as Israel anticipated the Messiah together, we’re called to wait together. Share your Advent reflections with a friend or family member. Encourage one another with the hope of Christ’s return.
                                      • When we put all this together, here’s what we see:
                                        • Neuroscience shows us that anticipation releases dopamine, motivating us to move toward something good.
                                        • Scripture shows us that God designed us to live in anticipation of His promises.
                                        • Advent reminds us to direct our anticipation toward Christ—His birth, His presence in our lives today, and His return.
                                      • When we align our brains’ natural anticipation system with God’s eternal hope, we experience deeper joy, stronger faith, and renewed strength to endure seasons of waiting.
                                      • Friend, whatever you’re anticipating right now, I encourage you to lift it before the Lord. Maybe you’re anticipating something wonderful, or maybe you’re anticipating something hard. Either way, God meets us in our waiting.
                                      • As we journey through Advent, let’s allow anticipation to become not a source of stress or distraction, but a holy reminder that our ultimate hope is in Christ.
                                      • Would you pray with me?
                                        • “Heavenly Father, thank You for designing our minds and our hearts to anticipate. Thank You for sending Jesus, the fulfillment of centuries of anticipation, and thank You for the promise that He will come again. Help us, Lord, to direct our anticipation toward what is eternal and true. Strengthen us in seasons of waiting and fill us with hope as we remember that You are faithful to every promise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
                                      • As you move through this Advent season, may you live with holy anticipation—not just for the joys of Christmas, but for the greater joy of Christ’s return.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 8:24–25 (NIV)“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary:

                                      Have you ever noticed that sometimes the waiting feels almost better than the having? A child counting down the days until Christmas morning… the thrill of planning a vacation… even the little rush when you hear your phone buzz with a new message. That’s anticipation at work. But what if I told you that the very chemical in your brain that makes anticipation so powerful was actually designed by God to teach us something about Advent? Today we’re going to talk about dopamine, anticipation, and the kind of holy hope that not only prepares us for Christmas, but points us to the greater joy of Christ’s return.

                                      As we step into this Advent season, I want to share something that’s been on my heart—how anticipation affects our brain chemistry, our spiritual lives, and even the way we approach hope. Specifically, I want us to consider the beautiful connection between anticipation, dopamine, and Advent hope.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Did you know your brain starts celebrating before the party even begins? That’s right—long before you open the gift, taste the dessert, or hug the loved one, your brain is already releasing dopamine, the chemical of anticipation. But here’s the deeper truth: God wired us that way on purpose. Advent is the season where science and faith collide, inviting us to see how holy anticipation points our hearts beyond the moment to the eternal. In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, you’ll learn how your brain chemistry mirrors the biblical call to wait with joyful hope.
                                      • Anticipation is the act of looking forward to something. It’s more than just waiting—it’s waiting with expectancy. It’s that feeling when you know something is coming, and you start to prepare for it in your heart, in your mind, and sometimes even in your body.
                                      • Think about a child waiting for Christmas morning. They might count down the days, peek under the tree, maybe even have trouble falling asleep on Christmas Eve. That’s anticipation.
                                      • Anticipation can be both positive and negative. We can anticipate a joyful event—like a wedding, the birth of a child, or a holiday gathering—or we can anticipate something difficult, like a doctor’s appointment or a hard conversation.
                                      • But here’s the key: anticipation changes the way we think, feel, and behave, even before the actual event takes place.
                                      • Now let’s bring in a bit of brain science. You’ve probably heard of dopamine. It’s often referred to as the “feel-good chemical,” but that’s not entirely accurate. Dopamine isn’t about pleasure itself—it’s about anticipation of pleasure.
                                      • When our brains release dopamine, it motivates us to pursue something. It’s tied to the reward system in our brains. For example, when you anticipate a delicious meal, your brain releases dopamine—not when you’re eating the food, but when you think about eating it.
                                      • Dopamine helps us focus, motivates us to take action, and gives us energy to pursue what we expect will be rewarding.
                                      • Here’s an example: Have you ever noticed that planning a vacation can be almost as enjoyable as the vacation itself? That’s because anticipation—through dopamine—creates joy, motivation, and excitement.
                                      • Now here’s where it gets interesting. When we lack healthy anticipation—when we don’t have things to look forward to—dopamine levels can drop, leading to discouragement, low motivation, and even depression.
                                      • But God, in His wisdom, created us with this system of anticipation for a reason. He designed our brains to look forward, to seek reward, to long for something beyond the present moment.
                                      • Advent is a season of holy anticipation.
                                      • For centuries, Christians have marked the four weeks before Christmas as a time of preparation, reflection, and expectation. We look back and remember the long anticipation of Israel waiting for the promised Messiah. And we look forward in anticipation of Christ’s second coming.
                                      • Advent teaches us not to rush through waiting but to savor it, to sit in it, to let it shape our hearts.
                                      • In the same way dopamine motivates us to move toward something good, Advent hope motivates us to move toward God’s promises.
                                      • Think about Simeon and Anna in Luke chapter 2. They spent their lives anticipating the Messiah. The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die before seeing the Lord’s Christ. Imagine the daily anticipation he must have lived with. And then one day, he held the baby Jesus in his arms and declared, “My eyes have seen your salvation.”
                                      • That is the fulfillment of holy anticipation.
                                      • And yet, we too live in anticipation. We celebrate Jesus’ birth, yes—but we also anticipate His return. That’s what Advent reminds us: we live between the “already” and the “not yet.” Jesus has come, and Jesus is coming again.
                                      • Here’s the challenge. In our culture, anticipation often gets hijacked. We anticipate Amazon packages, text message replies, or the next social media notification. Those things give us little dopamine hits, but they don’t satisfy our souls.
                                      • If we’re not careful, we can train our brains to anticipate the wrong things—things that don’t last, things that can’t fulfill us.
                                      • But Advent invites us to retrain our anticipation. Instead of craving fleeting rewards, we can learn to anticipate eternal hope.
                                      • So, let’s ask ourselves:
                                        • What am I anticipating most right now?
                                        • Is it something temporary, or is it something eternal?
                                        • How can I align my anticipation with God’s promises?
                                      • Romans 8:24–25 says, “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”
                                      • That’s the essence of anticipation: waiting with patience, grounded in hope.
                                      • Let me suggest a few practical steps:
                                        • Build rhythms of anticipation. Light an Advent candle each week. Read the Scriptures that point to Christ’s coming. These small practices create anticipation and remind your brain and your spirit of the greater hope to come.
                                        • Practice gratitude in the waiting. Each time you feel anticipation rising—whether for a holiday gathering or even for your morning coffee—use it as a cue to thank God for something eternal. Gratitude shifts dopamine toward holy anticipation.
                                        • Anchor your anticipation in God’s promises. Write down verses about Christ’s return. For example, John 14:3, where Jesus says, “I will come back and take you to be with me.” Let those promises fuel your waiting.
                                        • Fast from empty anticipations. Maybe that means stepping back from constant scrolling or instant gratification. Fasting helps retrain our brains to anticipate what truly matters.
                                        • Invite others into your anticipation. Just as Israel anticipated the Messiah together, we’re called to wait together. Share your Advent reflections with a friend or family member. Encourage one another with the hope of Christ’s return.
                                      • When we put all this together, here’s what we see:
                                        • Neuroscience shows us that anticipation releases dopamine, motivating us to move toward something good.
                                        • Scripture shows us that God designed us to live in anticipation of His promises.
                                        • Advent reminds us to direct our anticipation toward Christ—His birth, His presence in our lives today, and His return.
                                      • When we align our brains’ natural anticipation system with God’s eternal hope, we experience deeper joy, stronger faith, and renewed strength to endure seasons of waiting.
                                      • Friend, whatever you’re anticipating right now, I encourage you to lift it before the Lord. Maybe you’re anticipating something wonderful, or maybe you’re anticipating something hard. Either way, God meets us in our waiting.
                                      • As we journey through Advent, let’s allow anticipation to become not a source of stress or distraction, but a holy reminder that our ultimate hope is in Christ.
                                      • Would you pray with me?
                                        • “Heavenly Father, thank You for designing our minds and our hearts to anticipate. Thank You for sending Jesus, the fulfillment of centuries of anticipation, and thank You for the promise that He will come again. Help us, Lord, to direct our anticipation toward what is eternal and true. Strengthen us in seasons of waiting and fill us with hope as we remember that You are faithful to every promise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
                                      • As you move through this Advent season, may you live with holy anticipation—not just for the joys of Christmas, but for the greater joy of Christ’s return.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Romans 8:24–25 (NIV)“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources: 

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host:

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 348 Dr. Michelle Bengtson cb7f010e-e396-4f26-9668-b3b0001042f9 cb7f010e-e396-4f26-9668-b3b0001042f9 Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000 1130 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-god-wired-our-brains-for-advent-hope-why-anticipation-fuels-our-faith                                       Finding Hope in a Blue Christmas: How to Care for Hurting Hearts During the Holidays Finding Hope in a Blue Christmas: How to Care for Hurting Hearts During the Holidays Episode Summary: 

                                      Christmas is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, but for many, it doesn’t feel that way. Whether because of grief, loneliness, financial strain, or painful memories, the holidays can intensify sadness instead of joy. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Jessica Van Roekel and I want to talk about what we call a ‘Blue Christmas.’ Together, we’ll explore why it’s important to give ourselves and others permission to grieve during the holiday season, how God meets us in our pain, and ways to navigate December with compassion and hope.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • For some, Christmas brings laughter, lights, and loved ones. But for others, it’s a season that magnifies loss, heartache, or isolation. If you or someone you know is struggling this Christmas, you’re not alone. On today’s episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Jessica Van Roekel and I will share how to give space for what we call a ‘Blue Christmas’—a time when we acknowledge that the holidays can be hard, while also discovering God’s gentle presence and the hope He offers, even in the midst of sorrow.
                                      • I wanted to acknowledge that while Christmas is often referred to the most joyous time of year, it isn’t for everyone, and it’s important for us to acknowledge our thoughts and feelings, but simultaneously continue to put our hope in God.
                                      • Often, Christmas is portrayed as magical, joyous, and full of peace. But for many, that’s simply not the reality. Grief, depression, loneliness, or broken family relationships can make Christmas feel heavy.
                                      • And pretending everything is fine when it’s not only deepens the ache. God invites us to bring Him our honest emotions. Think about the Psalms—David poured out his sorrows, and yet found hope in God’s presence.
                                      • Let’s name some reasons people might struggle at Christmas:
                                        • Grief from losing a loved one.
                                        • Family estrangement or broken relationships.
                                        • Loneliness, especially for singles, widows, or those far from family.
                                        • Financial hardship that makes gift-giving stressful.
                                        • Mental health battles like depression or anxiety.
                                        • Unmet expectations.
                                      • Christmas can amplify those pains. Lights and carols may remind us of what we don’t have. But Jesus came into a world of darkness. Isaiah 9:2 says, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” His presence is especially near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).
                                      • Sometimes we pressure ourselves to “put on a happy face.” But it’s okay to grieve at Christmas. Lament is part of worship.
                                      • Jesus Himself wept (John 11:35). If the Son of God cried at loss, then tears are holy too. Giving yourself permission to be real is not a lack of faith.
                                      • We can also set boundaries. Maybe we can’t attend every party. Maybe we create new traditions that feel gentler for our souls this year.
                                      • Sometimes the best gift is presence, not presents. Just sitting with someone, listening, or sending a simple “thinking of you” note can mean the world.
                                      • And don’t say, “You should be happy, it’s Christmas.” Instead, validate their feelings. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
                                      • Another practical tip—invite them into your traditions in small ways, without pressure. Even a quiet cup of cocoa together can bring comfort.
                                      • At the heart of Christmas is Emmanuel—God with us. That truth doesn’t change, whether our Christmas is merry or blue.
                                      • We can both acknowledge sorrow and cling to hope.
                                      • One way is through Scripture meditation. Even reading Luke 2 slowly and remembering that Christ entered a broken, chaotic world can remind us we’re not alone.
                                      • Some practical things that help:
                                        • Create a memory box or light a candle in honor of a loved one.
                                        • Simplify expectations. You don’t have to do all the traditions.
                                        • Prioritize rest and self-care.
                                        • Spend time with safe people who encourage your heart.
                                        • And when emotions overwhelm, breathe a prayer like: “Lord, hold me in this moment.” God doesn’t require eloquence—He wants our honesty.
                                      • Friend, if you’re facing a Blue Christmas, know this: You are not broken because you feel sorrow. God sees you, loves you, and promises to draw near.
                                      • He is “Immanuel—God with us.” That’s the real miracle of Christmas. Whether your Christmas is filled with joy or tears, His presence is your anchor.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God…”
                                      • Matthew 1:23 “They will call Him Immanuel, which means ‘God with us.’”
                                      • Ecclesiastes 3:4 “a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance”
                                      • Isaiah 9:2 “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”
                                      • Psalm 34:18 His presence is especially near to the brokenhearted.
                                      • Romans 12:15 “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       Episode Summary: 

                                      Christmas is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, but for many, it doesn’t feel that way. Whether because of grief, loneliness, financial strain, or painful memories, the holidays can intensify sadness instead of joy. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Jessica Van Roekel and I want to talk about what we call a ‘Blue Christmas.’ Together, we’ll explore why it’s important to give ourselves and others permission to grieve during the holiday season, how God meets us in our pain, and ways to navigate December with compassion and hope.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • For some, Christmas brings laughter, lights, and loved ones. But for others, it’s a season that magnifies loss, heartache, or isolation. If you or someone you know is struggling this Christmas, you’re not alone. On today’s episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Jessica Van Roekel and I will share how to give space for what we call a ‘Blue Christmas’—a time when we acknowledge that the holidays can be hard, while also discovering God’s gentle presence and the hope He offers, even in the midst of sorrow.
                                      • I wanted to acknowledge that while Christmas is often referred to the most joyous time of year, it isn’t for everyone, and it’s important for us to acknowledge our thoughts and feelings, but simultaneously continue to put our hope in God.
                                      • Often, Christmas is portrayed as magical, joyous, and full of peace. But for many, that’s simply not the reality. Grief, depression, loneliness, or broken family relationships can make Christmas feel heavy.
                                      • And pretending everything is fine when it’s not only deepens the ache. God invites us to bring Him our honest emotions. Think about the Psalms—David poured out his sorrows, and yet found hope in God’s presence.
                                      • Let’s name some reasons people might struggle at Christmas:
                                        • Grief from losing a loved one.
                                        • Family estrangement or broken relationships.
                                        • Loneliness, especially for singles, widows, or those far from family.
                                        • Financial hardship that makes gift-giving stressful.
                                        • Mental health battles like depression or anxiety.
                                        • Unmet expectations.
                                      • Christmas can amplify those pains. Lights and carols may remind us of what we don’t have. But Jesus came into a world of darkness. Isaiah 9:2 says, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” His presence is especially near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).
                                      • Sometimes we pressure ourselves to “put on a happy face.” But it’s okay to grieve at Christmas. Lament is part of worship.
                                      • Jesus Himself wept (John 11:35). If the Son of God cried at loss, then tears are holy too. Giving yourself permission to be real is not a lack of faith.
                                      • We can also set boundaries. Maybe we can’t attend every party. Maybe we create new traditions that feel gentler for our souls this year.
                                      • Sometimes the best gift is presence, not presents. Just sitting with someone, listening, or sending a simple “thinking of you” note can mean the world.
                                      • And don’t say, “You should be happy, it’s Christmas.” Instead, validate their feelings. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
                                      • Another practical tip—invite them into your traditions in small ways, without pressure. Even a quiet cup of cocoa together can bring comfort.
                                      • At the heart of Christmas is Emmanuel—God with us. That truth doesn’t change, whether our Christmas is merry or blue.
                                      • We can both acknowledge sorrow and cling to hope.
                                      • One way is through Scripture meditation. Even reading Luke 2 slowly and remembering that Christ entered a broken, chaotic world can remind us we’re not alone.
                                      • Some practical things that help:
                                        • Create a memory box or light a candle in honor of a loved one.
                                        • Simplify expectations. You don’t have to do all the traditions.
                                        • Prioritize rest and self-care.
                                        • Spend time with safe people who encourage your heart.
                                        • And when emotions overwhelm, breathe a prayer like: “Lord, hold me in this moment.” God doesn’t require eloquence—He wants our honesty.
                                      • Friend, if you’re facing a Blue Christmas, know this: You are not broken because you feel sorrow. God sees you, loves you, and promises to draw near.
                                      • He is “Immanuel—God with us.” That’s the real miracle of Christmas. Whether your Christmas is filled with joy or tears, His presence is your anchor.

                                       

                                      Scripture References:

                                      • Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God…”
                                      • Matthew 1:23 “They will call Him Immanuel, which means ‘God with us.’”
                                      • Ecclesiastes 3:4 “a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance”
                                      • Isaiah 9:2 “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”
                                      • Psalm 34:18 His presence is especially near to the brokenhearted.
                                      • Romans 12:15 “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”

                                       

                                      Recommended Resources:

                                       

                                      Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                      Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                      Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                      For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                      Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                       

                                      Co-Host:

                                      Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                       

                                      Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                      Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                      Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                      ]]>                                       full 347 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f675e2ed-94e1-49cc-bb1f-b3a90026850c f675e2ed-94e1-49cc-bb1f-b3a90026850c Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2030 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/finding-hope-in-a-blue-christmas-how-to-care-for-hurting-hearts-during-the-holidays                                       God Sees You: Finding Hope and Purpose When You Feel Invisible God Sees You: Finding Hope and Purpose When You Feel Invisible Episode Summary:

                                      While Norman Rockwall paints pictures of the holiday season as times of cheerful family togetherness, many feel unseen, especially during the holidays. Maybe you’re walking through this season feeling like no one really sees you. Maybe you’re single and longing for companionship, grieving the loss of a loved one, or feeling disconnected even in a crowd. The holidays can be a stark reminder of what we feel is missing in our lives. We see others celebrating with their families, opening presents, and engaging in joyful traditions, while we may feel forgotten or left behind. But even when the world seems to overlook you, God never does. Join me as we into a topic that touches so many hearts, especially during the holiday season: Finding Hope and Purpose When You Feel Invisible.

                                       

                                      Quotables from the episode:

                                      • Loneliness isn’t just about being physically alone. It’s about feeling unseen, unheard, or unimportant. And during the holidays, this feeling can be magnified. We see families gathering, couples exchanging gifts, and social media flooded with highlight reels of happy moments—but what if you feel left out of that joy?
                                      • There are many reasons why people feel overlooked during the holidays. Some have lost loved ones and feel their absence more acutely this time of year. Others may be estranged from family or struggling with difficult relationships. Some are facing financial hardship, making it hard to participate in the celebrations around them. Still, others feel overlooked in the workplace, in friendships, or even in ministry, wondering if what they do truly matters.
                                      • Friend, just like He saw Hagar, He sees you too. No situation is too small or too big to escape His loving gaze.
                                      • Maybe you feel invisible in your workplace, like your efforts go unnoticed. Maybe you feel unseen in your own family, where your needs seem to take a backseat to everyone else’s. Or maybe you’ve been crying out to God for an answer, and it feels like the heavens are silent. I want to assure you that God is not distant. He is near, and He sees every part of your heart.
                                      • The enemy wants us to believe we are forgotten, but that’s a lie. The truth? God has always had His eye on you.
                                      • God sees every detail of your life. He sees your silent tears and hears the prayers you can’t even put into words. He knows the longing in your heart and the dreams you’ve tucked away. You are not invisible to Him.
                                      • I have to wonder if perhaps Jesus felt the same way when He asked His closest disciples to stay awake with Him in the garden, and yet they slept. Yet in that place He poured out His heart to His Heavenly Father.
                                      • Throughout Scripture, we see God’s attentive love. Jesus noticed the outcasts—the woman at the well, the lepers, the woman with the issue of blood, the blind man begging on the roadside. He saw the ones society ignored, and He still does today.
                                      • When you feel unseen, remember this: Jesus stops for the one. He stops for you.
                                      • Even Jesus experienced feeling forsaken when He cried out on the cross, “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?”(Matthew 27:46). But God had not abandoned Him, just as He will never abandon you.
                                      • Even in our darkest moments, God is working behind the scenes. He is near, even when we don’t feel it.
                                        • Anchor Yourself in God’s Word – Fill your mind with Scriptures that remind you of God’s deep love for you.
                                        • Shift Your Focus – When we focus on what we lack, we feel emptier. But when we focus on God’s presence and His promises, our hearts find peace. Start by playing uplifting praise and worship music, then consider starting a gratitude journal, writing down ways God has shown up in your life, comforted you, or helped you feel seen.
                                        • Reach Out – Sometimes, we isolate ourselves when we feel unseen. I encourage you to take a step—send a text, call a friend, or join a community where you can encourage others too.
                                        • Spend Time in His Presence – God is enough. Sit with Him. Talk to Him. Let Him fill the spaces where you feel unseen.
                                        • One of the beautiful ways we can reflect God’s love is by helping others feel seen. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 reminds us that God comforts us so we can comfort others. When we encourage others, God blesses us as well.
                                          • Notice the unnoticed – Look for those who may feel left out and extend kindness to them.
                                          • Speak life – A simple encouragement can make someone’s day.
                                          • Be present – Sometimes, the greatest gift is simply being there for someone.
                                          • God sees us, and He invites us to see others the way He does.
                                          • My friend, if you feel invisible today, remember this: You are fully known and fully loved by the God who created the universe.
                                          • God is the God who sees you, and He loves you deeply. Hold onto hope.

                                           

                                          Scripture References:

                                          • Genesis 16:13 Hagar called God, El Roi, “The God Who Sees Me.”
                                          • Psalm 139:1-3 “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
                                          • Matthew 27:46 “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?”
                                          • Isaiah 49:16 says, “See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands.”
                                          • Zephaniah 3:17 tells us, “The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
                                          • Proverbs 11:25 “Those who refresh others will be refreshed.”

                                           

                                          Recommended Resources: 

                                           

                                          Social Media Links for Host:

                                          For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                          Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                           

                                          Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                          Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                          Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                          ]]>                                           Episode Summary:

                                          While Norman Rockwall paints pictures of the holiday season as times of cheerful family togetherness, many feel unseen, especially during the holidays. Maybe you’re walking through this season feeling like no one really sees you. Maybe you’re single and longing for companionship, grieving the loss of a loved one, or feeling disconnected even in a crowd. The holidays can be a stark reminder of what we feel is missing in our lives. We see others celebrating with their families, opening presents, and engaging in joyful traditions, while we may feel forgotten or left behind. But even when the world seems to overlook you, God never does. Join me as we into a topic that touches so many hearts, especially during the holiday season: Finding Hope and Purpose When You Feel Invisible.

                                           

                                          Quotables from the episode:

                                          • Loneliness isn’t just about being physically alone. It’s about feeling unseen, unheard, or unimportant. And during the holidays, this feeling can be magnified. We see families gathering, couples exchanging gifts, and social media flooded with highlight reels of happy moments—but what if you feel left out of that joy?
                                          • There are many reasons why people feel overlooked during the holidays. Some have lost loved ones and feel their absence more acutely this time of year. Others may be estranged from family or struggling with difficult relationships. Some are facing financial hardship, making it hard to participate in the celebrations around them. Still, others feel overlooked in the workplace, in friendships, or even in ministry, wondering if what they do truly matters.
                                          • Friend, just like He saw Hagar, He sees you too. No situation is too small or too big to escape His loving gaze.
                                          • Maybe you feel invisible in your workplace, like your efforts go unnoticed. Maybe you feel unseen in your own family, where your needs seem to take a backseat to everyone else’s. Or maybe you’ve been crying out to God for an answer, and it feels like the heavens are silent. I want to assure you that God is not distant. He is near, and He sees every part of your heart.
                                          • The enemy wants us to believe we are forgotten, but that’s a lie. The truth? God has always had His eye on you.
                                          • God sees every detail of your life. He sees your silent tears and hears the prayers you can’t even put into words. He knows the longing in your heart and the dreams you’ve tucked away. You are not invisible to Him.
                                          • I have to wonder if perhaps Jesus felt the same way when He asked His closest disciples to stay awake with Him in the garden, and yet they slept. Yet in that place He poured out His heart to His Heavenly Father.
                                          • Throughout Scripture, we see God’s attentive love. Jesus noticed the outcasts—the woman at the well, the lepers, the woman with the issue of blood, the blind man begging on the roadside. He saw the ones society ignored, and He still does today.
                                          • When you feel unseen, remember this: Jesus stops for the one. He stops for you.
                                          • Even Jesus experienced feeling forsaken when He cried out on the cross, “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?”(Matthew 27:46). But God had not abandoned Him, just as He will never abandon you.
                                          • Even in our darkest moments, God is working behind the scenes. He is near, even when we don’t feel it.
                                            • Anchor Yourself in God’s Word – Fill your mind with Scriptures that remind you of God’s deep love for you.
                                            • Shift Your Focus – When we focus on what we lack, we feel emptier. But when we focus on God’s presence and His promises, our hearts find peace. Start by playing uplifting praise and worship music, then consider starting a gratitude journal, writing down ways God has shown up in your life, comforted you, or helped you feel seen.
                                            • Reach Out – Sometimes, we isolate ourselves when we feel unseen. I encourage you to take a step—send a text, call a friend, or join a community where you can encourage others too.
                                            • Spend Time in His Presence – God is enough. Sit with Him. Talk to Him. Let Him fill the spaces where you feel unseen.
                                            • One of the beautiful ways we can reflect God’s love is by helping others feel seen. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 reminds us that God comforts us so we can comfort others. When we encourage others, God blesses us as well.
                                              • Notice the unnoticed – Look for those who may feel left out and extend kindness to them.
                                              • Speak life – A simple encouragement can make someone’s day.
                                              • Be present – Sometimes, the greatest gift is simply being there for someone.
                                              • God sees us, and He invites us to see others the way He does.
                                              • My friend, if you feel invisible today, remember this: You are fully known and fully loved by the God who created the universe.
                                              • God is the God who sees you, and He loves you deeply. Hold onto hope.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Genesis 16:13 Hagar called God, El Roi, “The God Who Sees Me.”
                                              • Psalm 139:1-3 “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.”
                                              • Matthew 27:46 “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?”
                                              • Isaiah 49:16 says, “See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands.”
                                              • Zephaniah 3:17 tells us, “The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
                                              • Proverbs 11:25 “Those who refresh others will be refreshed.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 346 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f6c81bcb-3774-44fc-8d41-b3a20016c8d5 f6c81bcb-3774-44fc-8d41-b3a20016c8d5 Thu, 27 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000 1201 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/god-sees-you-finding-hope-and-purpose-when-you-feel-invisible                                               Hope When You Hit Rock Bottom Hope When You Hit Rock Bottom Episode Summary:

                                              If you have ever been in a place where you just feel like you've hit rock bottom, I’m glad you’re here. Last week we talked to Julie Seals who was born with Spina Bifida, had her leg amputated, lost her father, became addicted to drugs, lost custody of her son, and ended up in Federal Prison for trafficking illegal drugs. But God was not done with Julie! This episode is part 2 of Julie’s story, and I promise you will be encouraged that God can turn your biggest messes into something beautiful!

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • I was sitting in prison sitting on the metal bunk bed and crying and I forgot that the night before I crossed the border I had cried out to God and said, "I'm done. I need you, come into my life and change everything." And all I was looking at were my current circumstances. And in comes this group of women doing prison ministry. And one of them looked at me crying on my bunk and she marched over and sat down on my bunk. And she said, "Did you know that Jesus loves you very much. And I said, "Not me!" And I'm crying. And she kept insisting that no matter what I did, no matter what had happened, that Jesus Christ loved me and that if I would repent of my sin and turn towards him and ask him to be my Lord and Savior, he would make me a brand new person.
                                              • I felt hope rise in my heart as this woman was speaking. And that evening, as all the other inmates were off eating dinner, I stayed behind at my prison bunk and I got down on my knees on that cold hard cement prison floor and I was weeping and I asked Jesus Christ to become my lord and my savior and forgive me or everything I had done wrong, and I felt freedom. I literally, I felt chains, invisible chains break off my chest and tears of repentance turned into tears of freedom and joy. I thought I was going to do life in prison when I got up from that prayer but all of a sudden, I had this realization that I was a free woman on the inside and I had joy real joy for the first time in my life.
                                              • All of a sudden, I had the Holy Spirit living in me and the joy of the Lord and the Holy Spirit was now going to take me through the challenging journey of dealing with my past and realizing oops, I made a whole bunch of mistakes that got me here. So now we move forward in strength and in power and in victory with hope.
                                              • I read the Word every day, and I spoke the Word out loud every day over my life and circumstances. And as I did, my faith in God’s Word became unshakeable.
                                              • The One who rescued me from addiction and darkness saw my great grief. And He loved me so much that when I was cut off from society, living in a razor-wire-enclosed cage, He gave me what can only be described as a miraculous message.
                                              • Other inmates began to notice that one-legged lady who passionately loved Jesus was working hard to keep her heart pure. Those inmates came to me and started asking me about this Jesus that I loved so much. They were noticing that I was a new person, and even in federal prison, facing a life sentence, I had crazy, ridiculous joy. I smiled constantly. I laughed often. The joy on the inside of me was so infectious that everyone around me wanted some of it.
                                              • I was hurting. My mom was gone. She was dead, I was like just desperate, broken, I didn't think anybody, there was nobody for me there. And as I looked at that computer screen, I didn't see a patent because on that computer screen were written different scriptures from the Psalms and encouraging things that talk about how God heals the brokenhearted. He binds up their wounds. He sees us. He saves our tears. I started screaming for the other ladies, the other inmates. I'm like, God's talking to me on my computer! I read this love letter from God, who saw me in this 40 acre cage prison and came to me in my moment of desperation to let me know he saw me. He loved me and he was right there beside me in my most broken place.
                                              • It was God himself speaking to me, one little one-legged, ex -addict federal inmate inside of a federal prison locked away from society. That God who rescued me, gave me joy and saved my soul came to me in that dark moment to tell me and remind me that he loved me and that there was still hope for my future.
                                              • At a time where you felt lost and unseen, you no longer had your mother or your father or anyone else around you. Right. God made sure that you knew that he saw you and he was with you. Friends, if that is not an encouragement to you, Julie has been sharing how the seemingly impossible happened time after time after time again, but her heart was surrendered.
                                              • One of the things that drew me to you and your story is your perspective. You wrote in the book, life is so good. Now friends, what I want you to know is this was her perspective sitting in federal prison. “Life is so good. I had a great job. I had a new leg. I was clean and sober and healthy. For the first time in 17 years, it mattered not to me that I was on the wrong side of the razor wire fence. I was sober, happy, and even in prison, I was free." That's an incredible statement, that you could find freedom within the razor walls of prison.
                                              • Forgiveness is like a chain around our neck or unforgiveness is and if we are able to let go and especially towards our self. You know, I had so much shame, I had so much guilt and at times it was tormenting and in those moments what I learned is that I needed to stop looking inward at myself and at what I had done. I had to stop looking in the rearview mirror at my past and simply look up to the Savior who forgave it all and washed me clean.
                                              • I made up my mind I was going to replace my old stinking thinking with God's thinking and I was in my Bible probably up to five hours a day. It was like Jesus boot camp…I would get index cards and I would write the scripture on an index card and I was on the bottom metal bunk of a two, bunk, metal bunk bed. And I taped like wallpaper all the way around my bunk bed on the inner little ledge and every day at lunch I would not eat lunch I would come to my room sit on the bed and I would start at one place and I would go through every single card and read every single scripture out loud speaking it out loud over my life.
                                              • I've been out of prison for 23 years and I've been married to my prison chaplain husband for 19 years. We are prison ministers, we're ordained ministers and 11 years ago my husband drove me to the Jacksonville, Florida International Airport and my son at the age of 20 years old got off a plane and came running to his mama arms wide, open, and full forgiveness. Not only is he saved, not only is he a Christian, but his moment of giving his life to Jesus happened exactly the way I prayed. When he told me about it, he said, "You're going to think this is weird, mom, but..." And it was exactly what I prayed.
                                              • This is the favorite part of my story. And the part of my story that gives me probably the most joy. God delivered me from the pit of prison so that I could spend the rest of my life going back in. When I was in prison, I told God, I made him a promise, and I said, "If you let me out of here, I will spend the rest of my life going back in," and telling inmates who are hopeless, who think that they have messed up beyond repair, who think there is no way out of their situation that Jesus died to set the captive free and make them a new creation and that there is hope in him. And God let me do that. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 18:16-19 “He reached down from heaven and rescued me; he drew me out of deep waters…He led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me.”
                                              • Isaiah 61:1 “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              Connect with Julie Seals:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Julie Seals is an ordained minister and prison evangelist. Having left her life as a drug addict and dealer behind, Julie Seals is now a Hope Dealer as she inspires and challenges people from all walks of life to encounter, know, and live for Jesus. She co-founded Her Hope Recovery Ministry in 2022. Julie is married to prison chaplain, Mike Seals.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                               

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              If you have ever been in a place where you just feel like you've hit rock bottom, I’m glad you’re here. Last week we talked to Julie Seals who was born with Spina Bifida, had her leg amputated, lost her father, became addicted to drugs, lost custody of her son, and ended up in Federal Prison for trafficking illegal drugs. But God was not done with Julie! This episode is part 2 of Julie’s story, and I promise you will be encouraged that God can turn your biggest messes into something beautiful!

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • I was sitting in prison sitting on the metal bunk bed and crying and I forgot that the night before I crossed the border I had cried out to God and said, "I'm done. I need you, come into my life and change everything." And all I was looking at were my current circumstances. And in comes this group of women doing prison ministry. And one of them looked at me crying on my bunk and she marched over and sat down on my bunk. And she said, "Did you know that Jesus loves you very much. And I said, "Not me!" And I'm crying. And she kept insisting that no matter what I did, no matter what had happened, that Jesus Christ loved me and that if I would repent of my sin and turn towards him and ask him to be my Lord and Savior, he would make me a brand new person.
                                              • I felt hope rise in my heart as this woman was speaking. And that evening, as all the other inmates were off eating dinner, I stayed behind at my prison bunk and I got down on my knees on that cold hard cement prison floor and I was weeping and I asked Jesus Christ to become my lord and my savior and forgive me or everything I had done wrong, and I felt freedom. I literally, I felt chains, invisible chains break off my chest and tears of repentance turned into tears of freedom and joy. I thought I was going to do life in prison when I got up from that prayer but all of a sudden, I had this realization that I was a free woman on the inside and I had joy real joy for the first time in my life.
                                              • All of a sudden, I had the Holy Spirit living in me and the joy of the Lord and the Holy Spirit was now going to take me through the challenging journey of dealing with my past and realizing oops, I made a whole bunch of mistakes that got me here. So now we move forward in strength and in power and in victory with hope.
                                              • I read the Word every day, and I spoke the Word out loud every day over my life and circumstances. And as I did, my faith in God’s Word became unshakeable.
                                              • The One who rescued me from addiction and darkness saw my great grief. And He loved me so much that when I was cut off from society, living in a razor-wire-enclosed cage, He gave me what can only be described as a miraculous message.
                                              • Other inmates began to notice that one-legged lady who passionately loved Jesus was working hard to keep her heart pure. Those inmates came to me and started asking me about this Jesus that I loved so much. They were noticing that I was a new person, and even in federal prison, facing a life sentence, I had crazy, ridiculous joy. I smiled constantly. I laughed often. The joy on the inside of me was so infectious that everyone around me wanted some of it.
                                              • I was hurting. My mom was gone. She was dead, I was like just desperate, broken, I didn't think anybody, there was nobody for me there. And as I looked at that computer screen, I didn't see a patent because on that computer screen were written different scriptures from the Psalms and encouraging things that talk about how God heals the brokenhearted. He binds up their wounds. He sees us. He saves our tears. I started screaming for the other ladies, the other inmates. I'm like, God's talking to me on my computer! I read this love letter from God, who saw me in this 40 acre cage prison and came to me in my moment of desperation to let me know he saw me. He loved me and he was right there beside me in my most broken place.
                                              • It was God himself speaking to me, one little one-legged, ex -addict federal inmate inside of a federal prison locked away from society. That God who rescued me, gave me joy and saved my soul came to me in that dark moment to tell me and remind me that he loved me and that there was still hope for my future.
                                              • At a time where you felt lost and unseen, you no longer had your mother or your father or anyone else around you. Right. God made sure that you knew that he saw you and he was with you. Friends, if that is not an encouragement to you, Julie has been sharing how the seemingly impossible happened time after time after time again, but her heart was surrendered.
                                              • One of the things that drew me to you and your story is your perspective. You wrote in the book, life is so good. Now friends, what I want you to know is this was her perspective sitting in federal prison. “Life is so good. I had a great job. I had a new leg. I was clean and sober and healthy. For the first time in 17 years, it mattered not to me that I was on the wrong side of the razor wire fence. I was sober, happy, and even in prison, I was free." That's an incredible statement, that you could find freedom within the razor walls of prison.
                                              • Forgiveness is like a chain around our neck or unforgiveness is and if we are able to let go and especially towards our self. You know, I had so much shame, I had so much guilt and at times it was tormenting and in those moments what I learned is that I needed to stop looking inward at myself and at what I had done. I had to stop looking in the rearview mirror at my past and simply look up to the Savior who forgave it all and washed me clean.
                                              • I made up my mind I was going to replace my old stinking thinking with God's thinking and I was in my Bible probably up to five hours a day. It was like Jesus boot camp…I would get index cards and I would write the scripture on an index card and I was on the bottom metal bunk of a two, bunk, metal bunk bed. And I taped like wallpaper all the way around my bunk bed on the inner little ledge and every day at lunch I would not eat lunch I would come to my room sit on the bed and I would start at one place and I would go through every single card and read every single scripture out loud speaking it out loud over my life.
                                              • I've been out of prison for 23 years and I've been married to my prison chaplain husband for 19 years. We are prison ministers, we're ordained ministers and 11 years ago my husband drove me to the Jacksonville, Florida International Airport and my son at the age of 20 years old got off a plane and came running to his mama arms wide, open, and full forgiveness. Not only is he saved, not only is he a Christian, but his moment of giving his life to Jesus happened exactly the way I prayed. When he told me about it, he said, "You're going to think this is weird, mom, but..." And it was exactly what I prayed.
                                              • This is the favorite part of my story. And the part of my story that gives me probably the most joy. God delivered me from the pit of prison so that I could spend the rest of my life going back in. When I was in prison, I told God, I made him a promise, and I said, "If you let me out of here, I will spend the rest of my life going back in," and telling inmates who are hopeless, who think that they have messed up beyond repair, who think there is no way out of their situation that Jesus died to set the captive free and make them a new creation and that there is hope in him. And God let me do that. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 18:16-19 “He reached down from heaven and rescued me; he drew me out of deep waters…He led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me.”
                                              • Isaiah 61:1 “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              Connect with Julie Seals:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Julie Seals is an ordained minister and prison evangelist. Having left her life as a drug addict and dealer behind, Julie Seals is now a Hope Dealer as she inspires and challenges people from all walks of life to encounter, know, and live for Jesus. She co-founded Her Hope Recovery Ministry in 2022. Julie is married to prison chaplain, Mike Seals.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                               

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 345 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 13a20c86-592a-4c74-b735-b39b00265f84 13a20c86-592a-4c74-b735-b39b00265f84 Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2392 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/hope-when-you-hit-rock-bottom                                               How to Find Hope After Addiction, Loss, and Imprisonment How to Find Hope After Addiction, Loss, and Imprisonment Episode Summary:

                                              If you think your life is too far gone, or if you’ve made too many mistakes for God to redeem, you’re going to want to listen to today’s conversation: a Sacred Scar Story.

                                              Julie knew she could spend the rest of her life in prison if she were caught crossing the border with four pounds of methamphetamine duct-taped to her waist. But life had become so overwhelming, so painful, that she no longer cared if she lived or died. So, she crossed over the border. And with her arrest as a drug smuggler that day, her years of running from responsibility -and from God - came to an end.

                                              Through one miraculous event after another, God transformed Julie from drug dealer to Hope Dealer. In her book, All My Hope, Julie wrote “It takes courage to live beyond regrets, but the good news is that God wanted to take my mess and turn it into a miracle.” Join us on the podcast as we talk about Finding Hope After Addiction, Loss, and Imprisonment.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • I want you to know that nothing you face is impossible with God. NOTHING. The blood of Jesus has never lost its power.
                                              • God takes our mess and turns it into a message for the world. You see, what looked like a loss was really a game, because when my leg was amputated, it was one thing that did actually send me spiraling further into addiction. In that spiraling, I ended up at the foot of the cross in the arms of Jesus. And it was in that place where I was so done with the pain and the suffering and the dumb decisions and the addiction that I was so desperate, I cried out to God to become the center of my life, or I was going to lose everything. I had lost a leg; you would think that was a lot. But I was on the way to losing my very soul and my very self.
                                              • You don't realize that you're stepping into a trap of the enemy that is going to consume you and steal your identity and your very soul.
                                              • Sin is enticing because sin feels good for a moment.
                                              • My first use of drugs took me on a journey straight to hell on earth.
                                              • Addiction runs rampant in my family on both sides. And so that first line of meth, it just had me hooked. Addiction took me further than I ever wanted to go and made me someone I never wanted to be because I ended up liking the feeling that I got when I snorted that meth so much that I would do anything. I would tell any lie, I would deceive my parents, I would tiptoe into their bedroom at night and steal $50 bills out of my dad's wallet while he slept, I would do anything for that feeling. And then that feeling doesn't last forever. I would mix it with alcohol and try to get this euphoric feeling and it was like chasing my tail. And meanwhile, I'm slowly like becoming more and more depraved.
                                              • Addiction made me lose all of any sense of morals that I may have had, even as a non -Christian, even as somebody who wasn't living for Jesus.
                                              • I felt the presence of God there, and in that moment and I believed in God I knew he was real and I even understood that he could see me and I think it's that little seed of faith right the Bible says that we are all born with a measure of faith and so with that measure of faith I believed in God and he was chasing me and in that moment, I felt like God told me you can't have one foot with me and one foot in the world. Well, I didn't even have one foot with him yet. That voice made me stop and really think, “Okay, I'm living this way, But God is calling me to a life with him.”
                                              • Nobody ever starts off using a substance thinking, “Oh I want to become an addict.”
                                              • That's the grip that addiction has. It's like an invisible hand around your throat. There's only one thing that can break the grip of addiction, and that is the love and the power and the blood of Jesus.
                                              • After I lost my leg to amputation, and I just was getting more and more into a world of darkness and desperation. I took my little boy, and I moved across the country because I thought that if I could get away from the things that or hard and start over in a new place, that everything would change. The only problem was I was still there, and I was my biggest problem, but I didn't know it yet.
                                              • When you're in addiction, there's all those wrong people and you flock together.
                                              • I went home from that doctor's appointment in Mexico and I fell on my knees in this home that overlooked the ocean. And it was in that moment of desperation that I see all this time I had thought I was a victim of life and circumstances. I felt sorry for myself and poor me, all this stuff happened to me. And in that moment when I was so broken, it was like the Holy Spirit himself descended into my living room and pulled the blinders off my eyes. I understood in this holy moment that I was not a victim. I was a sinner in need of a savior. I realized in this holy moment that I was not a victim of life, but a sad or addiction. I was a sinner in need of a savior.
                                              • I fell to my knees after that appointment in my home overlooking the ocean and in my strung-out depraved desperation when I felt the Holy Spirit descend in the living room I cried out to God, and I said “I can't meet you halfway. I can't stop drinking. I can't stop doing drugs. I need you to become the center of my life or I'm going to be lost forever.”
                                              • Other inmates began to notice that the one-legged lady who passionately loved Jesus was working hard to keep her heart pure. Those inmates came to me and started asking me about this Jesus whom I loved so much.
                                              • The joy on the inside of me was so infectious that everyone around me wanted some of it. Even the correctional officers started asking me about my experience with Jesus!
                                              • It takes courage to live beyond regrets, but the good news is that God wanted to take my mess and turn it into a miracle.
                                              • You will also need to be courageous, because life on earth is hard. You will experience loneliness, loss, temptation, rejection, and attacks. But do not fear, for I will be with you!
                                              • When we’re determined to not allow our faith and our dreams to be crushed by regret, grief, and sorrow, God will be able to use our grief and sorrow to make us strong and increase our faith in Him.
                                              • I would leave you listener with the perspective that when you think you are at rock bottom that is the place where Jesus if you cry out to him will come sweeping in because it was in that prison that a prison ministry volunteer walked in and told me that Jesus Christ loved me, died for my sin, and would make me a new creation, and it was in that prison that I put my hope in Jesus and became free on the inside for the very first time in my life. Rock Bottom is the place where Jesus will come rushing in and change everything. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • 2 Corinthians 5:16-17 “So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”
                                              • Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
                                              • 1 Corinthians 13:33 “Bad company corrupts good character.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              Connect with Julie Seals:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Julie Seals is an ordained minister and prison evangelist. Having left her life as a drug addict and dealer behind, Julie Seals is now a Hope Dealer as she inspires and challenges people from all walks of life to encounter, know, and live for Jesus. She co-founded Her Hope Recovery Ministry in 2022. Julie is married to prison chaplain, Mike Seals.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              If you think your life is too far gone, or if you’ve made too many mistakes for God to redeem, you’re going to want to listen to today’s conversation: a Sacred Scar Story.

                                              Julie knew she could spend the rest of her life in prison if she were caught crossing the border with four pounds of methamphetamine duct-taped to her waist. But life had become so overwhelming, so painful, that she no longer cared if she lived or died. So, she crossed over the border. And with her arrest as a drug smuggler that day, her years of running from responsibility -and from God - came to an end.

                                              Through one miraculous event after another, God transformed Julie from drug dealer to Hope Dealer. In her book, All My Hope, Julie wrote “It takes courage to live beyond regrets, but the good news is that God wanted to take my mess and turn it into a miracle.” Join us on the podcast as we talk about Finding Hope After Addiction, Loss, and Imprisonment.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • I want you to know that nothing you face is impossible with God. NOTHING. The blood of Jesus has never lost its power.
                                              • God takes our mess and turns it into a message for the world. You see, what looked like a loss was really a game, because when my leg was amputated, it was one thing that did actually send me spiraling further into addiction. In that spiraling, I ended up at the foot of the cross in the arms of Jesus. And it was in that place where I was so done with the pain and the suffering and the dumb decisions and the addiction that I was so desperate, I cried out to God to become the center of my life, or I was going to lose everything. I had lost a leg; you would think that was a lot. But I was on the way to losing my very soul and my very self.
                                              • You don't realize that you're stepping into a trap of the enemy that is going to consume you and steal your identity and your very soul.
                                              • Sin is enticing because sin feels good for a moment.
                                              • My first use of drugs took me on a journey straight to hell on earth.
                                              • Addiction runs rampant in my family on both sides. And so that first line of meth, it just had me hooked. Addiction took me further than I ever wanted to go and made me someone I never wanted to be because I ended up liking the feeling that I got when I snorted that meth so much that I would do anything. I would tell any lie, I would deceive my parents, I would tiptoe into their bedroom at night and steal $50 bills out of my dad's wallet while he slept, I would do anything for that feeling. And then that feeling doesn't last forever. I would mix it with alcohol and try to get this euphoric feeling and it was like chasing my tail. And meanwhile, I'm slowly like becoming more and more depraved.
                                              • Addiction made me lose all of any sense of morals that I may have had, even as a non -Christian, even as somebody who wasn't living for Jesus.
                                              • I felt the presence of God there, and in that moment and I believed in God I knew he was real and I even understood that he could see me and I think it's that little seed of faith right the Bible says that we are all born with a measure of faith and so with that measure of faith I believed in God and he was chasing me and in that moment, I felt like God told me you can't have one foot with me and one foot in the world. Well, I didn't even have one foot with him yet. That voice made me stop and really think, “Okay, I'm living this way, But God is calling me to a life with him.”
                                              • Nobody ever starts off using a substance thinking, “Oh I want to become an addict.”
                                              • That's the grip that addiction has. It's like an invisible hand around your throat. There's only one thing that can break the grip of addiction, and that is the love and the power and the blood of Jesus.
                                              • After I lost my leg to amputation, and I just was getting more and more into a world of darkness and desperation. I took my little boy, and I moved across the country because I thought that if I could get away from the things that or hard and start over in a new place, that everything would change. The only problem was I was still there, and I was my biggest problem, but I didn't know it yet.
                                              • When you're in addiction, there's all those wrong people and you flock together.
                                              • I went home from that doctor's appointment in Mexico and I fell on my knees in this home that overlooked the ocean. And it was in that moment of desperation that I see all this time I had thought I was a victim of life and circumstances. I felt sorry for myself and poor me, all this stuff happened to me. And in that moment when I was so broken, it was like the Holy Spirit himself descended into my living room and pulled the blinders off my eyes. I understood in this holy moment that I was not a victim. I was a sinner in need of a savior. I realized in this holy moment that I was not a victim of life, but a sad or addiction. I was a sinner in need of a savior.
                                              • I fell to my knees after that appointment in my home overlooking the ocean and in my strung-out depraved desperation when I felt the Holy Spirit descend in the living room I cried out to God, and I said “I can't meet you halfway. I can't stop drinking. I can't stop doing drugs. I need you to become the center of my life or I'm going to be lost forever.”
                                              • Other inmates began to notice that the one-legged lady who passionately loved Jesus was working hard to keep her heart pure. Those inmates came to me and started asking me about this Jesus whom I loved so much.
                                              • The joy on the inside of me was so infectious that everyone around me wanted some of it. Even the correctional officers started asking me about my experience with Jesus!
                                              • It takes courage to live beyond regrets, but the good news is that God wanted to take my mess and turn it into a miracle.
                                              • You will also need to be courageous, because life on earth is hard. You will experience loneliness, loss, temptation, rejection, and attacks. But do not fear, for I will be with you!
                                              • When we’re determined to not allow our faith and our dreams to be crushed by regret, grief, and sorrow, God will be able to use our grief and sorrow to make us strong and increase our faith in Him.
                                              • I would leave you listener with the perspective that when you think you are at rock bottom that is the place where Jesus if you cry out to him will come sweeping in because it was in that prison that a prison ministry volunteer walked in and told me that Jesus Christ loved me, died for my sin, and would make me a new creation, and it was in that prison that I put my hope in Jesus and became free on the inside for the very first time in my life. Rock Bottom is the place where Jesus will come rushing in and change everything. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • 2 Corinthians 5:16-17 “So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”
                                              • Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
                                              • 1 Corinthians 13:33 “Bad company corrupts good character.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              Connect with Julie Seals:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Julie Seals is an ordained minister and prison evangelist. Having left her life as a drug addict and dealer behind, Julie Seals is now a Hope Dealer as she inspires and challenges people from all walks of life to encounter, know, and live for Jesus. She co-founded Her Hope Recovery Ministry in 2022. Julie is married to prison chaplain, Mike Seals.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 344 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9075fa10-3222-49c0-87bb-b3940041605a 9075fa10-3222-49c0-87bb-b3940041605a Thu, 13 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000 1770 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-find-hope-after-addiction-loss-and-imprisonment                                               How God Views Grumbling and Complaining & How to Cultivate a Grateful Heart How God Views Grumbling and Complaining & How to Cultivate a Grateful Heart Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, my co-host Rev. Jessica Van Roekel joins me to explore the heart issue behind grumbling and complaining and how it reflects a lack of trust in God’s provision and plan.

                                              Grumbling is self-focused and rooted in unmet expectations, comparison, stress, and a scarcity mindset, leading to drained joy, strained relationships, and a disconnection from God’s presence.

                                              In contrast, lament allows us to honestly share our pain with God while trusting His sovereignty.

                                              Together, we discuss practical ways to combat a grumbling spirit, such as focusing on blessings, practicing gratitude, and seeking accountability. By shifting our perspective from what we lack to what we have in Christ, we can experience renewed joy, peace, and a deeper dependence on God, even in life’s challenges. Join us for How God Views Grumbling and Complaining & How to Cultivate a Grateful Heart.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • God has the standards but I sometimes like to superimpose my standards on it and so then I struggle with perfectionism which is really driven out of insecurity and fear of rejection and I find myself getting into this grumbling cycle.
                                              • Sometimes when I'm in that cycle and then I choose gratitude, it feels a little fake. I don't know if I'm really truly genuine. And so I'm trying to understand that when God has called me to a new thing, it's going to feel a little not real at the moment or it's not going to feel as authentic because I'm starting a new   habit.
                                              • It's just like any time we try to establish a new habit. It takes time. It takes practice. It feels awkward at first and there are some personality types that lend themselves more quickly to grumbling and complaining and I think there are some personality types that lend themselves to always seeing the good in every situation and I want to be more like the latter than the former.
                                              • God's heart for you is good he wants you to trust him he wants you to let the love for him flow from a heart of gratitude for what he's done.
                                              • It is not just that grumbling reflects a lack of trust in God, but it really disdains him. And that's what really convicted me, is the fact that when I complain, I'm really disdaining God's work in my life because our circumstances flux from good to, they could be better, to I don't want to be here. Why am I here? And so when we then start complaining and grumbling against God, it really disdains the work that he's doing. There's a passage in Psalms that says that everything that touches our lives has to pass through his hands first. And when I, when I cut my hand, like a bowl like this, you know, there's, I think of God's hand being cupped. And I'm thinking, what is he actually also preventing from hitting my life? Because when we, when we cup our hands and water runs through them, there is a pool of water that stays in our hands.
                                              • When we grumble and complain, it reminds me of when we give a gift to someone and they don't receive it with a heart of gratitude. How hurtful that can be when our heart is for them.
                                              • Yet when we grumble and complain, it's like saying, "Yeah, that wasn't good enough, God. That's what I wanted." And who am I to tell God what to do? In fact, but we also have to give space for our heartaches too. Psalm 62:8 says to pour out your heart to God.
                                              • To look at Lament at first glance, it could look like grumbling and complaining. It's a fine distinction. Grumbling and complaining come from a heart of, I deserve this. So, grumbling and complaining is very self -focused, but lament is approaching God honestly, sharing our pain but recognizing that he is sovereign and his will be done and it gives the essence of I don't like where I'm at but I trust that your way is best.
                                              • Grumbling and complaining is self-driven with a heart that is not trusting God's sovereignty. Whereas lamenting is sharing our heartache. It's telling our heartache to God with a surrender to his sovereignty. It's almost as if grumbling and complaining is talking bad about God and lamenting is just talking to God, inviting him in to soothe our heart too. And then David has written so many wonderful songs where really it teaches us how to lament. He starts out with like, "Oh, my life is awful God. Why did you allow this to happen? You said you were faithful." And then in the next verse he's like, "But you are faithful God. I'm going to praise your name. I'm going to trust you. You're steadfast and merciful."
                                              • God desires us to grow in trust and dependence on Him, even during challenging times.
                                              • There are common reasons we fall into grumbling, like unmet expectations, comparison, stress, and focusing on what we lack rather than what we have.
                                              • Grumbling and complaining is speaking against God and is forming idols out of what it is we want and/or think we deserve.
                                              • A grumbling spirit can drain our joy, disconnect us from God’s presence, and even negatively impact our relationships with others.
                                              • Focusing on blessings, even small ones, can reshape our perspective, making it easier to find peace and joy in God’s presence.
                                              • Keep a journal or ask a friend to hold yourself accountable in a loving way. Maybe even wear a rubber band on your wrist and flick it every time you notice yourself complaining in order to increase our awareness of how habitual this really is.
                                              • Practice replacing each complaint with something to be thankful for. This helps to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance in God.
                                              • Ask God for help in changing your hearts and to help you see His blessings more clearly each day.

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Philippians 2:14–15 "Do everything without grumbling or arguing…"
                                              • 1 Corinthians 10:10 “And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel.”
                                              • 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
                                              • Psalm 100:4 “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, my co-host Rev. Jessica Van Roekel joins me to explore the heart issue behind grumbling and complaining and how it reflects a lack of trust in God’s provision and plan.

                                              Grumbling is self-focused and rooted in unmet expectations, comparison, stress, and a scarcity mindset, leading to drained joy, strained relationships, and a disconnection from God’s presence.

                                              In contrast, lament allows us to honestly share our pain with God while trusting His sovereignty.

                                              Together, we discuss practical ways to combat a grumbling spirit, such as focusing on blessings, practicing gratitude, and seeking accountability. By shifting our perspective from what we lack to what we have in Christ, we can experience renewed joy, peace, and a deeper dependence on God, even in life’s challenges. Join us for How God Views Grumbling and Complaining & How to Cultivate a Grateful Heart.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • God has the standards but I sometimes like to superimpose my standards on it and so then I struggle with perfectionism which is really driven out of insecurity and fear of rejection and I find myself getting into this grumbling cycle.
                                              • Sometimes when I'm in that cycle and then I choose gratitude, it feels a little fake. I don't know if I'm really truly genuine. And so I'm trying to understand that when God has called me to a new thing, it's going to feel a little not real at the moment or it's not going to feel as authentic because I'm starting a new   habit.
                                              • It's just like any time we try to establish a new habit. It takes time. It takes practice. It feels awkward at first and there are some personality types that lend themselves more quickly to grumbling and complaining and I think there are some personality types that lend themselves to always seeing the good in every situation and I want to be more like the latter than the former.
                                              • God's heart for you is good he wants you to trust him he wants you to let the love for him flow from a heart of gratitude for what he's done.
                                              • It is not just that grumbling reflects a lack of trust in God, but it really disdains him. And that's what really convicted me, is the fact that when I complain, I'm really disdaining God's work in my life because our circumstances flux from good to, they could be better, to I don't want to be here. Why am I here? And so when we then start complaining and grumbling against God, it really disdains the work that he's doing. There's a passage in Psalms that says that everything that touches our lives has to pass through his hands first. And when I, when I cut my hand, like a bowl like this, you know, there's, I think of God's hand being cupped. And I'm thinking, what is he actually also preventing from hitting my life? Because when we, when we cup our hands and water runs through them, there is a pool of water that stays in our hands.
                                              • When we grumble and complain, it reminds me of when we give a gift to someone and they don't receive it with a heart of gratitude. How hurtful that can be when our heart is for them.
                                              • Yet when we grumble and complain, it's like saying, "Yeah, that wasn't good enough, God. That's what I wanted." And who am I to tell God what to do? In fact, but we also have to give space for our heartaches too. Psalm 62:8 says to pour out your heart to God.
                                              • To look at Lament at first glance, it could look like grumbling and complaining. It's a fine distinction. Grumbling and complaining come from a heart of, I deserve this. So, grumbling and complaining is very self -focused, but lament is approaching God honestly, sharing our pain but recognizing that he is sovereign and his will be done and it gives the essence of I don't like where I'm at but I trust that your way is best.
                                              • Grumbling and complaining is self-driven with a heart that is not trusting God's sovereignty. Whereas lamenting is sharing our heartache. It's telling our heartache to God with a surrender to his sovereignty. It's almost as if grumbling and complaining is talking bad about God and lamenting is just talking to God, inviting him in to soothe our heart too. And then David has written so many wonderful songs where really it teaches us how to lament. He starts out with like, "Oh, my life is awful God. Why did you allow this to happen? You said you were faithful." And then in the next verse he's like, "But you are faithful God. I'm going to praise your name. I'm going to trust you. You're steadfast and merciful."
                                              • God desires us to grow in trust and dependence on Him, even during challenging times.
                                              • There are common reasons we fall into grumbling, like unmet expectations, comparison, stress, and focusing on what we lack rather than what we have.
                                              • Grumbling and complaining is speaking against God and is forming idols out of what it is we want and/or think we deserve.
                                              • A grumbling spirit can drain our joy, disconnect us from God’s presence, and even negatively impact our relationships with others.
                                              • Focusing on blessings, even small ones, can reshape our perspective, making it easier to find peace and joy in God’s presence.
                                              • Keep a journal or ask a friend to hold yourself accountable in a loving way. Maybe even wear a rubber band on your wrist and flick it every time you notice yourself complaining in order to increase our awareness of how habitual this really is.
                                              • Practice replacing each complaint with something to be thankful for. This helps to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance in God.
                                              • Ask God for help in changing your hearts and to help you see His blessings more clearly each day.

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Philippians 2:14–15 "Do everything without grumbling or arguing…"
                                              • 1 Corinthians 10:10 “And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel.”
                                              • 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
                                              • Psalm 100:4 “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 342 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ac7178b4-8ffb-45a0-a8c8-b38d0032f6ac ac7178b4-8ffb-45a0-a8c8-b38d0032f6ac Thu, 06 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2398 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-god-views-grumbling-and-complaining-how-to-cultivate-a-grateful-heart                                               Learning to Say No Without Feeling Guilty (Moving from Overwhelmed to Overjoyed) Learning to Say No Without Feeling Guilty (Moving from Overwhelmed to Overjoyed) Episode Summary:

                                              Have you ever found yourself saying yes when you really wanted to say no? Or have you ever felt overwhelmed and exhausted because you were trying to meet everyone else’s expectations? If so, you are not alone. In recognition of National Stress Awareness Day, today, we’re going to explore how to move from overwhelmed to overjoyed by learning to say no without feeling guilty. We’ll dive into Scripture, explore research on overcommitment, and I’ll share five practical ways to set God-honoring boundaries.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              Many of us, especially as women, have been taught that saying yes is the godly thing to do. We associate busyness with productivity, and productivity with worth. But the truth is, constantly saying yes can leave us drained, distracted, and distant from God’s best for us.

                                              For many years, I said “Yes” every time something was asked of me because I believed it was the godly response. Until God impressed upon my heart that he never told me to do that much, and had I sought him for wisdom, He would have readily guided my path! That was totally on me, but God was so gentle in getting my attention.

                                              Psychologists have long studied the effects of people-pleasing and overcommitment. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that chronic overcommitment leads to stress, anxiety, and even depression. Emotionally, people-pleasers often struggle with self-worth, believing their value is tied to what they do for others rather than who they are in Christ.

                                               

                                              Chronic Overcommitment and Overwhelm

                                              Chronic overcommitment and overwhelm can take a serious toll on physical health, leading to conditions such as:

                                              1. Adrenal Fatigue & Hormonal Imbalance – Constant stress can dysregulate cortisol levels, leading to exhaustion, brain fog, and difficulty managing emotions.
                                              2. Cardiovascular Issues – Chronic stress increases blood pressure, heart rate, and inflammation, raising the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and stroke.
                                              3. Weakened Immune System – Prolonged stress suppresses immune function, making the body more susceptible to infections and slower to heal.
                                              4. Gastrointestinal Problems – Overwhelm can contribute to acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, and digestive issues.
                                              5. Chronic Pain & Inflammation – Stress triggers inflammation, which can exacerbate conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and migraines.
                                              6. Sleep Disorders – Overcommitment often leads to insomnia, poor sleep quality, and chronic fatigue.
                                              7. Weight Gain or Loss – Stress-related eating patterns can lead to unhealthy weight fluctuations, metabolic dysfunction, and insulin resistance.
                                              8. Muscle Tension & Headaches – Persistent stress can cause tight muscles, tension headaches, and even TMJ (jaw pain from clenching).
                                              9. Burnout & Mental Fog – Long-term overwhelm can impair cognitive function, reducing focus, memory, and decision-making ability.
                                              10. Autoimmune Disorders – Chronic stress has been linked to the development or worsening of autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

                                               

                                              Managing stress through rest, boundaries, and self-care isn’t just about mental well-being; it’s essential for physical health.

                                              Jesus himself set boundaries. In Luke 5:16, we read, “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” He didn’t heal every person or meet every need. He sought the Father’s will first. If Jesus set boundaries, then we should, too.

                                               

                                              Addressing the spiritual and scientific aspects of restoration

                                              To counteract the physical effects of chronic overcommitment and overwhelm, we must address both the spiritual and scientific aspects of restoration. Here’s how:

                                              • Prioritizing Rest & Sabbath (Biblical & Scientific)
                                                • Biblical Insight: God modeled rest in Genesis 2:2-3, and Jesus regularly withdrew to quiet places (Mark 6:31). Sabbath isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a command for our well-being (Exodus 20:8-10).
                                                • Science: Rest lowers cortisol, improves immune function, and enhances brain health. Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and physical repair.
                                                • Application: Schedule intentional rest. Guard your Sabbath. Ensure 7-9 hours of sleep.
                                              • Setting Boundaries to Prevent Overcommitment
                                                • Biblical Insight: Even Jesus set boundaries—He didn’t heal everyone at once and took time alone with the Father (Luke 5:16). Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to guard our hearts, which includes protecting our time and energy.
                                                • Science: Chronic stress leads to burnout, weakened immunity, and heart disease. Learning to say “no” prevents emotional and physical depletion.
                                                • Application: Use discernment in commitments. Before saying “yes,” ask: Does this align with God’s will? Is this sustainable?
                                              • Engaging in Mind-Body Renewal
                                                • Biblical Insight: Romans 12:2 encourages us to renew our minds. Philippians 4:8 tells us to focus on what is pure and lovely.
                                                • Science: Practices like deep breathing, exercise, and gratitude shift the brain out of stress mode, improving mental clarity and resilience.
                                                • Application: Try breath prayers (e.g., inhale “Be still,” exhale “and know that I am God”; inhale “I trust you, God,” exhale “in all things.”). Move daily to reduce inflammation and boost mood.
                                              • Nourishing the Body & Mind
                                                • Biblical Insight: Daniel chose healthy foods and was stronger than those indulging in excess (Daniel 1:12-15). Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
                                                • Science: Whole foods reduce inflammation, regulate blood sugar, and protect against stress-related illnesses.
                                                • Application: Eat nutrient-dense foods, stay hydrated, and avoid excess caffeine or sugar that heightens stress responses.
                                              • Seeking Community & Support
                                                • Biblical Insight: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 teaches that two are better than one. We weren’t designed to carry burdens alone (Galatians 6:2).
                                                • Science: Social connection lowers stress hormones, strengthens immunity, and increases resilience.
                                                • Application: Surround yourself with godly counsel. Delegate. Accept help. Community is part of God’s design for our well-being.
                                              • Releasing Control & Trusting God
                                                • Biblical Insight: Jesus said, “Come to me, all who are weary… and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Trusting God’s sovereignty brings peace (Isaiah 26:3).
                                                • Science: Chronic stress stems from feeling out of control. Releasing worries to God reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and improves mental health.
                                                • Application: Regularly surrender your burdens to God. Journal prayers. Meditate on Scriptures about His faithfulness.

                                              By aligning our lives with God’s rhythms and applying scientific wisdom, we can reduce overwhelm and prevent burnout and experience lasting peace.

                                               

                                              Practical Tips for How to Set Healthy, God-Honoring Boundaries

                                              • Recognize that “No” is a Complete Sentence
                                                • You don’t need to over-explain or justify your decision. Jesus simply said “yes” or “no” (Matthew 5:37). When we recognize that saying no is a way to honor God’s best for us, we can do so with confidence.
                                              • Pray Before You Commit
                                                • Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. ”Before saying yes to anything, take a moment to pray and ask, Is this God’s best for me in this season?
                                              • Set Priorities Based on God’s Calling
                                                • Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are created for good works that God prepared in advance for us. This means that we are not called to do everything—only what He has specifically prepared for us. Identify what God is calling you to do in this season and let that guide your commitments.
                                              • Understand That Saying No Opens the Door for God’s Yes
                                                • When we fill our schedules with obligations, we leave no room for the divine appointments God has for us. Saying no creates margin for God’s greater yes. Isaiah 30:21 says, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’”
                                              • Practice Saying No with Grace and Love
                                                • You can say no in a way that honors both God and the other person. Here are a few ways:
                                                  • “Thank you for thinking of me, but I can’t commit to that right now.”
                                                  • “I appreciate the opportunity, but I need to focus on what God has called me to in this season.”
                                                  • “I’d love to help another time, but my plate is full right now.”

                                               

                                              Encouraging Scripture to Empower You: Learning to say no without feeling guilty

                                              1. Galatians 1:10 – “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
                                              2. Matthew 11:28-30 – Jesus calls us to rest in Him, not to take on every burden.
                                              3. Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.” Sometimes, God’s best for us is rest.
                                              4. Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” We must discern what is right for this season.
                                              5. Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Our commitments should be done with joy and purpose, not guilt.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Luke 5:16 “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”
                                              • Galatians 1:10  “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
                                              • Matthew 11:28-30  Jesus calls us to rest in Him, not to take on every burden.
                                              • Psalm 46:10  “Be still, and know that I am God.” Sometimes, God’s best for us is rest.
                                              • Ecclesiastes 3:1  “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” We must discern what is right for this season.
                                              • Colossians 3:23  “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Our commitments should be done with joy and purpose, not guilt.

                                              Saying no is not a rejection of others—it is a way of saying yes to what God has planned for you. You don’t have to live overwhelmed and exhausted. You can move from overcommitted to overjoyed by setting God-honoring boundaries.

                                               

                                              I encourage you this week to pray over your commitments. Ask God to show you where you need to say no so you can say yes to His best. If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who needs encouragement in this area. And as always, if you need more hope-filled encouragement, visit my website DrMichelleB.com or connect with me on social media.

                                               

                                              If you know someone who routinely falls prey to people-pleasing, or is feeling overwhelmed, please consider sharing this episode with them to offer a biblically-based hope-filled perspective.

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              Have you ever found yourself saying yes when you really wanted to say no? Or have you ever felt overwhelmed and exhausted because you were trying to meet everyone else’s expectations? If so, you are not alone. In recognition of National Stress Awareness Day, today, we’re going to explore how to move from overwhelmed to overjoyed by learning to say no without feeling guilty. We’ll dive into Scripture, explore research on overcommitment, and I’ll share five practical ways to set God-honoring boundaries.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              Many of us, especially as women, have been taught that saying yes is the godly thing to do. We associate busyness with productivity, and productivity with worth. But the truth is, constantly saying yes can leave us drained, distracted, and distant from God’s best for us.

                                              For many years, I said “Yes” every time something was asked of me because I believed it was the godly response. Until God impressed upon my heart that he never told me to do that much, and had I sought him for wisdom, He would have readily guided my path! That was totally on me, but God was so gentle in getting my attention.

                                              Psychologists have long studied the effects of people-pleasing and overcommitment. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that chronic overcommitment leads to stress, anxiety, and even depression. Emotionally, people-pleasers often struggle with self-worth, believing their value is tied to what they do for others rather than who they are in Christ.

                                               

                                              Chronic Overcommitment and Overwhelm

                                              Chronic overcommitment and overwhelm can take a serious toll on physical health, leading to conditions such as:

                                              1. Adrenal Fatigue & Hormonal Imbalance – Constant stress can dysregulate cortisol levels, leading to exhaustion, brain fog, and difficulty managing emotions.
                                              2. Cardiovascular Issues – Chronic stress increases blood pressure, heart rate, and inflammation, raising the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and stroke.
                                              3. Weakened Immune System – Prolonged stress suppresses immune function, making the body more susceptible to infections and slower to heal.
                                              4. Gastrointestinal Problems – Overwhelm can contribute to acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, and digestive issues.
                                              5. Chronic Pain & Inflammation – Stress triggers inflammation, which can exacerbate conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and migraines.
                                              6. Sleep Disorders – Overcommitment often leads to insomnia, poor sleep quality, and chronic fatigue.
                                              7. Weight Gain or Loss – Stress-related eating patterns can lead to unhealthy weight fluctuations, metabolic dysfunction, and insulin resistance.
                                              8. Muscle Tension & Headaches – Persistent stress can cause tight muscles, tension headaches, and even TMJ (jaw pain from clenching).
                                              9. Burnout & Mental Fog – Long-term overwhelm can impair cognitive function, reducing focus, memory, and decision-making ability.
                                              10. Autoimmune Disorders – Chronic stress has been linked to the development or worsening of autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

                                               

                                              Managing stress through rest, boundaries, and self-care isn’t just about mental well-being; it’s essential for physical health.

                                              Jesus himself set boundaries. In Luke 5:16, we read, “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” He didn’t heal every person or meet every need. He sought the Father’s will first. If Jesus set boundaries, then we should, too.

                                               

                                              Addressing the spiritual and scientific aspects of restoration

                                              To counteract the physical effects of chronic overcommitment and overwhelm, we must address both the spiritual and scientific aspects of restoration. Here’s how:

                                              • Prioritizing Rest & Sabbath (Biblical & Scientific)
                                                • Biblical Insight: God modeled rest in Genesis 2:2-3, and Jesus regularly withdrew to quiet places (Mark 6:31). Sabbath isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a command for our well-being (Exodus 20:8-10).
                                                • Science: Rest lowers cortisol, improves immune function, and enhances brain health. Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and physical repair.
                                                • Application: Schedule intentional rest. Guard your Sabbath. Ensure 7-9 hours of sleep.
                                              • Setting Boundaries to Prevent Overcommitment
                                                • Biblical Insight: Even Jesus set boundaries—He didn’t heal everyone at once and took time alone with the Father (Luke 5:16). Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to guard our hearts, which includes protecting our time and energy.
                                                • Science: Chronic stress leads to burnout, weakened immunity, and heart disease. Learning to say “no” prevents emotional and physical depletion.
                                                • Application: Use discernment in commitments. Before saying “yes,” ask: Does this align with God’s will? Is this sustainable?
                                              • Engaging in Mind-Body Renewal
                                                • Biblical Insight: Romans 12:2 encourages us to renew our minds. Philippians 4:8 tells us to focus on what is pure and lovely.
                                                • Science: Practices like deep breathing, exercise, and gratitude shift the brain out of stress mode, improving mental clarity and resilience.
                                                • Application: Try breath prayers (e.g., inhale “Be still,” exhale “and know that I am God”; inhale “I trust you, God,” exhale “in all things.”). Move daily to reduce inflammation and boost mood.
                                              • Nourishing the Body & Mind
                                                • Biblical Insight: Daniel chose healthy foods and was stronger than those indulging in excess (Daniel 1:12-15). Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
                                                • Science: Whole foods reduce inflammation, regulate blood sugar, and protect against stress-related illnesses.
                                                • Application: Eat nutrient-dense foods, stay hydrated, and avoid excess caffeine or sugar that heightens stress responses.
                                              • Seeking Community & Support
                                                • Biblical Insight: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 teaches that two are better than one. We weren’t designed to carry burdens alone (Galatians 6:2).
                                                • Science: Social connection lowers stress hormones, strengthens immunity, and increases resilience.
                                                • Application: Surround yourself with godly counsel. Delegate. Accept help. Community is part of God’s design for our well-being.
                                              • Releasing Control & Trusting God
                                                • Biblical Insight: Jesus said, “Come to me, all who are weary… and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Trusting God’s sovereignty brings peace (Isaiah 26:3).
                                                • Science: Chronic stress stems from feeling out of control. Releasing worries to God reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and improves mental health.
                                                • Application: Regularly surrender your burdens to God. Journal prayers. Meditate on Scriptures about His faithfulness.

                                              By aligning our lives with God’s rhythms and applying scientific wisdom, we can reduce overwhelm and prevent burnout and experience lasting peace.

                                               

                                              Practical Tips for How to Set Healthy, God-Honoring Boundaries

                                              • Recognize that “No” is a Complete Sentence
                                                • You don’t need to over-explain or justify your decision. Jesus simply said “yes” or “no” (Matthew 5:37). When we recognize that saying no is a way to honor God’s best for us, we can do so with confidence.
                                              • Pray Before You Commit
                                                • Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. ”Before saying yes to anything, take a moment to pray and ask, Is this God’s best for me in this season?
                                              • Set Priorities Based on God’s Calling
                                                • Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are created for good works that God prepared in advance for us. This means that we are not called to do everything—only what He has specifically prepared for us. Identify what God is calling you to do in this season and let that guide your commitments.
                                              • Understand That Saying No Opens the Door for God’s Yes
                                                • When we fill our schedules with obligations, we leave no room for the divine appointments God has for us. Saying no creates margin for God’s greater yes. Isaiah 30:21 says, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’”
                                              • Practice Saying No with Grace and Love
                                                • You can say no in a way that honors both God and the other person. Here are a few ways:
                                                  • “Thank you for thinking of me, but I can’t commit to that right now.”
                                                  • “I appreciate the opportunity, but I need to focus on what God has called me to in this season.”
                                                  • “I’d love to help another time, but my plate is full right now.”

                                               

                                              Encouraging Scripture to Empower You: Learning to say no without feeling guilty

                                              1. Galatians 1:10 – “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
                                              2. Matthew 11:28-30 – Jesus calls us to rest in Him, not to take on every burden.
                                              3. Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.” Sometimes, God’s best for us is rest.
                                              4. Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” We must discern what is right for this season.
                                              5. Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Our commitments should be done with joy and purpose, not guilt.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Luke 5:16 “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”
                                              • Galatians 1:10  “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
                                              • Matthew 11:28-30  Jesus calls us to rest in Him, not to take on every burden.
                                              • Psalm 46:10  “Be still, and know that I am God.” Sometimes, God’s best for us is rest.
                                              • Ecclesiastes 3:1  “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” We must discern what is right for this season.
                                              • Colossians 3:23  “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Our commitments should be done with joy and purpose, not guilt.

                                              Saying no is not a rejection of others—it is a way of saying yes to what God has planned for you. You don’t have to live overwhelmed and exhausted. You can move from overcommitted to overjoyed by setting God-honoring boundaries.

                                               

                                              I encourage you this week to pray over your commitments. Ask God to show you where you need to say no so you can say yes to His best. If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who needs encouragement in this area. And as always, if you need more hope-filled encouragement, visit my website DrMichelleB.com or connect with me on social media.

                                               

                                              If you know someone who routinely falls prey to people-pleasing, or is feeling overwhelmed, please consider sharing this episode with them to offer a biblically-based hope-filled perspective.

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 341 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 544c8370-72e3-4339-bc14-b386001c426e 544c8370-72e3-4339-bc14-b386001c426e Thu, 30 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1231 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/learning-to-say-no-without-feeling-guilty-moving-from-overwhelmed-to-overjoyed                                               The Power of Together: Why Community Matters in Faith and Life The Power of Together: Why Community Matters in Faith and Life Episode Summary:

                                              Community is a gift from God that reflects His nature and intention for us. Through meaningful relationships, we experience support, growth, and a deeper connection with Him. While cultivating community takes effort and intentionality, the blessings far outweigh the challenges. By leaning on biblical principles, embracing vulnerability, and taking actionable steps, we can foster relationships that uplift and transform us. Let’s take God’s invitation to heart and pursue community as a way to share His love, grace, and hope with others.

                                              Today, we’re diving into a topic that touches the heart of our daily lives: the importance of community. God created us for relationship, not just with Him, but with each other. In a world that often feels isolated and disconnected, it’s vital to rediscover the power of authentic, Christ-centered community. Together, we’ll unpack what the Bible says about community, why it’s essential for our spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being, and practical steps we can take to intentionally cultivate meaningful connections. My son, Bryce, joins me on the podcast to talk about The Power of Togetherness: Why Community Matters in Faith and Life.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Christ-centered community is, in all reality, exactly what it sounds like. It is a community striving together to edify and encourage one another to grow in their relationship to Christ individually. And it is that community that pushes each other to go towards Christ in the center.
                                              • I think that community is very important in today's culture because we have grown very disconnected. Part of that free reign of access is the advent of social media, and it is very helpful to be able to connect with people one -on -one and being able to see people's life updates. But I think everyone is fully aware of the social media fact of you're only seeing the best.
                                              • Community is very important because there is that lack and that prevalence of comparison that is leading people to feel isolated and like they aren't living up to what the dream is. I would say isolated and discontent because of that tendency towards comparison.
                                              • And yet isn't it interesting that in a day and an age where things are supposedly more social, we see that loneliness is a huge epidemic. So, it's kind of ironic, if you will, that in this day of social media, people are feeling lonelier than ever.
                                              • What role does the Bible place on the value of relationships within the Church and beyond? Oh, the Bible places an incredible amount of importance on relationships. You can just go throughout all of scripture and every single book there is an example. There is David and Jonathan. There's Ruth and Naomi. There is John and Jesus. Paul and Timothy. You can go on and on and on and give examples of all of these wonderful pairs of relationships and these groups. Jesus having the twelve disciples and David's mighty men. there is so much importance in the Bible on relationships because when God formed Adam in the garden, he made Adam in his own image and looked at it and looked at Adam and said "This isn't good for you to be alone." Even though you were made in my image, the best good that you could have out of all of creation, it wasn't good for him to be alone.
                                              • When we have a heart that's focused on the fact that God wants us to have community. He wants us to share his love with other people. I think we have to get past worrying what other people are going to think.
                                              • Self -consciousness often stems from some type of fear, fear of rejection, fear of not being understood, fear of being misconstrued with what you say.
                                              • The importance of vulnerability is really saying, you're not alone in whatever this thing is. 
                                              • Being able to be vulnerable and say, I've been down this road, or even if I've not been down this road, but I'm willing to walk down it with you, is so critical of just opening the door of wherever this relationship goes, I want to go there alongside you.
                                              • Forgiveness is a necessary component in any relationship.
                                              • What a great example there is in Jesus. That's exactly what he does with our sin. We have to ask for forgiveness. And so, if we receive forgiveness from him, how much more should we give forgiveness to others?
                                              • If we don't extend forgiveness, then that's just an opportunity for the enemy to come in and build up bitterness and resentment, which tears down relationships. So, if we prize relationship, we prize connection, relationship, we've got to include forgiveness as an aspect then, or we run the risk of losing out.
                                              • Start with open-ended questions and the willingness to be silent, waiting for the other person to respond, then pull on the strings within the conversation.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – "Two are better than one... If either of them falls down, one can help the other up."
                                              • Proverbs 27:17 – "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."
                                              • Matthew 18:20 – "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."
                                              • Hebrews 10:24-25 – "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds... not giving up meeting together."
                                              • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – "Encourage one another and build each other up."

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              Community is a gift from God that reflects His nature and intention for us. Through meaningful relationships, we experience support, growth, and a deeper connection with Him. While cultivating community takes effort and intentionality, the blessings far outweigh the challenges. By leaning on biblical principles, embracing vulnerability, and taking actionable steps, we can foster relationships that uplift and transform us. Let’s take God’s invitation to heart and pursue community as a way to share His love, grace, and hope with others.

                                              Today, we’re diving into a topic that touches the heart of our daily lives: the importance of community. God created us for relationship, not just with Him, but with each other. In a world that often feels isolated and disconnected, it’s vital to rediscover the power of authentic, Christ-centered community. Together, we’ll unpack what the Bible says about community, why it’s essential for our spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being, and practical steps we can take to intentionally cultivate meaningful connections. My son, Bryce, joins me on the podcast to talk about The Power of Togetherness: Why Community Matters in Faith and Life.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Christ-centered community is, in all reality, exactly what it sounds like. It is a community striving together to edify and encourage one another to grow in their relationship to Christ individually. And it is that community that pushes each other to go towards Christ in the center.
                                              • I think that community is very important in today's culture because we have grown very disconnected. Part of that free reign of access is the advent of social media, and it is very helpful to be able to connect with people one -on -one and being able to see people's life updates. But I think everyone is fully aware of the social media fact of you're only seeing the best.
                                              • Community is very important because there is that lack and that prevalence of comparison that is leading people to feel isolated and like they aren't living up to what the dream is. I would say isolated and discontent because of that tendency towards comparison.
                                              • And yet isn't it interesting that in a day and an age where things are supposedly more social, we see that loneliness is a huge epidemic. So, it's kind of ironic, if you will, that in this day of social media, people are feeling lonelier than ever.
                                              • What role does the Bible place on the value of relationships within the Church and beyond? Oh, the Bible places an incredible amount of importance on relationships. You can just go throughout all of scripture and every single book there is an example. There is David and Jonathan. There's Ruth and Naomi. There is John and Jesus. Paul and Timothy. You can go on and on and on and give examples of all of these wonderful pairs of relationships and these groups. Jesus having the twelve disciples and David's mighty men. there is so much importance in the Bible on relationships because when God formed Adam in the garden, he made Adam in his own image and looked at it and looked at Adam and said "This isn't good for you to be alone." Even though you were made in my image, the best good that you could have out of all of creation, it wasn't good for him to be alone.
                                              • When we have a heart that's focused on the fact that God wants us to have community. He wants us to share his love with other people. I think we have to get past worrying what other people are going to think.
                                              • Self -consciousness often stems from some type of fear, fear of rejection, fear of not being understood, fear of being misconstrued with what you say.
                                              • The importance of vulnerability is really saying, you're not alone in whatever this thing is. 
                                              • Being able to be vulnerable and say, I've been down this road, or even if I've not been down this road, but I'm willing to walk down it with you, is so critical of just opening the door of wherever this relationship goes, I want to go there alongside you.
                                              • Forgiveness is a necessary component in any relationship.
                                              • What a great example there is in Jesus. That's exactly what he does with our sin. We have to ask for forgiveness. And so, if we receive forgiveness from him, how much more should we give forgiveness to others?
                                              • If we don't extend forgiveness, then that's just an opportunity for the enemy to come in and build up bitterness and resentment, which tears down relationships. So, if we prize relationship, we prize connection, relationship, we've got to include forgiveness as an aspect then, or we run the risk of losing out.
                                              • Start with open-ended questions and the willingness to be silent, waiting for the other person to respond, then pull on the strings within the conversation.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – "Two are better than one... If either of them falls down, one can help the other up."
                                              • Proverbs 27:17 – "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."
                                              • Matthew 18:20 – "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."
                                              • Hebrews 10:24-25 – "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds... not giving up meeting together."
                                              • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – "Encourage one another and build each other up."

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 341 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 2aebe22a-93b1-4365-a8c4-b37f002f0a82 2aebe22a-93b1-4365-a8c4-b37f002f0a82 Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2278 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/the-power-of-together-why-community-matters-in-faith-and-life                                               Renewing Your Mind Through Scripture: Breaking Free from Negative Thinking Renewing Your Mind Through Scripture: Breaking Free from Negative Thinking Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s vital for our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being: how to renew your mind. Have you ever felt stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts, worry, or defeat? You’re not alone. But the good news is that God’s Word provides us with clear guidance on transforming our thinking and experiencing peace, hope, and victory. In this episode, we’ll explore what the Bible says about renewing your mind, why it’s crucial for mental health, and practical steps you can take to align your thoughts with God’s truth. Let’s embark on this hope-filled journey together!

                                              In honor of National Train Your Brain Day, today we’re going to be talking about Breaking Free from Negative Thinking: Renewing Your Mind Through Scripture.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Romans 12:2 highlights the transformative power of aligning our thoughts with God’s will rather than the world’s patterns.
                                              • Science shows that thought patterns are established through neural pathways in the brain. Repeated thoughts and behaviors strengthen these pathways, much like well-worn trails in a forest. This process, known as neuroplasticity, means the brain is constantly reshaping itself based on our experiences, emotions, and repeated patterns of thinking.
                                              • We often believe things that aren't true because of cognitive biases and mental shortcuts our brains use to process information (like confirmation bias, negativity bias, emotional reasoning)
                                              • While science describes how thought patterns are formed, Scripture offers a roadmap for transforming unhealthy or false beliefs through God’s truth, creating new neural pathways aligned with His Word.
                                              • Renewing the mind is not a one-time event but a continual process of growth and surrender to God’s truth.
                                              • Our emotions are the outward manifestations of the thoughts we believe. As such, our thoughts influence our emotions, decisions, and actions, shaping our overall mental health.
                                              • From a scientific perspective, our thoughts matter because they influence our brain's structure, emotional health, and overall behavior.
                                              • This scientific understanding underscores the importance of intentionally aligning our thoughts with truth. Scripture gives us the blueprint for this renewal, while science shows the profound impact it has on our mental and physical health.
                                              • Research has demonstrated a connection between dwelling on negative or untrue thoughts and experiencing anxiety, depression, or hopelessness.
                                              • In order to break free from destructive thought patterns, it’s important to replace lies with truth
                                              • To recognize thoughts inconsistent with God’s Word, ask these questions:
                                                • Does this thought align with Scripture?
                                                • Is this thought producing fear, doubt, or condemnation?
                                                • Does this thought reflect God’s character and promises?
                                              • Replace these thoughts with Scripture.
                                              • Gratitude shifts our focus from problems to God’s goodness and faithfulness.
                                              • Accountability, encouragement, and prayer from fellow believers is important to ensure that we are surrounded by voices who will speak truth into our circumstances.
                                              • Renewing the mind isn’t about striving in our own strength but relying on the Holy Spirit to guide, convict, and transform us.
                                              • Renewing your mind is a powerful and transformative process that aligns your thoughts with God’s truth, bringing hope, peace, and clarity to your life. By identifying and replacing lies with Scripture, meditating on God’s Word, speaking His promises, cultivating gratitude, and seeking support from a godly community, you can break free from negative thought patterns and experience lasting mental health.
                                              • Most importantly, remember that you’re not doing this alone. The Holy Spirit is your helper, leading you every step of the way. Let’s commit to this journey of renewal together and trust God to do a transformative work in our minds and hearts.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Romans 12:2 commands: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
                                              • Proverbs 23:7 says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”
                                              • Job 3:25 “What I always feared has happened to me. What I dreaded has come true.”
                                              • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                              • Psalm 1:2-3 encourages us to meditate on God’s law day and night, promising that we will be “like a tree planted by streams of water.”
                                              • Proverbs 18:21 “The tongue has the power of life and death.”
                                              • Psalm 139:14 “I am fearfully and wonderfully made”
                                              • Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”
                                              • Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
                                              • Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
                                              • John 14:26 “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s vital for our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being: how to renew your mind. Have you ever felt stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts, worry, or defeat? You’re not alone. But the good news is that God’s Word provides us with clear guidance on transforming our thinking and experiencing peace, hope, and victory. In this episode, we’ll explore what the Bible says about renewing your mind, why it’s crucial for mental health, and practical steps you can take to align your thoughts with God’s truth. Let’s embark on this hope-filled journey together!

                                              In honor of National Train Your Brain Day, today we’re going to be talking about Breaking Free from Negative Thinking: Renewing Your Mind Through Scripture.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Romans 12:2 highlights the transformative power of aligning our thoughts with God’s will rather than the world’s patterns.
                                              • Science shows that thought patterns are established through neural pathways in the brain. Repeated thoughts and behaviors strengthen these pathways, much like well-worn trails in a forest. This process, known as neuroplasticity, means the brain is constantly reshaping itself based on our experiences, emotions, and repeated patterns of thinking.
                                              • We often believe things that aren't true because of cognitive biases and mental shortcuts our brains use to process information (like confirmation bias, negativity bias, emotional reasoning)
                                              • While science describes how thought patterns are formed, Scripture offers a roadmap for transforming unhealthy or false beliefs through God’s truth, creating new neural pathways aligned with His Word.
                                              • Renewing the mind is not a one-time event but a continual process of growth and surrender to God’s truth.
                                              • Our emotions are the outward manifestations of the thoughts we believe. As such, our thoughts influence our emotions, decisions, and actions, shaping our overall mental health.
                                              • From a scientific perspective, our thoughts matter because they influence our brain's structure, emotional health, and overall behavior.
                                              • This scientific understanding underscores the importance of intentionally aligning our thoughts with truth. Scripture gives us the blueprint for this renewal, while science shows the profound impact it has on our mental and physical health.
                                              • Research has demonstrated a connection between dwelling on negative or untrue thoughts and experiencing anxiety, depression, or hopelessness.
                                              • In order to break free from destructive thought patterns, it’s important to replace lies with truth
                                              • To recognize thoughts inconsistent with God’s Word, ask these questions:
                                                • Does this thought align with Scripture?
                                                • Is this thought producing fear, doubt, or condemnation?
                                                • Does this thought reflect God’s character and promises?
                                              • Replace these thoughts with Scripture.
                                              • Gratitude shifts our focus from problems to God’s goodness and faithfulness.
                                              • Accountability, encouragement, and prayer from fellow believers is important to ensure that we are surrounded by voices who will speak truth into our circumstances.
                                              • Renewing the mind isn’t about striving in our own strength but relying on the Holy Spirit to guide, convict, and transform us.
                                              • Renewing your mind is a powerful and transformative process that aligns your thoughts with God’s truth, bringing hope, peace, and clarity to your life. By identifying and replacing lies with Scripture, meditating on God’s Word, speaking His promises, cultivating gratitude, and seeking support from a godly community, you can break free from negative thought patterns and experience lasting mental health.
                                              • Most importantly, remember that you’re not doing this alone. The Holy Spirit is your helper, leading you every step of the way. Let’s commit to this journey of renewal together and trust God to do a transformative work in our minds and hearts.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Romans 12:2 commands: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
                                              • Proverbs 23:7 says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”
                                              • Job 3:25 “What I always feared has happened to me. What I dreaded has come true.”
                                              • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                              • Psalm 1:2-3 encourages us to meditate on God’s law day and night, promising that we will be “like a tree planted by streams of water.”
                                              • Proverbs 18:21 “The tongue has the power of life and death.”
                                              • Psalm 139:14 “I am fearfully and wonderfully made”
                                              • Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”
                                              • Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
                                              • Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
                                              • John 14:26 “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 340 Dr. Michelle Bengtson cb8c90c9-b736-4bed-9fbc-b3780012f61c cb8c90c9-b736-4bed-9fbc-b3780012f61c Thu, 16 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1680 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/renewing-your-mind-through-scripture-breaking-free-from-negative-thinking                                               Conquering the Three Enemies of Mental Health: Biblical Wisdom with Kenza Haddock Conquering the Three Enemies of Mental Health: Biblical Wisdom with Kenza Haddock Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we sit down with Kenza Haddock, author of The Three Enemies of Your Mental Health: Gain Lasting Victory Over the Devil, the Flesh, and the World. Together, we explore the spiritual and emotional challenges that impact mental health and uncover the biblical strategies to overcome them. Kenza shares practical insights on identifying and defeating these "three enemies" - the devil, the flesh, and the world - through the power of God’s truth. Whether you’re battling anxiety, negative thought patterns, or the pressures of the world, this conversation will equip you with faith-filled tools to experience victory and lasting peace. Join us for an inspiring and hope-filled discussion on reclaiming your mental and spiritual well-being.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Today, we're going to be talking about conquering the three enemies of mental health.
                                              • We’re attacked by the enemy on a daily basis. The key is to recognize the attack and fight back with the right weapons.
                                              • I grew up in an Islamic household. And so just growing up, my understanding of the character of God was distorted. And so I grew up believing in a different God, but I thought he was the right God. I came to know the Lord is through a dream about Jesus.
                                              • Growing up, I battled with my own depression. I battled with anxiety, but I didn't know that they were clinical depression and anxiety. It's like I was high functioning. I thought anxiety was the norm. It was normal for me to think something bad is about to happen. I had the symptoms of the clinical diagnosis. And it was about, I'd say, early 20s or so, when my depression just got worse and worse, to the point of suicidal ideations because I felt like I was, I had no hope.
                                              • I decided to blaze my own trail. And I mean, I drove into astrology. I drove into chakras, reiki, everything you can think of. I tried to figure out my own purpose in life. And none of that brought me the peace that I remembered feeling when I had a dream about Jesus.
                                              • What's incredible is God is so kind and so patient with us. You know, he didn't stop pursuing me. He didn't throw in the towel on me. He just kept pursuing and pursuing and he knew I was going to hit a dead end at some point and I did. I decided to give my life to Jesus and after I gave my life to Jesus and I moved to South Carolina and I just started my life from scratch.
                                              • The Lord called me to the field of counseling. I had never thought I was going to become a counselor, but I felt the Holy Spirit for the first time, and I just felt this call toward the field. So I went back to school, finished my clinicals, and then I started treating brothers and sisters in the faith from both a clinical and a biblical perspective.
                                              • I could not believe just how many patients I had who were self -professing believers, who struggled with the same ideas and the same issues and negative thoughts and oppressions that I struggled with as a Muslim. I noticed that even believers are not equipped to fight against spiritual forces of darkness. They're not.
                                              • How did your family take it when you became a believer in Jesus Christ? – They didn't take it well. I had experienced persecution because of that. And the reason I moved to South Carolina is for safety reasons. I needed to start my life from scratch, but of course they found me and you know the Bible says count the cost Jesus said count the cost and for me the count the cost was my mother my father brother sisters my family was everything to me and I was raised with I pledged my allegiance to my family and so my allegiance would have been divided. When Jesus says that basically you have to put him before your mom and dad, it's not that you need to hate them, it's that you need to love him more.
                                              • How does scripture reveal the roles of the devil, the flesh and the world as adversaries to mental health? What I have seen my practice is the devil will do anything possible to split our faith in Jesus. So even if it's 90% in Jesus and 10% in the object of our faith, that's splitting your faith in Jesus.
                                              • We were made for relationships. When we spend time with the Lord, when we spend time with God, there is a chemical that gets released in our body and that chemical is serotonin that chemical combats depression just naturally okay now what happens is because we have the wrong perspective of God. We don't spend time with Him. We think the Bible is outdated. A lot of people think that.
                                              • They have actually done a research out of Biola University where they claim that God is, they found that most people believe that God is mean, harsh, or distant. Those are the top three adjectives they use to describe God. And because of all of that, we run to self -medicate. And so, we self -medicate by watching too much Netflix, too much TV, right? We don't pay attention.
                                              • For overcoming enemy number one, the devil, you have to renounce your dealings with the kingdom of darkness. There's no way around that. Now, number one, if you're not a believer, you have to give your life to Jesus. And I feel like I have to say this because I have had patients who came to see me and said, "Can you do it for me because you're a believer? Can we bypass Jesus?" No, we can't bypass Jesus. That's just not how it works. And the reason they say that is because they believe Jesus is a dictator and they have the wrong perspective about him. And so, they don't understand that he's a God who pursued them to the point of dying on the cross for them to satisfy the righteous requirement of sin so that they can have a relationship with Him. And so, number one, you have to have a relationship with Jesus.
                                              • Psalm 139 that says, "Search me, O God, and know my heart. Test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that's offensive to you and lead me to the path of everlasting life." And just ask him to show you what in your life is taken priority or is not of him. And he will show you. It's a dangerous prayer, but he will show you.
                                              • Don't ever think that God is condemning you because in Jesus there's no condemnation and God is not a man that he should lie. He doesn't lie to you. There's no condemnation. He may convict you if you're acting in a way that is incongruent to who you are in Jesus. But conviction says, "Hey, you should not have done that." Condemnation says, "Hey, you're a loser, you're this, you're that, and you'll never come back from it." There's a huge difference between the two. One, it redeems you. Because conviction is for the purpose of restoring our relationship with God. But condemnation serves to separate us. You know, when we feel guilty or condemned, we're embarrassed. And so, we separate ourselves from others and from God. So, there's a huge distinction between the two.
                                              • The other area that the enemy gets a foothold besides lying to us is that very subtle did “God really say…? If he really loved you he would have X, Y, and Z.” It's that little word really that gets us to doubt what the Bible says about God. That's the oldest lie. It's the oldest lie. It dates back to Genesis and so what he does is he induces doubt. That's the cycle of enemy number one. He induces doubt and when he says “did God really tell you?” or “Does God really love you?” “Is God really looking out for you?” And he'll come to you, especially in times when you're desperate, then doubt leads to temptation and when you act on it and you don't receive God's forgiveness or you don't repent and receive God's forgiveness, it leads to shame and shame is going to lead to hiding.
                                              • Unfortunately, we wear these masks and I call them defense mechanisms. Defense mechanisms are basically masks that we wear in order to keep God from, I mean, he's trying to heal us, but we try to push him away and keep him from healing the wounds that he's trying to heal. And these defense mechanisms that we employ, and I list all of them in the book, but most common ones are denial, like we deny that there's an issue with us, or there's repression, meaning we don't deny the problem, but we deny its effects on us. We act like, “Oh, no, everything is fine. Everything is okay.” Meanwhile, God wants us to bear our hearts to him. He wants us to surrender our wounds to him.
                                              • Another practical way is ask the Lord to prioritize your life. It's a dangerous prayer and it's a dangerous request because he will prune who needs to be pruned. Yes, he will. Anything that doesn't bear fruit, he’s going cut off. So, it is a risky prayer, but what a fruitful prayer. Yes, because we were made for his purpose, and we were made to bear fruit. He made us for a specific purpose. And so many times, we just hit one dead end after another, after another, and we live a frustrated life, but really we can live a fruitful life if we just surrender to him and ask him, "Lord, I can't do it by myself. I need you to please just prioritize my life according to your will." And he will, because he wants to be part of every detail of our lives.
                                              • For the longest time, I had a habit of just waking up and I just felt like I would wake up with anxiety. And believe it or not, so many people deal with this. They wake up and it's like, as soon as their feet hit the floor, like their heart is racing. And what I have found, something that I have found that has helped me so much. And if you want to start this tomorrow morning, and it has a clinical and a biblical basis is tomorrow morning, when you wake up, because it has helped me, instead of first thing is checking your phone, checking your email, because that's what I was doing, is first thing you do, start thanking the Lord God, spend 10 minutes, even if you have to wake up 10 minutes earlier, spend time thanking God for 10 minutes for everything He has done for you. You can find something, even if you are in the midst of despair, you can find something to thank God for.
                                              • When we start thanking God, there's a chemical in our brain that gets released. It's called serotonin and it combats depression. That chemical floods your body, first thing in the morning, and so it decreases anxiety and it raises, it almost puts a shelter around your brain for any depressive thoughts. That's from a clinical perspective. From a biblical perspective, the Word of God says the Lord inhabits the praises of His people. When we're thanking God for everything He's doing for us and thanking and for who he is, God's presence, God is love and his presence comes and inhabits our praises. God is love and perfect love casts out fear. So, the spirit of fear has to flee when God's presence is there.
                                              • No matter how many mistakes you have made in the past, no matter how bad you had messed up in the past, that God's grace covers you and there's no way that you could have outrun God. God's grace covers you and his mercy is new for you each and every morning and so remember that and remind yourself of that. God is not looking down on you with a magnifying glass. God loves you and he is just in love with you. And it's the enemy who brings those thoughts that accuse you.
                                              • The war over your mind doesn’t have to be lost.

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the way everlasting.”
                                              • Psalm 62:8 “Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.”

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Kenza Haddock:

                                              Website

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Kenza Haddock is a licensed professional counselor with expertise in treating complex mental health conditions through both clinical and biblical methods. A former Muslim, she has spoken at conferences and churches and been featured in numerous media outlets regarding the intersection of Christianity and mental health counseling. Kenza and her husband own Oceanic Counseling Group LLC headquartered in South Carolina.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we sit down with Kenza Haddock, author of The Three Enemies of Your Mental Health: Gain Lasting Victory Over the Devil, the Flesh, and the World. Together, we explore the spiritual and emotional challenges that impact mental health and uncover the biblical strategies to overcome them. Kenza shares practical insights on identifying and defeating these "three enemies" - the devil, the flesh, and the world - through the power of God’s truth. Whether you’re battling anxiety, negative thought patterns, or the pressures of the world, this conversation will equip you with faith-filled tools to experience victory and lasting peace. Join us for an inspiring and hope-filled discussion on reclaiming your mental and spiritual well-being.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Today, we're going to be talking about conquering the three enemies of mental health.
                                              • We’re attacked by the enemy on a daily basis. The key is to recognize the attack and fight back with the right weapons.
                                              • I grew up in an Islamic household. And so just growing up, my understanding of the character of God was distorted. And so I grew up believing in a different God, but I thought he was the right God. I came to know the Lord is through a dream about Jesus.
                                              • Growing up, I battled with my own depression. I battled with anxiety, but I didn't know that they were clinical depression and anxiety. It's like I was high functioning. I thought anxiety was the norm. It was normal for me to think something bad is about to happen. I had the symptoms of the clinical diagnosis. And it was about, I'd say, early 20s or so, when my depression just got worse and worse, to the point of suicidal ideations because I felt like I was, I had no hope.
                                              • I decided to blaze my own trail. And I mean, I drove into astrology. I drove into chakras, reiki, everything you can think of. I tried to figure out my own purpose in life. And none of that brought me the peace that I remembered feeling when I had a dream about Jesus.
                                              • What's incredible is God is so kind and so patient with us. You know, he didn't stop pursuing me. He didn't throw in the towel on me. He just kept pursuing and pursuing and he knew I was going to hit a dead end at some point and I did. I decided to give my life to Jesus and after I gave my life to Jesus and I moved to South Carolina and I just started my life from scratch.
                                              • The Lord called me to the field of counseling. I had never thought I was going to become a counselor, but I felt the Holy Spirit for the first time, and I just felt this call toward the field. So I went back to school, finished my clinicals, and then I started treating brothers and sisters in the faith from both a clinical and a biblical perspective.
                                              • I could not believe just how many patients I had who were self -professing believers, who struggled with the same ideas and the same issues and negative thoughts and oppressions that I struggled with as a Muslim. I noticed that even believers are not equipped to fight against spiritual forces of darkness. They're not.
                                              • How did your family take it when you became a believer in Jesus Christ? – They didn't take it well. I had experienced persecution because of that. And the reason I moved to South Carolina is for safety reasons. I needed to start my life from scratch, but of course they found me and you know the Bible says count the cost Jesus said count the cost and for me the count the cost was my mother my father brother sisters my family was everything to me and I was raised with I pledged my allegiance to my family and so my allegiance would have been divided. When Jesus says that basically you have to put him before your mom and dad, it's not that you need to hate them, it's that you need to love him more.
                                              • How does scripture reveal the roles of the devil, the flesh and the world as adversaries to mental health? What I have seen my practice is the devil will do anything possible to split our faith in Jesus. So even if it's 90% in Jesus and 10% in the object of our faith, that's splitting your faith in Jesus.
                                              • We were made for relationships. When we spend time with the Lord, when we spend time with God, there is a chemical that gets released in our body and that chemical is serotonin that chemical combats depression just naturally okay now what happens is because we have the wrong perspective of God. We don't spend time with Him. We think the Bible is outdated. A lot of people think that.
                                              • They have actually done a research out of Biola University where they claim that God is, they found that most people believe that God is mean, harsh, or distant. Those are the top three adjectives they use to describe God. And because of all of that, we run to self -medicate. And so, we self -medicate by watching too much Netflix, too much TV, right? We don't pay attention.
                                              • For overcoming enemy number one, the devil, you have to renounce your dealings with the kingdom of darkness. There's no way around that. Now, number one, if you're not a believer, you have to give your life to Jesus. And I feel like I have to say this because I have had patients who came to see me and said, "Can you do it for me because you're a believer? Can we bypass Jesus?" No, we can't bypass Jesus. That's just not how it works. And the reason they say that is because they believe Jesus is a dictator and they have the wrong perspective about him. And so, they don't understand that he's a God who pursued them to the point of dying on the cross for them to satisfy the righteous requirement of sin so that they can have a relationship with Him. And so, number one, you have to have a relationship with Jesus.
                                              • Psalm 139 that says, "Search me, O God, and know my heart. Test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that's offensive to you and lead me to the path of everlasting life." And just ask him to show you what in your life is taken priority or is not of him. And he will show you. It's a dangerous prayer, but he will show you.
                                              • Don't ever think that God is condemning you because in Jesus there's no condemnation and God is not a man that he should lie. He doesn't lie to you. There's no condemnation. He may convict you if you're acting in a way that is incongruent to who you are in Jesus. But conviction says, "Hey, you should not have done that." Condemnation says, "Hey, you're a loser, you're this, you're that, and you'll never come back from it." There's a huge difference between the two. One, it redeems you. Because conviction is for the purpose of restoring our relationship with God. But condemnation serves to separate us. You know, when we feel guilty or condemned, we're embarrassed. And so, we separate ourselves from others and from God. So, there's a huge distinction between the two.
                                              • The other area that the enemy gets a foothold besides lying to us is that very subtle did “God really say…? If he really loved you he would have X, Y, and Z.” It's that little word really that gets us to doubt what the Bible says about God. That's the oldest lie. It's the oldest lie. It dates back to Genesis and so what he does is he induces doubt. That's the cycle of enemy number one. He induces doubt and when he says “did God really tell you?” or “Does God really love you?” “Is God really looking out for you?” And he'll come to you, especially in times when you're desperate, then doubt leads to temptation and when you act on it and you don't receive God's forgiveness or you don't repent and receive God's forgiveness, it leads to shame and shame is going to lead to hiding.
                                              • Unfortunately, we wear these masks and I call them defense mechanisms. Defense mechanisms are basically masks that we wear in order to keep God from, I mean, he's trying to heal us, but we try to push him away and keep him from healing the wounds that he's trying to heal. And these defense mechanisms that we employ, and I list all of them in the book, but most common ones are denial, like we deny that there's an issue with us, or there's repression, meaning we don't deny the problem, but we deny its effects on us. We act like, “Oh, no, everything is fine. Everything is okay.” Meanwhile, God wants us to bear our hearts to him. He wants us to surrender our wounds to him.
                                              • Another practical way is ask the Lord to prioritize your life. It's a dangerous prayer and it's a dangerous request because he will prune who needs to be pruned. Yes, he will. Anything that doesn't bear fruit, he’s going cut off. So, it is a risky prayer, but what a fruitful prayer. Yes, because we were made for his purpose, and we were made to bear fruit. He made us for a specific purpose. And so many times, we just hit one dead end after another, after another, and we live a frustrated life, but really we can live a fruitful life if we just surrender to him and ask him, "Lord, I can't do it by myself. I need you to please just prioritize my life according to your will." And he will, because he wants to be part of every detail of our lives.
                                              • For the longest time, I had a habit of just waking up and I just felt like I would wake up with anxiety. And believe it or not, so many people deal with this. They wake up and it's like, as soon as their feet hit the floor, like their heart is racing. And what I have found, something that I have found that has helped me so much. And if you want to start this tomorrow morning, and it has a clinical and a biblical basis is tomorrow morning, when you wake up, because it has helped me, instead of first thing is checking your phone, checking your email, because that's what I was doing, is first thing you do, start thanking the Lord God, spend 10 minutes, even if you have to wake up 10 minutes earlier, spend time thanking God for 10 minutes for everything He has done for you. You can find something, even if you are in the midst of despair, you can find something to thank God for.
                                              • When we start thanking God, there's a chemical in our brain that gets released. It's called serotonin and it combats depression. That chemical floods your body, first thing in the morning, and so it decreases anxiety and it raises, it almost puts a shelter around your brain for any depressive thoughts. That's from a clinical perspective. From a biblical perspective, the Word of God says the Lord inhabits the praises of His people. When we're thanking God for everything He's doing for us and thanking and for who he is, God's presence, God is love and his presence comes and inhabits our praises. God is love and perfect love casts out fear. So, the spirit of fear has to flee when God's presence is there.
                                              • No matter how many mistakes you have made in the past, no matter how bad you had messed up in the past, that God's grace covers you and there's no way that you could have outrun God. God's grace covers you and his mercy is new for you each and every morning and so remember that and remind yourself of that. God is not looking down on you with a magnifying glass. God loves you and he is just in love with you. And it's the enemy who brings those thoughts that accuse you.
                                              • The war over your mind doesn’t have to be lost.

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the way everlasting.”
                                              • Psalm 62:8 “Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.”

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Kenza Haddock:

                                              Website

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Kenza Haddock is a licensed professional counselor with expertise in treating complex mental health conditions through both clinical and biblical methods. A former Muslim, she has spoken at conferences and churches and been featured in numerous media outlets regarding the intersection of Christianity and mental health counseling. Kenza and her husband own Oceanic Counseling Group LLC headquartered in South Carolina.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 339 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 82e91561-56fb-4362-aca3-b37100093c00 82e91561-56fb-4362-aca3-b37100093c00 Thu, 09 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2148 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/conquering-the-three-enemies-of-mental-health-biblical-wisdom-with-kenza-haddock                                               How to Restore Wonder and Meaning to Your Christmas Celebration How to Restore Wonder and Meaning to Your Christmas Celebration Episode Summary:

                                              When we think of Christmas, we picture the manger scene, shepherds in the fields, angels singing, and a star guiding the way. But what if we’ve been missing one of the most important parts of the story all along? In her new book, The Spirit of Christmas, award-winning author Cynthia Ruchti invites us to rediscover the Holy Spirit’s presence woven throughout the Christmas narrative—from Genesis in the Garden of Eden to the cry of a baby in Bethlehem. This conversation will open your eyes to the power, presence, and promise of the Spirit of God in ways that may forever change how you experience Christmas.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Christmas often stirs our hearts with nostalgia—decorations, carols, and retelling the story of Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus. Yet, as beautiful as those traditions are, there’s more to the Christmas story than we typically notice. Before the babe was conceived, the Holy Spirit was already at work, setting the stage and preparing the hearts of the biblical characters we know and love.
                                              • This season, let Him set the stage and prepare your heart too. In her book, The Spirit of Christmas, Cynthia Ruchti helps us uncover the often-overlooked role of the Holy Spirit in God’s plan of redemption, reminding us that the Spirit has been present from the beginning—guiding, comforting, and empowering. If you’ve ever longed to experience Christmas with fresh wonder and deeper meaning, this conversation will encourage you to see the season through new eyes.
                                              • I have found it fascinating that over the course of my life and maybe others have been in the same boat, we might grow up understanding Jesus quite well, or, and we hear Jesus loves me from when we're newborns and aren't even aware, perhaps, of that. And then I personally had gone through some seasons of my life where I thought, "I think I understand Jesus pretty well. I'm getting a good handle on who is this Jesus. I'm not sure I'm as familiar with God the Father as I need to be." So, I had a season of my life that was in my early 20s where I dove in and thought, "I need to know you better, God, my Father," and took an approach as I looked at the Word and noticed that throughout the Old Testament, God described himself as a God of love, which I thought was a New Testament idea. I understood who he was as the majestic Creator, and I think probably it kept him a little distant from me because I saw just that. Then a relative of mine had a heart transplant and I took a fresh Bible, and I circled everywhere in the Bible where the word love or heart appeared because I wanted this person who wasn't close to the Lord at the time to know and understand that God has been talking about the subject of love for a very long time. He's all over the Bible, so page after page was filled with the circled or the little heart drawn around the word love or the word heart.
                                              • Then there came a season in my life where I thought, "I think I better understand now. We will never fully understand, but I think I better understand. God the Father, God the Son. Do I really understand the Holy Spirit? I know he is. I believe what the Bible tells me about the Holy Spirit, but do I really understand his role or how the different roles of the Trinity make a complete God for us? So, I investigated that, and I watched for his presence, but not as deeply as I did after I was challenged to look for the Holy Spirit's presence in the Christmas story.
                                              • There was an editor who challenged me with that at a writer's conference. I found it fascinating. I thought that would be a very interesting study. We assume, I think, in the back of our minds that maybe the Holy Spirit is that presence that comes upon Mary in that moment when she conceives Jesus, the baby Jesus, as an infant just minutes old. And then we're not sure where else he might actually show up in the Christmas story. So that was a challenge to me, and I thought it sounded fascinating, but I didn't take the invitation from that editor seriously until a couple of weeks later, when she wrote to me and said, "I want you to write that book."
                                              • So, then I got very serious and started the deep dive research of where is he? And in some ways, it was kind of a where's Waldo of the Holy Spirit in the Christmas story. That's what began this adventure. And for me, it really did alter my view of how I approach Christmas now for many reasons. And that was one of the reasons that I wanted us to have this conversation because I don't think we're alone in that tendency to not really acknowledge the Holy Spirit as much as we acknowledge Jesus or God the Father.
                                              • I grew up in a denomination that the only time the Holy Spirit got mentioned was when it was God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, period. So, I like that You took that editor up on the challenge to look for the Holy Spirit throughout the Christmas story.
                                              • I wondered how far back I would have to trace to find the first evidence of the Holy Spirit and Christmas being linked together. And I realized it was in verse one. It was when the Spirit was hovering over the waters of a world that had yet to be created that was going to need a Redeemer. As we know, God has no beginning and no end, eternity past, eternity present farther than man can imagine. I realized that this in the formation with at creation, God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, at creation forming a world that they knew was going to need a Redeemer and that that Redeemer was going to be thousands of years away from that moment. I saw the person of the Holy Spirit caring about what was going to happen all those centuries later, even in the creation process.
                                              • How does that first crime connect to Christmas? There would have been no reason for Jesus to come as a human being if there were any way that we as humans could have behaved ourselves without him. And it wasn't very long into that early beginning creation story before that was so evident that without Christ present, without the Holy spirit present within us. We were never going to be able to satisfy what needed to be satisfied and keep us in a place where we could walk daily, in essence, walking by the Spirit like it talks about in the New Testament.
                                              • When I began to put the pieces together of this incredible depth of story, this depth of even the communion of the Father and the Son and the Spirit, we saw the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament present in brief moments leading up to when Jesus would be born and then later on as we take that story even farther to his death and his resurrection and his intentional promise, “Hang in there people it's not only okay that I go back to heaven it's better for you that I do because then the Holy Spirit can come, reside inside you, and help you operate out of a place of knowing exactly my heart, knowing what God my Father,” Jesus said, “wants of you, and what will help you to live a life that will allow you to pillow your head every night in peace, no matter what's going on in the rest of your life.”
                                              • The other thing that I really appreciate about Jesus knowing our every need is when he reminds us that he's got to send the Holy Spirit to remind us of all truth. As a neuropsychologist, that's one of the areas that I love to focus on the most because I have a short memory, and I need those reminders.  I love how the spirit of Christmas is our reminder of the gift of the spirit.
                                              • I didn't grow up in a denomination that had an actual practice of Advent, of intentional preparation for Christmas season. I knew the word, Advent. I knew it was a good word. I knew it was a healthy word and lovely, but we just didn't have that particular practice. We oftentimes, even with Lent, that was another, it seemed like it was for a denomination that was more liturgical, let's say, in thought. But I think more and more these days, we're realizing that every heart needs to be prepared. Every heart needs to “prepare him room” as the one Christmas carol says. It’s actually for any day, but when we think about Christmas in particular, it is so easy to get caught up in all the to -dos and all the menus and all the party planning and all the some-things we're very happy to participate in, some things that just seem like one more chore. And it's kind of this wild cacophony of noise and tension, and there may be relationships that are especially challenged at Christmastime, there may be work -related things that are especially difficult at Christmastime. That is not at all what this is supposed to be about. But we early church members apparently understood that we need time to get our hearts ready for this such, such a holy, holy season. And the Holy Spirit is part of that.
                                              • As we take a look at what was the Holy Spirit's role in the original story that began way back at creation, but was threaded throughout Scripture as He was present in speaking to Isaiah about a virgin shall conceive way back then. And it didn't say shall conceive in the next day or two. Again, thousands of years from that prophecy, but the Holy Spirit was inspiring that prophet Isaiah to speak of that. And as we look at it in the time period in which those words were spoken, there was chaos. There was political chaos. There was trouble on every hand. There was the son of a king who was now the king, and he was being a lousy king. And this interesting thing: I think he wanted to do the right thing. King Ahaz, I think, wanted to do the right thing. He heard from God, but he didn't trust that what he heard from God was enough. He needed to find other voices that he would listen to. He was getting influenced by all kinds of other people. And Isaiah was trying to bring him back to, "No, there is one God, and you can trust him." And as the Spirit was inspiring Isaiah to speak the words, he was saying to King Ahaz, "Ask God, ask him for a sign, and he'll tell you.” Ahaz didn't have that kind of relationship with God. So, he said, "Oh, I don't want to test God in any way." And through the Holy Spirit's words, through Isaiah, we hear, and if we set it in modern language, we might say, "I'll give you a sign. A virgin is going to conceive and bear a son." And then, and we know some of the rest of that wording.
                                              • How interesting that in a chaotic world, with a king who wasn't paying attention to the right voices, not unlike the worlds we might be operating in: maybe our boss isn't listening to the right voice, but we have to respond to the boss. Maybe our family members are all chaotic and confused and worrying about where are we going to set Uncle Ralph this Christmas, because he's going to torture these family members even with just teasing. That's the very world that a savior was promised to that world, promised by the Holy Spirit. And it's the same with us now.
                                              • When I started to study, what was the Holy Spirit's role? He often came to those in the biblical story, some of it in the New Testament now, he came to those who were fearful. They were in danger for their lives. And the Holy Spirit would come on the scene and bring peace or hope or comfort. He would bring guidance where there wasn't any guidance. He accompanied Mary on her journey to visit Elizabeth. Nobody else did. We're not told anybody else was there on that journey, which was a long journey for Mary, except the Holy Spirit, who had to have been whispering comfort and strength, and “you will get through this. I'm here for you. I am with you. I am always with you.” And then Mary and Elizabeth met one another and the baby in Elizabeth's womb knew the Savior was being carried by this woman who couldn't even feel kicks in her own body yet. It was too new, too soon.
                                              • So, as I look at whether it's darkness or depression or anxiety or legitimate fear or relationship troubles, those scenes were the scenes where the Holy Spirit showed up in the Bible. Those are the scenes I need him to show up in my Christmas. He is there. I just may not have observed that he was there, is there, and was there in the original Christmas story too.
                                              • The Spirit of Christmas reminds us and brings us back to that recognition that he always was there, and he is there today. To us, waiting often seems purposeless and painful, yet the cry of “how long?” appears throughout scripture.
                                              • I think one of the things that is toughest about any waiting time is believing you are alone in the waiting. I think honestly, whether it's waiting for a diagnosis or it's waiting for the medicine to kick in, or it's waiting for family members to reconcile, or it's waiting for the job that we believe is out there somewhere that we haven't found yet, whatever the situation is, I believe that what intensifies that waiting experience and makes it full of tension in the natural is the belief that we're alone.
                                              • Even if we have a loving spouse to share with or we have other family members or a good friend we can converse with, deep down in our soul, it's that misunderstanding that makes us believe that we are alone. And the Holy Spirit is saying, "Untrue. This is untrue. I am here in the waiting, and that's what will make everything change."
                                              • Mary had a long wait after that moment when the angel said, "You will bear a Savior." She had waiting even from those early days of raising this little baby. Before Jesus' ultimate ministry began, there was another waiting time where she was by his side before the ultimate reason he came to earth was fulfilled.
                                              • Mary got to witness much of that, even being at the foot of the cross as she watched that ultimate moment then that we relate to Easter but it's so much part of the Christmas story too.
                                              • As we discover where the Holy Spirit is present, we mimic what he did or what he said. If we see him as comforter, who can we be a comforter for? If we see him as a provider, who can we be a provider for?
                                              • One of the tips that was given in the book as an idea was, do you really need your Christmas meal more than you need to give your Christmas meal to a family that has none? Can I have turkey any time of the year? Absolutely I can. Would it be a better move for our family to take our meal and give it to someone who has none? I would be acting like the Holy Spirit did and like the heart of Jesus is to forego a need that I think is a need of my own to meet somebody else's need.
                                              • I make a parallel of the idea of if I'm looking for the Holy Spirit, what I'm looking for is the kind of fruit that he provides: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self -control. So, if I'm going to give good gifts like the Holy Spirit gives, how can I be peace for someone who needs it? How can I be a presence? How can I be evidence of faithfulness? That might be in a visit to someone who is ignored or overlooked during the holiday. We think of those things as philanthropic sometimes or we think of them as just plain old kindness but on the other hand if we see it as the kind of thing the Holy Spirit does, then we realize this is far holier of an act than just a kind deed.
                                              • When we look at it from that approach and we take that approach we're fueled to be able to and do it more and more and enjoy the process and not see it as an obligation.
                                              • It has always bothered me the idea of anyone spending Christmas alone. When we discuss the idea of the Holy Spirit is always present, what a better way to show that presence and that love that Jesus came to offer us by reaching out to those who might be alone, who are wondering “where is God today? Does he even see me?” Those are the people who are the most grateful for the smallest of acts because they feel seen. And isn't that what we all want? It's such a gift to know that we are seen by the Holy Spirit.
                                              • The day after Christmas we're often sitting in a pile of opened packages and empty boxes and toys that the batteries have run out already, and maybe disappointments for how we hoped it would go that it didn't. There are people who are taking ornaments out of the box and it might be baby's first Christmas. We may remember that special day and the ornament brings us pain because hanging it on the tree may be a reminder that that child is no longer here or is estranged from us. Someone will have a Christmas like that.
                                              • We intentionally set up the devotional to be a short read, one a day, so that for day after day after day of December, including the day after Christmas, there's a reminder of places you might not have thought to look, until I wrote the book. And then we also include a list of helpful hints. We include a downloadable that has to do with how many of these different roles did the Holy Spirit play in this actual event?
                                              • Part of the advice and the very practical advice is maybe do what I did and make it an actual adventure. Take time to intentionally watch for his presence or be his presence. Let his presence in you shine somehow throughout the holiday season. It can't help but change what your Christmas looks like.
                                              • One of the outcomes of my own journey to take a better, stronger look at what is this all about is that it really helps us to understand where the meaning of Christmas is and where the meaning isn't. The meaning of Christmas isn't how many parties can I get on my calendar. The meaning is likely more in what can I remove and not lose anything but instead gain. I might gain time that I needed. I might gain a more peaceful attitude toward this season. I might see that some of the things I have worked so hard to do or thought they were so important to make Christmas perfect, aren’t that important.
                                              • How can we make Christmas any more perfect? Something that God did, that God was all over and did. What we often call essential to Christmas, whether it's that meal or the certain decorations or the tradition that we had of cutting down our own tree or the special hot cocoa that grandma makes; If any of those things are removed from our traditions, is Christmas still going to happen? Absolutely. What's our heart going to be like if we miss the cocoa? Not much difference. What if we miss the Holy Spirit in Christmas? That will make a huge difference - For sure.
                                              • The idea that the Trinity loved what they created together despite humanity's fall is so powerful. We are the ones He came to save.
                                              • The Bible would call us Gentiles; we were not born into the original children of Israel. We all can trace our lineage way back to the beginning, but we weren't considered the original children of Israel to which much of the Bible was written. But we are the ones he came to save.
                                              • There's a verse in Galatians that I don't have memorized yet, but I want to, where it talks about God sent the Son so that we could have the Holy Spirit. When I stumbled on that verse, I thought, He sent Jesus to save us, yes.  Jesus had to come as a human, had to leave everything he knew that was so perfect and come into this imperfect world and tolerate us. So, I'm now just fascinated by that idea that God the Father sent the Son to save the world so that we could have the Holy Spirit. That makes the complete picture. And that makes the waiting easier. It makes the feelings of defeat easier. And it makes those times of joy richer.
                                              • The Holy Spirit, like God the Father and Jesus the Son, is always true to Himself. But that truth shows up in his behavior, we might say, throughout the Christmas story. And it will always be related to something that is so completely positive, but also so completely meeting the needs of the human heart, which is the need for his presence, the need for his comfort, the need for his peace.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Luke 1:49 “For the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is His name.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Cynthia Ruchti:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / X / LinkedIn

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Cynthia Ruchti is an acclaimed writer and speaker. A former radio producer, she is a popular media guest and has been featured on numerous TV, radio, and online outlets. Her written work has received recognition with Publishers Weekly starred reviews, Christian Retailing's BEST Awards, Readers' Choice Awards, Reviewers' Choice Awards, The Carol Award, two Christy finalists, and more. Her tagline is, "I can't unravel. I'm hemmed in Hope."

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              When we think of Christmas, we picture the manger scene, shepherds in the fields, angels singing, and a star guiding the way. But what if we’ve been missing one of the most important parts of the story all along? In her new book, The Spirit of Christmas, award-winning author Cynthia Ruchti invites us to rediscover the Holy Spirit’s presence woven throughout the Christmas narrative—from Genesis in the Garden of Eden to the cry of a baby in Bethlehem. This conversation will open your eyes to the power, presence, and promise of the Spirit of God in ways that may forever change how you experience Christmas.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Christmas often stirs our hearts with nostalgia—decorations, carols, and retelling the story of Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus. Yet, as beautiful as those traditions are, there’s more to the Christmas story than we typically notice. Before the babe was conceived, the Holy Spirit was already at work, setting the stage and preparing the hearts of the biblical characters we know and love.
                                              • This season, let Him set the stage and prepare your heart too. In her book, The Spirit of Christmas, Cynthia Ruchti helps us uncover the often-overlooked role of the Holy Spirit in God’s plan of redemption, reminding us that the Spirit has been present from the beginning—guiding, comforting, and empowering. If you’ve ever longed to experience Christmas with fresh wonder and deeper meaning, this conversation will encourage you to see the season through new eyes.
                                              • I have found it fascinating that over the course of my life and maybe others have been in the same boat, we might grow up understanding Jesus quite well, or, and we hear Jesus loves me from when we're newborns and aren't even aware, perhaps, of that. And then I personally had gone through some seasons of my life where I thought, "I think I understand Jesus pretty well. I'm getting a good handle on who is this Jesus. I'm not sure I'm as familiar with God the Father as I need to be." So, I had a season of my life that was in my early 20s where I dove in and thought, "I need to know you better, God, my Father," and took an approach as I looked at the Word and noticed that throughout the Old Testament, God described himself as a God of love, which I thought was a New Testament idea. I understood who he was as the majestic Creator, and I think probably it kept him a little distant from me because I saw just that. Then a relative of mine had a heart transplant and I took a fresh Bible, and I circled everywhere in the Bible where the word love or heart appeared because I wanted this person who wasn't close to the Lord at the time to know and understand that God has been talking about the subject of love for a very long time. He's all over the Bible, so page after page was filled with the circled or the little heart drawn around the word love or the word heart.
                                              • Then there came a season in my life where I thought, "I think I better understand now. We will never fully understand, but I think I better understand. God the Father, God the Son. Do I really understand the Holy Spirit? I know he is. I believe what the Bible tells me about the Holy Spirit, but do I really understand his role or how the different roles of the Trinity make a complete God for us? So, I investigated that, and I watched for his presence, but not as deeply as I did after I was challenged to look for the Holy Spirit's presence in the Christmas story.
                                              • There was an editor who challenged me with that at a writer's conference. I found it fascinating. I thought that would be a very interesting study. We assume, I think, in the back of our minds that maybe the Holy Spirit is that presence that comes upon Mary in that moment when she conceives Jesus, the baby Jesus, as an infant just minutes old. And then we're not sure where else he might actually show up in the Christmas story. So that was a challenge to me, and I thought it sounded fascinating, but I didn't take the invitation from that editor seriously until a couple of weeks later, when she wrote to me and said, "I want you to write that book."
                                              • So, then I got very serious and started the deep dive research of where is he? And in some ways, it was kind of a where's Waldo of the Holy Spirit in the Christmas story. That's what began this adventure. And for me, it really did alter my view of how I approach Christmas now for many reasons. And that was one of the reasons that I wanted us to have this conversation because I don't think we're alone in that tendency to not really acknowledge the Holy Spirit as much as we acknowledge Jesus or God the Father.
                                              • I grew up in a denomination that the only time the Holy Spirit got mentioned was when it was God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, period. So, I like that You took that editor up on the challenge to look for the Holy Spirit throughout the Christmas story.
                                              • I wondered how far back I would have to trace to find the first evidence of the Holy Spirit and Christmas being linked together. And I realized it was in verse one. It was when the Spirit was hovering over the waters of a world that had yet to be created that was going to need a Redeemer. As we know, God has no beginning and no end, eternity past, eternity present farther than man can imagine. I realized that this in the formation with at creation, God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, at creation forming a world that they knew was going to need a Redeemer and that that Redeemer was going to be thousands of years away from that moment. I saw the person of the Holy Spirit caring about what was going to happen all those centuries later, even in the creation process.
                                              • How does that first crime connect to Christmas? There would have been no reason for Jesus to come as a human being if there were any way that we as humans could have behaved ourselves without him. And it wasn't very long into that early beginning creation story before that was so evident that without Christ present, without the Holy spirit present within us. We were never going to be able to satisfy what needed to be satisfied and keep us in a place where we could walk daily, in essence, walking by the Spirit like it talks about in the New Testament.
                                              • When I began to put the pieces together of this incredible depth of story, this depth of even the communion of the Father and the Son and the Spirit, we saw the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament present in brief moments leading up to when Jesus would be born and then later on as we take that story even farther to his death and his resurrection and his intentional promise, “Hang in there people it's not only okay that I go back to heaven it's better for you that I do because then the Holy Spirit can come, reside inside you, and help you operate out of a place of knowing exactly my heart, knowing what God my Father,” Jesus said, “wants of you, and what will help you to live a life that will allow you to pillow your head every night in peace, no matter what's going on in the rest of your life.”
                                              • The other thing that I really appreciate about Jesus knowing our every need is when he reminds us that he's got to send the Holy Spirit to remind us of all truth. As a neuropsychologist, that's one of the areas that I love to focus on the most because I have a short memory, and I need those reminders.  I love how the spirit of Christmas is our reminder of the gift of the spirit.
                                              • I didn't grow up in a denomination that had an actual practice of Advent, of intentional preparation for Christmas season. I knew the word, Advent. I knew it was a good word. I knew it was a healthy word and lovely, but we just didn't have that particular practice. We oftentimes, even with Lent, that was another, it seemed like it was for a denomination that was more liturgical, let's say, in thought. But I think more and more these days, we're realizing that every heart needs to be prepared. Every heart needs to “prepare him room” as the one Christmas carol says. It’s actually for any day, but when we think about Christmas in particular, it is so easy to get caught up in all the to -dos and all the menus and all the party planning and all the some-things we're very happy to participate in, some things that just seem like one more chore. And it's kind of this wild cacophony of noise and tension, and there may be relationships that are especially challenged at Christmastime, there may be work -related things that are especially difficult at Christmastime. That is not at all what this is supposed to be about. But we early church members apparently understood that we need time to get our hearts ready for this such, such a holy, holy season. And the Holy Spirit is part of that.
                                              • As we take a look at what was the Holy Spirit's role in the original story that began way back at creation, but was threaded throughout Scripture as He was present in speaking to Isaiah about a virgin shall conceive way back then. And it didn't say shall conceive in the next day or two. Again, thousands of years from that prophecy, but the Holy Spirit was inspiring that prophet Isaiah to speak of that. And as we look at it in the time period in which those words were spoken, there was chaos. There was political chaos. There was trouble on every hand. There was the son of a king who was now the king, and he was being a lousy king. And this interesting thing: I think he wanted to do the right thing. King Ahaz, I think, wanted to do the right thing. He heard from God, but he didn't trust that what he heard from God was enough. He needed to find other voices that he would listen to. He was getting influenced by all kinds of other people. And Isaiah was trying to bring him back to, "No, there is one God, and you can trust him." And as the Spirit was inspiring Isaiah to speak the words, he was saying to King Ahaz, "Ask God, ask him for a sign, and he'll tell you.” Ahaz didn't have that kind of relationship with God. So, he said, "Oh, I don't want to test God in any way." And through the Holy Spirit's words, through Isaiah, we hear, and if we set it in modern language, we might say, "I'll give you a sign. A virgin is going to conceive and bear a son." And then, and we know some of the rest of that wording.
                                              • How interesting that in a chaotic world, with a king who wasn't paying attention to the right voices, not unlike the worlds we might be operating in: maybe our boss isn't listening to the right voice, but we have to respond to the boss. Maybe our family members are all chaotic and confused and worrying about where are we going to set Uncle Ralph this Christmas, because he's going to torture these family members even with just teasing. That's the very world that a savior was promised to that world, promised by the Holy Spirit. And it's the same with us now.
                                              • When I started to study, what was the Holy Spirit's role? He often came to those in the biblical story, some of it in the New Testament now, he came to those who were fearful. They were in danger for their lives. And the Holy Spirit would come on the scene and bring peace or hope or comfort. He would bring guidance where there wasn't any guidance. He accompanied Mary on her journey to visit Elizabeth. Nobody else did. We're not told anybody else was there on that journey, which was a long journey for Mary, except the Holy Spirit, who had to have been whispering comfort and strength, and “you will get through this. I'm here for you. I am with you. I am always with you.” And then Mary and Elizabeth met one another and the baby in Elizabeth's womb knew the Savior was being carried by this woman who couldn't even feel kicks in her own body yet. It was too new, too soon.
                                              • So, as I look at whether it's darkness or depression or anxiety or legitimate fear or relationship troubles, those scenes were the scenes where the Holy Spirit showed up in the Bible. Those are the scenes I need him to show up in my Christmas. He is there. I just may not have observed that he was there, is there, and was there in the original Christmas story too.
                                              • The Spirit of Christmas reminds us and brings us back to that recognition that he always was there, and he is there today. To us, waiting often seems purposeless and painful, yet the cry of “how long?” appears throughout scripture.
                                              • I think one of the things that is toughest about any waiting time is believing you are alone in the waiting. I think honestly, whether it's waiting for a diagnosis or it's waiting for the medicine to kick in, or it's waiting for family members to reconcile, or it's waiting for the job that we believe is out there somewhere that we haven't found yet, whatever the situation is, I believe that what intensifies that waiting experience and makes it full of tension in the natural is the belief that we're alone.
                                              • Even if we have a loving spouse to share with or we have other family members or a good friend we can converse with, deep down in our soul, it's that misunderstanding that makes us believe that we are alone. And the Holy Spirit is saying, "Untrue. This is untrue. I am here in the waiting, and that's what will make everything change."
                                              • Mary had a long wait after that moment when the angel said, "You will bear a Savior." She had waiting even from those early days of raising this little baby. Before Jesus' ultimate ministry began, there was another waiting time where she was by his side before the ultimate reason he came to earth was fulfilled.
                                              • Mary got to witness much of that, even being at the foot of the cross as she watched that ultimate moment then that we relate to Easter but it's so much part of the Christmas story too.
                                              • As we discover where the Holy Spirit is present, we mimic what he did or what he said. If we see him as comforter, who can we be a comforter for? If we see him as a provider, who can we be a provider for?
                                              • One of the tips that was given in the book as an idea was, do you really need your Christmas meal more than you need to give your Christmas meal to a family that has none? Can I have turkey any time of the year? Absolutely I can. Would it be a better move for our family to take our meal and give it to someone who has none? I would be acting like the Holy Spirit did and like the heart of Jesus is to forego a need that I think is a need of my own to meet somebody else's need.
                                              • I make a parallel of the idea of if I'm looking for the Holy Spirit, what I'm looking for is the kind of fruit that he provides: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self -control. So, if I'm going to give good gifts like the Holy Spirit gives, how can I be peace for someone who needs it? How can I be a presence? How can I be evidence of faithfulness? That might be in a visit to someone who is ignored or overlooked during the holiday. We think of those things as philanthropic sometimes or we think of them as just plain old kindness but on the other hand if we see it as the kind of thing the Holy Spirit does, then we realize this is far holier of an act than just a kind deed.
                                              • When we look at it from that approach and we take that approach we're fueled to be able to and do it more and more and enjoy the process and not see it as an obligation.
                                              • It has always bothered me the idea of anyone spending Christmas alone. When we discuss the idea of the Holy Spirit is always present, what a better way to show that presence and that love that Jesus came to offer us by reaching out to those who might be alone, who are wondering “where is God today? Does he even see me?” Those are the people who are the most grateful for the smallest of acts because they feel seen. And isn't that what we all want? It's such a gift to know that we are seen by the Holy Spirit.
                                              • The day after Christmas we're often sitting in a pile of opened packages and empty boxes and toys that the batteries have run out already, and maybe disappointments for how we hoped it would go that it didn't. There are people who are taking ornaments out of the box and it might be baby's first Christmas. We may remember that special day and the ornament brings us pain because hanging it on the tree may be a reminder that that child is no longer here or is estranged from us. Someone will have a Christmas like that.
                                              • We intentionally set up the devotional to be a short read, one a day, so that for day after day after day of December, including the day after Christmas, there's a reminder of places you might not have thought to look, until I wrote the book. And then we also include a list of helpful hints. We include a downloadable that has to do with how many of these different roles did the Holy Spirit play in this actual event?
                                              • Part of the advice and the very practical advice is maybe do what I did and make it an actual adventure. Take time to intentionally watch for his presence or be his presence. Let his presence in you shine somehow throughout the holiday season. It can't help but change what your Christmas looks like.
                                              • One of the outcomes of my own journey to take a better, stronger look at what is this all about is that it really helps us to understand where the meaning of Christmas is and where the meaning isn't. The meaning of Christmas isn't how many parties can I get on my calendar. The meaning is likely more in what can I remove and not lose anything but instead gain. I might gain time that I needed. I might gain a more peaceful attitude toward this season. I might see that some of the things I have worked so hard to do or thought they were so important to make Christmas perfect, aren’t that important.
                                              • How can we make Christmas any more perfect? Something that God did, that God was all over and did. What we often call essential to Christmas, whether it's that meal or the certain decorations or the tradition that we had of cutting down our own tree or the special hot cocoa that grandma makes; If any of those things are removed from our traditions, is Christmas still going to happen? Absolutely. What's our heart going to be like if we miss the cocoa? Not much difference. What if we miss the Holy Spirit in Christmas? That will make a huge difference - For sure.
                                              • The idea that the Trinity loved what they created together despite humanity's fall is so powerful. We are the ones He came to save.
                                              • The Bible would call us Gentiles; we were not born into the original children of Israel. We all can trace our lineage way back to the beginning, but we weren't considered the original children of Israel to which much of the Bible was written. But we are the ones he came to save.
                                              • There's a verse in Galatians that I don't have memorized yet, but I want to, where it talks about God sent the Son so that we could have the Holy Spirit. When I stumbled on that verse, I thought, He sent Jesus to save us, yes.  Jesus had to come as a human, had to leave everything he knew that was so perfect and come into this imperfect world and tolerate us. So, I'm now just fascinated by that idea that God the Father sent the Son to save the world so that we could have the Holy Spirit. That makes the complete picture. And that makes the waiting easier. It makes the feelings of defeat easier. And it makes those times of joy richer.
                                              • The Holy Spirit, like God the Father and Jesus the Son, is always true to Himself. But that truth shows up in his behavior, we might say, throughout the Christmas story. And it will always be related to something that is so completely positive, but also so completely meeting the needs of the human heart, which is the need for his presence, the need for his comfort, the need for his peace.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Luke 1:49 “For the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is His name.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Cynthia Ruchti:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / X / LinkedIn

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Cynthia Ruchti is an acclaimed writer and speaker. A former radio producer, she is a popular media guest and has been featured on numerous TV, radio, and online outlets. Her written work has received recognition with Publishers Weekly starred reviews, Christian Retailing's BEST Awards, Readers' Choice Awards, Reviewers' Choice Awards, The Carol Award, two Christy finalists, and more. Her tagline is, "I can't unravel. I'm hemmed in Hope."

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 338 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 23b9a8cf-e664-4283-a837-b36901759d68 23b9a8cf-e664-4283-a837-b36901759d68 Thu, 02 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2016 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-restore-wonder-and-meaning-to-your-christmas-celebration                                               How to Overcome Life’s Challenges with Faith and Hope How to Overcome Life’s Challenges with Faith and Hope Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, my guest Bill Derrick and I share how to navigate life’s unexpected challenges with faith and resilience. Drawing on powerful biblical principles, we discuss how to trust God in the midst of life’s storms and find restoration and hope when circumstances feel overwhelming. Our conversation dives into practical tools for facing adversity, embracing God’s peace, and emerging stronger through trials.

                                              If you’ve ever wondered how to hold on to faith when life takes an unexpected turn, this episode will inspire and equip you to trust God’s plan and find hope in the storm.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • I was also learning about the curse of success. When you're very successful, you feel like you could do no wrong. And you feel like you've got all the answers. And I had to learn that neither one of those points were necessarily true. I also had to learn that, yes, I'm in control until I'm not, and now I'm not in control anymore. And last of all, I had to kind of learn that my priorities, because of success probably, had gotten out of whack.
                                              • When somebody asks you, “what's your priorities?” You automatically say, "Well, that's easy. God, family, and business." I think during this time, my priorities of success now, not necessarily when things went bad, but when we were very successful, one might look at the priorities as being more like “business, business, business, and then God and family, because we were doing well.”
                                              • Just stick with it because the storm will end. It may not end the way you want it, but it will end and there will be blessings that you will find because of the storm.
                                              • From a practical standpoint, as leaders, when you do your planning, you plan for success.  You don't necessarily plan for what happens if we fail? That's a hard thing to do as a business leader. From a faith standpoint, we're told in the Bible to build your house on a solid foundation so that when the storms come, we don't get washed away. So from that standpoint, I think that's how you can prepare: you go into these storms on the right foundation of faith and trust in God.
                                              • I was realizing that God had just spent five or six years preparing me. I mean, you know, it sounds a little weird, but I was prepared.
                                              • I said, we don't know what we were ready for, but we're ready for it and I don't know what the future holds but we're ready to move forward and because I knew that God was going to be there.
                                              • I feel a calmness, a contentment, that brings me at peace with my situation.
                                              • I am so grateful for a lot of things and I tell people don't be like me and have to get to the point where things start to be taken away from you for you to be grateful.  Being grateful can change your life.
                                              • First of all, don't ask the question, “where is God?” God is there. The first question we need to ask is, "Where am I?" And lean into God. He doesn't necessarily cause these things, but at the same time, He uses them for our benefit. And if we can just get our minds to that point to where we understand that and we can say, "All right, God, I'm along for the ride. I'm going to do what I can, but you're driving and I need to let you take me where you want me to go."
                                              • Unexpected circumstances can upend our neatly planned life at any time.
                                              • God is always there. The question is, do we trust Him enough to help us through the storm by His means and His way?
                                              • I am amazed at how blind I was before the storm and how God was working in my life.
                                              • No matter what your circumstances, no matter what your age, no matter what your physical or mental situation, no matter how tragic your experience – believe and trust in the Lord.
                                              • We all have a choice to make when the storms of life assail us. We can blame God and get angry, or we can let Him take control and trust Him.
                                              • When things are stripped from our life, it helps lead us back to where we can trust God for our future.
                                              • The storms we face in life don’t always end the way we want nor when we want them, yet they are often unwanted gifts from God.
                                              • When things are stripped from our life, it helps lead us back to where we can trust God for our future.

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Bill Derrick:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn / X

                                               

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Bill Derrick holds a degree in engineering and an MBA. He helped lead his family construction business through a recession, rebuilt it, and watched it grow in both residential and commercial business. He is a cancer survivor who shares his journey.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, my guest Bill Derrick and I share how to navigate life’s unexpected challenges with faith and resilience. Drawing on powerful biblical principles, we discuss how to trust God in the midst of life’s storms and find restoration and hope when circumstances feel overwhelming. Our conversation dives into practical tools for facing adversity, embracing God’s peace, and emerging stronger through trials.

                                              If you’ve ever wondered how to hold on to faith when life takes an unexpected turn, this episode will inspire and equip you to trust God’s plan and find hope in the storm.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • I was also learning about the curse of success. When you're very successful, you feel like you could do no wrong. And you feel like you've got all the answers. And I had to learn that neither one of those points were necessarily true. I also had to learn that, yes, I'm in control until I'm not, and now I'm not in control anymore. And last of all, I had to kind of learn that my priorities, because of success probably, had gotten out of whack.
                                              • When somebody asks you, “what's your priorities?” You automatically say, "Well, that's easy. God, family, and business." I think during this time, my priorities of success now, not necessarily when things went bad, but when we were very successful, one might look at the priorities as being more like “business, business, business, and then God and family, because we were doing well.”
                                              • Just stick with it because the storm will end. It may not end the way you want it, but it will end and there will be blessings that you will find because of the storm.
                                              • From a practical standpoint, as leaders, when you do your planning, you plan for success.  You don't necessarily plan for what happens if we fail? That's a hard thing to do as a business leader. From a faith standpoint, we're told in the Bible to build your house on a solid foundation so that when the storms come, we don't get washed away. So from that standpoint, I think that's how you can prepare: you go into these storms on the right foundation of faith and trust in God.
                                              • I was realizing that God had just spent five or six years preparing me. I mean, you know, it sounds a little weird, but I was prepared.
                                              • I said, we don't know what we were ready for, but we're ready for it and I don't know what the future holds but we're ready to move forward and because I knew that God was going to be there.
                                              • I feel a calmness, a contentment, that brings me at peace with my situation.
                                              • I am so grateful for a lot of things and I tell people don't be like me and have to get to the point where things start to be taken away from you for you to be grateful.  Being grateful can change your life.
                                              • First of all, don't ask the question, “where is God?” God is there. The first question we need to ask is, "Where am I?" And lean into God. He doesn't necessarily cause these things, but at the same time, He uses them for our benefit. And if we can just get our minds to that point to where we understand that and we can say, "All right, God, I'm along for the ride. I'm going to do what I can, but you're driving and I need to let you take me where you want me to go."
                                              • Unexpected circumstances can upend our neatly planned life at any time.
                                              • God is always there. The question is, do we trust Him enough to help us through the storm by His means and His way?
                                              • I am amazed at how blind I was before the storm and how God was working in my life.
                                              • No matter what your circumstances, no matter what your age, no matter what your physical or mental situation, no matter how tragic your experience – believe and trust in the Lord.
                                              • We all have a choice to make when the storms of life assail us. We can blame God and get angry, or we can let Him take control and trust Him.
                                              • When things are stripped from our life, it helps lead us back to where we can trust God for our future.
                                              • The storms we face in life don’t always end the way we want nor when we want them, yet they are often unwanted gifts from God.
                                              • When things are stripped from our life, it helps lead us back to where we can trust God for our future.

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Bill Derrick:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn / X

                                               

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Bill Derrick holds a degree in engineering and an MBA. He helped lead his family construction business through a recession, rebuilt it, and watched it grow in both residential and commercial business. He is a cancer survivor who shares his journey.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 337 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 4dd33a73-6101-4d1c-9955-b36201885123 4dd33a73-6101-4d1c-9955-b36201885123 Thu, 25 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1897 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-overcome-life-s-challenges-with-faith-and-hope                                               Healthy Living Simplified: Tips for Aging Well Healthy Living Simplified: Tips for Aging Well Episode Summary:

                                              Aging is not for the faint of heart. But weight gain, illness, and infirmity do not have to be a way of life in our older years. The Bible has much to say about energy, vitality, healthy living, and aging gracefully. Taking care of our bodies is not selfish: it’s critical. Scripture reminds us that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. If we don’t take care of our bodies, they won’t take care of us. What is it we need to know to age well?

                                              In honor of Women's Health & Fitness Day, we are thrilled to welcome Shemane Nugent, (wife of Ted Nugent) a fitness instructor with over forty-three years of experience, author of Abundantly Well, and a passionate advocate for aging gracefully. What if you could feel healthier and happier without giving up your favorite foods or spending hours at the gym? In this episode, Shemane will share her favorite tips for staying in shape, feeling energized, and embracing vitality in your forties, fifties, sixties, and beyond. Together, we’ll explore how simple daily choices can ignite passion and purpose, no matter your age.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Those things that bring us to our knees, I believe bring us closer to God. And there have been a lot of people who have been through so much worse than I have. When we are, you know, trying to navigate through the storm. You can read every self -help book, and I did, and you can call out to God, and I did, and sometimes it might not happen overnight but it brings us to our knees, I believe bring us closer to God. Regardless of what situation or circumstance you're in, God has a plan for you.
                                              • I am an unlikely messenger.
                                              • Being healthy is an inside job.
                                              • We tend to second guess ourselves. Regardless of where they're at in their life, especially where they're at in their health journey, I want to be your cheerleader. I want to come alongside you and advocate for you because I know it's not easy.
                                              • I do have 44 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. I've taught just about every Fitness modality from step to spinning. I trained with Johnny G the guy who created spinning to slide to body pump to of course Zumba has been my favorite. I trained and developed programs for Zumba, traveled all around the world, training instructors and teaching probably, I don't know, 100,000 people, 100,000 classes. I mean, just having the time of my life, but that doesn't matter if you don't have joy inside, if you don't find your purpose.
                                              • The baggage that we all carry with us into adulthood, if you had to put a weight on something that happened to you, when you were a kid, you know, somebody said something terrible to you and you still think about that, think about how much, just put a 10 pounds, 20 pounds, think about carrying that baggage around all the time and what your life would be like if you could just let go of it.
                                              • As soon as I know that I'm awake, I don't even open my eyes. I say a prayer of gratitude, thanking God for my health and my family's health. That is number one for me.
                                              • I think it's that first couple of steps that are the hardest. Yes, today was cold. It was dreary. I didn't want to exercise, and I do exercise regularly. But so yesterday, I just made an agreement with myself, just go do it for five minutes. Yes, five minutes. And you know what? 35 minutes later, I was so glad that I attempted the five minutes because it's that getting started. And so, friends, listen to what Shemane is saying. Maybe you just need an accountability partner. Maybe you need to text back and forth and say, okay, I'm going to make myself walk today. Hold me accountable tomorrow. There's something about being accountable that creates that momentum.
                                              • What role does your faith play in your approach to health and wellness? - It's everything. And especially the last, I would say five years, but 10 probably overall, I've done a deep dive into spiritual warfare, the devil comes to steal, kill, and destroy. What better way than to make you doubt yourself, to destroy your health, your family's health? I do have a chapter in this book about spiritual warfare, and for me, faith is everything.
                                              • Faith is everything that helps me get through the day.
                                              • God is with us and He's there with us at a right hand and he will walk us through the storm. And sometimes we think we put too much pressure on ourselves to be perfect. He knows that we're not. And I think he loves it when we admit that, when we repent, and we just move forward. Every day we are so blessed, to have another day to start again, try again. And I want to encourage people to do that as So, not be too hard on yourself. That's a good piece of grace -filled advice. When I talk to patients, when I talk to my audience about self-care, that includes self -compassion. Extending grace to ourselves, it's so much harder sometimes for us to extend grace to ourselves that we would extend to a friend.
                                              • Plan ahead of time, so that when the time comes, you don’t have any excuses to make poor choices.
                                              • Aging gracefully incorporates our thought life. If we were gentler and kinder to ourselves. I think we would also be gentler and kinder to others when we're tempted to criticize because we often criticize because we're feeling bad about ourselves. She meant if we would come back to what God says, God says we are fearfully and wonderfully made. God says we are the apple of His eye. God says He delights over us with singing. If that's not reason to celebrate us without the makeup and the fancy hair and the fancy clothes, I don't know what is because God looks at the heart. Any plan to age gracefully has to look at what's going on in our heart and what's going on in our thought life. 46:12.
                                              • I remember just having a sliver of hope, just a tiny little bit of hope. Sometimes that's all we need to get through the day. Focus on the good things focus on the positive things focus on that that open not just opened door, not an open window, but just maybe the windows cracked a little bit. We've got to really count our blessings and be grateful for those things that we have. I think I learned this from my mother, she was very complimentary towards other people. And when I first see somebody, like my friend the other day, I saw her, I'm like, you look really good. Let's compliment each other. Let's start from a perspective of joy and providing other people. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
                                              • 1 Timothy 4: 4-5 “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Shemane Nugent:

                                              Website / Facebook / YouTube / Instagram / Podcast

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Shemane Nugent, a bestselling author, has been an expert in the health and fitness industry for more than 40 years. She has been featured on VH1, MTV, CMT, Discovery, C-Span, Entertainment Tonight, Fox, and now hosts Faith & Freedom on Real America’s Voice network. After surviving a life-threatening illness caused by toxic mold, Shemane is dedicated to serving the Lord and helping others lean into abundant living. Shemane lives with her husband, rocker Ted Nugent, and their dogs in Texas.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              Aging is not for the faint of heart. But weight gain, illness, and infirmity do not have to be a way of life in our older years. The Bible has much to say about energy, vitality, healthy living, and aging gracefully. Taking care of our bodies is not selfish: it’s critical. Scripture reminds us that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. If we don’t take care of our bodies, they won’t take care of us. What is it we need to know to age well?

                                              In honor of Women's Health & Fitness Day, we are thrilled to welcome Shemane Nugent, (wife of Ted Nugent) a fitness instructor with over forty-three years of experience, author of Abundantly Well, and a passionate advocate for aging gracefully. What if you could feel healthier and happier without giving up your favorite foods or spending hours at the gym? In this episode, Shemane will share her favorite tips for staying in shape, feeling energized, and embracing vitality in your forties, fifties, sixties, and beyond. Together, we’ll explore how simple daily choices can ignite passion and purpose, no matter your age.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Those things that bring us to our knees, I believe bring us closer to God. And there have been a lot of people who have been through so much worse than I have. When we are, you know, trying to navigate through the storm. You can read every self -help book, and I did, and you can call out to God, and I did, and sometimes it might not happen overnight but it brings us to our knees, I believe bring us closer to God. Regardless of what situation or circumstance you're in, God has a plan for you.
                                              • I am an unlikely messenger.
                                              • Being healthy is an inside job.
                                              • We tend to second guess ourselves. Regardless of where they're at in their life, especially where they're at in their health journey, I want to be your cheerleader. I want to come alongside you and advocate for you because I know it's not easy.
                                              • I do have 44 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. I've taught just about every Fitness modality from step to spinning. I trained with Johnny G the guy who created spinning to slide to body pump to of course Zumba has been my favorite. I trained and developed programs for Zumba, traveled all around the world, training instructors and teaching probably, I don't know, 100,000 people, 100,000 classes. I mean, just having the time of my life, but that doesn't matter if you don't have joy inside, if you don't find your purpose.
                                              • The baggage that we all carry with us into adulthood, if you had to put a weight on something that happened to you, when you were a kid, you know, somebody said something terrible to you and you still think about that, think about how much, just put a 10 pounds, 20 pounds, think about carrying that baggage around all the time and what your life would be like if you could just let go of it.
                                              • As soon as I know that I'm awake, I don't even open my eyes. I say a prayer of gratitude, thanking God for my health and my family's health. That is number one for me.
                                              • I think it's that first couple of steps that are the hardest. Yes, today was cold. It was dreary. I didn't want to exercise, and I do exercise regularly. But so yesterday, I just made an agreement with myself, just go do it for five minutes. Yes, five minutes. And you know what? 35 minutes later, I was so glad that I attempted the five minutes because it's that getting started. And so, friends, listen to what Shemane is saying. Maybe you just need an accountability partner. Maybe you need to text back and forth and say, okay, I'm going to make myself walk today. Hold me accountable tomorrow. There's something about being accountable that creates that momentum.
                                              • What role does your faith play in your approach to health and wellness? - It's everything. And especially the last, I would say five years, but 10 probably overall, I've done a deep dive into spiritual warfare, the devil comes to steal, kill, and destroy. What better way than to make you doubt yourself, to destroy your health, your family's health? I do have a chapter in this book about spiritual warfare, and for me, faith is everything.
                                              • Faith is everything that helps me get through the day.
                                              • God is with us and He's there with us at a right hand and he will walk us through the storm. And sometimes we think we put too much pressure on ourselves to be perfect. He knows that we're not. And I think he loves it when we admit that, when we repent, and we just move forward. Every day we are so blessed, to have another day to start again, try again. And I want to encourage people to do that as So, not be too hard on yourself. That's a good piece of grace -filled advice. When I talk to patients, when I talk to my audience about self-care, that includes self -compassion. Extending grace to ourselves, it's so much harder sometimes for us to extend grace to ourselves that we would extend to a friend.
                                              • Plan ahead of time, so that when the time comes, you don’t have any excuses to make poor choices.
                                              • Aging gracefully incorporates our thought life. If we were gentler and kinder to ourselves. I think we would also be gentler and kinder to others when we're tempted to criticize because we often criticize because we're feeling bad about ourselves. She meant if we would come back to what God says, God says we are fearfully and wonderfully made. God says we are the apple of His eye. God says He delights over us with singing. If that's not reason to celebrate us without the makeup and the fancy hair and the fancy clothes, I don't know what is because God looks at the heart. Any plan to age gracefully has to look at what's going on in our heart and what's going on in our thought life. 46:12.
                                              • I remember just having a sliver of hope, just a tiny little bit of hope. Sometimes that's all we need to get through the day. Focus on the good things focus on the positive things focus on that that open not just opened door, not an open window, but just maybe the windows cracked a little bit. We've got to really count our blessings and be grateful for those things that we have. I think I learned this from my mother, she was very complimentary towards other people. And when I first see somebody, like my friend the other day, I saw her, I'm like, you look really good. Let's compliment each other. Let's start from a perspective of joy and providing other people. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
                                              • 1 Timothy 4: 4-5 “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Shemane Nugent:

                                              Website / Facebook / YouTube / Instagram / Podcast

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Shemane Nugent, a bestselling author, has been an expert in the health and fitness industry for more than 40 years. She has been featured on VH1, MTV, CMT, Discovery, C-Span, Entertainment Tonight, Fox, and now hosts Faith & Freedom on Real America’s Voice network. After surviving a life-threatening illness caused by toxic mold, Shemane is dedicated to serving the Lord and helping others lean into abundant living. Shemane lives with her husband, rocker Ted Nugent, and their dogs in Texas.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 336 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 28b5bb85-77c7-44ba-abe8-b35c00042ef2 28b5bb85-77c7-44ba-abe8-b35c00042ef2 Thu, 18 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2885 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/healthy-living-simplified-tips-for-aging-well                                               How to Find Biblical Encouragement for Your Everyday Life How to Find Biblical Encouragement for Your Everyday Life Episode Summary:

                                              If you’ve ever struggled with discouragement, and we all have because life is full of disappointment and disillusionment, then this episode is for you. In honor of National Day of Encouragement, my co-host, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about How to Find Biblical Encouragement for Your Everyday Life.

                                              Discouragement can rob us of joy, peace, and a sense of purpose. Encouragement is more than a feeling - it’s a powerful tool to propel us toward hope and confidence even when life feels less than happy. Today we’re going to talk about how to find biblical encouragement for your everyday life.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • In 2007, a group of young people at the National Leadership Forum at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas saw a lack of encouragement as one of the main obstacles that people face. While dedicating a day to encourage others is noble, we can experience encouragement every day when we turn to the Lord and receive his encouragement. The challenge to receive biblical encouragement is when we know God’s promises but don’t see him working. This topic is close to my heart because I’ve seen firsthand how knowing God, and his promises have encouraged me in the face of difficult and seemingly unchanging circumstances. I know many of our listeners and viewers struggle with discouragement, and my prayer is that today’s conversation will bring encouragement and hope.
                                              • Knowing God’s names helps us learn to trust him. When we trust him, it’s easier to experience encouragement in our every day. Psalm 9:10 says, Those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
                                              • Relationships are an area where we can experience extreme discouragement. Personality differences can create division. Unforgiveness leads to rifts. It can feel discouraging to desire a healing in a relationship, but every effort is rejected. We’ve talked about the temptation to judge God’s goodness based on humanity’s failures. If our in-person relationships are broken, and we don’t have a vibrant or growing relationship with God, we grow discouraged because we were made for relationship.
                                              • Friend, if you’ve found yourself in a place of discouragement—especially when you're facing relationship struggles—you are not alone. As a neuropsychologist, I’ve seen how deeply our relationships impact not only our emotional well-being but also our brain health. God designed our brains for connection. We were created in His image, a God who is relational by nature, and He wired us for fellowship—with Him and with each other.
                                              • When our relationships are strained, whether due to misunderstanding, unmet expectations, betrayal, or emotional distance, our brains register it as a threat. That triggers our stress response—what we often call “fight, flight, or freeze.” Over time, if that stress continues unchecked, it leads to anxiety, depression, trouble sleeping, and a foggy, overwhelmed mind. Our thought life becomes a battlefield, and discouragement sets in.
                                              • But here's the hope: God doesn’t leave us to navigate this alone. He sees every tear, hears every unspoken word, and knows the condition of our hearts and minds. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Our healing begins when we bring both our brain health and our relational wounds to the Great Physician.
                                              • Practical steps include tending to your thought life—taking every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5), practicing forgiveness to unburden your heart, and choosing truth over lies. Sometimes that means setting healthy boundaries or seeking wise counsel. And always, it means leaning into the One who offers peace that transcends understanding.
                                              • Your brain can heal. Your heart can mend. And your relationships can be restored—if not with others, then certainly with the Lord, who is the source of all true comfort and strength. Discouragement may visit, but it doesn’t have to take up permanent residence.
                                              • Knowing God as Abba leads us to know God as a wonderful Father. (Galatians 4:6)
                                              • He is the Alpha and Omega – Jesus was in the beginning as the Word of God and he is God’s final word for all eternity. (Revelation 21:6)
                                              • As Adonai, we recognize his leadership in our life. He is our Lord and Ruler. (Ezekiel 16:8)
                                              • El Chay, or Living God, reminds us that the entertainments, enticements, and other distractions are not worthy of worship. (Psalm 84:2)
                                              • El Roi, The God Who Sees, encourages us with God’s mercy, grace, and comfort. We are not invisible to him. (Genesis 16:13)
                                              • Jehovah-Jireh, The Lord our Provider, tells us God is our provider, and it is the same Hebrew word as Moriah, the region where God sent Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. God may ask us to give something up, and he gives us himself in return, and becomes all we need. (Romans 8:32)
                                              • Jehovah-Nissi, The Lord Our Banner, paints the picture that we live under God’s banner. It was the name revealed when Moses erected an altar to commemorate the defeat of their enemies. It encourages us that we live under God’s victory. He goes before us and comes behind us to make us victors in life’s battles. (Exodus 17:15)
                                              • The Lord Our Healer, or Jehovah-Rapha, encourages us because God heals our hearts in the here and now. (Exodus 15:26)
                                              • The Lord is Peace, Jehovah-Shalom, our security, sufficiency, and serenity. (Judges 6:24)
                                              • Jehovah-Tsuri, the Lord our Rock, helps us remember God is permanent, faithful, protective, a firm foundation, a hiding place and shelter. (Psalm 18:2)
                                              • Knowing the names of God gives us insight into his character, which encourages us when we face different situations where we need to rely on a different aspect of God’s character. For example, if someone feels discouraged because of life’s chaos, remembering God is Jehovah Shalom encourages their heart because God is their serenity.
                                              • God is a covenant making and covenant keeping God. The primary promise of the covenant is the Lord’s promise to “be God to you and to your offspring after you.” The goal of God’s covenant with humankind is to bring salvation, not just to one nation, but to the entire human race. This covenant was eventually fulfilled through Jesus Christ as his followers began to spread the good news about him throughout the world.
                                              • God made a covenant with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, the Israelite nation, David, and finally the whole world through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Covenants, or promises, are conditional because they are based on the agreements of two parties. God cannot go back on his promises, but we can refuse the comfort of the promises when we fail to take God at his word and allow doubt to lead us to sin.
                                              • Because of God’s covenants, we have promises like the promise of his presence.
                                              • Isaiah 41:10 says, “Do not be afraid for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” (NLT)
                                              • Deuteronomy 31:8, “‘Do not be afraid of discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (NLT)
                                              • Isaiah 43:2, “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.
                                              • Joshua 1:19, “This is my command – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
                                              • Those are wonderful reminders of God presence. I know I’ve needed to believe them by faith because sometimes what I see, and what I feel don’t match up with what I know to be true.
                                              • I also cling to the promise of Victory found in:
                                              • John 16:33, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
                                              • Exodus 14:14, “The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
                                              • 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, “Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, persecutions, and troubles I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
                                              • Isaiah 40:29, “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.”
                                              • God promises to guide us:
                                              • Psalm 32:8, “The Lord says, I will guide along the best pathway for your life. I will advise and watch over you.
                                              • Psalm 37:23-24, “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.
                                              • Psalm 23:1-2, ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.
                                              • Not only does God promise us his presence, victory, and guidance, but he also promises rest, life, peace, and forgiveness:
                                              • Rest: Matthew 11:28-29, “Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
                                              • Life: John 3:16, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”
                                              • Peace: Isaiah 26:3, ‘You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.”
                                              • Forgiveness: 1 John 1:9, “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleans us from all wickedness.”
                                              • Our faith grows when we plant our feet on God’s promises.
                                              • (Psalm 34:18) He is close to the broken hearted and rescues those who are crushed in spirit.
                                              • (2 Cor. 4:8-9) We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
                                              • (Isaiah 54:17) “No weapon that is formed against you will succeed; And you will condemn every tongue that accuses you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD.
                                              • I think it starts with looking at the end of Hebrews 11, knowing the stories of those who have gone before us, remembering the past so we can encourage ourselves in the present and build hope for the future.
                                              • Hebrews 11 opens with this verse: Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. The next several verses list people who lived by faith and received what God promised and those who died without receiving things promised and yet, they are commended for having faith. It’s faith in the promise maker which matters.
                                              • Looking at our circumstances for “proof” of God keeping his promises leads to disappointment. Remember, faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen.
                                              • Sometimes, we need to cling to other’s people’s stories when our stories are littered with doubt and disappointment. One story which encourages me when I am feeling discouraged is Mary, Martha and Lazarus when Lazarus became ill and died. That story reminds me that things are not always as they seem, but God always has a plan and he sees the end from the beginning.
                                              • he bible is full of encouragement and doesn’t sugarcoat the difficulties people of faith faced. If Job can lose his entire fortune, family and health and still remain faithful to God—believing him to faithful and true—then I can look beyond my circumstances and see that God is bigger than what’s right in front of me. I can take the magnifying glass off of the things in my life that discourage me and point my magnifying glass to the God who breathes stars and breath in my lungs.
                                              • I am encouraged by Abraham, when he looked the impossibility of his reality (too old to have children) and yet remained believing that God would fulfill his promise. I’ve been in situations where I couldn’t see a way forward and following Abraham’s example encourages me so much.
                                              • Knowing God intimately is a great first step toward experiencing biblical encouragement. Understanding his heart and loyalty toward us is key. Second, we can remember to look beyond what we see to what we know to be true. Sometimes feelings follow an act of faith. Take Hebrews 11 to heart.

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              If you’ve ever struggled with discouragement, and we all have because life is full of disappointment and disillusionment, then this episode is for you. In honor of National Day of Encouragement, my co-host, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about How to Find Biblical Encouragement for Your Everyday Life.

                                              Discouragement can rob us of joy, peace, and a sense of purpose. Encouragement is more than a feeling - it’s a powerful tool to propel us toward hope and confidence even when life feels less than happy. Today we’re going to talk about how to find biblical encouragement for your everyday life.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • In 2007, a group of young people at the National Leadership Forum at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas saw a lack of encouragement as one of the main obstacles that people face. While dedicating a day to encourage others is noble, we can experience encouragement every day when we turn to the Lord and receive his encouragement. The challenge to receive biblical encouragement is when we know God’s promises but don’t see him working. This topic is close to my heart because I’ve seen firsthand how knowing God, and his promises have encouraged me in the face of difficult and seemingly unchanging circumstances. I know many of our listeners and viewers struggle with discouragement, and my prayer is that today’s conversation will bring encouragement and hope.
                                              • Knowing God’s names helps us learn to trust him. When we trust him, it’s easier to experience encouragement in our every day. Psalm 9:10 says, Those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
                                              • Relationships are an area where we can experience extreme discouragement. Personality differences can create division. Unforgiveness leads to rifts. It can feel discouraging to desire a healing in a relationship, but every effort is rejected. We’ve talked about the temptation to judge God’s goodness based on humanity’s failures. If our in-person relationships are broken, and we don’t have a vibrant or growing relationship with God, we grow discouraged because we were made for relationship.
                                              • Friend, if you’ve found yourself in a place of discouragement—especially when you're facing relationship struggles—you are not alone. As a neuropsychologist, I’ve seen how deeply our relationships impact not only our emotional well-being but also our brain health. God designed our brains for connection. We were created in His image, a God who is relational by nature, and He wired us for fellowship—with Him and with each other.
                                              • When our relationships are strained, whether due to misunderstanding, unmet expectations, betrayal, or emotional distance, our brains register it as a threat. That triggers our stress response—what we often call “fight, flight, or freeze.” Over time, if that stress continues unchecked, it leads to anxiety, depression, trouble sleeping, and a foggy, overwhelmed mind. Our thought life becomes a battlefield, and discouragement sets in.
                                              • But here's the hope: God doesn’t leave us to navigate this alone. He sees every tear, hears every unspoken word, and knows the condition of our hearts and minds. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Our healing begins when we bring both our brain health and our relational wounds to the Great Physician.
                                              • Practical steps include tending to your thought life—taking every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5), practicing forgiveness to unburden your heart, and choosing truth over lies. Sometimes that means setting healthy boundaries or seeking wise counsel. And always, it means leaning into the One who offers peace that transcends understanding.
                                              • Your brain can heal. Your heart can mend. And your relationships can be restored—if not with others, then certainly with the Lord, who is the source of all true comfort and strength. Discouragement may visit, but it doesn’t have to take up permanent residence.
                                              • Knowing God as Abba leads us to know God as a wonderful Father. (Galatians 4:6)
                                              • He is the Alpha and Omega – Jesus was in the beginning as the Word of God and he is God’s final word for all eternity. (Revelation 21:6)
                                              • As Adonai, we recognize his leadership in our life. He is our Lord and Ruler. (Ezekiel 16:8)
                                              • El Chay, or Living God, reminds us that the entertainments, enticements, and other distractions are not worthy of worship. (Psalm 84:2)
                                              • El Roi, The God Who Sees, encourages us with God’s mercy, grace, and comfort. We are not invisible to him. (Genesis 16:13)
                                              • Jehovah-Jireh, The Lord our Provider, tells us God is our provider, and it is the same Hebrew word as Moriah, the region where God sent Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. God may ask us to give something up, and he gives us himself in return, and becomes all we need. (Romans 8:32)
                                              • Jehovah-Nissi, The Lord Our Banner, paints the picture that we live under God’s banner. It was the name revealed when Moses erected an altar to commemorate the defeat of their enemies. It encourages us that we live under God’s victory. He goes before us and comes behind us to make us victors in life’s battles. (Exodus 17:15)
                                              • The Lord Our Healer, or Jehovah-Rapha, encourages us because God heals our hearts in the here and now. (Exodus 15:26)
                                              • The Lord is Peace, Jehovah-Shalom, our security, sufficiency, and serenity. (Judges 6:24)
                                              • Jehovah-Tsuri, the Lord our Rock, helps us remember God is permanent, faithful, protective, a firm foundation, a hiding place and shelter. (Psalm 18:2)
                                              • Knowing the names of God gives us insight into his character, which encourages us when we face different situations where we need to rely on a different aspect of God’s character. For example, if someone feels discouraged because of life’s chaos, remembering God is Jehovah Shalom encourages their heart because God is their serenity.
                                              • God is a covenant making and covenant keeping God. The primary promise of the covenant is the Lord’s promise to “be God to you and to your offspring after you.” The goal of God’s covenant with humankind is to bring salvation, not just to one nation, but to the entire human race. This covenant was eventually fulfilled through Jesus Christ as his followers began to spread the good news about him throughout the world.
                                              • God made a covenant with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, the Israelite nation, David, and finally the whole world through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Covenants, or promises, are conditional because they are based on the agreements of two parties. God cannot go back on his promises, but we can refuse the comfort of the promises when we fail to take God at his word and allow doubt to lead us to sin.
                                              • Because of God’s covenants, we have promises like the promise of his presence.
                                              • Isaiah 41:10 says, “Do not be afraid for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” (NLT)
                                              • Deuteronomy 31:8, “‘Do not be afraid of discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (NLT)
                                              • Isaiah 43:2, “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.
                                              • Joshua 1:19, “This is my command – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
                                              • Those are wonderful reminders of God presence. I know I’ve needed to believe them by faith because sometimes what I see, and what I feel don’t match up with what I know to be true.
                                              • I also cling to the promise of Victory found in:
                                              • John 16:33, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
                                              • Exodus 14:14, “The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
                                              • 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, “Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, persecutions, and troubles I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
                                              • Isaiah 40:29, “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.”
                                              • God promises to guide us:
                                              • Psalm 32:8, “The Lord says, I will guide along the best pathway for your life. I will advise and watch over you.
                                              • Psalm 37:23-24, “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.
                                              • Psalm 23:1-2, ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.
                                              • Not only does God promise us his presence, victory, and guidance, but he also promises rest, life, peace, and forgiveness:
                                              • Rest: Matthew 11:28-29, “Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
                                              • Life: John 3:16, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”
                                              • Peace: Isaiah 26:3, ‘You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.”
                                              • Forgiveness: 1 John 1:9, “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleans us from all wickedness.”
                                              • Our faith grows when we plant our feet on God’s promises.
                                              • (Psalm 34:18) He is close to the broken hearted and rescues those who are crushed in spirit.
                                              • (2 Cor. 4:8-9) We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
                                              • (Isaiah 54:17) “No weapon that is formed against you will succeed; And you will condemn every tongue that accuses you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD.
                                              • I think it starts with looking at the end of Hebrews 11, knowing the stories of those who have gone before us, remembering the past so we can encourage ourselves in the present and build hope for the future.
                                              • Hebrews 11 opens with this verse: Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. The next several verses list people who lived by faith and received what God promised and those who died without receiving things promised and yet, they are commended for having faith. It’s faith in the promise maker which matters.
                                              • Looking at our circumstances for “proof” of God keeping his promises leads to disappointment. Remember, faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen.
                                              • Sometimes, we need to cling to other’s people’s stories when our stories are littered with doubt and disappointment. One story which encourages me when I am feeling discouraged is Mary, Martha and Lazarus when Lazarus became ill and died. That story reminds me that things are not always as they seem, but God always has a plan and he sees the end from the beginning.
                                              • he bible is full of encouragement and doesn’t sugarcoat the difficulties people of faith faced. If Job can lose his entire fortune, family and health and still remain faithful to God—believing him to faithful and true—then I can look beyond my circumstances and see that God is bigger than what’s right in front of me. I can take the magnifying glass off of the things in my life that discourage me and point my magnifying glass to the God who breathes stars and breath in my lungs.
                                              • I am encouraged by Abraham, when he looked the impossibility of his reality (too old to have children) and yet remained believing that God would fulfill his promise. I’ve been in situations where I couldn’t see a way forward and following Abraham’s example encourages me so much.
                                              • Knowing God intimately is a great first step toward experiencing biblical encouragement. Understanding his heart and loyalty toward us is key. Second, we can remember to look beyond what we see to what we know to be true. Sometimes feelings follow an act of faith. Take Hebrews 11 to heart.

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 335 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 03c45ffb-ff37-470e-9fbf-b355002960a7 03c45ffb-ff37-470e-9fbf-b355002960a7 Thu, 11 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2472 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-find-biblical-encouragement-for-your-everyday-life                                               How to Start Natural Conversations to Share Your Faith How to Start Natural Conversations to Share Your Faith Episode Summary:

                                              Jesus told us to go into all the world and share the gospel. Yet many Christians admit they struggle with the confidence to do so. In this episode, my son, Blake, joins me to talk about how to start natural conversations that open the door to sharing your faith with others. Together we share practical ways to make those conversations genuine and meaningful.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • God tells us to go to all the ends of the earth. And he says that it's his desire that none would perish, not even one. So we have a responsibility to share our Christian faith with others while we still have the time.
                                              • My faith really became my own when I went off to college. One of the big focuses of our church’s college ministry was evangelism.
                                              • We were practicing evangelizing towards students who maybe didn't have a worldview set in stone yet. Lots of students who were leaving the home and flying the nest for the first time and looking for an explanation for the world around them. Something to cling to as they looked for hope and as they looked for something to identify themselves with. Since graduating college, handful of years ago, I have moved into a job in the professional workforce where I am around adults who now have a set worldview. And my practice of evangelism has had to change from inviting people who are seeking a worldview to adopt the worldview of Christianity and pursue our loving God and Savior, while they were just looking for a way to identify themselves. And that was an easy invitation to now discussing with strangers and coworkers who have set worldview and who have set opinions on Christianity, which has definitely been a shift.
                                              • It is important to ask people about themselves and to ask people about their beliefs and even when people aren’t comfortable talking about themselves, people are generally willing to talk about their hobbies and their beliefs about the world and how the world operates and how the world should operate.
                                              • Efforts to evangelize with people can be difficult because even if it’s true that you were sinful and there’s a solution to sin and we can be forgiven for it, people don’t care about the sin if they don’t think that the God that says these things are sin exists or they don’t think that God has any impact over their life or over what happens after their life and so it’s not until you get people to a place where they recognize this God is real and he does have an impact on our life and what happens after our life that they care about what he says is sin and what he says is wrong.
                                              • We all start with questions of “who am I?” “Where did I come from?” “Why and I here?” “How am I supposed to treat other people while I’m here?” and “Where am I going?”
                                              • Two important questions are “what do you mean by that? Why do you believe that?” 
                                              • People don’t care what you have to say, until they know you care. even just asking the question, what do you mean by that, it shows that you have interest, you care about their beliefs and where they came from. Right. And I think that that question is powerful and it serves multiple purposes because when people have legitimate hurts, you don't want to just immediately jump to the Bible and go, well, you shouldn't have been hurt by that because that's not how God is. - Or God works all things together for good. Right, which is true. And that's a helpful response for Christians who you're close to and you know that that will hold some value to them. But for someone who's not a Christian, that response will necessarily feel insensitive. - Yes. - And so to ask, what do you mean by that when you're discussing with someone who has legitimate hurts from the church or legitimate hurts from people who are Christians, further clarifies what their beliefs are, which is helpful for you because you get an understanding of what you're actually responding to.

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                               

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              Jesus told us to go into all the world and share the gospel. Yet many Christians admit they struggle with the confidence to do so. In this episode, my son, Blake, joins me to talk about how to start natural conversations that open the door to sharing your faith with others. Together we share practical ways to make those conversations genuine and meaningful.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • God tells us to go to all the ends of the earth. And he says that it's his desire that none would perish, not even one. So we have a responsibility to share our Christian faith with others while we still have the time.
                                              • My faith really became my own when I went off to college. One of the big focuses of our church’s college ministry was evangelism.
                                              • We were practicing evangelizing towards students who maybe didn't have a worldview set in stone yet. Lots of students who were leaving the home and flying the nest for the first time and looking for an explanation for the world around them. Something to cling to as they looked for hope and as they looked for something to identify themselves with. Since graduating college, handful of years ago, I have moved into a job in the professional workforce where I am around adults who now have a set worldview. And my practice of evangelism has had to change from inviting people who are seeking a worldview to adopt the worldview of Christianity and pursue our loving God and Savior, while they were just looking for a way to identify themselves. And that was an easy invitation to now discussing with strangers and coworkers who have set worldview and who have set opinions on Christianity, which has definitely been a shift.
                                              • It is important to ask people about themselves and to ask people about their beliefs and even when people aren’t comfortable talking about themselves, people are generally willing to talk about their hobbies and their beliefs about the world and how the world operates and how the world should operate.
                                              • Efforts to evangelize with people can be difficult because even if it’s true that you were sinful and there’s a solution to sin and we can be forgiven for it, people don’t care about the sin if they don’t think that the God that says these things are sin exists or they don’t think that God has any impact over their life or over what happens after their life and so it’s not until you get people to a place where they recognize this God is real and he does have an impact on our life and what happens after our life that they care about what he says is sin and what he says is wrong.
                                              • We all start with questions of “who am I?” “Where did I come from?” “Why and I here?” “How am I supposed to treat other people while I’m here?” and “Where am I going?”
                                              • Two important questions are “what do you mean by that? Why do you believe that?” 
                                              • People don’t care what you have to say, until they know you care. even just asking the question, what do you mean by that, it shows that you have interest, you care about their beliefs and where they came from. Right. And I think that that question is powerful and it serves multiple purposes because when people have legitimate hurts, you don't want to just immediately jump to the Bible and go, well, you shouldn't have been hurt by that because that's not how God is. - Or God works all things together for good. Right, which is true. And that's a helpful response for Christians who you're close to and you know that that will hold some value to them. But for someone who's not a Christian, that response will necessarily feel insensitive. - Yes. - And so to ask, what do you mean by that when you're discussing with someone who has legitimate hurts from the church or legitimate hurts from people who are Christians, further clarifies what their beliefs are, which is helpful for you because you get an understanding of what you're actually responding to.

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                               

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 334 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ec5839a8-9aaa-4686-8686-b34e000c2dac ec5839a8-9aaa-4686-8686-b34e000c2dac Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000 3109 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-start-natural-conversations-to-share-your-faith                                               Hope and Healing: How To Embrace God’s Presence in the Darkest Times Hope and Healing: How To Embrace God’s Presence in the Darkest Times Episode Summary:

                                              Not one of us is exempt from loss. We lose what we expected, what we thought we believed, what we dreamed, our sense of security or identity. We lose friendships. We lose people we love.

                                              What do we do with the disruption, the devastation of loss? How do we survive unpredictable grief, ongoing suffering, and the questions about God that happen in the dark nights of our lives? None of us want to be in seasons of sorrow. But sometimes the dark nights of life and faith have strange gifts. On the other side, we find ourselves free from the superficial in our lives. We discover peace and the assurance that we are loved. And we may experience a deeper, more honest relationship with the God we found in the dark.

                                              In this episode, I sit down with pastor and author Aubrey Sampson to talk about navigating deep loss and learning to sense God’s presence in the darkest seasons.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • For me, writing was a prayer, writing was an anchor to God, writing was trying to figure out what in the world was happening when everything felt very out of control. And ultimately, writing did become a lifeline to hope in the midst of something that felt very hopeless.
                                              • Grief is also very difficult to find language for, to explain, because it can feel like so many jumbled, opposed, and poignant metaphors or events all at once. Grief is like jumping on a cheerless trampoline, a constant disorientation between adrenaline and gravity. Grief is an empty, dilapidating playground, a sad, stoic icon of lost memories and what could have been. Grief is a firestone, full of uncontrollable destruction and rage and simultaneously a mudslide, sloppy, shocking and unstoppable. Grief is a planet, vast, cold, and mysterious, and grief is somehow also a roly-poly pill bug, often unnoticed by others, unarmored and earthy.
                                              • The questions I was asking felt like almost like I described them in the book as like baby-deer questions. They just felt very vulnerable to me to be asking a God that I have centered my life around questions like, "Are you real? Is your arm too short to heal cancer? Where are you? Are my prayers hitting the ceiling fan or are they actually going to your ears, Lord?" I was asking some questions that I sort of felt like I should not be asking these, not because I felt ashamed. I know God can handle our hard questions. It wasn't that. It was just like, I should be beyond these questions by now. But the grief was so tender, Michelle, and so close.
                                              • Some of my prayers were like, “how could you? Like, how dare you?” And part of it was her journey. She experienced healing from cancer about a year in and they didn't call it remission yet. But the doctors did say, this is great, cancer -free, the chemo's done what it should, and then about three months later, it came back with a vengeance. So that was some of it too. The whiplash of it made me ask God some really difficult questions. Like, “can you do anything good in this, God? Like, this feels so lacking in goodness, so lacking in hope, so lacking in beauty you are taking a mom away from three young sons you are taking a daughter away from parents a sister away from sister. Can your goodness reach even into this place?”
                                              • There's just so many situations that prompt those honest gut level questions. Like, I know you God, but I don't understand. I don't understand and God often doesn't answer our why, but he does invite us to be honest with our questions. I mean, I think about so many in the Bible and some of the questions they ask, you know, it'd be easy to say, well, how could they dare? But we ask our own variety of those same questions. And I find it helpful to read those questions in scripture because, you know, you find some comfort in, "Okay, these were historical, ecumenical, faithful followers of God throughout history, and yet they are asking God the same questions. How long, O Lord? How lonely, I feel."
                                              • Lamentations is full of these, like, "How could you? How dare you? How will you fix this?" And so to be able to know that actually, though it feels opposite of our faith. Actually, this type of posture before God is a very, I think, crucial part of our faith journey. I think God actually allows us and wants us to ask those questions on purpose as part of our spiritual formation. Again, we kind of get into our heads as if this isn't faithful or something's wrong. I'm going backwards spiritually, but then when you read those questions all throughout scripture, you can find some comfort in like, okay, these people are in the Bible, right? They were faithful followers of God. They're asking the same questions I'm asking. Yeah, God used them as examples for us. That's it. To teach us, to encourage us.
                                              • One thing that you want as a Christian, even in your darkest hours, is for God to come for you with a sense of comfort. Holy Spirit provides you peace. Holy Spirit provides you a sense that God is with you. God sees you. God is around you. And what I found in my season of grief was that was not occurring. I could not sense God with me. I couldn't hear God speaking to me. I could not “connect with God.” I was just like, “God, where are you? Like, I can't even sense your spirit comforting me and I need you more than ever.” And I began because of the Lord's kindness, I was meeting with a spiritual director at the time. And I began to read about a very common spiritual experience again throughout history, again throughout the Bible, called the Dark Night of the Soul. Which, again, we tend to use it a little generically just to me, and I'm going through a hard time, that's a Dark Night of the Soul.
                                              • A dark night of the soul was coined by St. John of the Cross right after the Spanish Inquisition. And what he talked about was the very thing I'm talking about, when you cannot sense God answering your prayers, when you cannot sense God's nearness, when you cannot see what God is doing, that sense of God's quote "absence" is actually what it means to walk through a dark night of the soul. That can happen in grief, it can happen in loss, it can happen just in life, midlife crisis, it can happen. And what we find in dark nights of the soul is something that We know to be true, God never leaves us nor forsakes us. But for some reason, God does tend to pull back that "felt sense of His presence." And part of what God is doing, we can't all understand everything God is doing, but part of what God is doing is teaching us that our faith is not just about a feeling.
                                              • Our faith is about the object of our faith, Jesus. And so, whether we're "feeling" the presence of God or not, can we choose to have faith that says He is true, His character is true, He is steadfast, I will keep believing, I will keep leaning in, I will keep being faithful even when I can't "feel" Him. And there's something mysterious and explosive and actually good that we find in dark nights of the soul even though it's often quite painful and confusing.
                                              • Michelle, it is hard to sort of find yourself on the grief map when you're in it, especially when it's fresh. And so sometimes you don't know is where I'm at normal, okay, should I be farther along than I am. And the hard part is, depending on the context texture from, often people want you to be further along than you actually are. And you're just not, I mean, it just until you've walked through grief, you, you don't know, no, no, no, I can't move faster than I can move. I am right where I am. And that's as far as I can go. I wrote about these, these three different moments in darkness to try to at least help readers, grievers, someone walking through any type of loss or transition to sort of go, "Okay, I might find myself here." And also, to say any of those places are right where you're supposed to be. God is not rushing you past the finish line of pain.
                                              • Some of us, I think, like I said, rush past it or pretend it isn't happening, but just to go, "Okay, God, things are changing. This is a new season. I don't necessarily like it. I don't really enjoy why I'm here, but I'm going to trust you've got some discoveries for me. And so, I'm going to keep open to whatever you're doing as the night falls. And then the next phase, midnight, I mean, this is where I wrote about my best friend's jet death and just everything changing. I mean, it is just the onslaught of grief that you feel physically, you feel emotionally you experience spiritually it's in your body it's in your mind it's you know you know this from the mental health world your brain is flat you can't really function the way that you used to function and I wanted to put some language for that again just to say it is normal and your only job is to be gentle with yourself at your spiritual midnight your emotional midnight like just Be kind to yourself.
                                              • Be kind to yourself. I think we want to learn the lesson and we want to build the muscles and we want to build resilience. We want to grow in our depth and our meaning. That will come, but it is okay to be right where you are for as long as you need to be, especially in that initial onslaught of grief. We write a lot about that in the section on midnight. And then the last section, when I was very careful not to do, Michelle, and I think you'll appreciate this as one who talks about her own depression. I didn't want to say, "But the sun is coming. Sunrise is on its way." I did not want to write another book about, like, quote, "sunny spirituality," because that's not always what healing is. Healing isn't always darkness to light. Sometimes healing is this gradual progression of, "Oh, I see a little glimmer of hope here." Okay, here's some light coming through.
                                              • I think so often we celebrate like the mountaintop, or the victory and we forget to celebrate what a courageous thing it is to step out in community again after loss or try something new after loss or frankly put pants on and go to Target after loss like those are victories. And so, I wanted to write and sort of normalize that healing can look dramatic. And in a moment, healing can also be very slow. And isn't, you know, isn't always just your sun. Sometimes it's like, you know, here's some stars in your darkness, that's healing too.
                                              • In one sense, I think you do the things you don't do, meaning you rest Sabbath if you're not someone who has done that before, try to sleep if you can. I think this is a time to take up spiritual practices of slowness, stillness, silence, listening. I guess what I'm trying to say is there's not a lot you have to do. And especially early on in the dark night of the soul. And I said this before I will say it again and again and again, be gentle with yourself. I mean, you know, any listener who or view or who has been through loss knows, you often can't even remember like what shampoo is or how to shampoo your hair, let alone want to, or want to, that's a very good point, or even have the desire to. So I think a thing you do is be gentle with yourself
                                              • Loss, grief, darkness can be very isolating. And so I think it is so important that you allow yourself intentionally to reach out to the safe people in your life. That doesn't have to be everybody. You don't have to be best friends with everyone who wants to come around you or, but who are the safe, trusted people that you can say, I can't pray right now, so I need you to pray for me. I am hurting right now. I need somebody just to know. I think the community piece is so important. We are not meant to do the faith journey alone. We're not meant to do grief alone. We're not meant to do darkness alone. We need some traveling companions. And again, you get to choose who those people are. There are some people for some reason that it just can't go with you in dark places and that's okay. But if you have some safe people that can't, you know, let them be a lifeline to you.
                                              • It's hard in grief because people will often very well meaning ask you, what can I do for you? What do you need? And you just don't have the wherewithal to do it. So, on the flip side, I would say if you are walking with someone who's in a dark season, don't even ask, just say, I've sent you a Chipotle gift card, it's going to arrive in your mail, Uber Eats, whatever it is. I've sent you a gift card to any service, use it when you need to. I think some of that proactive approach for someone who's walking through darkness is really helpful too. Oh, for - Sure, because it's almost like the brain fog and the decision fatigue is so great that it's too hard to think about what I could ask someone else to do. Plus, if you've just lost having to ask someone for help, you risk rejection, which is another form of loss.
                                              • So, what about the person who feels like their faith is being shaken by their dark night? What would you say to that person? Because we know the enemy is crafty and he seeks to steal, kill and destroy and he watches so intently. So, he knows when we're at our weakest point, so how do So how do we fight back against that? - Yeah, I think that is so good because what you don't want to do is get in a mindset where you are thinking God caused this pain in my life. God is not the author of pain, author of evil. God in Jesus conquered death. So those things are not from God. But what we and trust is that God is in them, redeeming them, making all things new. 
                                              • I think it's important to know this again, this is a normal part of your spiritual walk. I think sometimes again, we can think, the scaffolding of my faith is being shaken, that's bad, that's bad, that's bad. But sometimes to be disillusioned spiritually is a really good healthy thing because you're not living an illusion anymore. And so, some of the things that you have clung to that are false ideas about God, about faith, God is actually shaking those up on purpose. And that's something good he does in darkness is you find, you know, your faith is a little more explosive, a little more intimate, because you've embraced mystery and God's bigness and the boxes that you put God in suddenly God is breaking out of all of that is very good all of that is part of spiritual formation it can feel like it's you're going backwards but again if you can keep leaning in staying connected to God you find on the other side of that a greater intimacy with God however what you just talked about the spiritual attack that can come. I do think we have to be wise about this.
                                              • I have a good friend who talks about these are the moments when you just have to contend for your faith. Like Jesus, I am not going anywhere. I am putting my anchor of faith in the ground. I am believing that you are good. I am believing that you do good. Any light otherwise is from the enemy, I plead the blood of Jesus over it and I will not walk in it. And so that's a hard muscle when you are depressed, dark, grieving. It's hard to kind of know what's spiritual attack, what's, you know, my just mental state is not okay, what is just, I'm sad, right? And so, I do think this going back to community where it's so helpful to have your other friends pray for you and you don't have to wherewithal to do it yourself. And to say, okay, Lord, I hate everything about this, but you have called yourself faithful and so I'm going to believe you are faithful.
                                              • I think there's some work we have to do, Michelle, like to remember in the darkness what we knew in the light, remember in the desert what we knew in the garden seasons of our lives, remember in the valley what we knew on the mountaintop, like there is some work of recall, okay. God has been good to me, God has been good throughout history, God's character is true, I will choose to believe that even though this is like the fight of my life right now, and God honors that kind of faith and that kind of wrestle, he really does. And I appreciate what you're saying about remembering what we knew in the light and taking that into those dark places. I think it's also so important for us to remember, just as you said, God doesn't cause pain. He doesn't cause hardship. But God is always concerned with us growing.
                                              • I love to garden. I'm a very impatient gardener, but I love to garden. But what it has taught me is that the most crucial growth happens below the soil in the dark place. And while none of us wants to go through pain and suffering, if we can appreciate that God is in that dark place and cultivating something good, that's a hope line that we can hold on to when it doesn't feel good. Think about Jesus in the garden. That was a dark place. His friends wouldn't even stay awake, right? And yet it was a good thing that came out of it because even though he was so honest and I love his honesty, Father, if there is any other way that this cup could pass from me, please, please do it, but ultimately, I want your will, not mine. And I think that's so important for us to remember that our savior of the world went through that dark night.
                                              • Thankfully God is so patient with us. - Yes. - Oh, so patient with us. And I began to sense God sort of lovingly drawing me back to the word, but not for performance, not for study, not for output, not even for preparation. Just, "Hey, you're my daughter. Why don't you just come and read one song, read one, one little verse?" And I began in my mind to call it inchworm Bible reading where I just would read one song and then I would read it again. And then the next day read it again. And I was not accomplishing anything deeply spiritual, very profound. But there was something healing. And it won the words of the Psalms and this beautiful book of prayers and poems and laments for the people of God. And a lot of them are about pain and suffering. So that was one to find language for what I was walking through. But also, it was like, I felt like, again, God just let me be a human being and not a human doing. And I just got to sit in his presence. And it didn't matter how much I accomplished, it didn't matter that I made some beautiful social media post, wrote a sermon based on the reading, it was just about connecting with the father. And the Lord was again, very patient with me. And in time, I just began to sense all of that was God kind of reminding me, “I'm here, I'm still here. There's a rope tethering you to me. I am not going to let you go." And so that inchworm Bible reading, as silly as it sounds, became very profound. I feel like God found me again in that. 
                                              • It's such a profound act of worship and faith to run to God with those things because he would rather us come to him with that type of anger and raw questions and authenticity than walk away in apathy. And so whatever you can do, whether it's journaling, praying aloud in your car, writing, singing, painting, Whatever it is to give those heart things to the Lord is in itself an act of worship and connection and a tool. When we go through such incredibly painful times, like the dark night of the soul that we talked about before the break, it's natural in our humanness to ask, why did this happen?
                                              • Those questions are the right questions to be asking. Those are the questions that God loves to hear. And so, I would invite you to ask those questions to God and wait as long as it takes for God to answer. You do not give up. But I would also say this, hope is coming, light is coming. The dark night does not say dark forever. Grief stays for a very long time, but it changes shape. I grieve my best friend Jen differently. We just celebrated her 45th birthday. I grieve her differently on her 45th birthday than I did two years ago. I still miss her deeply. The grief is different. I am different. The way I experience grief is different. I've had new losses since Jen and those are different.
                                              • And so, it is okay to also remind yourself that hope is coming. You can continue to choose to hope even when you feel hopeless, can ask other people to hold that for you and you can't hold it yourself. I think, again, that's a beautiful part of the Christian faith is it's not meant to be individual; it's meant to be collective and communal. And so, Michelle, I can borrow your hope and your faith when I don't have any and you can borrow mine when you don't have any and all of those things the Lord will use to bring you back to a place of hope and delight and goodness and even joy again in His presence with other people and hope for the future.
                                              • What you're walking through is normal. It is not antithetical to your faith, but part of the faith journey. I want to tell you to keep leaning into Jesus because he is faithful and true. And I would also, I think about the words of Psalm 40:40 where David says I'm at the bottom of my pit and what I found Lord is that you lifted me out and I kind of referred to this subtly a minute ago but there is that spiritual tether connecting you to God if you're a person in Jesus and God is not going to let you stay in your pit the rest of your life God is not going to you alone in your pit. And in fact, what's so beautiful about Jesus in his suffering, he crawls down in our pits with us, does not leave us alone in them. And so you have a friend in suffering who is actually in it with you, but outside of it able to redeem it and able to make something beautiful and new in the situation that seems so painful now.
                                              • I just want to remind you that the temptation is great to pull away from God and from others especially when we've just gone through a period of loss, but I'm encouraging you consistent With God's admonition that you continue to cry out to him be honest with him ask the types of questions that Aubrey shared that she asked. There's no shame in that and God is big enough to handle that.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 88:12 “Are your wonders known in the place of darkness, or your righteous deeds in the land of oblivion?”
                                              • Psalm 88:1 “Lord, you are the God who saves me; day and night I cry out to you.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Aubrey Sampson:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram

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                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Aubrey Sampson (MA, evangelism and leadership) coplanted and is on staff at Renewal Church, a multiethnic congregation in Chicagoland. She is an author a coach with Propel Women Cohorts and the cohost of The Nothing is Wasted Podcast. She is passionate about helping hurting Christians find God’s presence in their pain. She and her husband, Kevin, and their three hilarious sons live, minister, and play in the Chicagoland area.

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              Not one of us is exempt from loss. We lose what we expected, what we thought we believed, what we dreamed, our sense of security or identity. We lose friendships. We lose people we love.

                                              What do we do with the disruption, the devastation of loss? How do we survive unpredictable grief, ongoing suffering, and the questions about God that happen in the dark nights of our lives? None of us want to be in seasons of sorrow. But sometimes the dark nights of life and faith have strange gifts. On the other side, we find ourselves free from the superficial in our lives. We discover peace and the assurance that we are loved. And we may experience a deeper, more honest relationship with the God we found in the dark.

                                              In this episode, I sit down with pastor and author Aubrey Sampson to talk about navigating deep loss and learning to sense God’s presence in the darkest seasons.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • For me, writing was a prayer, writing was an anchor to God, writing was trying to figure out what in the world was happening when everything felt very out of control. And ultimately, writing did become a lifeline to hope in the midst of something that felt very hopeless.
                                              • Grief is also very difficult to find language for, to explain, because it can feel like so many jumbled, opposed, and poignant metaphors or events all at once. Grief is like jumping on a cheerless trampoline, a constant disorientation between adrenaline and gravity. Grief is an empty, dilapidating playground, a sad, stoic icon of lost memories and what could have been. Grief is a firestone, full of uncontrollable destruction and rage and simultaneously a mudslide, sloppy, shocking and unstoppable. Grief is a planet, vast, cold, and mysterious, and grief is somehow also a roly-poly pill bug, often unnoticed by others, unarmored and earthy.
                                              • The questions I was asking felt like almost like I described them in the book as like baby-deer questions. They just felt very vulnerable to me to be asking a God that I have centered my life around questions like, "Are you real? Is your arm too short to heal cancer? Where are you? Are my prayers hitting the ceiling fan or are they actually going to your ears, Lord?" I was asking some questions that I sort of felt like I should not be asking these, not because I felt ashamed. I know God can handle our hard questions. It wasn't that. It was just like, I should be beyond these questions by now. But the grief was so tender, Michelle, and so close.
                                              • Some of my prayers were like, “how could you? Like, how dare you?” And part of it was her journey. She experienced healing from cancer about a year in and they didn't call it remission yet. But the doctors did say, this is great, cancer -free, the chemo's done what it should, and then about three months later, it came back with a vengeance. So that was some of it too. The whiplash of it made me ask God some really difficult questions. Like, “can you do anything good in this, God? Like, this feels so lacking in goodness, so lacking in hope, so lacking in beauty you are taking a mom away from three young sons you are taking a daughter away from parents a sister away from sister. Can your goodness reach even into this place?”
                                              • There's just so many situations that prompt those honest gut level questions. Like, I know you God, but I don't understand. I don't understand and God often doesn't answer our why, but he does invite us to be honest with our questions. I mean, I think about so many in the Bible and some of the questions they ask, you know, it'd be easy to say, well, how could they dare? But we ask our own variety of those same questions. And I find it helpful to read those questions in scripture because, you know, you find some comfort in, "Okay, these were historical, ecumenical, faithful followers of God throughout history, and yet they are asking God the same questions. How long, O Lord? How lonely, I feel."
                                              • Lamentations is full of these, like, "How could you? How dare you? How will you fix this?" And so to be able to know that actually, though it feels opposite of our faith. Actually, this type of posture before God is a very, I think, crucial part of our faith journey. I think God actually allows us and wants us to ask those questions on purpose as part of our spiritual formation. Again, we kind of get into our heads as if this isn't faithful or something's wrong. I'm going backwards spiritually, but then when you read those questions all throughout scripture, you can find some comfort in like, okay, these people are in the Bible, right? They were faithful followers of God. They're asking the same questions I'm asking. Yeah, God used them as examples for us. That's it. To teach us, to encourage us.
                                              • One thing that you want as a Christian, even in your darkest hours, is for God to come for you with a sense of comfort. Holy Spirit provides you peace. Holy Spirit provides you a sense that God is with you. God sees you. God is around you. And what I found in my season of grief was that was not occurring. I could not sense God with me. I couldn't hear God speaking to me. I could not “connect with God.” I was just like, “God, where are you? Like, I can't even sense your spirit comforting me and I need you more than ever.” And I began because of the Lord's kindness, I was meeting with a spiritual director at the time. And I began to read about a very common spiritual experience again throughout history, again throughout the Bible, called the Dark Night of the Soul. Which, again, we tend to use it a little generically just to me, and I'm going through a hard time, that's a Dark Night of the Soul.
                                              • A dark night of the soul was coined by St. John of the Cross right after the Spanish Inquisition. And what he talked about was the very thing I'm talking about, when you cannot sense God answering your prayers, when you cannot sense God's nearness, when you cannot see what God is doing, that sense of God's quote "absence" is actually what it means to walk through a dark night of the soul. That can happen in grief, it can happen in loss, it can happen just in life, midlife crisis, it can happen. And what we find in dark nights of the soul is something that We know to be true, God never leaves us nor forsakes us. But for some reason, God does tend to pull back that "felt sense of His presence." And part of what God is doing, we can't all understand everything God is doing, but part of what God is doing is teaching us that our faith is not just about a feeling.
                                              • Our faith is about the object of our faith, Jesus. And so, whether we're "feeling" the presence of God or not, can we choose to have faith that says He is true, His character is true, He is steadfast, I will keep believing, I will keep leaning in, I will keep being faithful even when I can't "feel" Him. And there's something mysterious and explosive and actually good that we find in dark nights of the soul even though it's often quite painful and confusing.
                                              • Michelle, it is hard to sort of find yourself on the grief map when you're in it, especially when it's fresh. And so sometimes you don't know is where I'm at normal, okay, should I be farther along than I am. And the hard part is, depending on the context texture from, often people want you to be further along than you actually are. And you're just not, I mean, it just until you've walked through grief, you, you don't know, no, no, no, I can't move faster than I can move. I am right where I am. And that's as far as I can go. I wrote about these, these three different moments in darkness to try to at least help readers, grievers, someone walking through any type of loss or transition to sort of go, "Okay, I might find myself here." And also, to say any of those places are right where you're supposed to be. God is not rushing you past the finish line of pain.
                                              • Some of us, I think, like I said, rush past it or pretend it isn't happening, but just to go, "Okay, God, things are changing. This is a new season. I don't necessarily like it. I don't really enjoy why I'm here, but I'm going to trust you've got some discoveries for me. And so, I'm going to keep open to whatever you're doing as the night falls. And then the next phase, midnight, I mean, this is where I wrote about my best friend's jet death and just everything changing. I mean, it is just the onslaught of grief that you feel physically, you feel emotionally you experience spiritually it's in your body it's in your mind it's you know you know this from the mental health world your brain is flat you can't really function the way that you used to function and I wanted to put some language for that again just to say it is normal and your only job is to be gentle with yourself at your spiritual midnight your emotional midnight like just Be kind to yourself.
                                              • Be kind to yourself. I think we want to learn the lesson and we want to build the muscles and we want to build resilience. We want to grow in our depth and our meaning. That will come, but it is okay to be right where you are for as long as you need to be, especially in that initial onslaught of grief. We write a lot about that in the section on midnight. And then the last section, when I was very careful not to do, Michelle, and I think you'll appreciate this as one who talks about her own depression. I didn't want to say, "But the sun is coming. Sunrise is on its way." I did not want to write another book about, like, quote, "sunny spirituality," because that's not always what healing is. Healing isn't always darkness to light. Sometimes healing is this gradual progression of, "Oh, I see a little glimmer of hope here." Okay, here's some light coming through.
                                              • I think so often we celebrate like the mountaintop, or the victory and we forget to celebrate what a courageous thing it is to step out in community again after loss or try something new after loss or frankly put pants on and go to Target after loss like those are victories. And so, I wanted to write and sort of normalize that healing can look dramatic. And in a moment, healing can also be very slow. And isn't, you know, isn't always just your sun. Sometimes it's like, you know, here's some stars in your darkness, that's healing too.
                                              • In one sense, I think you do the things you don't do, meaning you rest Sabbath if you're not someone who has done that before, try to sleep if you can. I think this is a time to take up spiritual practices of slowness, stillness, silence, listening. I guess what I'm trying to say is there's not a lot you have to do. And especially early on in the dark night of the soul. And I said this before I will say it again and again and again, be gentle with yourself. I mean, you know, any listener who or view or who has been through loss knows, you often can't even remember like what shampoo is or how to shampoo your hair, let alone want to, or want to, that's a very good point, or even have the desire to. So I think a thing you do is be gentle with yourself
                                              • Loss, grief, darkness can be very isolating. And so I think it is so important that you allow yourself intentionally to reach out to the safe people in your life. That doesn't have to be everybody. You don't have to be best friends with everyone who wants to come around you or, but who are the safe, trusted people that you can say, I can't pray right now, so I need you to pray for me. I am hurting right now. I need somebody just to know. I think the community piece is so important. We are not meant to do the faith journey alone. We're not meant to do grief alone. We're not meant to do darkness alone. We need some traveling companions. And again, you get to choose who those people are. There are some people for some reason that it just can't go with you in dark places and that's okay. But if you have some safe people that can't, you know, let them be a lifeline to you.
                                              • It's hard in grief because people will often very well meaning ask you, what can I do for you? What do you need? And you just don't have the wherewithal to do it. So, on the flip side, I would say if you are walking with someone who's in a dark season, don't even ask, just say, I've sent you a Chipotle gift card, it's going to arrive in your mail, Uber Eats, whatever it is. I've sent you a gift card to any service, use it when you need to. I think some of that proactive approach for someone who's walking through darkness is really helpful too. Oh, for - Sure, because it's almost like the brain fog and the decision fatigue is so great that it's too hard to think about what I could ask someone else to do. Plus, if you've just lost having to ask someone for help, you risk rejection, which is another form of loss.
                                              • So, what about the person who feels like their faith is being shaken by their dark night? What would you say to that person? Because we know the enemy is crafty and he seeks to steal, kill and destroy and he watches so intently. So, he knows when we're at our weakest point, so how do So how do we fight back against that? - Yeah, I think that is so good because what you don't want to do is get in a mindset where you are thinking God caused this pain in my life. God is not the author of pain, author of evil. God in Jesus conquered death. So those things are not from God. But what we and trust is that God is in them, redeeming them, making all things new. 
                                              • I think it's important to know this again, this is a normal part of your spiritual walk. I think sometimes again, we can think, the scaffolding of my faith is being shaken, that's bad, that's bad, that's bad. But sometimes to be disillusioned spiritually is a really good healthy thing because you're not living an illusion anymore. And so, some of the things that you have clung to that are false ideas about God, about faith, God is actually shaking those up on purpose. And that's something good he does in darkness is you find, you know, your faith is a little more explosive, a little more intimate, because you've embraced mystery and God's bigness and the boxes that you put God in suddenly God is breaking out of all of that is very good all of that is part of spiritual formation it can feel like it's you're going backwards but again if you can keep leaning in staying connected to God you find on the other side of that a greater intimacy with God however what you just talked about the spiritual attack that can come. I do think we have to be wise about this.
                                              • I have a good friend who talks about these are the moments when you just have to contend for your faith. Like Jesus, I am not going anywhere. I am putting my anchor of faith in the ground. I am believing that you are good. I am believing that you do good. Any light otherwise is from the enemy, I plead the blood of Jesus over it and I will not walk in it. And so that's a hard muscle when you are depressed, dark, grieving. It's hard to kind of know what's spiritual attack, what's, you know, my just mental state is not okay, what is just, I'm sad, right? And so, I do think this going back to community where it's so helpful to have your other friends pray for you and you don't have to wherewithal to do it yourself. And to say, okay, Lord, I hate everything about this, but you have called yourself faithful and so I'm going to believe you are faithful.
                                              • I think there's some work we have to do, Michelle, like to remember in the darkness what we knew in the light, remember in the desert what we knew in the garden seasons of our lives, remember in the valley what we knew on the mountaintop, like there is some work of recall, okay. God has been good to me, God has been good throughout history, God's character is true, I will choose to believe that even though this is like the fight of my life right now, and God honors that kind of faith and that kind of wrestle, he really does. And I appreciate what you're saying about remembering what we knew in the light and taking that into those dark places. I think it's also so important for us to remember, just as you said, God doesn't cause pain. He doesn't cause hardship. But God is always concerned with us growing.
                                              • I love to garden. I'm a very impatient gardener, but I love to garden. But what it has taught me is that the most crucial growth happens below the soil in the dark place. And while none of us wants to go through pain and suffering, if we can appreciate that God is in that dark place and cultivating something good, that's a hope line that we can hold on to when it doesn't feel good. Think about Jesus in the garden. That was a dark place. His friends wouldn't even stay awake, right? And yet it was a good thing that came out of it because even though he was so honest and I love his honesty, Father, if there is any other way that this cup could pass from me, please, please do it, but ultimately, I want your will, not mine. And I think that's so important for us to remember that our savior of the world went through that dark night.
                                              • Thankfully God is so patient with us. - Yes. - Oh, so patient with us. And I began to sense God sort of lovingly drawing me back to the word, but not for performance, not for study, not for output, not even for preparation. Just, "Hey, you're my daughter. Why don't you just come and read one song, read one, one little verse?" And I began in my mind to call it inchworm Bible reading where I just would read one song and then I would read it again. And then the next day read it again. And I was not accomplishing anything deeply spiritual, very profound. But there was something healing. And it won the words of the Psalms and this beautiful book of prayers and poems and laments for the people of God. And a lot of them are about pain and suffering. So that was one to find language for what I was walking through. But also, it was like, I felt like, again, God just let me be a human being and not a human doing. And I just got to sit in his presence. And it didn't matter how much I accomplished, it didn't matter that I made some beautiful social media post, wrote a sermon based on the reading, it was just about connecting with the father. And the Lord was again, very patient with me. And in time, I just began to sense all of that was God kind of reminding me, “I'm here, I'm still here. There's a rope tethering you to me. I am not going to let you go." And so that inchworm Bible reading, as silly as it sounds, became very profound. I feel like God found me again in that. 
                                              • It's such a profound act of worship and faith to run to God with those things because he would rather us come to him with that type of anger and raw questions and authenticity than walk away in apathy. And so whatever you can do, whether it's journaling, praying aloud in your car, writing, singing, painting, Whatever it is to give those heart things to the Lord is in itself an act of worship and connection and a tool. When we go through such incredibly painful times, like the dark night of the soul that we talked about before the break, it's natural in our humanness to ask, why did this happen?
                                              • Those questions are the right questions to be asking. Those are the questions that God loves to hear. And so, I would invite you to ask those questions to God and wait as long as it takes for God to answer. You do not give up. But I would also say this, hope is coming, light is coming. The dark night does not say dark forever. Grief stays for a very long time, but it changes shape. I grieve my best friend Jen differently. We just celebrated her 45th birthday. I grieve her differently on her 45th birthday than I did two years ago. I still miss her deeply. The grief is different. I am different. The way I experience grief is different. I've had new losses since Jen and those are different.
                                              • And so, it is okay to also remind yourself that hope is coming. You can continue to choose to hope even when you feel hopeless, can ask other people to hold that for you and you can't hold it yourself. I think, again, that's a beautiful part of the Christian faith is it's not meant to be individual; it's meant to be collective and communal. And so, Michelle, I can borrow your hope and your faith when I don't have any and you can borrow mine when you don't have any and all of those things the Lord will use to bring you back to a place of hope and delight and goodness and even joy again in His presence with other people and hope for the future.
                                              • What you're walking through is normal. It is not antithetical to your faith, but part of the faith journey. I want to tell you to keep leaning into Jesus because he is faithful and true. And I would also, I think about the words of Psalm 40:40 where David says I'm at the bottom of my pit and what I found Lord is that you lifted me out and I kind of referred to this subtly a minute ago but there is that spiritual tether connecting you to God if you're a person in Jesus and God is not going to let you stay in your pit the rest of your life God is not going to you alone in your pit. And in fact, what's so beautiful about Jesus in his suffering, he crawls down in our pits with us, does not leave us alone in them. And so you have a friend in suffering who is actually in it with you, but outside of it able to redeem it and able to make something beautiful and new in the situation that seems so painful now.
                                              • I just want to remind you that the temptation is great to pull away from God and from others especially when we've just gone through a period of loss, but I'm encouraging you consistent With God's admonition that you continue to cry out to him be honest with him ask the types of questions that Aubrey shared that she asked. There's no shame in that and God is big enough to handle that.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 88:12 “Are your wonders known in the place of darkness, or your righteous deeds in the land of oblivion?”
                                              • Psalm 88:1 “Lord, you are the God who saves me; day and night I cry out to you.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Aubrey Sampson:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Aubrey Sampson (MA, evangelism and leadership) coplanted and is on staff at Renewal Church, a multiethnic congregation in Chicagoland. She is an author a coach with Propel Women Cohorts and the cohost of The Nothing is Wasted Podcast. She is passionate about helping hurting Christians find God’s presence in their pain. She and her husband, Kevin, and their three hilarious sons live, minister, and play in the Chicagoland area.

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 333 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 077b61b8-de73-473b-9b1c-b3470016fb93 077b61b8-de73-473b-9b1c-b3470016fb93 Thu, 28 Aug 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2379 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/hope-and-healing-how-to-embrace-god-s-presence-in-the-darkest-times                                               The Keys to Long-term Marital Success and Happiness The Keys to Long-term Marital Success and Happiness Episode Summary:

                                              Marriage is a commitment borne on the wings of love that embraces the whole person, warts and all…for better, for worse; for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. But at a time when commitment levels are low and failure rates are high, we need to be pro-active in protecting our marriages, and looking at them from a biblically-based, hope-filled perspective. Dr. Gary Lovejoy and I talk about the keys to long-term marital success and happiness.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Every relationship has its unique issues, but there are identifiable patterns that predict the most likely outcomes in the struggle to make a good life together.
                                              • You say that aggressiveness and passivity are both a cover for fear. What do you mean? Well, because when we're fearful we have different possible reactions. Sometimes when we're fearful we lash out because we think that aggression will protect us. And this is particularly true for men, And it's also true for women too, but they'll lash out in various ways of being angry. Sometimes sadly enough, it can even lead to physical, espousal abuse. And all they may, in their fear, may withdraw. They just say, "I'm afraid to talk, I'm afraid to share, I'm afraid to open." Sometimes they come from families where they were very close families. No one talked about anything. All issues and conflicts were simply buried. And that's, so that becomes their M.O.
                                              • Humility is often misunderstood. I look at humility in terms of the ability to understand who we are and who God is and the difference between the two, and that there is an inexplicable relationship between humility and self -esteem. People who have low self -esteem, we think, oh, they're humble. You know, they're always putting themselves down. That's not humility. Actually, humility requires self-esteem. The two are so closely interact-related.
                                              • What Paul was saying is that the husband must be humble enough to serve his wife and to love her and the wife is doing turns serve her husband and By serving loving, loving and serving are two sides and same point if you love them. You'll want to serve them if you sir and as you serve them you love them more and so there's a reciprocity there that's definition of humility and it's essential for a good strong marriage, because if you don't serve one another, you don't respect each other. And if you don't respect each other, you don't have the kind of intimacy that can otherwise be possible.
                                              • You talk about the family as being, I love this term, incubator of bad habits. What do you mean by that? Well, what we learn in how to resolve conflict is we watch how it's done in home. The only models we have are the ones that we're at home. We don't live with anybody else. We just live with our parents and our family. And if what goes on at home is mom and dad don't talk to each other, or they have arguments and never resolve them, or they yell at each other constantly, or they withdraw, then dad draws, or mom withdraws in the cold atmosphere, and that's how they handle every conflict, and then eventually wears off, and then the next day, or it's OK, that's how they learn to resolve conflict. And so when they go into their marriages, they know nothing different. And so they walk in, and they're handling conflict the way their family always is.
                                              • So, it's fair to say then transparency is the hallmark of a good marriage? Absolutely. If we're not transparent, there's no way we can deal with the issues. You know, the issues don't go away simply by ignoring them. And a lot of people handle them that way, they just hope they'll go away and they ignore them. But conflict is not a bad thing. We think conflict, oh, that's a bad thing, but I don't view it as bad a thing. I view it as opportunities for growth. Because if we all, there are sometimes couples who succeed, actually succeed in becoming clones of each other, because they both fear conflict. So they cover over their differences and they come in and their whole marriage is a pretense. And it's not that satisfying.
                                              • The first thing that's important in resolving conflict is to come at it, not from an accusation point of view, but say, but talking about how can we make things better. There's some things that I'm not sure how to handle well, and so I thought if we can sit down and talk about it, that maybe we can figure out a better way to handle it. Now it's a "we" thing, not a "you" thing. Once you make it "you" thing, it's an accusation. If it's a "we" thing, then, and in every way, you say, well, it's not, I'm not at fault. My part of my, my spouse is at fault. You say, no, in every conflict, each person is doing something wrong. Even if you think you are the one who is the victim, it's how you respond as a victim that may be part of the problem. So, so anytime I was working, when I worked with couples, I always talked about how they can digest each other's roles and, and, And how they can see that they have some things to do to grow in this relationship just as much as their partner does. So it’s a reciprocal thing.
                                              • Marriage is a commitment borne on the wings of love that embraces the whole person, warts and all.
                                              • Protecting your marriage from the assaults on its integrity and loyalty is paramount to preserving it.
                                              • Many couples start marriage with false expectation, weak commitment, or past wounds – all that eventually come to the surface when relationships face challenges.
                                              • It’s incumbent upon every couple to periodically assess the current state of their marriage to determine if there are any ways they relate to each other that are perceived to be disrespectful or that draw down the level of trust in one another.
                                              • The unexamined life is simply not an option if you want a satisfying marriage.
                                              • Contemporary marriages fail at close to 50%. For those who marry again, second marriages fail at 67% and third marriages at 73%. Most marriages die from apathy.
                                              • Most of us don’t learn from failure the first time around.
                                              • Divorce is trifling with God’s work…the truth is you will never have a union between two perfect people.

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Dr. Gary Lovejoy:

                                              Website

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Dr. Gary Lovejoy earned his doctorate from United States International University. He was in private practice in professional counseling for over 40 years, specializing in marriage counseling and in the treatment of anxiety disorders and depression. He is the author of Light in the Darkness: Finding Hope in the Shadow of Depression and 8 Things Every Woman Should Know About Depression.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              Marriage is a commitment borne on the wings of love that embraces the whole person, warts and all…for better, for worse; for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. But at a time when commitment levels are low and failure rates are high, we need to be pro-active in protecting our marriages, and looking at them from a biblically-based, hope-filled perspective. Dr. Gary Lovejoy and I talk about the keys to long-term marital success and happiness.

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Every relationship has its unique issues, but there are identifiable patterns that predict the most likely outcomes in the struggle to make a good life together.
                                              • You say that aggressiveness and passivity are both a cover for fear. What do you mean? Well, because when we're fearful we have different possible reactions. Sometimes when we're fearful we lash out because we think that aggression will protect us. And this is particularly true for men, And it's also true for women too, but they'll lash out in various ways of being angry. Sometimes sadly enough, it can even lead to physical, espousal abuse. And all they may, in their fear, may withdraw. They just say, "I'm afraid to talk, I'm afraid to share, I'm afraid to open." Sometimes they come from families where they were very close families. No one talked about anything. All issues and conflicts were simply buried. And that's, so that becomes their M.O.
                                              • Humility is often misunderstood. I look at humility in terms of the ability to understand who we are and who God is and the difference between the two, and that there is an inexplicable relationship between humility and self -esteem. People who have low self -esteem, we think, oh, they're humble. You know, they're always putting themselves down. That's not humility. Actually, humility requires self-esteem. The two are so closely interact-related.
                                              • What Paul was saying is that the husband must be humble enough to serve his wife and to love her and the wife is doing turns serve her husband and By serving loving, loving and serving are two sides and same point if you love them. You'll want to serve them if you sir and as you serve them you love them more and so there's a reciprocity there that's definition of humility and it's essential for a good strong marriage, because if you don't serve one another, you don't respect each other. And if you don't respect each other, you don't have the kind of intimacy that can otherwise be possible.
                                              • You talk about the family as being, I love this term, incubator of bad habits. What do you mean by that? Well, what we learn in how to resolve conflict is we watch how it's done in home. The only models we have are the ones that we're at home. We don't live with anybody else. We just live with our parents and our family. And if what goes on at home is mom and dad don't talk to each other, or they have arguments and never resolve them, or they yell at each other constantly, or they withdraw, then dad draws, or mom withdraws in the cold atmosphere, and that's how they handle every conflict, and then eventually wears off, and then the next day, or it's OK, that's how they learn to resolve conflict. And so when they go into their marriages, they know nothing different. And so they walk in, and they're handling conflict the way their family always is.
                                              • So, it's fair to say then transparency is the hallmark of a good marriage? Absolutely. If we're not transparent, there's no way we can deal with the issues. You know, the issues don't go away simply by ignoring them. And a lot of people handle them that way, they just hope they'll go away and they ignore them. But conflict is not a bad thing. We think conflict, oh, that's a bad thing, but I don't view it as bad a thing. I view it as opportunities for growth. Because if we all, there are sometimes couples who succeed, actually succeed in becoming clones of each other, because they both fear conflict. So they cover over their differences and they come in and their whole marriage is a pretense. And it's not that satisfying.
                                              • The first thing that's important in resolving conflict is to come at it, not from an accusation point of view, but say, but talking about how can we make things better. There's some things that I'm not sure how to handle well, and so I thought if we can sit down and talk about it, that maybe we can figure out a better way to handle it. Now it's a "we" thing, not a "you" thing. Once you make it "you" thing, it's an accusation. If it's a "we" thing, then, and in every way, you say, well, it's not, I'm not at fault. My part of my, my spouse is at fault. You say, no, in every conflict, each person is doing something wrong. Even if you think you are the one who is the victim, it's how you respond as a victim that may be part of the problem. So, so anytime I was working, when I worked with couples, I always talked about how they can digest each other's roles and, and, And how they can see that they have some things to do to grow in this relationship just as much as their partner does. So it’s a reciprocal thing.
                                              • Marriage is a commitment borne on the wings of love that embraces the whole person, warts and all.
                                              • Protecting your marriage from the assaults on its integrity and loyalty is paramount to preserving it.
                                              • Many couples start marriage with false expectation, weak commitment, or past wounds – all that eventually come to the surface when relationships face challenges.
                                              • It’s incumbent upon every couple to periodically assess the current state of their marriage to determine if there are any ways they relate to each other that are perceived to be disrespectful or that draw down the level of trust in one another.
                                              • The unexamined life is simply not an option if you want a satisfying marriage.
                                              • Contemporary marriages fail at close to 50%. For those who marry again, second marriages fail at 67% and third marriages at 73%. Most marriages die from apathy.
                                              • Most of us don’t learn from failure the first time around.
                                              • Divorce is trifling with God’s work…the truth is you will never have a union between two perfect people.

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Dr. Gary Lovejoy:

                                              Website

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Dr. Gary Lovejoy earned his doctorate from United States International University. He was in private practice in professional counseling for over 40 years, specializing in marriage counseling and in the treatment of anxiety disorders and depression. He is the author of Light in the Darkness: Finding Hope in the Shadow of Depression and 8 Things Every Woman Should Know About Depression.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 331 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 3adadbf0-02ab-4efe-8432-b33f01832ac6 3adadbf0-02ab-4efe-8432-b33f01832ac6 Thu, 21 Aug 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2010 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/the-keys-to-long-term-marital-success-and-happiness                                               How to Persevere Until God Brings Your Dream to Pass How to Persevere Until God Brings Your Dream to Pass Episode Summary:

                                              When God plants a dream in your heart, the journey to seeing it fulfilled can be filled with challenges and delays. In this Sacred Scar Story, Grace Fox shares how she held onto the calling God gave her through years when opportunities seemed out of reach. She opens up about the lessons learned in the waiting, the perseverance it built, and the deep assurance that God’s timing is always perfect. If He has given you a dream, this conversation will encourage you to trust Him to bring it to pass.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • My husband and I worked at a year-round Christian camp for eleven years, and God had made that abundantly clear that we were supposed to be there.  The director of that camp seemed to struggle with women who demonstrated leadership qualities. That was where I wrote my first three or four books, and I was a speaker but this director didn’t give me any opportunity to use these gifts.
                                              • I had so much shame because others noticed that I was a speaker and yet wasn’t being given the opportunity, and when they would ask why I wasn’t being used right there where I worked, I had no answers for that.
                                              • I lived with a deep sadness within my heart. I lived with a sense of rejection, and a sense of “what’s wrong with me? There must be something wrong with me.”
                                              • Because I didn’t have the opportunity to practice the gifts that I thought God had given me, I began to question if I misheard God. It was almost like Jesus not being able to heal in his own hometown.
                                              • One morning during my quiet time, I prayed, “If this is of you, then will you do something with it? Will you use it? But if this is not of you, take away the desire because I don’t want to spend any more energy or negative emotions on this, wishing I could do this but not having the opportunity.”
                                              • At 7:00 that morning, I received a call from a woman about 40 miles away asking me to speak at her women’s event. It was like God saying, “Grace, I heard your cry. I see you in your pain and I just want to assure you, it’s not all in your head. You do have this gifting, and I’m going to bring it about in my time.” And He did, eventually.
                                              • All of a sudden, doors started opening for speaking engagements. So, I began flying out of there to speak to groups who invited me to come when I wasn’t being asked to speak in my own place.
                                              • During that time, while I was waiting for that to come about, I cleaned a lot of toilets, scrubbed a lot of pots and pans, and baked a lot of birthday cakes for kids who came to camp or counselors that were there during the spring and summer. I really developed a lot of humility during that time and patience in waiting for God to bring my dream to fulfillment.
                                              • When the camp director left and another director assumed the position, who had been on staff longer than we had been there, he approached me and said, “Grace, I need a speaker for a women’s event coming up and I think you’ve waited long enough. Will you do it?”
                                              • There have been a couple other camp directors since then, since we left, and they have all invited me back to speak at my old stomping grounds.
                                              • I learned from that that if God plants a dream in your heart, you need to not rush ahead, trust in God’s timing because he will bring it to pass but there is a lot to learn in the journey to getting there.
                                              • I think God needed me to learn perseverance because what I do now requires perseverance too. I can’t do this in my own strength. I don’t want to try to do this in my own strength—it’s done in His strength. It’s also given me an empathy for other women who are younger than myself, but they also feel like God has put a dream in their heart but wonder why it isn’t happening. I get to share with them, “Be patient. Don’t give up. Because if God is in this, He will bring it to pass. It’s the lessons learned along the way that really matter. It’s the character we learn in those hard places.”
                                              • If God is in it, don’t quit until He says so! Persevere and learn what you can along the way.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Mark 6:4-5 “Then Jesus said to them, ‘Only in his hometown, among his relatives, and in his own household is a prophet without honor.’ So He could not perform any miracles there”
                                              • Luke 16:10 NLT “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones.”
                                              • James 5:11 NIV “As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Grace Fox:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Grace Fox is the award-winning author of 14 books including her latest release Names of God: Living Unafraid. She’s a member of the First 5 Bible study writing team for Proverbs 31 Ministries, co-hosts the podcast “Your Daily Bible Verse,” and co-directs International Messengers Canada—a missionary sending agency with 300 staff serving in 30 countries. She and her husband live fulltime aboard a sailboat near Vancouver, British Columbia.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              When God plants a dream in your heart, the journey to seeing it fulfilled can be filled with challenges and delays. In this Sacred Scar Story, Grace Fox shares how she held onto the calling God gave her through years when opportunities seemed out of reach. She opens up about the lessons learned in the waiting, the perseverance it built, and the deep assurance that God’s timing is always perfect. If He has given you a dream, this conversation will encourage you to trust Him to bring it to pass.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • My husband and I worked at a year-round Christian camp for eleven years, and God had made that abundantly clear that we were supposed to be there.  The director of that camp seemed to struggle with women who demonstrated leadership qualities. That was where I wrote my first three or four books, and I was a speaker but this director didn’t give me any opportunity to use these gifts.
                                              • I had so much shame because others noticed that I was a speaker and yet wasn’t being given the opportunity, and when they would ask why I wasn’t being used right there where I worked, I had no answers for that.
                                              • I lived with a deep sadness within my heart. I lived with a sense of rejection, and a sense of “what’s wrong with me? There must be something wrong with me.”
                                              • Because I didn’t have the opportunity to practice the gifts that I thought God had given me, I began to question if I misheard God. It was almost like Jesus not being able to heal in his own hometown.
                                              • One morning during my quiet time, I prayed, “If this is of you, then will you do something with it? Will you use it? But if this is not of you, take away the desire because I don’t want to spend any more energy or negative emotions on this, wishing I could do this but not having the opportunity.”
                                              • At 7:00 that morning, I received a call from a woman about 40 miles away asking me to speak at her women’s event. It was like God saying, “Grace, I heard your cry. I see you in your pain and I just want to assure you, it’s not all in your head. You do have this gifting, and I’m going to bring it about in my time.” And He did, eventually.
                                              • All of a sudden, doors started opening for speaking engagements. So, I began flying out of there to speak to groups who invited me to come when I wasn’t being asked to speak in my own place.
                                              • During that time, while I was waiting for that to come about, I cleaned a lot of toilets, scrubbed a lot of pots and pans, and baked a lot of birthday cakes for kids who came to camp or counselors that were there during the spring and summer. I really developed a lot of humility during that time and patience in waiting for God to bring my dream to fulfillment.
                                              • When the camp director left and another director assumed the position, who had been on staff longer than we had been there, he approached me and said, “Grace, I need a speaker for a women’s event coming up and I think you’ve waited long enough. Will you do it?”
                                              • There have been a couple other camp directors since then, since we left, and they have all invited me back to speak at my old stomping grounds.
                                              • I learned from that that if God plants a dream in your heart, you need to not rush ahead, trust in God’s timing because he will bring it to pass but there is a lot to learn in the journey to getting there.
                                              • I think God needed me to learn perseverance because what I do now requires perseverance too. I can’t do this in my own strength. I don’t want to try to do this in my own strength—it’s done in His strength. It’s also given me an empathy for other women who are younger than myself, but they also feel like God has put a dream in their heart but wonder why it isn’t happening. I get to share with them, “Be patient. Don’t give up. Because if God is in this, He will bring it to pass. It’s the lessons learned along the way that really matter. It’s the character we learn in those hard places.”
                                              • If God is in it, don’t quit until He says so! Persevere and learn what you can along the way.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Mark 6:4-5 “Then Jesus said to them, ‘Only in his hometown, among his relatives, and in his own household is a prophet without honor.’ So He could not perform any miracles there”
                                              • Luke 16:10 NLT “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones.”
                                              • James 5:11 NIV “As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Grace Fox:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Grace Fox is the award-winning author of 14 books including her latest release Names of God: Living Unafraid. She’s a member of the First 5 Bible study writing team for Proverbs 31 Ministries, co-hosts the podcast “Your Daily Bible Verse,” and co-directs International Messengers Canada—a missionary sending agency with 300 staff serving in 30 countries. She and her husband live fulltime aboard a sailboat near Vancouver, British Columbia.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 331 Dr. Michelle Bengtson b7ebaec5-33a0-4f0b-b070-b3390000a879 b7ebaec5-33a0-4f0b-b070-b3390000a879 Thu, 14 Aug 2025 10:30:00 +0000 958 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-persevere-until-god-brings-your-dream-to-pass                                               How To Be Present in the Moment and Reap the Benefits How To Be Present in the Moment and Reap the Benefits Episode Summary:

                                              Being busy is a drug for most people. We believe that busyness is a badge of honor, that constant activity is good, and that productivity (whatever that means), makes us worthwhile. People like to talk about being busy all the time, but oftentimes their relationships suffer.

                                              So often we sleepwalk through our days, but there is a tremendous gift in practicing awareness in this present moment. In a culture that gives accolades for business and achievement, we run the risk of forgetting how to be present. Scripture reminds us to “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10) but how often do we willingly slow down? My guest, Courtney Ellis and I talk about how to be present in the moment and reap the benefits.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • What would it look like to love my actual neighbors? What would it look like to press into this particular church? What would it look like to make our kids' schools our schools and really put our feet on the ground and help in all the ways that we can? And so this book came out of that desire that my husband and I had and that commitment we made before God to really try to live into the ministry of stability as long as he called us to. That's a big change after moving six times in six years. It is, it is. You learn some bad habits when you move a lot. Friends in the military, friends who have to move a lot and they say, yeah, you pick up some bad habits. So, we had to unlearn a lot of bad habits.
                                              • You talk about leaning in and being present. So, what are some practical ways that we can choose to be present in the moment? And then what are some of the benefits? There are so many small, beautiful ways we can choose to be present. Often the easiest one is just to keep your phone in your pocket or your purse because it's fascinating. You'll be at the grocery store, and you see people standing in line and you can time it. People will stand in line patiently for about 30 seconds and then the hand goes down and the phone is out. And it's not that they're being impatient, but might as well use the time to do the word or scroll Facebook or whatever it is. And so, part of this, practicing this attentiveness toward God and being present in the moment is simply resisting that urge to do the easiest thing which is to pull out technology and distract ourselves.
                                              • Sit near a window and just take a few minutes and observe what you see and it's almost like your soul is the shaken up snow globe and as you sit all of that snow starts to settle and you may hear from God, you may hear things in your own heart that you've been kind of stuffing down and as you're present to yourself, present to what you see around you, present to the Lord, beautiful things can happen.
                                              • When we can make decisions in our lives ahead of time and leave them closed, it opens up our minds to new possibilities. It gives us new energy. And that's the difference between kind of leaving or living poised to leave and living planning to stay. And God may call us to go tomorrow, but today, if that decision is closed, we have all of these possibilities in front of us that we can turn our full attention to without already being fatigued. You refer to limits as a God -given grace. What do you mean by that? I don't like it. I'm going to start with that. I don't either. Talk about that for a minute. Yes. I want to be infinite. I want to keep going. I want to keep running. But limits ultimately are a grace and they're a reminder to us of our creatureliness that we are part of God's creation. We are not God.
                                              • Even small things like coming to the end of a day and needing to go to sleep is a reminder of the limits God has set in our days, in our world, in our life. Multiple times a day we have to stop and eat. And that's an intentional creation of God. God could have created us to not need food. God could have created us to eat once a year. But these intentional checks and balances in our lives are an opportunity to practice dependence on God, to understand that our finitude is not burden, but it's grace, even if we are not always able to receive it in that way.
                                              • Why do you call yourself an achievement addict and what does this have to do with learning to take a Sabbath rest? Yes, I would imagine I'm talking to another achievement addict here on the show. It takes one to know one. Yeah, I, especially early on in my life, that was where I would receive a lot of praise and adulation. And so I really grew into this. I am what I do. And if I've done enough in a day, I can feel good about myself, you know, when my husband and I compare notes at the end of the day and he'll say, "How was your day?" I still will most often jump to, "Well, I got a lot done and I feel really good about that." It's like, "Do you? Okay, let's talk about that. And there's nothing wrong with achievement, there's nothing wrong with being a driven person. But where you encounter some difficulty is when that becomes your identity. So, on a day where I'm ill, on a day where, you know, the kids didn't cooperate, on a day where something unexpected got thrown on my plate ministry -wise, does that mean I'm less of a person because I didn't check off my list? No, it doesn't. It means that God is the God of interruptions and God is the God of limitations. 
                                              • There's great grace in realizing that we are, you know, the old cliche, we're human beings, we're not human doings. and God has created us that way out of love and care and grace so we can rest at the end of the day even while leaving things undone. And that is the message of Sabbath is that once-a-week God commands doesn't invite doesn't suggest God commands that we rest from our labors and not because everything is done not because everything is polished and finished. And I love what Eugene Peterson, wonderful Presbyterian author has to say about Sabbath, which is that if you work with your mind, you should Sabbath with your hands. So, there should be worship, but also, you know, often my husband is out in the garden on Sabbath because that allows his mind to rest. But if you work with your hands, you should Sabbath with your mind.
                                              • Busyness keeps us from stability and stability is what healthy people and a healthy society desperately needs.
                                              • The United States has traditionally been one of the most mobile countries in the world with the average American moving about eleven times in their lifetimes. By contrast, Europeans move about four times.
                                              • Busyness and the transitory nature of our lives and jobs means fewer deep connections with others.
                                              • Fostering community is some of the toughest, most painful work we engage in. Being present means that we deliberately choose stability.
                                              • In a world marked by transience, envy, and rootlessness, committing to stay put is a radical, unusual act.
                                              • Transience threatens to dull our awareness of God.
                                              • While stability may not always be our choice (like with a job relocation), it is something to be sought after.
                                              • Remembering to pay attention can be the trickiest spiritual practice of all.
                                              • Being present is about choices: setting aside time to rest (Sabbath) but also setting aside distractions (like technology).
                                              • Sabbath is not a gift to you because you've achieved enough. It's actually a gift so that you will rest from your achievement and that's hard. In fact, you write remembering to pay attention can be the trickiest spiritual practice of to hack that a little think in many ways, those are the two primary spiritual disciplines, but what I'm learning is the older I get that the fundamental spiritual practice for all of us is learning to pay attention, to pay attention to God, to pay attention to our neighbor, to pay attention to what God is stirring up in our own souls, to pay attention to what God's stirring up in our broader culture.
                                              • A lot of it comes back to those practices of noticing and being present with people. This is what Jesus did so well. Jesus was present with people who were very different than he was, people who had been wearing t -shirts with slogans that he did not agree with. And he did that by simply being present with people, by sharing meals with them, by having conversations, by noticing, he meets the woman at the well and through the power of the Holy Spirit, he knows things about her that we wouldn't have known, but we can notice, and we can love as Jesus loved. And so in building community, some of the best tools we have are not going on 100 miles an hour so we can pause at the mailbox and say, "Hey, how was your day?" So we can notice the person in the grocery store check-out line. So, it's slowing down and then practicing that same attentiveness, that spiritual practice of noticing with people.
                                              • A big percentage of our listeners and viewers are dealing with pain, whether it's physical pain, it's emotional pain, relational pain, or even spiritual pain. So how can we learn to find God's presence in the present moment in the midst of our pain? What a good question. I think the first thing I'd say is sometimes you need to escape the pain a little bit and that's okay. Sometimes what you need are six episodes of the Great British Baking Show and God honors that and God blesses that. God doesn't always force us to face down our pain every minute of every day. So, it's kind of two feet of walking, we face it and then we take a breather, we take a rest, we take a nap. But I think the surprising thing, and we read this so often throughout the journey of Scripture, is that in those most painful moments, we find an intimacy with God that we don't find any other time.
                                              • I would want to leave them with the gentle permission to slow down, to look up and look around, and to see what grace, God has strewn right in your path, right in front of you. It's easy to look for greener pastures. It's easy to lean into the dissatisfaction that our culture showcases all around us, but truly God has strewn our world with such delight. We slow down and start to look up. It's ours for the taking if we will slow down and be present in the moment. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Matthew 5:34 We are warned not to “be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself.”
                                              • Matthew 24:42-44 “… keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”
                                              • Jeremiah 29:7 “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Courtney Ellis:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / X

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              After six moves in as many years, Courtney Ellis found herself longing for the stability of one place. Her new book Present: The Gift of Being All In, Right Where You Are explores God’s call to be present, cultivating community and contentment right where we are. Courtney is a graduate of Wheaton College and Princeton Seminary. She trained to be an English lit professor before following God’s call to full-time ministry. She and her husband, Daryl, have three children and live in southern California where they pastor.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              Being busy is a drug for most people. We believe that busyness is a badge of honor, that constant activity is good, and that productivity (whatever that means), makes us worthwhile. People like to talk about being busy all the time, but oftentimes their relationships suffer.

                                              So often we sleepwalk through our days, but there is a tremendous gift in practicing awareness in this present moment. In a culture that gives accolades for business and achievement, we run the risk of forgetting how to be present. Scripture reminds us to “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10) but how often do we willingly slow down? My guest, Courtney Ellis and I talk about how to be present in the moment and reap the benefits.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • What would it look like to love my actual neighbors? What would it look like to press into this particular church? What would it look like to make our kids' schools our schools and really put our feet on the ground and help in all the ways that we can? And so this book came out of that desire that my husband and I had and that commitment we made before God to really try to live into the ministry of stability as long as he called us to. That's a big change after moving six times in six years. It is, it is. You learn some bad habits when you move a lot. Friends in the military, friends who have to move a lot and they say, yeah, you pick up some bad habits. So, we had to unlearn a lot of bad habits.
                                              • You talk about leaning in and being present. So, what are some practical ways that we can choose to be present in the moment? And then what are some of the benefits? There are so many small, beautiful ways we can choose to be present. Often the easiest one is just to keep your phone in your pocket or your purse because it's fascinating. You'll be at the grocery store, and you see people standing in line and you can time it. People will stand in line patiently for about 30 seconds and then the hand goes down and the phone is out. And it's not that they're being impatient, but might as well use the time to do the word or scroll Facebook or whatever it is. And so, part of this, practicing this attentiveness toward God and being present in the moment is simply resisting that urge to do the easiest thing which is to pull out technology and distract ourselves.
                                              • Sit near a window and just take a few minutes and observe what you see and it's almost like your soul is the shaken up snow globe and as you sit all of that snow starts to settle and you may hear from God, you may hear things in your own heart that you've been kind of stuffing down and as you're present to yourself, present to what you see around you, present to the Lord, beautiful things can happen.
                                              • When we can make decisions in our lives ahead of time and leave them closed, it opens up our minds to new possibilities. It gives us new energy. And that's the difference between kind of leaving or living poised to leave and living planning to stay. And God may call us to go tomorrow, but today, if that decision is closed, we have all of these possibilities in front of us that we can turn our full attention to without already being fatigued. You refer to limits as a God -given grace. What do you mean by that? I don't like it. I'm going to start with that. I don't either. Talk about that for a minute. Yes. I want to be infinite. I want to keep going. I want to keep running. But limits ultimately are a grace and they're a reminder to us of our creatureliness that we are part of God's creation. We are not God.
                                              • Even small things like coming to the end of a day and needing to go to sleep is a reminder of the limits God has set in our days, in our world, in our life. Multiple times a day we have to stop and eat. And that's an intentional creation of God. God could have created us to not need food. God could have created us to eat once a year. But these intentional checks and balances in our lives are an opportunity to practice dependence on God, to understand that our finitude is not burden, but it's grace, even if we are not always able to receive it in that way.
                                              • Why do you call yourself an achievement addict and what does this have to do with learning to take a Sabbath rest? Yes, I would imagine I'm talking to another achievement addict here on the show. It takes one to know one. Yeah, I, especially early on in my life, that was where I would receive a lot of praise and adulation. And so I really grew into this. I am what I do. And if I've done enough in a day, I can feel good about myself, you know, when my husband and I compare notes at the end of the day and he'll say, "How was your day?" I still will most often jump to, "Well, I got a lot done and I feel really good about that." It's like, "Do you? Okay, let's talk about that. And there's nothing wrong with achievement, there's nothing wrong with being a driven person. But where you encounter some difficulty is when that becomes your identity. So, on a day where I'm ill, on a day where, you know, the kids didn't cooperate, on a day where something unexpected got thrown on my plate ministry -wise, does that mean I'm less of a person because I didn't check off my list? No, it doesn't. It means that God is the God of interruptions and God is the God of limitations. 
                                              • There's great grace in realizing that we are, you know, the old cliche, we're human beings, we're not human doings. and God has created us that way out of love and care and grace so we can rest at the end of the day even while leaving things undone. And that is the message of Sabbath is that once-a-week God commands doesn't invite doesn't suggest God commands that we rest from our labors and not because everything is done not because everything is polished and finished. And I love what Eugene Peterson, wonderful Presbyterian author has to say about Sabbath, which is that if you work with your mind, you should Sabbath with your hands. So, there should be worship, but also, you know, often my husband is out in the garden on Sabbath because that allows his mind to rest. But if you work with your hands, you should Sabbath with your mind.
                                              • Busyness keeps us from stability and stability is what healthy people and a healthy society desperately needs.
                                              • The United States has traditionally been one of the most mobile countries in the world with the average American moving about eleven times in their lifetimes. By contrast, Europeans move about four times.
                                              • Busyness and the transitory nature of our lives and jobs means fewer deep connections with others.
                                              • Fostering community is some of the toughest, most painful work we engage in. Being present means that we deliberately choose stability.
                                              • In a world marked by transience, envy, and rootlessness, committing to stay put is a radical, unusual act.
                                              • Transience threatens to dull our awareness of God.
                                              • While stability may not always be our choice (like with a job relocation), it is something to be sought after.
                                              • Remembering to pay attention can be the trickiest spiritual practice of all.
                                              • Being present is about choices: setting aside time to rest (Sabbath) but also setting aside distractions (like technology).
                                              • Sabbath is not a gift to you because you've achieved enough. It's actually a gift so that you will rest from your achievement and that's hard. In fact, you write remembering to pay attention can be the trickiest spiritual practice of to hack that a little think in many ways, those are the two primary spiritual disciplines, but what I'm learning is the older I get that the fundamental spiritual practice for all of us is learning to pay attention, to pay attention to God, to pay attention to our neighbor, to pay attention to what God is stirring up in our own souls, to pay attention to what God's stirring up in our broader culture.
                                              • A lot of it comes back to those practices of noticing and being present with people. This is what Jesus did so well. Jesus was present with people who were very different than he was, people who had been wearing t -shirts with slogans that he did not agree with. And he did that by simply being present with people, by sharing meals with them, by having conversations, by noticing, he meets the woman at the well and through the power of the Holy Spirit, he knows things about her that we wouldn't have known, but we can notice, and we can love as Jesus loved. And so in building community, some of the best tools we have are not going on 100 miles an hour so we can pause at the mailbox and say, "Hey, how was your day?" So we can notice the person in the grocery store check-out line. So, it's slowing down and then practicing that same attentiveness, that spiritual practice of noticing with people.
                                              • A big percentage of our listeners and viewers are dealing with pain, whether it's physical pain, it's emotional pain, relational pain, or even spiritual pain. So how can we learn to find God's presence in the present moment in the midst of our pain? What a good question. I think the first thing I'd say is sometimes you need to escape the pain a little bit and that's okay. Sometimes what you need are six episodes of the Great British Baking Show and God honors that and God blesses that. God doesn't always force us to face down our pain every minute of every day. So, it's kind of two feet of walking, we face it and then we take a breather, we take a rest, we take a nap. But I think the surprising thing, and we read this so often throughout the journey of Scripture, is that in those most painful moments, we find an intimacy with God that we don't find any other time.
                                              • I would want to leave them with the gentle permission to slow down, to look up and look around, and to see what grace, God has strewn right in your path, right in front of you. It's easy to look for greener pastures. It's easy to lean into the dissatisfaction that our culture showcases all around us, but truly God has strewn our world with such delight. We slow down and start to look up. It's ours for the taking if we will slow down and be present in the moment. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Matthew 5:34 We are warned not to “be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself.”
                                              • Matthew 24:42-44 “… keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”
                                              • Jeremiah 29:7 “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Courtney Ellis:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / X

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              After six moves in as many years, Courtney Ellis found herself longing for the stability of one place. Her new book Present: The Gift of Being All In, Right Where You Are explores God’s call to be present, cultivating community and contentment right where we are. Courtney is a graduate of Wheaton College and Princeton Seminary. She trained to be an English lit professor before following God’s call to full-time ministry. She and her husband, Daryl, have three children and live in southern California where they pastor.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 330 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 4e6830ed-6397-4e6b-824d-b331017eb351 4e6830ed-6397-4e6b-824d-b331017eb351 Thu, 07 Aug 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1973 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-be-present-in-the-moment-and-reap-the-benefits                                               Breaking Free from Loneliness: How to Build Meaningful Connections and Find Hope Breaking Free from Loneliness: How to Build Meaningful Connections and Find Hope Episode Summary:

                                              Today, we’re tackling an issue that affects millions of people: loneliness. In a world that’s more connected than ever through technology, many of us still feel isolated and unseen. Studies show that loneliness has become a public health crisis, impacting our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. According to a recent study, 1 in 3 adults reports feeling severely lonely. The CDC links social isolation and loneliness to depression, anxiety, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, dementia, and more. Loneliness has the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

                                              But there’s good news: loneliness isn’t the end of the story. God created us for connection, and by taking intentional steps, we can build meaningful relationships that bring hope, healing, and joy. Stay tuned as Becky Harling and I unpack practical tips and faith-based solutions to combat the epidemic of loneliness and rediscover the power of authentic connection.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • According to a recent study, 1 in 3 adults reports feeling severely lonely.
                                              • The CDC links social isolation and loneliness to depression, anxiety, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, dementia, and more.
                                              • Loneliness has the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
                                              • Loneliness is feeling disconnected. You could be in a crowded room with lots of people. It doesn’t mean that you don’t have people around you, you just don’t feel connected to those people, and so you can feel isolated even in a crowd.
                                              • Busyness is one of the chief problems that have contributed to our society’s deep loneliness. People are busier today than they’ve ever been. We’re always off to the next appointment, the next thing, the next activity, and as a result we don’t know our neighbors. We don’t have time for friends. We’re on this continual treadmill that has taken over our lives and it’s become detrimental to us and yet we seem to wear busyness as a badge of honor.
                                              • We have lost the ability to have meaningful conversations with people. We’ve lost the curiosity element where like every single person is an amazing creature designed in the image of God. I want to be curious and know who they are. I want to know what’s important to them and why it’s important to them and those conversations really build the deeper connections.
                                              • The first small step is to reach out to somebody that you know and say either let’s go to coffee, because I want to know you better. Better yet, invite them into your home or coffee. For the listeners who may feel a little afraid, my encouragement is to do it afraid. Just do it afraid, but learn to reach out to people.
                                              • When you bring humility into a friendship, not only are you modeling the behavior that Jesus taught us. Paul reminds us, have this attitude in yourself, which was also in Christ Jesus. He was humble, even though he existed in the form of God, he didn’t clamor after that. Instead, he took on the form of a bond servant. When you come to a relationship with humility, it levels the playing field, and you allow the other friend to feel safe.
                                              • We are never more like the enemy than when we’re criticizing somebody because the enemy is the accuser of the brethren and so to be like Jesus we’re not going to stand around and accuse people because he didn’t do that….so offer compassion.
                                              • When you’re tempted to take offense, or when you already have, I like to ask myself a few questions. How is it helping me to take offense? Usually it doesn't help me, it hurts me, right? How, what do I need to take responsibility for here? You know, what's the meaning I'm making in my head? We all tell ourselves stories, right? And so when we're tempted to take offense, what happens is we sell ourselves a story. You know, like maybe this person is so rude to me or they don't honor my space or they don't value my opinions. And it's likely not any of those things, you know, first of all, people might not even really be thinking about you. And you know, we tend to think, what is she thinking? What are they thinking? Well, they're not thinking about you. They're thinking about their own problems. So, you know, offer people grace, don't get offended so easily.
                                              • If you’re trying to keep up an image, some kind of persona that you’re projecting to the world, that’s a burden. And it’s going to weigh you down. Why not just be vulnerable? Be yourself. Choose who you’re going to be vulnerable with.
                                              • If you have good friends, dare to be vulnerable if you want the friendship to go deeper.  That’s one of the benefits of cultivating these deeper connections is the opportunity to have such a degree of vulnerability that you can pray for them, that you can ask them for prayer. I think prayer is one of the most vulnerable things that we can do. We're vulnerable before our Lord, but then when we ask for prayer, we're vulnerable before the one that we've asked for prayer from, and when they ask us for prayer. That's about the most vulnerable that you can get with someone. But it does foster that connection. We have to take a risk.
                                              • If you are feeling lonely today, I want to talk directly to you. Pretend that we're just sitting across the table having coffee. I want you to know that you are never really alone because Jesus is the one who said, "I will never leave you. I will never forsake you." If you're a widow, you are never alone. Jesus is with you. If you're isolated in a new community, you are never alone. Jesus is with you. And as you cultivate your friendship with Jesus and you grow more secure in His love, it's going to give you the confidence then to let that love flow out to others. The first thing for you is to cultivate that deep friendship with Jesus. Go to him in prayer, tell him everything, you know, go to the word of God, listen to worship music, take a walk and just talk with Jesus. But cultivate that friendship first and foremost.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Proverbs 27:17 "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."
                                              • Hebrews 10:25 “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Becky Harling:

                                              Website / Podcast / Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn / X

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Becky Harling has a degree in Biblical Literature and is a speaker and Bible teacher. The host of The Connected Mom podcast, Becky has a passion for helping women find hope, healing, freedom, and life transformation through Jesus Christ. She is the author of many books and Bible studies, including her recent release, Cultivating Deeper Connections in a Lonely World.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              Today, we’re tackling an issue that affects millions of people: loneliness. In a world that’s more connected than ever through technology, many of us still feel isolated and unseen. Studies show that loneliness has become a public health crisis, impacting our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. According to a recent study, 1 in 3 adults reports feeling severely lonely. The CDC links social isolation and loneliness to depression, anxiety, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, dementia, and more. Loneliness has the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

                                              But there’s good news: loneliness isn’t the end of the story. God created us for connection, and by taking intentional steps, we can build meaningful relationships that bring hope, healing, and joy. Stay tuned as Becky Harling and I unpack practical tips and faith-based solutions to combat the epidemic of loneliness and rediscover the power of authentic connection.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • According to a recent study, 1 in 3 adults reports feeling severely lonely.
                                              • The CDC links social isolation and loneliness to depression, anxiety, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, dementia, and more.
                                              • Loneliness has the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
                                              • Loneliness is feeling disconnected. You could be in a crowded room with lots of people. It doesn’t mean that you don’t have people around you, you just don’t feel connected to those people, and so you can feel isolated even in a crowd.
                                              • Busyness is one of the chief problems that have contributed to our society’s deep loneliness. People are busier today than they’ve ever been. We’re always off to the next appointment, the next thing, the next activity, and as a result we don’t know our neighbors. We don’t have time for friends. We’re on this continual treadmill that has taken over our lives and it’s become detrimental to us and yet we seem to wear busyness as a badge of honor.
                                              • We have lost the ability to have meaningful conversations with people. We’ve lost the curiosity element where like every single person is an amazing creature designed in the image of God. I want to be curious and know who they are. I want to know what’s important to them and why it’s important to them and those conversations really build the deeper connections.
                                              • The first small step is to reach out to somebody that you know and say either let’s go to coffee, because I want to know you better. Better yet, invite them into your home or coffee. For the listeners who may feel a little afraid, my encouragement is to do it afraid. Just do it afraid, but learn to reach out to people.
                                              • When you bring humility into a friendship, not only are you modeling the behavior that Jesus taught us. Paul reminds us, have this attitude in yourself, which was also in Christ Jesus. He was humble, even though he existed in the form of God, he didn’t clamor after that. Instead, he took on the form of a bond servant. When you come to a relationship with humility, it levels the playing field, and you allow the other friend to feel safe.
                                              • We are never more like the enemy than when we’re criticizing somebody because the enemy is the accuser of the brethren and so to be like Jesus we’re not going to stand around and accuse people because he didn’t do that….so offer compassion.
                                              • When you’re tempted to take offense, or when you already have, I like to ask myself a few questions. How is it helping me to take offense? Usually it doesn't help me, it hurts me, right? How, what do I need to take responsibility for here? You know, what's the meaning I'm making in my head? We all tell ourselves stories, right? And so when we're tempted to take offense, what happens is we sell ourselves a story. You know, like maybe this person is so rude to me or they don't honor my space or they don't value my opinions. And it's likely not any of those things, you know, first of all, people might not even really be thinking about you. And you know, we tend to think, what is she thinking? What are they thinking? Well, they're not thinking about you. They're thinking about their own problems. So, you know, offer people grace, don't get offended so easily.
                                              • If you’re trying to keep up an image, some kind of persona that you’re projecting to the world, that’s a burden. And it’s going to weigh you down. Why not just be vulnerable? Be yourself. Choose who you’re going to be vulnerable with.
                                              • If you have good friends, dare to be vulnerable if you want the friendship to go deeper.  That’s one of the benefits of cultivating these deeper connections is the opportunity to have such a degree of vulnerability that you can pray for them, that you can ask them for prayer. I think prayer is one of the most vulnerable things that we can do. We're vulnerable before our Lord, but then when we ask for prayer, we're vulnerable before the one that we've asked for prayer from, and when they ask us for prayer. That's about the most vulnerable that you can get with someone. But it does foster that connection. We have to take a risk.
                                              • If you are feeling lonely today, I want to talk directly to you. Pretend that we're just sitting across the table having coffee. I want you to know that you are never really alone because Jesus is the one who said, "I will never leave you. I will never forsake you." If you're a widow, you are never alone. Jesus is with you. If you're isolated in a new community, you are never alone. Jesus is with you. And as you cultivate your friendship with Jesus and you grow more secure in His love, it's going to give you the confidence then to let that love flow out to others. The first thing for you is to cultivate that deep friendship with Jesus. Go to him in prayer, tell him everything, you know, go to the word of God, listen to worship music, take a walk and just talk with Jesus. But cultivate that friendship first and foremost.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Proverbs 27:17 "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."
                                              • Hebrews 10:25 “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Becky Harling:

                                              Website / Podcast / Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn / X

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Becky Harling has a degree in Biblical Literature and is a speaker and Bible teacher. The host of The Connected Mom podcast, Becky has a passion for helping women find hope, healing, freedom, and life transformation through Jesus Christ. She is the author of many books and Bible studies, including her recent release, Cultivating Deeper Connections in a Lonely World.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 329 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 8c0470c9-63d5-4282-a3d6-b32b0026a61c 8c0470c9-63d5-4282-a3d6-b32b0026a61c Thu, 31 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1956 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/breaking-free-from-loneliness-how-to-build-meaningful-connections-and-find-hope                                               The Neuroscience of Procrastination The Neuroscience of Procrastination Episode Summary:

                                              If you’ve ever put off a task, knowing it needs to get done, but found yourself scrolling social media, reorganizing your closet, or doing anything but the thing you should be doing, this episode is for you. But here’s the twist: we’re not just talking about procrastination from a behavioral standpoint. Today, we’re diving into the neuroscience behind procrastination: what’s happening in your brain when you delay and how understanding this can help you overcome it.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks, especially those that are important or time-sensitive. Most of us associate it with laziness or poor time management, but it’s actually far more complex.
                                              • When we procrastinate, we disrupt that God-ordained rhythm, often leading to stress, guilt, and missed opportunities.
                                              • Procrastination isn’t just a matter of willpower; it’s a battle within your brain. Specifically, it’s a tug-of-war between two parts of your brain: the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex.
                                              • When we procrastinate, the limbic system overrides the prefrontal cortex. It’s almost like a toddler throwing a tantrum and the parent giving in. But here’s the good news: the more we understand this process, the better equipped we are to address it.
                                              • There are several reasons why we procrastinate: fear of failure, perfectionism, lack of clarity, immediate gratification, pride.
                                              • Strategies to overcome procrastination: break tasks into smaller steps, set specific, time-limited goals, use rewards wisely, challenge negative thinking, invite God into your work, practice self-compassion.
                                              • Friend, if you’ve been struggling with procrastination, I want you to know there’s hope. You’re not alone, and you’re not stuck. God designed your brain with incredible potential, and by understanding how it works, you can make choices that align with His purposes for your life.
                                              • Procrastination isn’t just about avoiding tasks; it’s often about avoiding discomfort. But growth happens when we lean into that discomfort with faith, knowing God equips us for every good work.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Ecclesiastes 3:1 that ‘there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.’
                                              • Proverbs 14:23 reminds us, ‘All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.’ God calls us to diligent stewardship of our time and gifts, but understanding these barriers helps us address them with grace.”
                                              • Colossians 3:23 encourages us to ‘work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.’

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              If you’ve ever put off a task, knowing it needs to get done, but found yourself scrolling social media, reorganizing your closet, or doing anything but the thing you should be doing, this episode is for you. But here’s the twist: we’re not just talking about procrastination from a behavioral standpoint. Today, we’re diving into the neuroscience behind procrastination: what’s happening in your brain when you delay and how understanding this can help you overcome it.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks, especially those that are important or time-sensitive. Most of us associate it with laziness or poor time management, but it’s actually far more complex.
                                              • When we procrastinate, we disrupt that God-ordained rhythm, often leading to stress, guilt, and missed opportunities.
                                              • Procrastination isn’t just a matter of willpower; it’s a battle within your brain. Specifically, it’s a tug-of-war between two parts of your brain: the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex.
                                              • When we procrastinate, the limbic system overrides the prefrontal cortex. It’s almost like a toddler throwing a tantrum and the parent giving in. But here’s the good news: the more we understand this process, the better equipped we are to address it.
                                              • There are several reasons why we procrastinate: fear of failure, perfectionism, lack of clarity, immediate gratification, pride.
                                              • Strategies to overcome procrastination: break tasks into smaller steps, set specific, time-limited goals, use rewards wisely, challenge negative thinking, invite God into your work, practice self-compassion.
                                              • Friend, if you’ve been struggling with procrastination, I want you to know there’s hope. You’re not alone, and you’re not stuck. God designed your brain with incredible potential, and by understanding how it works, you can make choices that align with His purposes for your life.
                                              • Procrastination isn’t just about avoiding tasks; it’s often about avoiding discomfort. But growth happens when we lean into that discomfort with faith, knowing God equips us for every good work.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Ecclesiastes 3:1 that ‘there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.’
                                              • Proverbs 14:23 reminds us, ‘All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.’ God calls us to diligent stewardship of our time and gifts, but understanding these barriers helps us address them with grace.”
                                              • Colossians 3:23 encourages us to ‘work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.’

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 328 Dr. Michelle Bengtson facc80d3-af8b-4401-bdfa-b3240022c2a0 facc80d3-af8b-4401-bdfa-b3240022c2a0 Thu, 24 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000 802 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/the-neuroscience-of-procrastination                                               How a Doctor Let Go of Bitterness and Found Rest and Hope After Career Loss How a Doctor Let Go of Bitterness and Found Rest and Hope After Career Loss Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode, Dr. Vickie Petz Kasper shares her powerful story of how a rare neuromuscular disorder abruptly ended her 20-year career as an OB/GYN, transforming her life in an instant. From delivering thousands of babies to becoming a patient herself, Vickie opens up about the pain of losing her identity as a doctor and battling bitterness. Yet, in the midst of her struggle, she discovered the faithfulness of God, who used her season of forced rest to bring healing, comfort, and purpose. Through scripture, gratitude, and a shift in focus, Vickie learned how to trust God, reclaim her identity in Christ, and ultimately use her experience to offer hope and comfort to others facing their own trials.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • What I have found is that if we will allow God to, he will take our deepest areas of pain and discomfort and ultimately use it for our good.
                                              • I was an OB /GYN doctor, delivered 5,000 babies during my career. And that was such a treasure, such a privilege to be there at that special moment at the beginning of life, to be the first person to hold a newborn baby.
                                              • So, I was in the operating room doing a C-section when all of a sudden, my hands refused to obey my brain. And I kept staring at them, expecting them to move, and they were just still. Now, I say suddenly, in reality, about six weeks before, I had been diagnosed with a disease called myasthenia gravis, but it initially only affected my eyes.
                                              • So, we knew what was happening, and I was having some subtle symptoms, but I was preparing for a 57-mile bicycle ride across the state of Missouri the next day. I was kind of ignoring some symptoms.
                                              • So, when I say suddenly, I don't really mean suddenly, but it felt suddenly. I went from being a surgeon in the operating room to being a patient in the emergency room in an instant.
                                              • It was a very painful season from the outset because not only did, in an instant, I lose my career, my ability to ride my bicycle, and all the other active things that I loved about my life, but I also felt betrayed by my own profession.
                                              • I think the beginning of a wound that was the most difficult to heal from, that I had to fight was a root of bitterness.
                                              • When the Bible talks about a root of bitterness, you just think about weeds in your yard or your flower garden or whatever. If you don't pull up that whole entire root, there are little tentacles that go deep down inside. And I just felt like I was feeding the root of bitterness. I was rehearsing all the things I wanted to say or wish I would have said. I was rehearsing you know, "Oh, wasn't this horrible what happened to me?" I was angry, and I was nurturing that root of bitterness. And I knew that if I didn't deal with it, it would absolutely destroy me.
                                              • I had to shift my mindset. I had to shift my focus. I had to put my eyes on the Lord. I already had done a lot of Bible study and had a good foundation of the Word of God.
                                              • It was so cool how God would bring a scripture through a card that I got in the mail or through a phone call that I got or what I had read that morning. And then he would just affirm and reaffirm that all day long. That assured me of his presence, but it was being in his word in advance and shifting my mindset to a focus of what I had rather than what had happened to me.
                                              • I would get up in the mornings and I would just go outside with the stars still out and I would literally count my blessings, just focusing on some gratitude.
                                              • I was always a person that liked to write in journal. So, I started writing out my struggle through a blog and then eventually a little small book about forgiveness. I always say it's not a book to read, it's a book to do. I have to reread it myself because I went through additional things after that. After that, my 30 -year marriage ended, and so I had to sort of practice what I preached.
                                              • When I lost my career as an OB/Gyn, that became an identity issue because when you’re a physician, you’re Dr. So-and-so, and it becomes so much a part of your identity.
                                              • I caution not to let our identity be in anything that can be lost. If our identity is not in Christ which is permanent anchor for our soul and our only hope that never shifts the foundation that is firm, then anything that can be lost, we can lose ourselves whether it’s being a mom or being a wife or any of those things.
                                              • I had to make sure that my identity was secure in Christ. Our occupation is what “we do,” it’s not “who I am.”
                                              • God gave me comfort to know that God would use my situation to comfort others.
                                              • We're all going to go through some kind of wounding. We don't get to choose what that experience is, but God says, “in this world you will have trouble.” But if we will allow God to come in and heal it, he can redeem it, he can heal, he can restore.
                                              • It's been about a decade now since all of that happened. So in so many ways, I think through blogging and connecting with other believers, that was part of my own healing. It was, you know, I'm writing for other people, but I'm writing for me.
                                              • Then I also connected with a lot of other people who have Myasthenia Gravis. I have spoken at national meetings for Myasthenia Gravis and talked to other people because it's a hopeless, frustrating disease that steals everything you love about your life.
                                              • That was an area of redemption to be able to go and share with others the hope that I've received, the comfort that I've received, like 2 Corinthians 11:11 says, continuing on in the word.
                                              • God took my background as an OB -GYN doctor for 20 years. I spent about seven years in the hospital administration learning about leadership. Then I got remarried and I got board certified in lifestyle medicine.
                                              • Lifestyle Medicine had personally helped me and now I have a telehealth practice and my own podcast where I talk about Lifestyle Medicine and I just see these threads that God has pulled in and woven together to say, “because of these experiences you are qualified to do something new” and I love it.
                                              • God spoke to me through His word and that's His language. That's how He speaks. If you want to speak to someone who only speaks French, you have to learn French. If you want to hear from the Lord, you need to know his language and his language is his word.
                                              • I think having those index cards, having some scripture memorized, having some scripture hidden in my heart as the Bible says, that showed me that your God is faithful, and you can trust him no matter what?
                                              • There's no need to be bitter and vengeful and to nurse a wound and nurse unforgiveness because that will destroy you.
                                              • God tells us to cast our cares on him. You have to give your burdens to the Lord. So practically walking out, not just what was in my Bible, but what was written on those index cards. And I think it’s even a step beyond that. I think that it is one thing to write it, but then we have to go beyond that. We have to rehearse it. We've got to be speaking his word out. We've got to take it from head knowledge to heart knowledge.
                                              • I would really encourage your listeners, if you're not going through a hard time right now, now's the time to prepare for the battle. Because like you said, it will come. Life comes in seasons. I'm in a good season right now. I was in a good season 10 years ago before all this started, but I had that foundation of the word.
                                              • I think it all comes down to trust, really. You can know the word, rehearse the word, and what that helps you do is understand the absolute faithfulness and character of God. And that's what you build your life on in the good times and the bad. And when we look at the character of God, what is so comforting to me is that he is the same yesterday, today, that he will be tomorrow. He is unchanging.
                                              • We're going to make mistakes, but God is never changing. So, the same God that was faithful to divide the Red Sea is going to be the same God that's going to find a path through our wilderness season, through our full trials to get us to the other side.
                                              • But to your point, are we going to trust him through it? Or are we going to be angry and vengeful and bitter? It's a choice.
                                              • God tells us to rest in him. And I think, you know, he set that model for us in creation in that seventh day he rested, and I don't think that was because he was tired, or he needed rest. I think it was because he was satisfied, and I think he wants us to come to him and say you're enough Lord and he wants us to rest in him. He says, “come to me all you who are weary and heavy burdened and I'll give you rest.”
                                              • For me that looks like trust like rest from your striving to fix everything and to control the script so that it goes the way you want it to go. Rest in the Lord that his plans and purposes for your life are good.
                                              • God is faithful and he can always be trusted. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 55:22 NIV “Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
                                              • John 16:33 NIV “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
                                              • 2 Corinthians 1:4 NIV “…who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Dr. Vickie Petz Kasper:

                                              Podcast / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook / YouTube / Pinterest

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Vickie Petz Kasper, M.D. practiced ob/gyn for 20 years until she landed on the other side of the sheets. A rare neuromuscular disorder turned her life upside down. But God used a season of forced rest to show His faithfulness.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode, Dr. Vickie Petz Kasper shares her powerful story of how a rare neuromuscular disorder abruptly ended her 20-year career as an OB/GYN, transforming her life in an instant. From delivering thousands of babies to becoming a patient herself, Vickie opens up about the pain of losing her identity as a doctor and battling bitterness. Yet, in the midst of her struggle, she discovered the faithfulness of God, who used her season of forced rest to bring healing, comfort, and purpose. Through scripture, gratitude, and a shift in focus, Vickie learned how to trust God, reclaim her identity in Christ, and ultimately use her experience to offer hope and comfort to others facing their own trials.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • What I have found is that if we will allow God to, he will take our deepest areas of pain and discomfort and ultimately use it for our good.
                                              • I was an OB /GYN doctor, delivered 5,000 babies during my career. And that was such a treasure, such a privilege to be there at that special moment at the beginning of life, to be the first person to hold a newborn baby.
                                              • So, I was in the operating room doing a C-section when all of a sudden, my hands refused to obey my brain. And I kept staring at them, expecting them to move, and they were just still. Now, I say suddenly, in reality, about six weeks before, I had been diagnosed with a disease called myasthenia gravis, but it initially only affected my eyes.
                                              • So, we knew what was happening, and I was having some subtle symptoms, but I was preparing for a 57-mile bicycle ride across the state of Missouri the next day. I was kind of ignoring some symptoms.
                                              • So, when I say suddenly, I don't really mean suddenly, but it felt suddenly. I went from being a surgeon in the operating room to being a patient in the emergency room in an instant.
                                              • It was a very painful season from the outset because not only did, in an instant, I lose my career, my ability to ride my bicycle, and all the other active things that I loved about my life, but I also felt betrayed by my own profession.
                                              • I think the beginning of a wound that was the most difficult to heal from, that I had to fight was a root of bitterness.
                                              • When the Bible talks about a root of bitterness, you just think about weeds in your yard or your flower garden or whatever. If you don't pull up that whole entire root, there are little tentacles that go deep down inside. And I just felt like I was feeding the root of bitterness. I was rehearsing all the things I wanted to say or wish I would have said. I was rehearsing you know, "Oh, wasn't this horrible what happened to me?" I was angry, and I was nurturing that root of bitterness. And I knew that if I didn't deal with it, it would absolutely destroy me.
                                              • I had to shift my mindset. I had to shift my focus. I had to put my eyes on the Lord. I already had done a lot of Bible study and had a good foundation of the Word of God.
                                              • It was so cool how God would bring a scripture through a card that I got in the mail or through a phone call that I got or what I had read that morning. And then he would just affirm and reaffirm that all day long. That assured me of his presence, but it was being in his word in advance and shifting my mindset to a focus of what I had rather than what had happened to me.
                                              • I would get up in the mornings and I would just go outside with the stars still out and I would literally count my blessings, just focusing on some gratitude.
                                              • I was always a person that liked to write in journal. So, I started writing out my struggle through a blog and then eventually a little small book about forgiveness. I always say it's not a book to read, it's a book to do. I have to reread it myself because I went through additional things after that. After that, my 30 -year marriage ended, and so I had to sort of practice what I preached.
                                              • When I lost my career as an OB/Gyn, that became an identity issue because when you’re a physician, you’re Dr. So-and-so, and it becomes so much a part of your identity.
                                              • I caution not to let our identity be in anything that can be lost. If our identity is not in Christ which is permanent anchor for our soul and our only hope that never shifts the foundation that is firm, then anything that can be lost, we can lose ourselves whether it’s being a mom or being a wife or any of those things.
                                              • I had to make sure that my identity was secure in Christ. Our occupation is what “we do,” it’s not “who I am.”
                                              • God gave me comfort to know that God would use my situation to comfort others.
                                              • We're all going to go through some kind of wounding. We don't get to choose what that experience is, but God says, “in this world you will have trouble.” But if we will allow God to come in and heal it, he can redeem it, he can heal, he can restore.
                                              • It's been about a decade now since all of that happened. So in so many ways, I think through blogging and connecting with other believers, that was part of my own healing. It was, you know, I'm writing for other people, but I'm writing for me.
                                              • Then I also connected with a lot of other people who have Myasthenia Gravis. I have spoken at national meetings for Myasthenia Gravis and talked to other people because it's a hopeless, frustrating disease that steals everything you love about your life.
                                              • That was an area of redemption to be able to go and share with others the hope that I've received, the comfort that I've received, like 2 Corinthians 11:11 says, continuing on in the word.
                                              • God took my background as an OB -GYN doctor for 20 years. I spent about seven years in the hospital administration learning about leadership. Then I got remarried and I got board certified in lifestyle medicine.
                                              • Lifestyle Medicine had personally helped me and now I have a telehealth practice and my own podcast where I talk about Lifestyle Medicine and I just see these threads that God has pulled in and woven together to say, “because of these experiences you are qualified to do something new” and I love it.
                                              • God spoke to me through His word and that's His language. That's how He speaks. If you want to speak to someone who only speaks French, you have to learn French. If you want to hear from the Lord, you need to know his language and his language is his word.
                                              • I think having those index cards, having some scripture memorized, having some scripture hidden in my heart as the Bible says, that showed me that your God is faithful, and you can trust him no matter what?
                                              • There's no need to be bitter and vengeful and to nurse a wound and nurse unforgiveness because that will destroy you.
                                              • God tells us to cast our cares on him. You have to give your burdens to the Lord. So practically walking out, not just what was in my Bible, but what was written on those index cards. And I think it’s even a step beyond that. I think that it is one thing to write it, but then we have to go beyond that. We have to rehearse it. We've got to be speaking his word out. We've got to take it from head knowledge to heart knowledge.
                                              • I would really encourage your listeners, if you're not going through a hard time right now, now's the time to prepare for the battle. Because like you said, it will come. Life comes in seasons. I'm in a good season right now. I was in a good season 10 years ago before all this started, but I had that foundation of the word.
                                              • I think it all comes down to trust, really. You can know the word, rehearse the word, and what that helps you do is understand the absolute faithfulness and character of God. And that's what you build your life on in the good times and the bad. And when we look at the character of God, what is so comforting to me is that he is the same yesterday, today, that he will be tomorrow. He is unchanging.
                                              • We're going to make mistakes, but God is never changing. So, the same God that was faithful to divide the Red Sea is going to be the same God that's going to find a path through our wilderness season, through our full trials to get us to the other side.
                                              • But to your point, are we going to trust him through it? Or are we going to be angry and vengeful and bitter? It's a choice.
                                              • God tells us to rest in him. And I think, you know, he set that model for us in creation in that seventh day he rested, and I don't think that was because he was tired, or he needed rest. I think it was because he was satisfied, and I think he wants us to come to him and say you're enough Lord and he wants us to rest in him. He says, “come to me all you who are weary and heavy burdened and I'll give you rest.”
                                              • For me that looks like trust like rest from your striving to fix everything and to control the script so that it goes the way you want it to go. Rest in the Lord that his plans and purposes for your life are good.
                                              • God is faithful and he can always be trusted. 

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 55:22 NIV “Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
                                              • John 16:33 NIV “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
                                              • 2 Corinthians 1:4 NIV “…who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Dr. Vickie Petz Kasper:

                                              Podcast / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook / YouTube / Pinterest

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Vickie Petz Kasper, M.D. practiced ob/gyn for 20 years until she landed on the other side of the sheets. A rare neuromuscular disorder turned her life upside down. But God used a season of forced rest to show His faithfulness.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 327 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 0f0c55e7-356f-4329-a78a-b31d0031502a 0f0c55e7-356f-4329-a78a-b31d0031502a Thu, 17 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1433 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-a-doctor-let-go-of-bitterness-and-found-rest-and-hope-after-career-loss                                               The Role of Forgiveness in Healing the Brain and Heart: What Science and Scripture Reveal The Role of Forgiveness in Healing the Brain and Heart: What Science and Scripture Reveal Episode Summary: 

                                              If you’ve ever struggled with forgiveness—whether that’s forgiving others, forgiving yourself, or even struggling with feeling forgiven by God—then this episode is for you. Jessica and I talk about The Role of Forgiveness in Healing the Brain and Heart. 


                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Science and scripture both affirm that forgiveness is vital for emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Forgiveness is more than a feeling—it’s a powerful decision that can transform your life.
                                              • This topic is close to my heart because I’ve seen firsthand how forgiveness can set people free. I know many of our listeners and viewers carry deep wounds, and my prayer is that today’s conversation will bring encouragement and hope.
                                              • Forgiveness is essential because it aligns us with God’s heart. We were created for relationships, but when hurt enters the picture, it creates emotional and spiritual wounds.
                                              • Unforgiveness keeps us bound to that pain. It’s like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer.
                                              • From a scientific perspective, studies show that holding onto unforgiveness increases stress hormones like cortisol, which negatively impacts brain function, weakens the immune system, and can even contribute to depression and anxiety.
                                              • When we forgive, we release that toxic load, allowing our brains and bodies to function in a state of peace.
                                              • As a neuropsychologist, I’ve also seen how unforgiveness affects brain chemistry. It triggers the fight-or-flight response, keeping us in a constant state of stress which can lead to depression, anxiety, discouragement, fear, even anger.
                                              • But when we choose to forgive, our brain rewires itself toward healing and restoration.
                                              • For years, I thought holding onto that anger would somehow hold the other person accountable. But instead, it only held me captive. When I finally chose to forgive, I experienced a peace I hadn’t known in years. And the beautiful thing was, God used that forgiveness to bring healing to my heart in ways I never expected.
                                              • One of the biggest myths is that forgiveness means excusing or condoning what happened.
                                              • Forgiveness is not saying that what happened was okay. It doesn’t mean forgetting or pretending it never happened. Instead, it’s releasing the burden of justice to God. Romans 12:19 reminds us, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
                                              • Another myth is that we have to feel ready to forgive before we do it. But forgiveness is an act of obedience, not an emotion. Often, the feelings follow the decision.
                                              • Jesus didn’t tell us to forgive when we felt like it. He commanded us to forgive because He knows the weight it lifts off our souls. And something amazing happens when we take that step of obedience—our hearts begin to soften, and healing begins.
                                              • The process of forgiveness starts with prayer. We have to be honest with God about our pain and ask Him for the strength to forgive. Then, we choose to release the offense. Sometimes, it’s a one-time decision; other times, it’s a daily process of surrendering it to God until the pain no longer has power over us.
                                              • And sometimes, we need to verbalize forgiveness, even if it’s just between us and God. Saying, “Lord, I choose to forgive [person’s name] for [specific hurt]” helps solidify the decision in our hearts.
                                              • And one of the hardest but most powerful steps is praying for the person who hurt us. Jesus told us in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” It’s hard at first, but it shifts our hearts from bitterness to compassion.
                                              • Forgiveness is not about the other person—it’s about your own freedom. It doesn’t mean what they did was right, but it means you’re choosing to release the burden and trust God with justice. Take it one step at a time, and know that you are never alone in the process.


                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Romans 12:19 reminds us, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary: 

                                              If you’ve ever struggled with forgiveness—whether that’s forgiving others, forgiving yourself, or even struggling with feeling forgiven by God—then this episode is for you. Jessica and I talk about The Role of Forgiveness in Healing the Brain and Heart. 


                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Science and scripture both affirm that forgiveness is vital for emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Forgiveness is more than a feeling—it’s a powerful decision that can transform your life.
                                              • This topic is close to my heart because I’ve seen firsthand how forgiveness can set people free. I know many of our listeners and viewers carry deep wounds, and my prayer is that today’s conversation will bring encouragement and hope.
                                              • Forgiveness is essential because it aligns us with God’s heart. We were created for relationships, but when hurt enters the picture, it creates emotional and spiritual wounds.
                                              • Unforgiveness keeps us bound to that pain. It’s like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer.
                                              • From a scientific perspective, studies show that holding onto unforgiveness increases stress hormones like cortisol, which negatively impacts brain function, weakens the immune system, and can even contribute to depression and anxiety.
                                              • When we forgive, we release that toxic load, allowing our brains and bodies to function in a state of peace.
                                              • As a neuropsychologist, I’ve also seen how unforgiveness affects brain chemistry. It triggers the fight-or-flight response, keeping us in a constant state of stress which can lead to depression, anxiety, discouragement, fear, even anger.
                                              • But when we choose to forgive, our brain rewires itself toward healing and restoration.
                                              • For years, I thought holding onto that anger would somehow hold the other person accountable. But instead, it only held me captive. When I finally chose to forgive, I experienced a peace I hadn’t known in years. And the beautiful thing was, God used that forgiveness to bring healing to my heart in ways I never expected.
                                              • One of the biggest myths is that forgiveness means excusing or condoning what happened.
                                              • Forgiveness is not saying that what happened was okay. It doesn’t mean forgetting or pretending it never happened. Instead, it’s releasing the burden of justice to God. Romans 12:19 reminds us, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
                                              • Another myth is that we have to feel ready to forgive before we do it. But forgiveness is an act of obedience, not an emotion. Often, the feelings follow the decision.
                                              • Jesus didn’t tell us to forgive when we felt like it. He commanded us to forgive because He knows the weight it lifts off our souls. And something amazing happens when we take that step of obedience—our hearts begin to soften, and healing begins.
                                              • The process of forgiveness starts with prayer. We have to be honest with God about our pain and ask Him for the strength to forgive. Then, we choose to release the offense. Sometimes, it’s a one-time decision; other times, it’s a daily process of surrendering it to God until the pain no longer has power over us.
                                              • And sometimes, we need to verbalize forgiveness, even if it’s just between us and God. Saying, “Lord, I choose to forgive [person’s name] for [specific hurt]” helps solidify the decision in our hearts.
                                              • And one of the hardest but most powerful steps is praying for the person who hurt us. Jesus told us in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” It’s hard at first, but it shifts our hearts from bitterness to compassion.
                                              • Forgiveness is not about the other person—it’s about your own freedom. It doesn’t mean what they did was right, but it means you’re choosing to release the burden and trust God with justice. Take it one step at a time, and know that you are never alone in the process.


                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Romans 12:19 reminds us, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 326 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 637f562e-5409-410a-bc5a-b31600156f6b 637f562e-5409-410a-bc5a-b31600156f6b Thu, 10 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1315 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/the-role-of-forgiveness-in-healing-the-brain-and-heart-what-science-and-scripture-reveal                                               How to Walk Through Shame and Fear Without Losing Faith How to Walk Through Shame and Fear Without Losing Faith Episode Summary:

                                              On this episode, I talk with Janet McHenry, who shared her painful wound of walking with her husband through a very unjust situation that happened to him which caused her much shame. Yet, she also shares how God revealed himself to her, and answered her prayers in a way that she didn’t expect, producing a beautiful sacred scar.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • My wound goes back to fall 2001, when we had a two-day blizzard in the Sierra valley when six calves and a bull bedded down in an old creek bed in the corner of my husband’s ranch, and were covered by snow. My husband was unaware this happened. A neighbor reported it not to my husband but to the local animal control authorities, and my husband was given seven animal cruelty charges, despite all the evidence in our favor.
                                              • We unfortunately had an unjust judge who would not let records be placed into evidence, nor let experts testify on our behalf. The judge also harassed two of the defense witnesses. So much of the evidence that we had lined up for the trial was not allowed to be admitted. So he ended up being convicted on six animal cruelty charges with the possibility of getting three years in state prison.
                                              • We felt a great deal of shame. How do you live in a community of your peers, with only 3000 in our entire county without a single stoplight. It’s an agricultural area where people raise hay and beef cattle.
                                              • We experienced shame over this. We experienced fear because the judge could decide my husband would get those three years in prison, and how would we then live? The judge also could have pulled all the animals away from the ranch, removing my husband’s livelihood.
                                              • My husband was pursuing his Ph.D. and was beginning to work on his doctoral dissertation, but my husband wouldn’t be able to teach with a felony conviction.
                                              • So we experienced shame, fear, and a wounding because I had prayer walked around my community, I taught in a school district with only about 32 teachers so we all knew each other intimately, so I wasn’t able to avoid people through this process. I found it very difficult to finish out my school year as a teacher so I took a leave of absence and went on antidepressants because I couldn’t eat, I couldn’t sleep, my heart wouldn’t stop racing; I had never before experienced those physical reactions to stress.
                                              • We worked really hard to get public support, and two months later was the sentencing. We filled the courtroom with friends and family and six pastors. The entire courtroom was a community of supporters for us. At the sentencing, the judge gave my husband four years of probation and a huge fine, so my husband had to sell off a large percentage of his herd to pay for that.
                                              • We determined right away to file an appeal with the state appellate court. In the appeal, we documented over 240 instances where the judge had prejudiced the jurors. We waited another two years to get that decision. One by one we heard the appellate judges say that they were going to overturn the original decision.
                                              • We determined to keep living here and keep serving our community the best that we could.
                                              • One thing I learned on the day of the sentencing was that God was doing another great work in our lives that was unrelated. Standing in the parking lot after the decision was overturned a friend spoke up about what she saw in my husband and that God was really doing a new work in him and that he had a new countenance. It was then that I realized God was answering my prayers for my marriage which for 20-something years, I had been asking God to do a deeper work in our marriage, to save our marriage, to keep us together.
                                              • God was working to answer a different prayer request than the ones that seemed more immediate.
                                              • I don’t think I’d want to go through that situation again, but I did learn a lot about God’s loving presence through that.
                                              • I re-read the book of Job every year when I read through the Bible, and I realized what I needed was a friend to quietly sit beside me. What Job needed was one good friend to sit with him through his suffering. Even though Job didn’t hear from God, God was that friend in Job’s wait.
                                              • Even when it seems like God is silent, He is with us, He’s cheering us on. He cares about us. He loves us. Even if the situation doesn’t resolve in the way that we think is best, God will be even closer to us as a result of what we’ve been through.
                                              • That presence of God, that closeness to him, is the best thing we can get out of this life on earth.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              Matthew 19:26 NIV “Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Janet McHenry:

                                              Website / Looking Up Mini-Magazine / Facebook / X / Pinterest / LinkedIn / Instagram

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Janet McHenry and her husband, a cattle rancher, wear sacred scars from his wrongful felony conviction that was overturned in appellate court two years later. A national speaker, Janet is the author of 27 books—eight on prayer, including the bestselling PrayerWalk and her newest, Praying Personalities. The parents of four adult children, Janet and Craig live in the Sierra Valley in northern California, where she serves as prayer coordinator for her church and on the state leadership tam for the National Day of Prayer.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              On this episode, I talk with Janet McHenry, who shared her painful wound of walking with her husband through a very unjust situation that happened to him which caused her much shame. Yet, she also shares how God revealed himself to her, and answered her prayers in a way that she didn’t expect, producing a beautiful sacred scar.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • My wound goes back to fall 2001, when we had a two-day blizzard in the Sierra valley when six calves and a bull bedded down in an old creek bed in the corner of my husband’s ranch, and were covered by snow. My husband was unaware this happened. A neighbor reported it not to my husband but to the local animal control authorities, and my husband was given seven animal cruelty charges, despite all the evidence in our favor.
                                              • We unfortunately had an unjust judge who would not let records be placed into evidence, nor let experts testify on our behalf. The judge also harassed two of the defense witnesses. So much of the evidence that we had lined up for the trial was not allowed to be admitted. So he ended up being convicted on six animal cruelty charges with the possibility of getting three years in state prison.
                                              • We felt a great deal of shame. How do you live in a community of your peers, with only 3000 in our entire county without a single stoplight. It’s an agricultural area where people raise hay and beef cattle.
                                              • We experienced shame over this. We experienced fear because the judge could decide my husband would get those three years in prison, and how would we then live? The judge also could have pulled all the animals away from the ranch, removing my husband’s livelihood.
                                              • My husband was pursuing his Ph.D. and was beginning to work on his doctoral dissertation, but my husband wouldn’t be able to teach with a felony conviction.
                                              • So we experienced shame, fear, and a wounding because I had prayer walked around my community, I taught in a school district with only about 32 teachers so we all knew each other intimately, so I wasn’t able to avoid people through this process. I found it very difficult to finish out my school year as a teacher so I took a leave of absence and went on antidepressants because I couldn’t eat, I couldn’t sleep, my heart wouldn’t stop racing; I had never before experienced those physical reactions to stress.
                                              • We worked really hard to get public support, and two months later was the sentencing. We filled the courtroom with friends and family and six pastors. The entire courtroom was a community of supporters for us. At the sentencing, the judge gave my husband four years of probation and a huge fine, so my husband had to sell off a large percentage of his herd to pay for that.
                                              • We determined right away to file an appeal with the state appellate court. In the appeal, we documented over 240 instances where the judge had prejudiced the jurors. We waited another two years to get that decision. One by one we heard the appellate judges say that they were going to overturn the original decision.
                                              • We determined to keep living here and keep serving our community the best that we could.
                                              • One thing I learned on the day of the sentencing was that God was doing another great work in our lives that was unrelated. Standing in the parking lot after the decision was overturned a friend spoke up about what she saw in my husband and that God was really doing a new work in him and that he had a new countenance. It was then that I realized God was answering my prayers for my marriage which for 20-something years, I had been asking God to do a deeper work in our marriage, to save our marriage, to keep us together.
                                              • God was working to answer a different prayer request than the ones that seemed more immediate.
                                              • I don’t think I’d want to go through that situation again, but I did learn a lot about God’s loving presence through that.
                                              • I re-read the book of Job every year when I read through the Bible, and I realized what I needed was a friend to quietly sit beside me. What Job needed was one good friend to sit with him through his suffering. Even though Job didn’t hear from God, God was that friend in Job’s wait.
                                              • Even when it seems like God is silent, He is with us, He’s cheering us on. He cares about us. He loves us. Even if the situation doesn’t resolve in the way that we think is best, God will be even closer to us as a result of what we’ve been through.
                                              • That presence of God, that closeness to him, is the best thing we can get out of this life on earth.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              Matthew 19:26 NIV “Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Janet McHenry:

                                              Website / Looking Up Mini-Magazine / Facebook / X / Pinterest / LinkedIn / Instagram

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Janet McHenry and her husband, a cattle rancher, wear sacred scars from his wrongful felony conviction that was overturned in appellate court two years later. A national speaker, Janet is the author of 27 books—eight on prayer, including the bestselling PrayerWalk and her newest, Praying Personalities. The parents of four adult children, Janet and Craig live in the Sierra Valley in northern California, where she serves as prayer coordinator for her church and on the state leadership tam for the National Day of Prayer.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 325 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 247c9680-926e-4552-8ff4-b30e01859ce9 247c9680-926e-4552-8ff4-b30e01859ce9 Thu, 03 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1313 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-walk-through-shame-and-fear-without-losing-faith                                               How to Silence Your Inner Critic How to Silence Your Inner Critic Episode Summary:

                                              The inner critic can be a constant and discouraging presence, stealing our joy and hindering us from walking in the confidence God intends for us. It often disguises itself as self-improvement or humility, but in reality, it holds us back from embracing our identity in Christ. In today’s episode, we’ll uncover the sources of this voice, explore how Scripture equips us to combat it, and learn practical, biblically-based strategies to replace self-condemnation with God’s truth.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • The inner critic is that internal voice that condemns, shames, or reminds us of our shortcomings. It whispers lies like, “You’re not good enough,” “You’ll never succeed,” or “Who do you think you are?” Often, this voice feels louder in moments of vulnerability, failure, or self-doubt.
                                              • Scripture reminds us that Satan is the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10). His goal is to steal, kill, and destroy our confidence and joy (John 10:10). He plants seeds of doubt and discouragement, hoping we’ll lose sight of God’s truth about our identity. The enemy’s accusations often feel like they’re coming from within, making it harder to recognize their origin.
                                              • Our sinful nature and brokenness often give rise to self-condemnation. Past experiences, such as critical words from others, failures, or unmet expectations, can leave scars that fuel the inner critic. We may strive for perfection, believing the lie that we’re only worthy if we meet certain standards. This striving often leads to exhaustion and deeper feelings of inadequacy.
                                              • The world bombards us with messages that we must perform, achieve, or conform to be loved or valuable. Social media, advertisements, and cultural expectations paint a picture of perfection that is impossible to attain. When we fall short, the inner critic seizes the opportunity to amplify our insecurities and remind us of our perceived failures.
                                              • For some, the inner critic’s voice mimics the critical or harsh words spoken by authority figures in their lives, such as parents, teachers, or peers. Over time, these external voices become internalized, shaping how we see ourselves and respond to challenges. Even well-meaning criticism can leave an imprint if it’s not tempered with grace and encouragement.
                                              • The inner critic is not God’s voice. In fact, His voice always aligns with truth, hope, and encouragement.
                                              • It’s important to identify and challenge thoughts that contradict God’s truth. Taking every thought captive means actively rejecting lies and replacing them with God’s promises.
                                              • God’s voice always aligns with His character—He speaks love, encouragement, and restoration. While the inner critic seeks to tear us down, God’s Word builds us up and reminds us of our identity in Christ.
                                              • By meditating on Scripture, we can discern the difference between the voice of the inner critic and the voice of our loving Father. His truth gives us the strength to silence the lies and walk confidently in His grace.
                                              • God’s voice brings peace, conviction (not condemnation), and hope. He calls us to see ourselves as He does—fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).
                                              • Become aware of when the inner critic is speaking. Pause and ask, “Is this thought true, or is it a lie?” If it doesn’t align with Scripture, it’s not from God. Journaling your thoughts can help you identify patterns of self-criticism and pinpoint recurring lies that need to be addressed.
                                              • Counter every negative thought with God’s Word. For example, if the thought says, “I’m a failure,” remind yourself of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Create a list of Bible verses that speak to your identity in Christ, and keep them handy for moments of doubt.
                                              • A grateful heart leaves little room for self-criticism. Start each day by thanking God for His blessings and affirming the ways He’s working in your life. When you focus on God’s goodness, it shifts your perspective and quiets the critical voice.
                                              • Surround yourself with people who speak life and encouragement. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Healthy, godly relationships provide support, accountability, and reminders of your worth in Christ. Be intentional about building connections with those who uplift you.
                                              • Ask God to help you distinguish His voice from the lies of the enemy. James 1:5 assures us that He gives wisdom generously to those who ask. Pray for clarity and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and words.
                                              • Instead of agreeing with the critic, declare the truth of who you are in Christ. Say things like, “I am chosen,” “I am loved,” and “I am forgiven.” Speaking these affirmations aloud helps to reinforce them in your mind and heart.
                                              • Whether it’s critical people, social media, or unhelpful comparisons, protect your mind by setting healthy boundaries. Consider a social media detox or limiting time spent with individuals who are overly critical or draining.
                                              • Silencing your inner critic is not a one-time fix; it’s a daily practice of renewing your mind and grounding yourself in God’s truth. Remember, the voice of the inner critic is a liar. God’s voice is the only one that matters, and His voice speaks love, grace, and purpose over you.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Romans 8:1, which declares, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
                                              • Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
                                              • James 3:9-10 “With the tongue, we praise our Lord and Father, and with it, we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness... My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”
                                              • Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
                                              • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                              • Psalm 139:14 “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” 

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              The inner critic can be a constant and discouraging presence, stealing our joy and hindering us from walking in the confidence God intends for us. It often disguises itself as self-improvement or humility, but in reality, it holds us back from embracing our identity in Christ. In today’s episode, we’ll uncover the sources of this voice, explore how Scripture equips us to combat it, and learn practical, biblically-based strategies to replace self-condemnation with God’s truth.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • The inner critic is that internal voice that condemns, shames, or reminds us of our shortcomings. It whispers lies like, “You’re not good enough,” “You’ll never succeed,” or “Who do you think you are?” Often, this voice feels louder in moments of vulnerability, failure, or self-doubt.
                                              • Scripture reminds us that Satan is the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10). His goal is to steal, kill, and destroy our confidence and joy (John 10:10). He plants seeds of doubt and discouragement, hoping we’ll lose sight of God’s truth about our identity. The enemy’s accusations often feel like they’re coming from within, making it harder to recognize their origin.
                                              • Our sinful nature and brokenness often give rise to self-condemnation. Past experiences, such as critical words from others, failures, or unmet expectations, can leave scars that fuel the inner critic. We may strive for perfection, believing the lie that we’re only worthy if we meet certain standards. This striving often leads to exhaustion and deeper feelings of inadequacy.
                                              • The world bombards us with messages that we must perform, achieve, or conform to be loved or valuable. Social media, advertisements, and cultural expectations paint a picture of perfection that is impossible to attain. When we fall short, the inner critic seizes the opportunity to amplify our insecurities and remind us of our perceived failures.
                                              • For some, the inner critic’s voice mimics the critical or harsh words spoken by authority figures in their lives, such as parents, teachers, or peers. Over time, these external voices become internalized, shaping how we see ourselves and respond to challenges. Even well-meaning criticism can leave an imprint if it’s not tempered with grace and encouragement.
                                              • The inner critic is not God’s voice. In fact, His voice always aligns with truth, hope, and encouragement.
                                              • It’s important to identify and challenge thoughts that contradict God’s truth. Taking every thought captive means actively rejecting lies and replacing them with God’s promises.
                                              • God’s voice always aligns with His character—He speaks love, encouragement, and restoration. While the inner critic seeks to tear us down, God’s Word builds us up and reminds us of our identity in Christ.
                                              • By meditating on Scripture, we can discern the difference between the voice of the inner critic and the voice of our loving Father. His truth gives us the strength to silence the lies and walk confidently in His grace.
                                              • God’s voice brings peace, conviction (not condemnation), and hope. He calls us to see ourselves as He does—fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).
                                              • Become aware of when the inner critic is speaking. Pause and ask, “Is this thought true, or is it a lie?” If it doesn’t align with Scripture, it’s not from God. Journaling your thoughts can help you identify patterns of self-criticism and pinpoint recurring lies that need to be addressed.
                                              • Counter every negative thought with God’s Word. For example, if the thought says, “I’m a failure,” remind yourself of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Create a list of Bible verses that speak to your identity in Christ, and keep them handy for moments of doubt.
                                              • A grateful heart leaves little room for self-criticism. Start each day by thanking God for His blessings and affirming the ways He’s working in your life. When you focus on God’s goodness, it shifts your perspective and quiets the critical voice.
                                              • Surround yourself with people who speak life and encouragement. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Healthy, godly relationships provide support, accountability, and reminders of your worth in Christ. Be intentional about building connections with those who uplift you.
                                              • Ask God to help you distinguish His voice from the lies of the enemy. James 1:5 assures us that He gives wisdom generously to those who ask. Pray for clarity and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and words.
                                              • Instead of agreeing with the critic, declare the truth of who you are in Christ. Say things like, “I am chosen,” “I am loved,” and “I am forgiven.” Speaking these affirmations aloud helps to reinforce them in your mind and heart.
                                              • Whether it’s critical people, social media, or unhelpful comparisons, protect your mind by setting healthy boundaries. Consider a social media detox or limiting time spent with individuals who are overly critical or draining.
                                              • Silencing your inner critic is not a one-time fix; it’s a daily practice of renewing your mind and grounding yourself in God’s truth. Remember, the voice of the inner critic is a liar. God’s voice is the only one that matters, and His voice speaks love, grace, and purpose over you.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Romans 8:1, which declares, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
                                              • Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
                                              • James 3:9-10 “With the tongue, we praise our Lord and Father, and with it, we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness... My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”
                                              • Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
                                              • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                              • Psalm 139:14 “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” 

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 324 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ba0dfc4d-fecc-4fe9-9f30-b3080019a3cf ba0dfc4d-fecc-4fe9-9f30-b3080019a3cf Thu, 26 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1146 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-silence-your-inner-critic                                               How to Find Hope and Healing through a Child's Addiction How to Find Hope and Healing through a Child's Addiction Episode Summary:

                                              In this week’s episode, I’m talking with Dawn Ward, who shares her painful story of being a mother to two sons who have struggled with addiction. Dawn shares how God has used those wounds, healed them, and given her purpose in her pain to encourage us that God never wastes our pain.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                               

                                              • I was a Christian and I thought that if I took my children church and taught them the Bible and did all the things according to God's word then those evil elements of the world would somehow not get to our family, but that didn't prove to be true.
                                              • When I tried to outrun old wounds from my childhood, these old pains and things that had hurt me so much came back to haunt me when my son became involved with the wrong friends and the wrong movies and troublesome behaviors.
                                              • Both of my sons struggled with addiction and I faced intense guilt and self-blame and shame because at that point I thought it was my fault.
                                              • I remember crying out to God, “I thought that I was doing better in my relationship with you. I thought I had more faith. I thought I trusted you. And now I'm just in a big pool of my own tears.” And that is so often what happens when we hear messages in childhood that are not always based in truth.
                                              • Earlier in my life, in my career, my faith, or things that God was tugging at my heart to do, I was reluctant to step out and be bold and do those things because I didn't feel adequate. I didn't feel like I would be able to do it. And I look back on opportunities that God put in front of me, and I told myself I couldn't do them.
                                              • There came a breaking point where I realized I have to figure this out, because if I don’t figure out how God sees me and the things that he’s given me responsibility for and that he trusts me to be a wife and to be a mother, but yet I’m not trusting myself to do it with his help.
                                              • I needed to trust God to begin to reveal lies and the thought patterns that were holding me back and affecting all my relationships.
                                              • One day my husband confronted me and said, “You are going to worry yourself to death.” And I told him he had permission to write that on my tombstone, “She worried herself to death.” But I heard the Lord say to me, “No, it’s going to say she trusted God.” That was an aha moment for me when I realized that every choice that I made moving forward, I needed to ask, “Do I trust you, Lord? Even though this doesn’t make sense. Even though I can’t understand why it’s going this way.”
                                              • So, I wrote a book hoping maybe other moms wouldn’t have to go through as much pain and all of the hard lessons I had to go through. It’s really about getting our relationship back with the Lord and having our faith in him that can withstand these storms and helping us to trust him in the process of those difficult and painful things that we have no control over.
                                              • That’s the same thing with us with these wounds. If we don’t allow God to heal them the way that he wants to heal them.
                                              • Most of us wouldn’t sign up for half the stuff that we end up having to go through in our life. But the beautiful thing is that when we turn it over to God and we trust God through it, he can bring something beautiful out of those painful wounds.
                                              • Another benefit that comes from that is our relationship with our children and our loved ones, whether they’re in a good place or not, it becomes healthier just because we become healthier and stronger and we’re healing.
                                              • I look back and sometimes truthfully wish I didn’t have to bear this trial, or that my children didn’t have to bear their trial. But I can see that God has cultivated trust and faith and hope through his grace into my life. And I’m so grateful for that because I don’t think I could have really healed from some of the things I went through as a child without him working through the process of this healing with me as an adult.
                                              • God is not finished writing your story, or your child’s story. He loves you very much. If we can imagine how much we love our child and to imagine that God loves them that much more, and he loves us too. When we look at our God and what he is capable of and realize that his eye is on that one little lost sheep that’s wandering, that gives us hope.

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Dawn Ward:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Dawn Ward is a speaker, writer, and biblical life coach. She is the founder of The Faith to Flourish, a ministry equipping women to live transformed lives through inspiring teaching, mentoring, and biblical resources. Dawn also offers support and encouragement to women with addicted loved ones. She is married to Steve and mom to three adult children. Her book, From Guilt to Grace: Hope and Healing for Christian Moms of Addicted Children is scheduled for release in September 2024.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              In this week’s episode, I’m talking with Dawn Ward, who shares her painful story of being a mother to two sons who have struggled with addiction. Dawn shares how God has used those wounds, healed them, and given her purpose in her pain to encourage us that God never wastes our pain.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                               

                                              • I was a Christian and I thought that if I took my children church and taught them the Bible and did all the things according to God's word then those evil elements of the world would somehow not get to our family, but that didn't prove to be true.
                                              • When I tried to outrun old wounds from my childhood, these old pains and things that had hurt me so much came back to haunt me when my son became involved with the wrong friends and the wrong movies and troublesome behaviors.
                                              • Both of my sons struggled with addiction and I faced intense guilt and self-blame and shame because at that point I thought it was my fault.
                                              • I remember crying out to God, “I thought that I was doing better in my relationship with you. I thought I had more faith. I thought I trusted you. And now I'm just in a big pool of my own tears.” And that is so often what happens when we hear messages in childhood that are not always based in truth.
                                              • Earlier in my life, in my career, my faith, or things that God was tugging at my heart to do, I was reluctant to step out and be bold and do those things because I didn't feel adequate. I didn't feel like I would be able to do it. And I look back on opportunities that God put in front of me, and I told myself I couldn't do them.
                                              • There came a breaking point where I realized I have to figure this out, because if I don’t figure out how God sees me and the things that he’s given me responsibility for and that he trusts me to be a wife and to be a mother, but yet I’m not trusting myself to do it with his help.
                                              • I needed to trust God to begin to reveal lies and the thought patterns that were holding me back and affecting all my relationships.
                                              • One day my husband confronted me and said, “You are going to worry yourself to death.” And I told him he had permission to write that on my tombstone, “She worried herself to death.” But I heard the Lord say to me, “No, it’s going to say she trusted God.” That was an aha moment for me when I realized that every choice that I made moving forward, I needed to ask, “Do I trust you, Lord? Even though this doesn’t make sense. Even though I can’t understand why it’s going this way.”
                                              • So, I wrote a book hoping maybe other moms wouldn’t have to go through as much pain and all of the hard lessons I had to go through. It’s really about getting our relationship back with the Lord and having our faith in him that can withstand these storms and helping us to trust him in the process of those difficult and painful things that we have no control over.
                                              • That’s the same thing with us with these wounds. If we don’t allow God to heal them the way that he wants to heal them.
                                              • Most of us wouldn’t sign up for half the stuff that we end up having to go through in our life. But the beautiful thing is that when we turn it over to God and we trust God through it, he can bring something beautiful out of those painful wounds.
                                              • Another benefit that comes from that is our relationship with our children and our loved ones, whether they’re in a good place or not, it becomes healthier just because we become healthier and stronger and we’re healing.
                                              • I look back and sometimes truthfully wish I didn’t have to bear this trial, or that my children didn’t have to bear their trial. But I can see that God has cultivated trust and faith and hope through his grace into my life. And I’m so grateful for that because I don’t think I could have really healed from some of the things I went through as a child without him working through the process of this healing with me as an adult.
                                              • God is not finished writing your story, or your child’s story. He loves you very much. If we can imagine how much we love our child and to imagine that God loves them that much more, and he loves us too. When we look at our God and what he is capable of and realize that his eye is on that one little lost sheep that’s wandering, that gives us hope.

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Dawn Ward:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Dawn Ward is a speaker, writer, and biblical life coach. She is the founder of The Faith to Flourish, a ministry equipping women to live transformed lives through inspiring teaching, mentoring, and biblical resources. Dawn also offers support and encouragement to women with addicted loved ones. She is married to Steve and mom to three adult children. Her book, From Guilt to Grace: Hope and Healing for Christian Moms of Addicted Children is scheduled for release in September 2024.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 323 Dr. Michelle Bengtson dc5146d5-1f09-4861-8b52-b3010032ae52 dc5146d5-1f09-4861-8b52-b3010032ae52 Thu, 19 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1335 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-find-hope-and-healing-through-a-childs-addiction                                               Relating to God as Father: Understanding God’s Love When Earthly Fathers Fail Relating to God as Father: Understanding God’s Love When Earthly Fathers Fail Episode Summary: 

                                              If you’ve ever struggled with relating to God as Father—maybe you’ve been hurt by an earthly father or a church leader and carry a misunderstanding of God’s heart for you-- then this episode is for you. Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about Relating to God as Father and Understanding God’s Love When Earthly Fathers Fail.

                                              Relating to God as Father is vital for a proper understanding and close relationship with the Lord. We can lose sight of who God is when we forget that he is not like us. We are made in his image, not the other way around. Fatherhood is an important aspect of God’s character and when we can relate to God as father it can transform our life.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Knowing God as my Father has brought so much comfort to my life. I know many of our listeners and viewers carry deep wounds, and my prayer is that today’s conversation will bring encouragement and hope.
                                              • Relating to God as Father is essential to experience his comfort and blessings of being his sons and daughters. He gives us mercy, love, forgiveness, compassion, faithfulness, and goodness. When we reject God’s fatherhood, we struggle to experience the comfort he offers to us.
                                              • Earthly fathers are an imperfect and flawed example, but God is a perfect Father. He always has the best intentions for his children, and he always has the ability to carry them out. Jesus taught that “Father” was the way to address God. “Father” was Jesus’ favorite term for addressing God. In the synoptic Gospels, we count Jesus referencing God as Father approximately sixty-five times and in the book of John, we see it over one hundred times.
                                              • Because of Jesus’ use of this metaphor, the rest of the New Testament emphasizes the Fatherhood of God. In Paul’s letters, God is described as “Father” over forty times. For Paul, God’s fatherhood is based on the redemption and reconciliation he has made available to everyone through faith in Jesus Christ.
                                              • There are a lot of misconceptions about the Fatherhood of God that can keep people from relating to him as Father. Let’s take a moment to address some of them. One of the biggest challenges is being hurt by people—fathers or father figures.
                                              • One of the reasons is we are such sensory beings. We feel so deeply the wounds of betrayal and if we compare God to mankind, there’s no way we could trust him with our heart. But humanity is made in the image of God, not God in humanity’s image.
                                              • We are a reflection of parts of God. But then sin entered the world and shattered the reflection. It’s like we all have a shattered mirror in our chest, and we can’t see other people clearly or ourselves clearly. This skewed vision impacts how we see God. But his “mirror’ is intact. He is the perfect reflection of a perfect Father because he is our Father.
                                              • Ephesians 1:5 comforts us, “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.”
                                              •  Another challenge to relating to God as Father is when we misunderstand his discipline. But discipline is an important part of growing and living for him. It not only rebukes and corrects, but it also trains us and guides us.
                                              • Discipline assures us we are God’s children; Discipline is evidence he loves us and has concern for us to not be condemned by the world, but so we can share in his holiness.
                                              • It sounds like there are three responses to relating to God as Father through discipline. One response is to shrug it off where we refuse to take it seriously or despise it. The other is to be over-sensitive and withdraw emotionally. These two will cause us to reject God as father. But the one who receives God’s discipline as an act of love will draw closer to God’s Father heart for us.
                                              • I think it starts with trusting God. God delights in protecting the weak, disadvantaged, oppressed, hurting, and lonely—especially when we trust him. If you feel alone in the world, you can ask God, as your Father in heaven, to put you under his special care.
                                              • And sometimes, we need to consider how deep our honor and respect for his power, judgment, and intolerance of evil. When we cultivate a deep honor and respect for him, God liberates and motivates us to avoid evil, obey God’s word, and to live with a continual awareness of God’s mercy and nearness. To those who revere him, he gives mercy, love, forgiveness, fatherly compassion, faithfulness, and goodness.
                                              • The final step we want to share today is to ask the Holy Spirit to create the feeling of filial love that causes us to know God as Father. I love Galatians 4:6, “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’”
                                              • Because we are now God’s children, we have a new “guardian.” We can be free from religious rules or the devastating impact of human failures. Abba is Aramaic for Father and expresses the depth of intimacy, warmth, and confidence by which the Holy Spirit helps us relate to and cry out to God as Father. When we refer to and relate to God as Father, we demonstrate the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in our life.
                                              • Relating to God as Father has nothing to do with how poorly you’ve been treated but has everything to do with placing your entire trust in God’s love for you. You have the freedom and the right to approach our heavenly Father with the confidence that you will be accepted, welcomed, and loved.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Ephesians 1:5 comforts us, “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.”
                                              • Hebrews 12:6-10 states, “For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives. It is for discipline that you must endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
                                              • Psalm 68:5-6 reminds us, “Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation. God settles the solitary in a home; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebellious dwell in a parched land.”
                                              •  Psalm 103:13 teaches us, “as a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.”
                                              • Galatians 4:6, “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                               

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary: 

                                              If you’ve ever struggled with relating to God as Father—maybe you’ve been hurt by an earthly father or a church leader and carry a misunderstanding of God’s heart for you-- then this episode is for you. Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about Relating to God as Father and Understanding God’s Love When Earthly Fathers Fail.

                                              Relating to God as Father is vital for a proper understanding and close relationship with the Lord. We can lose sight of who God is when we forget that he is not like us. We are made in his image, not the other way around. Fatherhood is an important aspect of God’s character and when we can relate to God as father it can transform our life.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Knowing God as my Father has brought so much comfort to my life. I know many of our listeners and viewers carry deep wounds, and my prayer is that today’s conversation will bring encouragement and hope.
                                              • Relating to God as Father is essential to experience his comfort and blessings of being his sons and daughters. He gives us mercy, love, forgiveness, compassion, faithfulness, and goodness. When we reject God’s fatherhood, we struggle to experience the comfort he offers to us.
                                              • Earthly fathers are an imperfect and flawed example, but God is a perfect Father. He always has the best intentions for his children, and he always has the ability to carry them out. Jesus taught that “Father” was the way to address God. “Father” was Jesus’ favorite term for addressing God. In the synoptic Gospels, we count Jesus referencing God as Father approximately sixty-five times and in the book of John, we see it over one hundred times.
                                              • Because of Jesus’ use of this metaphor, the rest of the New Testament emphasizes the Fatherhood of God. In Paul’s letters, God is described as “Father” over forty times. For Paul, God’s fatherhood is based on the redemption and reconciliation he has made available to everyone through faith in Jesus Christ.
                                              • There are a lot of misconceptions about the Fatherhood of God that can keep people from relating to him as Father. Let’s take a moment to address some of them. One of the biggest challenges is being hurt by people—fathers or father figures.
                                              • One of the reasons is we are such sensory beings. We feel so deeply the wounds of betrayal and if we compare God to mankind, there’s no way we could trust him with our heart. But humanity is made in the image of God, not God in humanity’s image.
                                              • We are a reflection of parts of God. But then sin entered the world and shattered the reflection. It’s like we all have a shattered mirror in our chest, and we can’t see other people clearly or ourselves clearly. This skewed vision impacts how we see God. But his “mirror’ is intact. He is the perfect reflection of a perfect Father because he is our Father.
                                              • Ephesians 1:5 comforts us, “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.”
                                              •  Another challenge to relating to God as Father is when we misunderstand his discipline. But discipline is an important part of growing and living for him. It not only rebukes and corrects, but it also trains us and guides us.
                                              • Discipline assures us we are God’s children; Discipline is evidence he loves us and has concern for us to not be condemned by the world, but so we can share in his holiness.
                                              • It sounds like there are three responses to relating to God as Father through discipline. One response is to shrug it off where we refuse to take it seriously or despise it. The other is to be over-sensitive and withdraw emotionally. These two will cause us to reject God as father. But the one who receives God’s discipline as an act of love will draw closer to God’s Father heart for us.
                                              • I think it starts with trusting God. God delights in protecting the weak, disadvantaged, oppressed, hurting, and lonely—especially when we trust him. If you feel alone in the world, you can ask God, as your Father in heaven, to put you under his special care.
                                              • And sometimes, we need to consider how deep our honor and respect for his power, judgment, and intolerance of evil. When we cultivate a deep honor and respect for him, God liberates and motivates us to avoid evil, obey God’s word, and to live with a continual awareness of God’s mercy and nearness. To those who revere him, he gives mercy, love, forgiveness, fatherly compassion, faithfulness, and goodness.
                                              • The final step we want to share today is to ask the Holy Spirit to create the feeling of filial love that causes us to know God as Father. I love Galatians 4:6, “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’”
                                              • Because we are now God’s children, we have a new “guardian.” We can be free from religious rules or the devastating impact of human failures. Abba is Aramaic for Father and expresses the depth of intimacy, warmth, and confidence by which the Holy Spirit helps us relate to and cry out to God as Father. When we refer to and relate to God as Father, we demonstrate the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in our life.
                                              • Relating to God as Father has nothing to do with how poorly you’ve been treated but has everything to do with placing your entire trust in God’s love for you. You have the freedom and the right to approach our heavenly Father with the confidence that you will be accepted, welcomed, and loved.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Ephesians 1:5 comforts us, “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.”
                                              • Hebrews 12:6-10 states, “For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives. It is for discipline that you must endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
                                              • Psalm 68:5-6 reminds us, “Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation. God settles the solitary in a home; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebellious dwell in a parched land.”
                                              •  Psalm 103:13 teaches us, “as a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.”
                                              • Galatians 4:6, “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                               

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 322 Dr. Michelle Bengtson e4b0b238-fb6a-4a53-92de-b2f90188022c e4b0b238-fb6a-4a53-92de-b2f90188022c Thu, 12 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1819 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/relating-to-god-as-father-understanding-god-s-love-when-earthly-fathers-fail                                               How God Redeems Even Our Most Painful Experiences How God Redeems Even Our Most Painful Experiences Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode, guest Tammy Kennington shares the deep wounds she experienced as a survivor of childhood sexual trauma—and the heartbreak of watching someone she loves endure the same pain. Through her journey, she shares how God met her in the midst of that suffering, redeemed even her most painful experiences, and gave her sacred scars as beauty for her ashes.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • My story of wounding is two sides of the same coin, first as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and then seeing someone I dearly love experiencing the same sort of thing.
                                              • I’ve really had to kneel at God’s feet, seek Him, and heal physically, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.
                                              • My wounds trapped me in grief, fear, and confusion; not so much my own trauma, but the vicarious trauma of the individual that I love so much.
                                              • Fear held me captive. I thought I would not ever experience freedom again or ever experience any of the Lord’s peace because it just seemed so out of reach. Anywhere I turned, it felt like tentacles twisted around my marriage, my family, my personal life and it attempted to destroy all beauty.
                                              • The painful wounds I experienced emotionally and relationally were also replicated physically. After I found out about the horrendous suffering my loved one had endured, I found out that I was suffering from fibromyalgia and scleroderma. It took years for those to be diagnosed but God has done an amazing work in my life through all of it.
                                              • When we go through a painful event, even emotionally, relationally, or spiritually, our body will react to that pain and stress, and create physical health conditions that also often contribute to physical pain.
                                              • I’m trying to give people permission to acknowledge the pain, but then to step forward to deal with it in a safe healing environment. Because when we don’t, our body will hold onto it, and we will experience physical symptoms at some point.
                                              • Without healing, wounds rot, they fester, and they go deeper.
                                              • I’m a testimony to God’s power. I no longer live with fear, with flashbacks, suicidality, or disassociation. And because the Lord healed me, of those burdens, I knew he could heal me of the autoimmune disorder I was dealing with, if he wanted to.
                                              • It was a long seven-year process. But now I’m coming up on the one year anniversary of not having any fibromyalgia flareups, and I’m going back to full time work in the fall. God has restored me emotionally, spiritually, and physically as a testimony of his goodness.
                                              • We know that there are times when God doesn’t heal this side of heaven. But those who know Christ will be healed ultimately in Heaven. Even if we are walking through a painful journey now and he doesn’t heal us here, we can count on him because we know he will give us the strength that we need. Scripture tells us that he will provide for all of our needs, and that his grace is abundant. He is a God of mercy, and he is able.
                                              • If you are in that situation now where you are praying for physical, emotional, relational, or spiritual healing keep praying. Keep pursuing God. Keep praying.
                                              • God has not always healed areas that I have most wanted healed, he still may but he has not yet, but there are other areas that he knew, in his infinite wisdom, were more important for him to address with me. So I continue to press in for healing, but I trust God’s timing and his perfect plan.
                                              • God does redeem our pain. Our most painful experiences when we place them at his feet and surrender them to him can be used for good whether or not the enemy intended them for evil.
                                              • What flipped the switch for me was when I realized that if I denied my faith, if I allowed my anger and bitterness to boil under the surface, then I would have given Satan the ultimate victory because he would have stolen the most beautiful thing in my life: my relationship with my Lord and Savior. I refused to give him that pleasure.
                                              • Trauma occurred out of my control, but my response did not.
                                              • You decided that your faith in God was stronger and more important than the enemy having victory over your life.
                                              • God can work in and through the most hurtful experiences in our lives, and he can bring us to a place of restoration.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Genesis 50:20 NIV “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
                                              • Philippians 4:19 NIV “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
                                              • Psalm 147:3 NIV “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Tammy Kennington:

                                              Connect with Tammy at https://tammykennington.substack.com/ or learn more about her at https://tammykennington.com/. 

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Tammy Kennington is an author, educator, speaker, and life coach familiar with the impact of trauma, mental health issues, and parenting in the hard places. She strives to lead women from hardship to hope and share Christ’s love with the young and young at heart. 

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode, guest Tammy Kennington shares the deep wounds she experienced as a survivor of childhood sexual trauma—and the heartbreak of watching someone she loves endure the same pain. Through her journey, she shares how God met her in the midst of that suffering, redeemed even her most painful experiences, and gave her sacred scars as beauty for her ashes.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • My story of wounding is two sides of the same coin, first as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and then seeing someone I dearly love experiencing the same sort of thing.
                                              • I’ve really had to kneel at God’s feet, seek Him, and heal physically, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.
                                              • My wounds trapped me in grief, fear, and confusion; not so much my own trauma, but the vicarious trauma of the individual that I love so much.
                                              • Fear held me captive. I thought I would not ever experience freedom again or ever experience any of the Lord’s peace because it just seemed so out of reach. Anywhere I turned, it felt like tentacles twisted around my marriage, my family, my personal life and it attempted to destroy all beauty.
                                              • The painful wounds I experienced emotionally and relationally were also replicated physically. After I found out about the horrendous suffering my loved one had endured, I found out that I was suffering from fibromyalgia and scleroderma. It took years for those to be diagnosed but God has done an amazing work in my life through all of it.
                                              • When we go through a painful event, even emotionally, relationally, or spiritually, our body will react to that pain and stress, and create physical health conditions that also often contribute to physical pain.
                                              • I’m trying to give people permission to acknowledge the pain, but then to step forward to deal with it in a safe healing environment. Because when we don’t, our body will hold onto it, and we will experience physical symptoms at some point.
                                              • Without healing, wounds rot, they fester, and they go deeper.
                                              • I’m a testimony to God’s power. I no longer live with fear, with flashbacks, suicidality, or disassociation. And because the Lord healed me, of those burdens, I knew he could heal me of the autoimmune disorder I was dealing with, if he wanted to.
                                              • It was a long seven-year process. But now I’m coming up on the one year anniversary of not having any fibromyalgia flareups, and I’m going back to full time work in the fall. God has restored me emotionally, spiritually, and physically as a testimony of his goodness.
                                              • We know that there are times when God doesn’t heal this side of heaven. But those who know Christ will be healed ultimately in Heaven. Even if we are walking through a painful journey now and he doesn’t heal us here, we can count on him because we know he will give us the strength that we need. Scripture tells us that he will provide for all of our needs, and that his grace is abundant. He is a God of mercy, and he is able.
                                              • If you are in that situation now where you are praying for physical, emotional, relational, or spiritual healing keep praying. Keep pursuing God. Keep praying.
                                              • God has not always healed areas that I have most wanted healed, he still may but he has not yet, but there are other areas that he knew, in his infinite wisdom, were more important for him to address with me. So I continue to press in for healing, but I trust God’s timing and his perfect plan.
                                              • God does redeem our pain. Our most painful experiences when we place them at his feet and surrender them to him can be used for good whether or not the enemy intended them for evil.
                                              • What flipped the switch for me was when I realized that if I denied my faith, if I allowed my anger and bitterness to boil under the surface, then I would have given Satan the ultimate victory because he would have stolen the most beautiful thing in my life: my relationship with my Lord and Savior. I refused to give him that pleasure.
                                              • Trauma occurred out of my control, but my response did not.
                                              • You decided that your faith in God was stronger and more important than the enemy having victory over your life.
                                              • God can work in and through the most hurtful experiences in our lives, and he can bring us to a place of restoration.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Genesis 50:20 NIV “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
                                              • Philippians 4:19 NIV “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
                                              • Psalm 147:3 NIV “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Tammy Kennington:

                                              Connect with Tammy at https://tammykennington.substack.com/ or learn more about her at https://tammykennington.com/. 

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Tammy Kennington is an author, educator, speaker, and life coach familiar with the impact of trauma, mental health issues, and parenting in the hard places. She strives to lead women from hardship to hope and share Christ’s love with the young and young at heart. 

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 321 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 909896a9-397a-42e6-9a7b-b2f30016af39 909896a9-397a-42e6-9a7b-b2f30016af39 Thu, 05 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1217 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-god-redeems-even-our-most-painful-experiences                                               How To Rekindle Your First Love for God How To Rekindle Your First Love for God Episode Summary:

                                              Today, we're exploring a topic that feels counterintuitive but profoundly transformative: "How to Rekindle Your First Love.” Together with Pastor Jessica Van Roekel, we’ll examine why this is important, how it helps us live our lives in Christ, the warning signs of losing it and how to get back to it. We’ll offer biblical wisdom, personal stories, and practical insights to help you embrace joy as a choice, a fruit of the Spirit, and a testament to God’s faithfulness.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Search for identity and purpose can only be found in our personal relationship with God. We cannot chase Dr. Michelle’s experience with God, my experience with God, or your pastor’s experience with God. We gather corporately for worship services, but the rest of the week, we “gather” with God as an individual.
                                              • We must seek our own revelation of his love for us, who we are IN him and TO him.
                                              • Life confuses, distracts, or points us to look at the world or church leaders for insight into ourselves. Ultimately, Christ reveals himself and will return to set things right. No more broken hearts or tears. All hope will be fulfilled. All promises will be kept.
                                              • The book of Revelation uses imagery to describe the end of time, but the letters to the churches at the beginning of the book are easy to understand. Christ’s purpose for the letters are to challenge, encourage, warn, and build up believers and churches throughout history.
                                              • The letter’s values for us today includes: a revelation of what Christ loves and values along with what he hates and condemns. They also give us a clear statement about consequences for disobedience and spiritual neglect along with rewards for spiritual alertness, diligence, and faithfulness to Christ.
                                              • They also provide the standard for any individual or church to judge their true spiritual condition and provide an example of Satan’s methods for attacking and working against the church or individual Christian.
                                              • The Christians in Ephesus were complimented for: toil, patient endurance, separateness from evil, pursuers of truth, bearing up for the Lord’s sake, not grown weary. They were criticized for losing their first love.
                                              • The first love is defined as: commitment to the original love, truth, purity, and power of Jesus and his original revelation. Our first love protects and helps us live the way Jesus calls us to. Our first love protects us because it helps us avoid sin, prevents us from running after false teaching, and helps us not forsake Jesus.
                                              • But the consequences of losing our first love means we forget about loving the hurting, loving our fellow siblings in Christ, and about our own lost, wretched nature before we gave our life to Christ and his Lordship.
                                              • We can lose our first love through spiritual distraction, loneliness, weariness, focusing more on the battle rather than our Victor, listening to other voices, and allowing religious actions to replace relationship. But God gives us warning signs.
                                              • Let’s go through the warning signs: delight in something/something else more than God; lacking of longing for prayer and Bible reading; don’t think about God throughout the day; claim to “be human” to excuse behaviors/attitudes; and lack of cheerful giving or service.
                                              • There’s more: treating other Christians with more judgment than kindness, view Christ’s commands as restrictions to happiness, striving for mankind’s acclaim, allowing fears to control decisions to share the Good News of Christ, refuse to give up an activity that displeases God, complacent to sinful attitudes around you, and unwillingness to forgive.
                                              • To rekindle our first love, we choose to remember God’s love, his faithfulness and our initial love for him. We can remember what he saved us from and how we were before we welcomed him into our lives.
                                              • The second way to rekindle our first love is to REPENT. Jesus, our High Priest, stands ready to forgive us if we would turn and come to him. We need to admit we’ve lost it, stop ignoring the warning signs and bring our “spiritual” care into the “mechanic” for service. He stands waiting for us and we don’t need to be ashamed or put undue pressure on ourselves.
                                              • The third step is to RETURN. Return to where you lost it. Don’t try to be a mile ahead of where you use to be. Go back and begin again with renewed love for God.
                                              • Don’t beat yourself up for letting your love for God grow cool. Remember you’re not alone, remember God is for you and loves you. Repent and return.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Revelation 2:1-5 To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
                                              • Jeremiah 29:13 “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
                                              • 1 John 4:19 “we love him because he first loved us.”
                                              • Luke 7:36-50
                                              • Hebrews 4:12-16 “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Jesus the Great High Priest Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,  Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
                                              • 1 Timothy 1:6 “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God.”
                                              • Jude 20-21 “But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life,”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              Today, we're exploring a topic that feels counterintuitive but profoundly transformative: "How to Rekindle Your First Love.” Together with Pastor Jessica Van Roekel, we’ll examine why this is important, how it helps us live our lives in Christ, the warning signs of losing it and how to get back to it. We’ll offer biblical wisdom, personal stories, and practical insights to help you embrace joy as a choice, a fruit of the Spirit, and a testament to God’s faithfulness.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Search for identity and purpose can only be found in our personal relationship with God. We cannot chase Dr. Michelle’s experience with God, my experience with God, or your pastor’s experience with God. We gather corporately for worship services, but the rest of the week, we “gather” with God as an individual.
                                              • We must seek our own revelation of his love for us, who we are IN him and TO him.
                                              • Life confuses, distracts, or points us to look at the world or church leaders for insight into ourselves. Ultimately, Christ reveals himself and will return to set things right. No more broken hearts or tears. All hope will be fulfilled. All promises will be kept.
                                              • The book of Revelation uses imagery to describe the end of time, but the letters to the churches at the beginning of the book are easy to understand. Christ’s purpose for the letters are to challenge, encourage, warn, and build up believers and churches throughout history.
                                              • The letter’s values for us today includes: a revelation of what Christ loves and values along with what he hates and condemns. They also give us a clear statement about consequences for disobedience and spiritual neglect along with rewards for spiritual alertness, diligence, and faithfulness to Christ.
                                              • They also provide the standard for any individual or church to judge their true spiritual condition and provide an example of Satan’s methods for attacking and working against the church or individual Christian.
                                              • The Christians in Ephesus were complimented for: toil, patient endurance, separateness from evil, pursuers of truth, bearing up for the Lord’s sake, not grown weary. They were criticized for losing their first love.
                                              • The first love is defined as: commitment to the original love, truth, purity, and power of Jesus and his original revelation. Our first love protects and helps us live the way Jesus calls us to. Our first love protects us because it helps us avoid sin, prevents us from running after false teaching, and helps us not forsake Jesus.
                                              • But the consequences of losing our first love means we forget about loving the hurting, loving our fellow siblings in Christ, and about our own lost, wretched nature before we gave our life to Christ and his Lordship.
                                              • We can lose our first love through spiritual distraction, loneliness, weariness, focusing more on the battle rather than our Victor, listening to other voices, and allowing religious actions to replace relationship. But God gives us warning signs.
                                              • Let’s go through the warning signs: delight in something/something else more than God; lacking of longing for prayer and Bible reading; don’t think about God throughout the day; claim to “be human” to excuse behaviors/attitudes; and lack of cheerful giving or service.
                                              • There’s more: treating other Christians with more judgment than kindness, view Christ’s commands as restrictions to happiness, striving for mankind’s acclaim, allowing fears to control decisions to share the Good News of Christ, refuse to give up an activity that displeases God, complacent to sinful attitudes around you, and unwillingness to forgive.
                                              • To rekindle our first love, we choose to remember God’s love, his faithfulness and our initial love for him. We can remember what he saved us from and how we were before we welcomed him into our lives.
                                              • The second way to rekindle our first love is to REPENT. Jesus, our High Priest, stands ready to forgive us if we would turn and come to him. We need to admit we’ve lost it, stop ignoring the warning signs and bring our “spiritual” care into the “mechanic” for service. He stands waiting for us and we don’t need to be ashamed or put undue pressure on ourselves.
                                              • The third step is to RETURN. Return to where you lost it. Don’t try to be a mile ahead of where you use to be. Go back and begin again with renewed love for God.
                                              • Don’t beat yourself up for letting your love for God grow cool. Remember you’re not alone, remember God is for you and loves you. Repent and return.

                                               

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Revelation 2:1-5 To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
                                              • Jeremiah 29:13 “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
                                              • 1 John 4:19 “we love him because he first loved us.”
                                              • Luke 7:36-50
                                              • Hebrews 4:12-16 “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Jesus the Great High Priest Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,  Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
                                              • 1 Timothy 1:6 “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God.”
                                              • Jude 20-21 “But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life,”

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources:

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                              Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Co-Host:

                                              Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 320 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 1f4eb0aa-cdb1-4191-bccb-b2ec0019b9aa 1f4eb0aa-cdb1-4191-bccb-b2ec0019b9aa Thu, 29 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2166 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-rekindle-your-first-love-for-god                                               Breaking the Stigma: Why Mental Health Matters for Christians Breaking the Stigma: Why Mental Health Matters for Christians Episode Summary:

                                              This month is Mental Health Awareness Month, and I want to take some time to talk about something that is so important but often misunderstood—mental health, especially in the context of our faith.

                                              For too long, mental health struggles have been shrouded in stigma—especially in Christian circles. Maybe you’ve heard things like:

                                              • “You just need to pray more.”
                                              • “If you had more faith, you wouldn’t struggle.”
                                              • “Christians shouldn’t be anxious or depressed.”

                                              Have you ever heard these statements? Maybe you’ve even said them yourself at some point. The problem is, these kinds of messages aren’t biblical, and they can actually do more harm than good.

                                              So today, we’re going to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the church. We’ll talk about:

                                              1. What the Bible really says about mental health
                                              2. Why struggling with mental health doesn’t mean you lack faith
                                              3. How we as believers can better support those who are hurting

                                              I pray that today’s episode will encourage you and help bring light to a topic that desperately needs to be discussed.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              Some people believe that if we’re struggling emotionally, we must be failing spiritually. But that’s just not true.

                                              The Bible is full of stories of faithful men and women who wrestled with deep emotional pain:

                                              • David, a man after God’s own heart, poured out his despair in the Psalms. He wrote in Psalm 42:5 (NIV), "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
                                              • Elijah, a mighty prophet, was so overwhelmed with despair that he asked God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4).
                                              • Job, a righteous man, suffered so much that he wished he had never been born (Job 3:11).
                                              • Even Jesus Himself experienced deep sorrow. Isaiah 53:3 calls Him "a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief."

                                              The presence of mental and emotional struggles does not mean we lack faith. It means we are human.

                                              God doesn’t dismiss our struggles—He meets us in them. Psalm 34:18 says, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

                                              If you’re struggling today, I want you to hear this: God sees you. He cares. And He does not condemn you for your pain.

                                              Can God heal? Absolutely.
                                              Does God answer prayer? Without a doubt.
                                              But does struggling with mental health mean you’re failing as a Christian? Not at all.

                                              Think about physical health. If someone has diabetes, do we tell them, “Just pray more, and your blood sugar will be fine”? Of course not! We encourage them to seek medical treatment, eat well, and take care of their body—all while trusting God for healing.

                                              The same applies to mental health.

                                              • Anxiety, depression, and other struggles are not signs of spiritual weakness.
                                              • They are real, complex conditions that can be caused by many factors—biology, trauma, stress, spiritual warfare, and more.
                                              • Seeking help—whether through counseling, medication, or other means—doesn’t mean you lack faith. It means you are taking wise steps toward healing.

                                              James 1:5 tells us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

                                              Wisdom includes knowing when we need help—and being humble enough to receive it.

                                              If you’re struggling, please know this:

                                              • Your pain does not disqualify your faith.
                                              • Your struggles do not define you.
                                              • God is not disappointed in you—He is with you in the struggle.

                                              So, how can we, as the body of Christ, do better in supporting those who are struggling with mental health?

                                              1. Stop the Stigma

                                                • Let’s be careful with our words.
                                                • Let’s stop shaming people for their struggles.

                                              Often, people can figure out what to DO for someone, but they often stumble over what to SAY. In my private practice, and through my own personal struggles, I’ve found this to be a huge stumbling block.

                                              There are definitely things NOT to say:

                                              1. “It’s all in your head.”
                                              2. “Snap out of it.”
                                              3. “Pull yourself up by your bootstraps.”
                                                (All of these things convey a lack of sensitivity to the pain they are experiencing. You’d never say these things to someone who has cancer, and depression is just as much a medical diagnosis.)
                                              4. “This too shall pass.”
                                                (That is true, but it doesn’t make someone struggling with depression feel any better. Even a tornado passes, but it leaves damage and devastation in its wake.)
                                              5. “What doesn’t kill you will make you stronger.”
                                                (First of all, many with depression consider suicide, so it’s never a good idea to joke about dying. Secondly, most with depression don’t care about getting stronger, they just want to survive.)
                                              6. “Others are worse off than you.”
                                                (Isn’t this true for everyone? But saying that doesn’t even acknowledge the pain the person with depression is in. And why is their pain any less valid?)
                                              7. “I know how you feel.”
                                                (If you’ve never struggled with depression, you don’t know how they feel. Even if you have experienced depression, the situation and symptoms and complicating factors may be entirely different. It’s better not to even try to compare.)

                                              Helpful things TO say:

                                              1. “I love you.”
                                                The person with depression often can’t love themselves much less believe that others love them. They need to hear this now more than ever, even if they don’t believe it.
                                              2. “I’m here for you.”
                                                Someone struggling with depression feels so alone. They need to know that others care enough to be present with them in their pain, rather than trying to fix it.
                                              3. “You are important to me.”
                                                When struggling with depression, self-esteem is often at risk. They feel all alone and need the assurance that their standing in your eyes and your life doesn’t change just because of the depression.
                                              4. “I’m sorry you’re hurting.”
                                                While I do not recommend saying you know how someone feels, I do suggest you offer kindness, compassion, and concern for their pain.
                                              5. “Is there something I can do for you?”
                                                Often, our actions speak louder than words. When you offer to help, you enter into their pain. They may not know how you can help, but by asking the question, you open up the opportunity for dialogue.
                                              6. “You may not believe this now, but you won’t always feel this way.”
                                                When one is struggling with depression, the whole world looks black, and the future seems to offer only more of the same. It can be helpful to encourage them that this is a season, and they won’t always be in this place.
                                              7. “What might help you feel better?”
                                                This can help them start to think pro-actively about things that help, and can clue you in on how you can support them. For example, if they mention that they always feel better after a walk, offer to walk with them.
                                              8. “What might be making your depression worse?”
                                                This can help them step back and take a look at things they need to change (e.g. sleeping too late in the morning may leave them feeling lethargic and sluggish all day, so setting an alarm to get up earlier might combat that), and can also help you better know how to support and pray for them.
                                              9. “We will get through this together.”
                                                Depression can leave one feeling incredibly lonely, isolated, and as if no one cares or understands. This simple statement conveys support. You aren’t trying to change them or solve the problem, just be present.
                                                Remember, someone else’s experience with depression isn’t your fault and you can’t “fix it” for them-only God can do that. But you can support.
                                              10. Say nothing.
                                                Words get us into trouble so often, when really, just being present often conveys much greater support than having the perfect thing to say or advice to try to make things better.

                                               

                                              2. Encourage Professional Help

                                                • God has gifted counselors, therapists, and doctors with wisdom to help.
                                                • Seeking help is not a lack of faith—it’s an act of wisdom.

                                              3. Offer Practical Support

                                                  • Mental health struggles can be isolating.
                                                  • A simple text, meal, or kind word can mean the world to someone who’s struggling.

                                              While we can be prone to feel helpless to help someone with depression, particularly if we have never experienced it ourselves, there are some practical things we can do to help:

                                              1. Enter into their experience with them and be present.
                                              2. Offer to make a doctor’s appointment for them, and offer to go with them.
                                              3. Make plans with them. Even if they decline, keep offering.
                                              4. Ask how you can pray for them, and pray with them.
                                              5. Remain encouraging and positive.
                                              6. Meet tangible needs (i.e. car pool, pick up grocery items, run errands).
                                              7. Be willing to just sit and be with them.
                                              8. Convey there is hope.
                                              9. Pray With and For Them
                                                • Prayer is powerful.
                                                • Instead of saying “Just pray more,” Pray with and for them.
                                                • But let’s not use it as a substitutefor real support. Let’s walk alongside those who are hurting.

                                              Galatians 6:2 says, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

                                              Let’s be a community that lifts each other up, rather than tearing each other down.

                                              Friend, if you are struggling today, I want you to know: You are not alone.

                                              • Your mental health matters.
                                              • Your pain does not define you.
                                              • And God has not abandoned you.

                                              If you need help, please don’t suffer in silence. Reach out to a trusted friend, pastor, counselor, or doctor. You are worthy of support and healing.

                                              And if you know someone who is struggling, I encourage you to be the hands and feet of Jesus to them.

                                              Let’s break the stigma. Let’s create a church culture where it’s okay to not be okay—because that’s where healing begins.

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 42:5 (NIV), "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
                                              • Psalm 34:18 says, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
                                              • James 1:5 tells us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
                                              • Galatians 6:2 says, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              This month is Mental Health Awareness Month, and I want to take some time to talk about something that is so important but often misunderstood—mental health, especially in the context of our faith.

                                              For too long, mental health struggles have been shrouded in stigma—especially in Christian circles. Maybe you’ve heard things like:

                                              • “You just need to pray more.”
                                              • “If you had more faith, you wouldn’t struggle.”
                                              • “Christians shouldn’t be anxious or depressed.”

                                              Have you ever heard these statements? Maybe you’ve even said them yourself at some point. The problem is, these kinds of messages aren’t biblical, and they can actually do more harm than good.

                                              So today, we’re going to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the church. We’ll talk about:

                                              1. What the Bible really says about mental health
                                              2. Why struggling with mental health doesn’t mean you lack faith
                                              3. How we as believers can better support those who are hurting

                                              I pray that today’s episode will encourage you and help bring light to a topic that desperately needs to be discussed.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              Some people believe that if we’re struggling emotionally, we must be failing spiritually. But that’s just not true.

                                              The Bible is full of stories of faithful men and women who wrestled with deep emotional pain:

                                              • David, a man after God’s own heart, poured out his despair in the Psalms. He wrote in Psalm 42:5 (NIV), "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
                                              • Elijah, a mighty prophet, was so overwhelmed with despair that he asked God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4).
                                              • Job, a righteous man, suffered so much that he wished he had never been born (Job 3:11).
                                              • Even Jesus Himself experienced deep sorrow. Isaiah 53:3 calls Him "a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief."

                                              The presence of mental and emotional struggles does not mean we lack faith. It means we are human.

                                              God doesn’t dismiss our struggles—He meets us in them. Psalm 34:18 says, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

                                              If you’re struggling today, I want you to hear this: God sees you. He cares. And He does not condemn you for your pain.

                                              Can God heal? Absolutely.
                                              Does God answer prayer? Without a doubt.
                                              But does struggling with mental health mean you’re failing as a Christian? Not at all.

                                              Think about physical health. If someone has diabetes, do we tell them, “Just pray more, and your blood sugar will be fine”? Of course not! We encourage them to seek medical treatment, eat well, and take care of their body—all while trusting God for healing.

                                              The same applies to mental health.

                                              • Anxiety, depression, and other struggles are not signs of spiritual weakness.
                                              • They are real, complex conditions that can be caused by many factors—biology, trauma, stress, spiritual warfare, and more.
                                              • Seeking help—whether through counseling, medication, or other means—doesn’t mean you lack faith. It means you are taking wise steps toward healing.

                                              James 1:5 tells us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

                                              Wisdom includes knowing when we need help—and being humble enough to receive it.

                                              If you’re struggling, please know this:

                                              • Your pain does not disqualify your faith.
                                              • Your struggles do not define you.
                                              • God is not disappointed in you—He is with you in the struggle.

                                              So, how can we, as the body of Christ, do better in supporting those who are struggling with mental health?

                                              1. Stop the Stigma

                                                • Let’s be careful with our words.
                                                • Let’s stop shaming people for their struggles.

                                              Often, people can figure out what to DO for someone, but they often stumble over what to SAY. In my private practice, and through my own personal struggles, I’ve found this to be a huge stumbling block.

                                              There are definitely things NOT to say:

                                              1. “It’s all in your head.”
                                              2. “Snap out of it.”
                                              3. “Pull yourself up by your bootstraps.”
                                                (All of these things convey a lack of sensitivity to the pain they are experiencing. You’d never say these things to someone who has cancer, and depression is just as much a medical diagnosis.)
                                              4. “This too shall pass.”
                                                (That is true, but it doesn’t make someone struggling with depression feel any better. Even a tornado passes, but it leaves damage and devastation in its wake.)
                                              5. “What doesn’t kill you will make you stronger.”
                                                (First of all, many with depression consider suicide, so it’s never a good idea to joke about dying. Secondly, most with depression don’t care about getting stronger, they just want to survive.)
                                              6. “Others are worse off than you.”
                                                (Isn’t this true for everyone? But saying that doesn’t even acknowledge the pain the person with depression is in. And why is their pain any less valid?)
                                              7. “I know how you feel.”
                                                (If you’ve never struggled with depression, you don’t know how they feel. Even if you have experienced depression, the situation and symptoms and complicating factors may be entirely different. It’s better not to even try to compare.)

                                              Helpful things TO say:

                                              1. “I love you.”
                                                The person with depression often can’t love themselves much less believe that others love them. They need to hear this now more than ever, even if they don’t believe it.
                                              2. “I’m here for you.”
                                                Someone struggling with depression feels so alone. They need to know that others care enough to be present with them in their pain, rather than trying to fix it.
                                              3. “You are important to me.”
                                                When struggling with depression, self-esteem is often at risk. They feel all alone and need the assurance that their standing in your eyes and your life doesn’t change just because of the depression.
                                              4. “I’m sorry you’re hurting.”
                                                While I do not recommend saying you know how someone feels, I do suggest you offer kindness, compassion, and concern for their pain.
                                              5. “Is there something I can do for you?”
                                                Often, our actions speak louder than words. When you offer to help, you enter into their pain. They may not know how you can help, but by asking the question, you open up the opportunity for dialogue.
                                              6. “You may not believe this now, but you won’t always feel this way.”
                                                When one is struggling with depression, the whole world looks black, and the future seems to offer only more of the same. It can be helpful to encourage them that this is a season, and they won’t always be in this place.
                                              7. “What might help you feel better?”
                                                This can help them start to think pro-actively about things that help, and can clue you in on how you can support them. For example, if they mention that they always feel better after a walk, offer to walk with them.
                                              8. “What might be making your depression worse?”
                                                This can help them step back and take a look at things they need to change (e.g. sleeping too late in the morning may leave them feeling lethargic and sluggish all day, so setting an alarm to get up earlier might combat that), and can also help you better know how to support and pray for them.
                                              9. “We will get through this together.”
                                                Depression can leave one feeling incredibly lonely, isolated, and as if no one cares or understands. This simple statement conveys support. You aren’t trying to change them or solve the problem, just be present.
                                                Remember, someone else’s experience with depression isn’t your fault and you can’t “fix it” for them-only God can do that. But you can support.
                                              10. Say nothing.
                                                Words get us into trouble so often, when really, just being present often conveys much greater support than having the perfect thing to say or advice to try to make things better.

                                               

                                              2. Encourage Professional Help

                                                • God has gifted counselors, therapists, and doctors with wisdom to help.
                                                • Seeking help is not a lack of faith—it’s an act of wisdom.

                                              3. Offer Practical Support

                                                  • Mental health struggles can be isolating.
                                                  • A simple text, meal, or kind word can mean the world to someone who’s struggling.

                                              While we can be prone to feel helpless to help someone with depression, particularly if we have never experienced it ourselves, there are some practical things we can do to help:

                                              1. Enter into their experience with them and be present.
                                              2. Offer to make a doctor’s appointment for them, and offer to go with them.
                                              3. Make plans with them. Even if they decline, keep offering.
                                              4. Ask how you can pray for them, and pray with them.
                                              5. Remain encouraging and positive.
                                              6. Meet tangible needs (i.e. car pool, pick up grocery items, run errands).
                                              7. Be willing to just sit and be with them.
                                              8. Convey there is hope.
                                              9. Pray With and For Them
                                                • Prayer is powerful.
                                                • Instead of saying “Just pray more,” Pray with and for them.
                                                • But let’s not use it as a substitutefor real support. Let’s walk alongside those who are hurting.

                                              Galatians 6:2 says, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

                                              Let’s be a community that lifts each other up, rather than tearing each other down.

                                              Friend, if you are struggling today, I want you to know: You are not alone.

                                              • Your mental health matters.
                                              • Your pain does not define you.
                                              • And God has not abandoned you.

                                              If you need help, please don’t suffer in silence. Reach out to a trusted friend, pastor, counselor, or doctor. You are worthy of support and healing.

                                              And if you know someone who is struggling, I encourage you to be the hands and feet of Jesus to them.

                                              Let’s break the stigma. Let’s create a church culture where it’s okay to not be okay—because that’s where healing begins.

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 42:5 (NIV), "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
                                              • Psalm 34:18 says, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
                                              • James 1:5 tells us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
                                              • Galatians 6:2 says, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host:

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 319 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f79d6bab-2781-42a9-b1ab-b2e50025c319 f79d6bab-2781-42a9-b1ab-b2e50025c319 Thu, 22 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1704 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/breaking-the-stigma-why-mental-health-matters-for-christians                                               How to Find Hope When Postpartum Depression and Hormonal Imbalance Bring Shame How to Find Hope When Postpartum Depression and Hormonal Imbalance Bring Shame Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Rhonda Stoppe shares her Sacred Scar Story of finding hope in the midst of postpartum depression and hormonal imbalance. What began as a season of silent suffering—marked by deep shame, emotional exhaustion, and the sense that no one understood—eventually led her to the help she desperately needed. Now, Rhonda offers encouragement and truth to women facing similar struggles, reminding them they’re not alone and that healing begins when we bring our pain into the light.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                               

                                              • Living in that one-bedroom house, without electricity, with three children I was so overwhelmed. It wasn’t depression exactly, but I was completely overwhelmed.
                                              • I was lying in my kids’ bunkbed with the door closing, weeping, when my husband came home and found me like that.
                                              • He asked what was wrong with me, and I didn’t know. It was just too hard. It was a very dark season for me. I didn’t know that it was post-partum depression—I just knew I was frail, and I was fragile.
                                              • Slowly, that post-partum turned into PMS/PMD.
                                              • I remember not being the mom I wanted to be. Two weeks out of the month I wasn’t myself, and then two weeks out of the month I was myself.
                                              • We lived behind a locked gate on a ranch, so I could hide. So whenever I wasn’t myself, and I couldn’t live my life “out there,” I just stayed home within the locked gate.
                                              • Imagine if you’re a werewolf, and imagine if every full moon, you were going to turn into a werewolf and you couldn’t stop it, you couldn’t stop that werewolf from taking over your body, and the only hope you had was if someone would lock you in a cage until the full moon passed so you didn’t eat your young. That is what my experience was like with PMS.
                                              • Before I experienced it, I had said to my mom and to my sister who struggled with it, “Oh come on, you’re just using that as an excuse to hurt people with your words.” Now, I knew enough to not hurt people with my words. Instead, I would pull back. During those times the only fruit of the spirit that I seemed to have was self-control, and I could keep hurtful words from coming out of my mouth that I couldn’t take back.
                                              • I told my husband that the best way he could help me was to let me pull away in my bedroom, while he played with the kids, and let me just get through it. I would be in my room with my Bible open in my lap, reading, praying and asking God to help me.
                                              • I felt so ashamed because I knew the Lord and I had the Holy Spirit in me. What happens with a hormonal imbalance is a real medical condition that occurs and can play itself out in a way that you can be very sinful in how you let yourself respond to it.
                                              • I felt shame, I felt alone, I felt lonely, I felt like no one else was going through what I was going through. I think it’s silent suffering that we often go through as Christian women because it feels so shameful when we have the Holy Spirit but we don’t know why we cannot get a handle on this.
                                              • What makes it so hard is that we are so ashamed about it, so we don’t want to talk about it because we don’t know anyone else who is going through it so we think we are alone, so then the message we hear is “what’s wrong with ME?” That just brings on more guilt, shame, remorse, regret, fear, and isolation. The isolation is about the worse thing we can do.
                                              • We need to talk about it so that people know they’re not alone.
                                              • The enemy convinced me I was all alone, nobody understands, and I was going to have to figure this all out on my own.
                                              • I ultimately found help when I went to an endocrinologist who specialized in hormonal disorders. She gave me medication that balanced out my hormonal levels throughout the month.
                                              • My sacred scars came out of this experience because now I can comfort others with what has comforted me. Whenever I share my story, women are desperate to talk to me because they feel so alone and don’t think anyone can understand the struggle, and for some, it’s ruining their marriages.
                                              • The whole essence of the book Sacred Scars is that God didn’t cause our pain and suffering, but He will use it for good.
                                              • Even now, my husband, Steve, who is a pastor, can help other men whose wives are going through it, because Steve went through it with me and can understand.
                                              • Initially, in my pride, I didn’t want others to know about my frailty, but if God can use my frailty to help someone else, who am I to not let Him use my sacred scars to help someone else who’s desperate to know they aren’t alone.
                                              • Don’t try to find someone to blame for how you’re feeling right now. Recognize what is going on in your body. It’s no one’s fault; you don’t have to find someone to blame for why you’re sad or why you’re mad or why you’re triggered. It’s a hormonal fluctuation and you need to decide how to take care of you and not assign blame or fault for why you feel this way.
                                              • There is hope and there is help. Find a medical professional who specializes in hormonal imbalances. Don’t give up. Find someone you can trust who you can talk to about it. Isolating yourself makes it worse.
                                              • Don’t give up and don’t suffer silently. Satan keeps our secrets and makes us feel shame, so when we share it, it disarms his hold on us.
                                              • Find a safe person to share this with. You need to be careful who you share this with because some people haven’t earned your trust or the right to hear those intimate personal details. 

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Rhonda Stoppe:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Rhonda Stoppe is the Best-Selling Author of 7 books. For more than 30 years Rhonda has helped thousands of women build no regrets lives! Rhonda is a highly sought after Speaker and a popular voice in the Christian Living Community. Rhonda ministers alongside her husband Steve, who for 20 years has pastored First Baptist Church of Patterson, California.  They live out their own Real Life Romance writing books and speaking at their No Regrets Marriage Conferences, but their favorite ministry is their family. They have four grown children and 10 grandchildren. To learn more about Rhonda’s speaking topics, watch her teaching and to book Rhonda for your next event visit: NoRegretsWoman.com

                                               

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary:

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Rhonda Stoppe shares her Sacred Scar Story of finding hope in the midst of postpartum depression and hormonal imbalance. What began as a season of silent suffering—marked by deep shame, emotional exhaustion, and the sense that no one understood—eventually led her to the help she desperately needed. Now, Rhonda offers encouragement and truth to women facing similar struggles, reminding them they’re not alone and that healing begins when we bring our pain into the light.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                               

                                              • Living in that one-bedroom house, without electricity, with three children I was so overwhelmed. It wasn’t depression exactly, but I was completely overwhelmed.
                                              • I was lying in my kids’ bunkbed with the door closing, weeping, when my husband came home and found me like that.
                                              • He asked what was wrong with me, and I didn’t know. It was just too hard. It was a very dark season for me. I didn’t know that it was post-partum depression—I just knew I was frail, and I was fragile.
                                              • Slowly, that post-partum turned into PMS/PMD.
                                              • I remember not being the mom I wanted to be. Two weeks out of the month I wasn’t myself, and then two weeks out of the month I was myself.
                                              • We lived behind a locked gate on a ranch, so I could hide. So whenever I wasn’t myself, and I couldn’t live my life “out there,” I just stayed home within the locked gate.
                                              • Imagine if you’re a werewolf, and imagine if every full moon, you were going to turn into a werewolf and you couldn’t stop it, you couldn’t stop that werewolf from taking over your body, and the only hope you had was if someone would lock you in a cage until the full moon passed so you didn’t eat your young. That is what my experience was like with PMS.
                                              • Before I experienced it, I had said to my mom and to my sister who struggled with it, “Oh come on, you’re just using that as an excuse to hurt people with your words.” Now, I knew enough to not hurt people with my words. Instead, I would pull back. During those times the only fruit of the spirit that I seemed to have was self-control, and I could keep hurtful words from coming out of my mouth that I couldn’t take back.
                                              • I told my husband that the best way he could help me was to let me pull away in my bedroom, while he played with the kids, and let me just get through it. I would be in my room with my Bible open in my lap, reading, praying and asking God to help me.
                                              • I felt so ashamed because I knew the Lord and I had the Holy Spirit in me. What happens with a hormonal imbalance is a real medical condition that occurs and can play itself out in a way that you can be very sinful in how you let yourself respond to it.
                                              • I felt shame, I felt alone, I felt lonely, I felt like no one else was going through what I was going through. I think it’s silent suffering that we often go through as Christian women because it feels so shameful when we have the Holy Spirit but we don’t know why we cannot get a handle on this.
                                              • What makes it so hard is that we are so ashamed about it, so we don’t want to talk about it because we don’t know anyone else who is going through it so we think we are alone, so then the message we hear is “what’s wrong with ME?” That just brings on more guilt, shame, remorse, regret, fear, and isolation. The isolation is about the worse thing we can do.
                                              • We need to talk about it so that people know they’re not alone.
                                              • The enemy convinced me I was all alone, nobody understands, and I was going to have to figure this all out on my own.
                                              • I ultimately found help when I went to an endocrinologist who specialized in hormonal disorders. She gave me medication that balanced out my hormonal levels throughout the month.
                                              • My sacred scars came out of this experience because now I can comfort others with what has comforted me. Whenever I share my story, women are desperate to talk to me because they feel so alone and don’t think anyone can understand the struggle, and for some, it’s ruining their marriages.
                                              • The whole essence of the book Sacred Scars is that God didn’t cause our pain and suffering, but He will use it for good.
                                              • Even now, my husband, Steve, who is a pastor, can help other men whose wives are going through it, because Steve went through it with me and can understand.
                                              • Initially, in my pride, I didn’t want others to know about my frailty, but if God can use my frailty to help someone else, who am I to not let Him use my sacred scars to help someone else who’s desperate to know they aren’t alone.
                                              • Don’t try to find someone to blame for how you’re feeling right now. Recognize what is going on in your body. It’s no one’s fault; you don’t have to find someone to blame for why you’re sad or why you’re mad or why you’re triggered. It’s a hormonal fluctuation and you need to decide how to take care of you and not assign blame or fault for why you feel this way.
                                              • There is hope and there is help. Find a medical professional who specializes in hormonal imbalances. Don’t give up. Find someone you can trust who you can talk to about it. Isolating yourself makes it worse.
                                              • Don’t give up and don’t suffer silently. Satan keeps our secrets and makes us feel shame, so when we share it, it disarms his hold on us.
                                              • Find a safe person to share this with. You need to be careful who you share this with because some people haven’t earned your trust or the right to hear those intimate personal details. 

                                               

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Rhonda Stoppe:

                                              Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Rhonda Stoppe is the Best-Selling Author of 7 books. For more than 30 years Rhonda has helped thousands of women build no regrets lives! Rhonda is a highly sought after Speaker and a popular voice in the Christian Living Community. Rhonda ministers alongside her husband Steve, who for 20 years has pastored First Baptist Church of Patterson, California.  They live out their own Real Life Romance writing books and speaking at their No Regrets Marriage Conferences, but their favorite ministry is their family. They have four grown children and 10 grandchildren. To learn more about Rhonda’s speaking topics, watch her teaching and to book Rhonda for your next event visit: NoRegretsWoman.com

                                               

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 318 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 62d9123f-51eb-42f8-9fa3-b2de002611cb 62d9123f-51eb-42f8-9fa3-b2de002611cb Thu, 15 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2035 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-find-hope-when-postpartum-depression-and-hormonal-imbalance-bring-shame                                               How to Find Healing from Generational Dysfunction in Families How to Find Healing from Generational Dysfunction in Families Episode Summary: 

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we continue our Sacred Scar Story Series, where we talk with individuals who have experienced deep pain, but have also seen God bring healing and redemption.

                                              My guest, Phylis Mantelli, shares her journey of growing up with a narcissistic, alcoholic mother in a chaotic and abusive environment—facing stress, shame, and secrets from an early age. Despite a childhood marked by dysfunction, trauma, and loss, Phyllis eventually chose to pursue healing and break the cycle of generational pain in her own family.

                                              Through honest reflection, deep faith, and intentional work, she now helps other women confront their own “mother wounds” and embrace the truth that God can transform even our most painful stories into something sacred. You’ll be encouraged by her transparency, wisdom, and hope-filled perspective.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Some of your hardest stories become the very thing that you are able to help others through if you can find healing for yourself.
                                              • I was raised by a dysfunctional, alcoholic, narcissistic mom and everyday was living on the edge of stress, and shame, and secrets.
                                              • My mom kidnapped us, my dad came home to an empty house with no family. It took him three and a half months to find us.
                                              • At eight years old, we moved in with my mother’s boyfriend, my sister’s father, and started a whole new life.
                                              • Imagine being plucked out of your childhood and everything you’ve known and you’re just supposed to start a new school the next day like nothing is going on.
                                              • My mom had violence in her relationships our entire lives, so we witnessed violence growing up—we were physically and verbally abused.
                                              • Growing up, being told to be strong and not tell anyone about it, I didn’t realize it until many years later that I’m actually a very highly sensitive person but because I was taught to be tough, I became a really strong coverer of all kinds of wounds. So I had a lot of rage but I didn’t even realize that’s what it was.
                                              • With secrets, you think that you’re the only person going through things. There was so much shame attached to that that I never shared my story with anyone.
                                              • After 61 years, I was finally able to grieve my story. And I realized that I’m not alone and there are many other women who have gone through similar things and I want to learn how to help them.
                                              • Through trial and error, and being able to say the words, “I’m sorry” and “tell me more,” I was able to deep conversations with my daughters and break off that generational dysfunction. It takes work, and that’s the kind of thing I love to do in my ministry, by helping other women get to that place.
                                              • I became a Christian at 35, and I realized that my life is worthy. I am loved because I am a child of God and He has always had his hand on me. I felt God through all the trials in my life and even in the things I did wrong. I didn’t love myself…I wanted someone to love me, and now I know that God does.
                                              • I needed to say “no more” for looking for outside sources to love me. I had to love myself and I spent a lot of time on the floor crying out to God. It’s not about the stuff you do. It’s about the heart of where you are. God hears you and loves you. You don’t have to do X, Y, Z to earn his love.
                                              • You have to look back over your history and realize someone has been carrying you even through all the muck, and that means they love you.
                                              • Shame sounds like, “If they find out your secrets, they are never going to like you and they are going to fun from you.”
                                              • When you hold onto secrets, it’s like a little gift inside your body that is so tight that it’s ready to explode, and that’s a gift Satan wants you to not open up because he knows that once you open it up and let it out, no matter what, it holds no power over you anymore.
                                              • Tell your story to safe people. Secrets have to come out. You cannot get to a place of peace until healing takes place in your body.
                                              • Satan likes to tell us all the things we aren’t, but God loves to tell us all the things we are. Nothing will separate us from his love.
                                              • If you really want to heal, you have to start doing things differently. You can’t keep doing things the same way and expect a different result—it’s likely not going to happen.
                                              • We have to choose to pursue our healing. God isn’t going to force it on us.
                                              • Every family is different so don’t do the comparison thing and think “I want to be like that family over there.” Do what works for you. Where you are and what works for your family and brings your family peace and comfort may not look like others.
                                              • God is giving you God-kisses in the most gentle of ways and we have to open our eyes to see it even in the midst of great struggle.

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 91:11 “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Phylis Mantelli:

                                              Podcast / Website / Instagram / YouTube / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Phylis Mantelli is the author of the book “Unmothered” Life with a Mom Who Couldn’t Love Me. She is an inspirational speaker at churches, retreats, conventions, Celebrate Recovery groups, and rotary groups. She is the host of the Unmothered Podcast. She is currently writing her 2nd book on lessons of how to break generational dysfunction. She loves helping and coaching women reach their full God-given potential despite their trauma-filled past.  www.phylismantelli.com

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               Episode Summary: 

                                              In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we continue our Sacred Scar Story Series, where we talk with individuals who have experienced deep pain, but have also seen God bring healing and redemption.

                                              My guest, Phylis Mantelli, shares her journey of growing up with a narcissistic, alcoholic mother in a chaotic and abusive environment—facing stress, shame, and secrets from an early age. Despite a childhood marked by dysfunction, trauma, and loss, Phyllis eventually chose to pursue healing and break the cycle of generational pain in her own family.

                                              Through honest reflection, deep faith, and intentional work, she now helps other women confront their own “mother wounds” and embrace the truth that God can transform even our most painful stories into something sacred. You’ll be encouraged by her transparency, wisdom, and hope-filled perspective.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode:

                                              • Some of your hardest stories become the very thing that you are able to help others through if you can find healing for yourself.
                                              • I was raised by a dysfunctional, alcoholic, narcissistic mom and everyday was living on the edge of stress, and shame, and secrets.
                                              • My mom kidnapped us, my dad came home to an empty house with no family. It took him three and a half months to find us.
                                              • At eight years old, we moved in with my mother’s boyfriend, my sister’s father, and started a whole new life.
                                              • Imagine being plucked out of your childhood and everything you’ve known and you’re just supposed to start a new school the next day like nothing is going on.
                                              • My mom had violence in her relationships our entire lives, so we witnessed violence growing up—we were physically and verbally abused.
                                              • Growing up, being told to be strong and not tell anyone about it, I didn’t realize it until many years later that I’m actually a very highly sensitive person but because I was taught to be tough, I became a really strong coverer of all kinds of wounds. So I had a lot of rage but I didn’t even realize that’s what it was.
                                              • With secrets, you think that you’re the only person going through things. There was so much shame attached to that that I never shared my story with anyone.
                                              • After 61 years, I was finally able to grieve my story. And I realized that I’m not alone and there are many other women who have gone through similar things and I want to learn how to help them.
                                              • Through trial and error, and being able to say the words, “I’m sorry” and “tell me more,” I was able to deep conversations with my daughters and break off that generational dysfunction. It takes work, and that’s the kind of thing I love to do in my ministry, by helping other women get to that place.
                                              • I became a Christian at 35, and I realized that my life is worthy. I am loved because I am a child of God and He has always had his hand on me. I felt God through all the trials in my life and even in the things I did wrong. I didn’t love myself…I wanted someone to love me, and now I know that God does.
                                              • I needed to say “no more” for looking for outside sources to love me. I had to love myself and I spent a lot of time on the floor crying out to God. It’s not about the stuff you do. It’s about the heart of where you are. God hears you and loves you. You don’t have to do X, Y, Z to earn his love.
                                              • You have to look back over your history and realize someone has been carrying you even through all the muck, and that means they love you.
                                              • Shame sounds like, “If they find out your secrets, they are never going to like you and they are going to fun from you.”
                                              • When you hold onto secrets, it’s like a little gift inside your body that is so tight that it’s ready to explode, and that’s a gift Satan wants you to not open up because he knows that once you open it up and let it out, no matter what, it holds no power over you anymore.
                                              • Tell your story to safe people. Secrets have to come out. You cannot get to a place of peace until healing takes place in your body.
                                              • Satan likes to tell us all the things we aren’t, but God loves to tell us all the things we are. Nothing will separate us from his love.
                                              • If you really want to heal, you have to start doing things differently. You can’t keep doing things the same way and expect a different result—it’s likely not going to happen.
                                              • We have to choose to pursue our healing. God isn’t going to force it on us.
                                              • Every family is different so don’t do the comparison thing and think “I want to be like that family over there.” Do what works for you. Where you are and what works for your family and brings your family peace and comfort may not look like others.
                                              • God is giving you God-kisses in the most gentle of ways and we have to open our eyes to see it even in the midst of great struggle.

                                              Scripture References:

                                              • Psalm 91:11 “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

                                              Recommended Resources: 

                                               

                                              Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                              Connect with Phylis Mantelli:

                                              Podcast / Website / Instagram / YouTube / Facebook

                                              For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                              Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                               

                                              Guest:

                                              Phylis Mantelli is the author of the book “Unmothered” Life with a Mom Who Couldn’t Love Me. She is an inspirational speaker at churches, retreats, conventions, Celebrate Recovery groups, and rotary groups. She is the host of the Unmothered Podcast. She is currently writing her 2nd book on lessons of how to break generational dysfunction. She loves helping and coaching women reach their full God-given potential despite their trauma-filled past.  www.phylismantelli.com

                                               

                                              Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                              Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                              Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                              ]]>                                               full 317 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 60a9503d-37f3-42b9-8d01-b2d7001ee4f8 60a9503d-37f3-42b9-8d01-b2d7001ee4f8 Thu, 08 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1843 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-find-healing-from-generational-dysfunction-in-families                                               How Prayer Sustains Us Through Life’s Hardest Challenges How Prayer Sustains Us Through Life’s Hardest Challenges Episode Summary: In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, author Rachel Wojo joins me to share how prayer sustains us through life’s hardest challenges. From heartbreaking loss to seasons of silence, Rachel opens up about the desperate prayers that carried her through—and the surprising power of just three simple words. You’ll be encouraged to let go of prayer perfectionism, lean into honest conversation with God, and discover hope that holds—even in the dark.

                                              Rachel shares the journey that inspired her book, Desperate Prayers: Embracing the Power of Prayer in Life’s Darkest Moments, and how the cries of biblical “desperados” mirror our own today. With vulnerability, she reflects on the grief of losing her daughter, Taylor, and the truth she had to whisper to her heart to keep going. If you've ever wondered how to pray when words fail, this conversation will remind you that God hears—even the smallest cries.

                                               

                                              Quotables from the episode: 

                                              • When I was a young adult, I grew up in a beautiful Christian home, went to Christian college, graduated, went on to teach in a Christian school, married a preacher boy, and so the white picket fence dream was just in sight.
                                              • You know, I thought that I would be a pastor's wife and we would have a beautiful family and God would just use us to reach so many people across the world.
                                              • And then I found out that my preacher husband was having an affair for four of the five years that we had been married. I discovered then that my special needs daughter who had been born during that time had more than just developmental delays, and her actual diagnosis was a rare metabolic disorder that would result in a lifespan of approximately 10 to 15 years is what they gave us at the time.
                                              • And so your dreams just come crashing down with all of those dilemmas, and you wonder, "Is God real?"
                                              • Desperate prayers became the cry of my heart early on.
                                              • It would take a couple of decades. Taylor lived for 22 years. We had her much longer than the anticipated time, and my heart grew to just love the Lord so, so much and embrace His hope and His peace, His mercy and grace throughout Taylor's lifetime.
                                              • God did give me an opportunity to remarry, and our beautiful redemption story includes five more children, so God has been gracious to us.
                                              • But I know that when people are in hurting, dark situations like what I've just shared — whether it's divorce, disease, death, discouragement, depression, all of those big D words — they just bring us to a point of: do we trust God enough with how we're feeling to go to Him?
                                              • Simple three-word prayers are powerful. They are powerful.
                                              • We oftentimes feel like we have to have all the right words, and so we don't go to God in prayer because we can't even think of what we should say.
                                              • Just boiling it down to simple three words — as I was walking through my daughter's suffering for so many years — I needed something I could remember.
                                              • My brain fog was very prevalent during those years, and even afterwards, the grief caused that fog. I just needed some simple wording that I could hold on to.
                                              • I realized that a conversation between God and me — it's just me and Him, right? It's just words between me and Him.
                                              • So I simplified it:
                                                • Address Him: "God"
                                                • Add a verb for the need
                                                • End with "me"
                                              • Some of those very simple three-word prayers are:
                                                • God hold me
                                                • God heal me
                                                • God revive me
                                                • God show me
                                                • God guide me
                                              • Just asking Him to do what I couldn't do for myself.
                                              • When we use the three-word prayer, we're admitting that He is God and we are not. We're not in control, as much as we want to be.
                                              • And so those three-word prayers can really simplify our plan, our hearts, our minds, but they also can be deeply profound because God takes those words to His heart — and that's where His power steps in.
                                              • Sometimes when I'm in those desperate seasons, I can have a really short memory of what God has already done in my life - which is why I'm so grateful for the Bible.
                                              • Because even when I can't remember what God has done for me, we've got countless accounts of what God has done for other people.
                                              • And in each chapter of Desperate Prayers, you focus on one Bible character that you call a desperado, and being from Texas, I love that.
                                              • What do the desperate prayers of the Bible have in common with our prayers today?
                                              • When I read those prayers, I get so excited because:
                                                • They didn’t have their acts together — and neither do we have to.
                                                • We all come to God in brokenness, in desperate need, in a state of destitution.
                                              • I used to think that word "destitution" meant you had to physically have nothing, but there's spiritual destitution and emotional constitution and so many areas of our lives where we're just experiencing an emptiness, a void, and we need God.
                                              • When I look at those Bible characters, I see men and women who recognized that looking up was the only way out.
                                              • Whether the issue is infertility like Hannah, rejection like Hagar, or the many emotions David shares throughout the Psalms — no matter what the issue, we can take it to God.
                                              • I take a lot of encouragement from those desperadoes.
                                              • I had a little post-it note on my desk that said "Drop prayer perfectionism." It was a reminder that I don't have to have the words together.
                                              • As an introverted person — an extroverted introvert — I can eventually articulate things, but my words often come out better on paper. That’s why I choose to prayer journal a lot.
                                              • I'm so thankful that we don't have to have perfect words to go to God. He accepts them as they are. And when we don't have any words at all, that's when it’s amazing to see how He's already provided, even when we don't know what we need.
                                              • Anyone who has lost a loved one — especially a child — knows this isn't the way God intended life to be lived.
                                              • The very first parents, Adam and Eve, lost a child.
                                              • And so I had to tell myself — probably the same thing Eve had to tell herself after Cain killed Abel: "I did not die when my son died. God has a plan for me."
                                              • Those are the words I had to speak to myself: I did not die when my daughter died. God has a plan for me.
                                              • It was a really difficult thing to tell myself.
                                              • Because when you say that, you admit the truth: you would rather not live without your child.
                                              • I appreciate so much that you say we need to speak truth to ourselves — even out loud.
                                              • Because in times of greatest desperation, we're vulnerable to the enemy's lies.
                                              • Speaking truth out loud:
                                                • Reminds ourselves of the truth.
                                                • Strengthens faith ("Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" — Romans 10:17).
                                                • Places that stake in the sand so that the enemy knows: we're going to speak that truth, even when it's hard.
                                                • You can say anything to the Lord — and it will be fine. It’s really a posture of turning your heart toward Him.
                                                • Even just simply calling out the name Jesus is a prayer — and I have done that many times.
                                                • If you have no words — if you can't figure out what to pray — then invite Jesus into the space where you are. He longs to be present with you. He is already there.
                                                • By making that invitation, you ask for His supernatural strength, mercy, and grace to surround and comfort you.
                                                • When we turn our hearts toward Him — that powerful posture of prayer yields the pathway to peace.
                                                • Prayer is the channel that allows us to place our hope on Him — a place where hope is accepted, loved, honored, cherished — and it shifts our perspective. Because most of us need a perspective shift in order to experience peace. And that's what prayer does for us.
                                                • God wants to do so much more than answer our prayers. He wants to be the answer to our prayers. Those are two totally different things.
                                                • A lot of us want our prayers answered — and He is a prayer-answering God. I've seen miracles. I know you have too, Michelle. We've witnessed them. But more than answering, He wants to be the answer.
                                                • When we rely on Him, our perspective changes —from the here and now to what matters for eternity.
                                                • Friends, I hope you heard that: More than answering your prayers, God wants to be the answer for you.

                                                 

                                                Scripture References:

                                                • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
                                                • Romans 8:26 encourages us “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”
                                                • Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
                                                • Colossians 4:2 tells us how to handle life’s darkest seasons: “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.”

                                                 

                                                Recommended Resources: 

                                                 

                                                Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                Connect with Rachel Wojo:

                                                Website / Facebook / X / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / LinkedIn

                                                For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                 

                                                Guest:

                                                Rachel Wojo is an inspirational author, speaker, and podcaster. Through her biblical approach and personal life experiences, Rachel empowers women to discover strength and hope in everyday situations. Despite enduring the loss of her mother, adult special needs daughter, and father, Rachel remains resilient. Rachel is deeply in love with her husband, Matt, and cherishes her motherhood with six children on earth and two in heaven.

                                                 

                                                Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                ]]>                                                 Episode Summary: In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, author Rachel Wojo joins me to share how prayer sustains us through life’s hardest challenges. From heartbreaking loss to seasons of silence, Rachel opens up about the desperate prayers that carried her through—and the surprising power of just three simple words. You’ll be encouraged to let go of prayer perfectionism, lean into honest conversation with God, and discover hope that holds—even in the dark.

                                                Rachel shares the journey that inspired her book, Desperate Prayers: Embracing the Power of Prayer in Life’s Darkest Moments, and how the cries of biblical “desperados” mirror our own today. With vulnerability, she reflects on the grief of losing her daughter, Taylor, and the truth she had to whisper to her heart to keep going. If you've ever wondered how to pray when words fail, this conversation will remind you that God hears—even the smallest cries.

                                                 

                                                Quotables from the episode: 

                                                • When I was a young adult, I grew up in a beautiful Christian home, went to Christian college, graduated, went on to teach in a Christian school, married a preacher boy, and so the white picket fence dream was just in sight.
                                                • You know, I thought that I would be a pastor's wife and we would have a beautiful family and God would just use us to reach so many people across the world.
                                                • And then I found out that my preacher husband was having an affair for four of the five years that we had been married. I discovered then that my special needs daughter who had been born during that time had more than just developmental delays, and her actual diagnosis was a rare metabolic disorder that would result in a lifespan of approximately 10 to 15 years is what they gave us at the time.
                                                • And so your dreams just come crashing down with all of those dilemmas, and you wonder, "Is God real?"
                                                • Desperate prayers became the cry of my heart early on.
                                                • It would take a couple of decades. Taylor lived for 22 years. We had her much longer than the anticipated time, and my heart grew to just love the Lord so, so much and embrace His hope and His peace, His mercy and grace throughout Taylor's lifetime.
                                                • God did give me an opportunity to remarry, and our beautiful redemption story includes five more children, so God has been gracious to us.
                                                • But I know that when people are in hurting, dark situations like what I've just shared — whether it's divorce, disease, death, discouragement, depression, all of those big D words — they just bring us to a point of: do we trust God enough with how we're feeling to go to Him?
                                                • Simple three-word prayers are powerful. They are powerful.
                                                • We oftentimes feel like we have to have all the right words, and so we don't go to God in prayer because we can't even think of what we should say.
                                                • Just boiling it down to simple three words — as I was walking through my daughter's suffering for so many years — I needed something I could remember.
                                                • My brain fog was very prevalent during those years, and even afterwards, the grief caused that fog. I just needed some simple wording that I could hold on to.
                                                • I realized that a conversation between God and me — it's just me and Him, right? It's just words between me and Him.
                                                • So I simplified it:
                                                  • Address Him: "God"
                                                  • Add a verb for the need
                                                  • End with "me"
                                                • Some of those very simple three-word prayers are:
                                                  • God hold me
                                                  • God heal me
                                                  • God revive me
                                                  • God show me
                                                  • God guide me
                                                • Just asking Him to do what I couldn't do for myself.
                                                • When we use the three-word prayer, we're admitting that He is God and we are not. We're not in control, as much as we want to be.
                                                • And so those three-word prayers can really simplify our plan, our hearts, our minds, but they also can be deeply profound because God takes those words to His heart — and that's where His power steps in.
                                                • Sometimes when I'm in those desperate seasons, I can have a really short memory of what God has already done in my life - which is why I'm so grateful for the Bible.
                                                • Because even when I can't remember what God has done for me, we've got countless accounts of what God has done for other people.
                                                • And in each chapter of Desperate Prayers, you focus on one Bible character that you call a desperado, and being from Texas, I love that.
                                                • What do the desperate prayers of the Bible have in common with our prayers today?
                                                • When I read those prayers, I get so excited because:
                                                  • They didn’t have their acts together — and neither do we have to.
                                                  • We all come to God in brokenness, in desperate need, in a state of destitution.
                                                • I used to think that word "destitution" meant you had to physically have nothing, but there's spiritual destitution and emotional constitution and so many areas of our lives where we're just experiencing an emptiness, a void, and we need God.
                                                • When I look at those Bible characters, I see men and women who recognized that looking up was the only way out.
                                                • Whether the issue is infertility like Hannah, rejection like Hagar, or the many emotions David shares throughout the Psalms — no matter what the issue, we can take it to God.
                                                • I take a lot of encouragement from those desperadoes.
                                                • I had a little post-it note on my desk that said "Drop prayer perfectionism." It was a reminder that I don't have to have the words together.
                                                • As an introverted person — an extroverted introvert — I can eventually articulate things, but my words often come out better on paper. That’s why I choose to prayer journal a lot.
                                                • I'm so thankful that we don't have to have perfect words to go to God. He accepts them as they are. And when we don't have any words at all, that's when it’s amazing to see how He's already provided, even when we don't know what we need.
                                                • Anyone who has lost a loved one — especially a child — knows this isn't the way God intended life to be lived.
                                                • The very first parents, Adam and Eve, lost a child.
                                                • And so I had to tell myself — probably the same thing Eve had to tell herself after Cain killed Abel: "I did not die when my son died. God has a plan for me."
                                                • Those are the words I had to speak to myself: I did not die when my daughter died. God has a plan for me.
                                                • It was a really difficult thing to tell myself.
                                                • Because when you say that, you admit the truth: you would rather not live without your child.
                                                • I appreciate so much that you say we need to speak truth to ourselves — even out loud.
                                                • Because in times of greatest desperation, we're vulnerable to the enemy's lies.
                                                • Speaking truth out loud:
                                                  • Reminds ourselves of the truth.
                                                  • Strengthens faith ("Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" — Romans 10:17).
                                                  • Places that stake in the sand so that the enemy knows: we're going to speak that truth, even when it's hard.
                                                  • You can say anything to the Lord — and it will be fine. It’s really a posture of turning your heart toward Him.
                                                  • Even just simply calling out the name Jesus is a prayer — and I have done that many times.
                                                  • If you have no words — if you can't figure out what to pray — then invite Jesus into the space where you are. He longs to be present with you. He is already there.
                                                  • By making that invitation, you ask for His supernatural strength, mercy, and grace to surround and comfort you.
                                                  • When we turn our hearts toward Him — that powerful posture of prayer yields the pathway to peace.
                                                  • Prayer is the channel that allows us to place our hope on Him — a place where hope is accepted, loved, honored, cherished — and it shifts our perspective. Because most of us need a perspective shift in order to experience peace. And that's what prayer does for us.
                                                  • God wants to do so much more than answer our prayers. He wants to be the answer to our prayers. Those are two totally different things.
                                                  • A lot of us want our prayers answered — and He is a prayer-answering God. I've seen miracles. I know you have too, Michelle. We've witnessed them. But more than answering, He wants to be the answer.
                                                  • When we rely on Him, our perspective changes —from the here and now to what matters for eternity.
                                                  • Friends, I hope you heard that: More than answering your prayers, God wants to be the answer for you.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
                                                  • Romans 8:26 encourages us “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”
                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
                                                  • Colossians 4:2 tells us how to handle life’s darkest seasons: “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Rachel Wojo:

                                                  Website / Facebook / X / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Rachel Wojo is an inspirational author, speaker, and podcaster. Through her biblical approach and personal life experiences, Rachel empowers women to discover strength and hope in everyday situations. Despite enduring the loss of her mother, adult special needs daughter, and father, Rachel remains resilient. Rachel is deeply in love with her husband, Matt, and cherishes her motherhood with six children on earth and two in heaven.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 316 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 45987628-bf55-4d99-a8ef-b2d0000d77df 45987628-bf55-4d99-a8ef-b2d0000d77df Thu, 01 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2274 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-prayer-sustains-us-through-life-s-hardest-challenges                                                   How to Let Go of a Broken Dream and Discover God's Greater Plan How to Let Go of a Broken Dream and Discover God's Greater Plan Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we are continuing the Sacred Scar Story Series during which I’ve had the blessing to interview many people who have experienced some very painful wounds, but then saw God heal and do a redemptive work and bring about beautiful sacred scars. 

                                                  Maureen Miller shares about her devastatingly painful wound when she had dreamed of becoming a mother since early childhood only to have doctors report that short of the miraculous, she would be unable to conceive. 

                                                  She shares how she coped with her pain and her grief, and how God ultimately fulfilled her dream of motherhood through adoption.


                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Everyone has a story about something that has wounded them and caused pain.
                                                  • My scars have been more emotional scars having to do with the loss of a dream since I was a little girl, of being mom and so looking forward to having children and being able to do all the things that moms love to do with their kids.
                                                  • I married my high school sweetheart and not long after that we realized we were going to have difficulty conceiving. It was painful to hear a doctor say that short of the miraculous, you will never have children biologically. Those words felt like the death of a dream and cut very deeply.
                                                  • Having been raised in a Christian home, and having a good grounding in biblical truth and God’s promises, it wasn’t long before I really began seeking the Lord and asking him how he might use this pain for something good and bring something beautiful out of my broken body.
                                                  • I mourned and I grieved the death of that childhood dream that I had held onto so tightly. There was a season when I shook my fist at God, but it wasn’t a long season.
                                                  • As I began to delight myself in the Lord, and be real with him, and at times even shake my fist, he can not only handle all my doubts and fears and anger, but he can even pry open my hands that were clenching that dream.
                                                  • He began to show me that as I prayed with my hands up and open, he could either take that dream away and replace it with something better, or he could grant me that dream in some miraculous way.
                                                  • As I meditated on the scripture and began to delight in the Lord, it didn’t mean that God would always answer our prayers in the way we wanted them answered, but he would actually fill our hearts with the dreams he had for us first and those would become our dream.
                                                  • As I mourned then sought the Lord and delighted in Him first, He began to show me that it was his dream for me to be a mom—it just didn’t look like I thought it would.
                                                  • We have the choice when we are wounded to either turn toward God and seek him or turn away and walk in the other direction.
                                                  • There was shame because I had to really remind myself that my identity as a woman was not wrapped up in me being a life-giver. My identity came in Christ and who he created me to be.
                                                  • The Lord confirmed for me that I was “blessed in my barrenness.” Our pain became a catalyst for me to offer sympathy, comfort, and help for those he places in our paths.
                                                  • I realized I had the ability to minister to birth mothers who chose life for their children, carry them for 9 months, and then give others the greatest gift of life they could ever give.
                                                  • When God impressed upon me that I was “blessed in my barrenness,” I realized my condition wasn’t a mistake and that God had given me a heart to sympathize and empathize with those who are hurting.
                                                  • Over time we were able to adopt three children, but we also experienced the pain of two failed adoptions that have their own sacred scars and round out our story.
                                                  • It’s a beautiful thing when we’re able to hold up our dream and offer it to God and say “Take this dream if it’s not yours, and you have something better, or if it is your dream, confirm it so I can walk it out in faith and joy knowing it’s according to your will.”
                                                  • Delight yourself in the Lord. Spend time with Him in His Word. Spend time with God in prayer. Surround yourself with Christian brothers and sisters who can really speak into your life and confirm the truth. Know your identity in Christ and surround yourself with people who will remind you of that. Trust that according to Romans 8:28, God will work all things together for good for those who love Him and have been called according to His purpose. 
                                                  • Journal so you can go back and look at the “stones of remembrance” and you can remember how God answered prayers.
                                                  • Once I surrender my will and my way, God has the freedom to work His perfect will, in His perfect way, and in His perfect timing. 


                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 37:4-6 NIV “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun.”
                                                  • Romans 8:28 NIV “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Maureen Miller:

                                                  Website / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Maureen Miller has been married to her childhood sweetheart Bill for 35 years. Together they have three born-in-their-hearts children and three grand-girls and share life on Selah Farm, a hobby homestead in western NC. She writes for Guideposts, her local newspaper, and several online devotion sites, and her debut novel, Gideon’s Book, is due to release later this year.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we are continuing the Sacred Scar Story Series during which I’ve had the blessing to interview many people who have experienced some very painful wounds, but then saw God heal and do a redemptive work and bring about beautiful sacred scars. 

                                                  Maureen Miller shares about her devastatingly painful wound when she had dreamed of becoming a mother since early childhood only to have doctors report that short of the miraculous, she would be unable to conceive. 

                                                  She shares how she coped with her pain and her grief, and how God ultimately fulfilled her dream of motherhood through adoption.


                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Everyone has a story about something that has wounded them and caused pain.
                                                  • My scars have been more emotional scars having to do with the loss of a dream since I was a little girl, of being mom and so looking forward to having children and being able to do all the things that moms love to do with their kids.
                                                  • I married my high school sweetheart and not long after that we realized we were going to have difficulty conceiving. It was painful to hear a doctor say that short of the miraculous, you will never have children biologically. Those words felt like the death of a dream and cut very deeply.
                                                  • Having been raised in a Christian home, and having a good grounding in biblical truth and God’s promises, it wasn’t long before I really began seeking the Lord and asking him how he might use this pain for something good and bring something beautiful out of my broken body.
                                                  • I mourned and I grieved the death of that childhood dream that I had held onto so tightly. There was a season when I shook my fist at God, but it wasn’t a long season.
                                                  • As I began to delight myself in the Lord, and be real with him, and at times even shake my fist, he can not only handle all my doubts and fears and anger, but he can even pry open my hands that were clenching that dream.
                                                  • He began to show me that as I prayed with my hands up and open, he could either take that dream away and replace it with something better, or he could grant me that dream in some miraculous way.
                                                  • As I meditated on the scripture and began to delight in the Lord, it didn’t mean that God would always answer our prayers in the way we wanted them answered, but he would actually fill our hearts with the dreams he had for us first and those would become our dream.
                                                  • As I mourned then sought the Lord and delighted in Him first, He began to show me that it was his dream for me to be a mom—it just didn’t look like I thought it would.
                                                  • We have the choice when we are wounded to either turn toward God and seek him or turn away and walk in the other direction.
                                                  • There was shame because I had to really remind myself that my identity as a woman was not wrapped up in me being a life-giver. My identity came in Christ and who he created me to be.
                                                  • The Lord confirmed for me that I was “blessed in my barrenness.” Our pain became a catalyst for me to offer sympathy, comfort, and help for those he places in our paths.
                                                  • I realized I had the ability to minister to birth mothers who chose life for their children, carry them for 9 months, and then give others the greatest gift of life they could ever give.
                                                  • When God impressed upon me that I was “blessed in my barrenness,” I realized my condition wasn’t a mistake and that God had given me a heart to sympathize and empathize with those who are hurting.
                                                  • Over time we were able to adopt three children, but we also experienced the pain of two failed adoptions that have their own sacred scars and round out our story.
                                                  • It’s a beautiful thing when we’re able to hold up our dream and offer it to God and say “Take this dream if it’s not yours, and you have something better, or if it is your dream, confirm it so I can walk it out in faith and joy knowing it’s according to your will.”
                                                  • Delight yourself in the Lord. Spend time with Him in His Word. Spend time with God in prayer. Surround yourself with Christian brothers and sisters who can really speak into your life and confirm the truth. Know your identity in Christ and surround yourself with people who will remind you of that. Trust that according to Romans 8:28, God will work all things together for good for those who love Him and have been called according to His purpose. 
                                                  • Journal so you can go back and look at the “stones of remembrance” and you can remember how God answered prayers.
                                                  • Once I surrender my will and my way, God has the freedom to work His perfect will, in His perfect way, and in His perfect timing. 


                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 37:4-6 NIV “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun.”
                                                  • Romans 8:28 NIV “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Maureen Miller:

                                                  Website / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Maureen Miller has been married to her childhood sweetheart Bill for 35 years. Together they have three born-in-their-hearts children and three grand-girls and share life on Selah Farm, a hobby homestead in western NC. She writes for Guideposts, her local newspaper, and several online devotion sites, and her debut novel, Gideon’s Book, is due to release later this year.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 314 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6ed0dedb-c8ce-4163-a49b-b2c90028f6e2 6ed0dedb-c8ce-4163-a49b-b2c90028f6e2 Thu, 24 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1197 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-let-go-of-a-broken-dream-and-discover-gods-greater-plan                                                   From Darkness to Redemption: How to Find Hope in the Wilderness of Life’s Trials From Darkness to Redemption: How to Find Hope in the Wilderness of Life’s Trials Episode Summary:

                                                  In this episode, my co-host, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I reflect on the journey from the darkness of Good Friday to the redemption of Resurrection Sunday. For Jesus’s disciples and followers, Good Friday marked a day of despair, while Saturday felt like a wilderness of uncertainty. Yet, Resurrection Sunday brought the hope of resurrection, redemption, and purpose. Together, we’ll examine how these themes resonate in our own lives when we walk through dark seasons and wilderness experiences, and how we can hold onto hope, knowing that redemption is always possible through Christ.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Even though Jesus warns us we will experience trials, they often take us by surprise just like Jesus’s death did for the disciples.
                                                  • Nothing happens to us that isn’t first sifted through God’s hand.
                                                  • God has a plan, sees the whole picture, and offers his comfort.
                                                  • Prayer and lament: Honest communication with God, expressing pain, confusion, and doubt.
                                                  • Meditate on Scripture: reflecting on Bible passages that highlight God’s faithfulness in difficult situations.
                                                  • Practice gratitude: remember past instances of God’s provision as encouragement for the present trials.
                                                  • Fasting: set aside time for fasting to seek clarity, alight with God’s will, or pursue deeper spiritual intimacy.
                                                  • Worship and praise: praise God for who He is, even when circumstances feel bleak.
                                                  • Community and Fellowship: share your struggles with trusted believers who can pray and provide encouragement.
                                                  • Silence and solitude: spend intentional quiet time with God, listening for his voice and his presence.
                                                  • Remembering God’s faithfulness: reflect on his unchanging nature and promises.
                                                  • God often uses our darkest moments to bring about the greatest redemption.
                                                  • Lean into God’s promises during dark and wilderness seasons.
                                                  • Look for glimpses of God’s redemptive work, even when it feels far off.
                                                  • Remember that life’s trials often follow the pattern of Good Friday, Saturday, and Resurrection Sunday. The darkness of despair can give way to the wilderness of waiting, but the story doesn’t end there. Resurrection Sunday reminds us that hope and redemption are always on the horizon. No matter what season you’re in, trust that God is at work, bringing beauty out of ashes and life out of death.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 23:44-46 (The darkness of Good Friday)
                                                  • Isaiah 43:19 (God’s work in the wilderness)
                                                  • John 20:1-18 (The resurrection on Easter Sunday)
                                                  • Romans 8:28 (God’s redemptive purposes)

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In this episode, my co-host, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I reflect on the journey from the darkness of Good Friday to the redemption of Resurrection Sunday. For Jesus’s disciples and followers, Good Friday marked a day of despair, while Saturday felt like a wilderness of uncertainty. Yet, Resurrection Sunday brought the hope of resurrection, redemption, and purpose. Together, we’ll examine how these themes resonate in our own lives when we walk through dark seasons and wilderness experiences, and how we can hold onto hope, knowing that redemption is always possible through Christ.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Even though Jesus warns us we will experience trials, they often take us by surprise just like Jesus’s death did for the disciples.
                                                  • Nothing happens to us that isn’t first sifted through God’s hand.
                                                  • God has a plan, sees the whole picture, and offers his comfort.
                                                  • Prayer and lament: Honest communication with God, expressing pain, confusion, and doubt.
                                                  • Meditate on Scripture: reflecting on Bible passages that highlight God’s faithfulness in difficult situations.
                                                  • Practice gratitude: remember past instances of God’s provision as encouragement for the present trials.
                                                  • Fasting: set aside time for fasting to seek clarity, alight with God’s will, or pursue deeper spiritual intimacy.
                                                  • Worship and praise: praise God for who He is, even when circumstances feel bleak.
                                                  • Community and Fellowship: share your struggles with trusted believers who can pray and provide encouragement.
                                                  • Silence and solitude: spend intentional quiet time with God, listening for his voice and his presence.
                                                  • Remembering God’s faithfulness: reflect on his unchanging nature and promises.
                                                  • God often uses our darkest moments to bring about the greatest redemption.
                                                  • Lean into God’s promises during dark and wilderness seasons.
                                                  • Look for glimpses of God’s redemptive work, even when it feels far off.
                                                  • Remember that life’s trials often follow the pattern of Good Friday, Saturday, and Resurrection Sunday. The darkness of despair can give way to the wilderness of waiting, but the story doesn’t end there. Resurrection Sunday reminds us that hope and redemption are always on the horizon. No matter what season you’re in, trust that God is at work, bringing beauty out of ashes and life out of death.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 23:44-46 (The darkness of Good Friday)
                                                  • Isaiah 43:19 (God’s work in the wilderness)
                                                  • John 20:1-18 (The resurrection on Easter Sunday)
                                                  • Romans 8:28 (God’s redemptive purposes)

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 314 Dr. Michelle Bengtson aaa5652c-6021-4bac-9f2d-b2c2002800f5 aaa5652c-6021-4bac-9f2d-b2c2002800f5 Thu, 17 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2117 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/from-darkness-to-redemption-how-to-find-hope-in-the-wilderness-of-life-s-trials                                                   How To Overcome Burnout with Faith-Based Strategies for a Healthier, Happier Life How To Overcome Burnout with Faith-Based Strategies for a Healthier, Happier Life Episode Summary:

                                                  A recent survey of 15,000 workers across 15 countries found that a quarter of all workers experienced burnout symptoms, but many don’t recognize it for what it is until after the crash has occurred. Join me with Dr. Jonathan Hoover, author of Stress Fracture: Your Ultimate Guide to Beating Burnout.

                                                  Together, we will unpack the root causes of burnout and explore how it impacts physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Dr. Hoover shares actionable strategies and faith-based insights for recognizing stress fractures in life and taking steps to heal holistically. With practical advice, scientific understanding, and a focus on hope, this episode will equip you to overcome burnout and restore balance, resilience, and joy.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We can go from being okay to not being okay really quickly.
                                                  • Burnout is a legitimate path straight to depression.
                                                  • I found out that it’s (burnout) not a unique situation. It happens a lot, and especially even to people that we would look up to as incredibly productive people.
                                                  • It is very, very common, especially amongst highly productive individuals, because we have a tendency to even push through our body's normal signals that, hey, you need a rest. We kind of push through and go, I'll take time for a rest after I get this done, after I get that done and we don't take the time. But I think what is hard and your example of your father's experience is that often we don't see the early signs of burnout and we don't recognize it for what it is until after we've hit rock bottom.
                                                  • Burnout specifically tends to happen to people that are very driven. And we want to do lots of things and we want to take on the world and we dream big and we execute big. But sometimes we execute beyond what God is calling us to do. And we have to grieve the fact that there are lots of good things we could do but Paul taught us that not everything I could do is something I should do.
                                                  • There is something about the emotions we experience that are at the core of who we are as a person. And we sort of use that emotional capital in understanding how other people feel, sharing with them how we feel, using our emotions to achieve goals, exercising our emotions to be Christ -like. I mean, tells us about Jesus' emotion. So often we see that Jesus was compassionate. That is an emotion. And there is a season where Jesus wants to get off by himself because there wasn't even enough time for them to eat. Him and his disciples didn't even have enough time to eat. But what you see is that what was he tired of doing? He was giving of himself emotionally. There was this compassion, there was the desire to help people who were struggling. And we don't realize in our daily life how much emotional capital we are doling out from our emotional wallet. 
                                                  • When it comes to caring about our kids, caring about our spouse, caring about our job, putting our passion and energy into our life's calling and At some point what can happen is we can write those emotional checks beyond what the balance is in the account That's what happens with burnout is and that's why it can start with such a benevolent and well-meaning direction in life. I want to give as much of myself as I can to as many people as I possibly can I want to accomplish big things, nothing wrong with any of that, until we write a check that's bigger than the balance. And then what happens is, this is something that we're still trying to figure out psychologically. There is a sort of, of last straw that happens with emotions. We haven't figured it out yet, but you go from being okay to not being okay very fast, very fast. And that is I think what is so challenging when you work with people as I do who are burned out is one day they're doing fine, and then the next day they're not.
                                                  • I like to treat the analog of going to the gym as a good way of thinking about burnout. So if I'm going to the gym and I'm hurting myself because I'm pushing myself beyond my limits. So let's say I go and I try to lift too much weight or something like that. I have three options for how to deal with it. I could, one, reduce the weight that I'm lifting. So sometimes when I work with people who are burned out, my first suggestion is let's try to figure out what we can delegate that you do. Let's figure out how to get you doing what only you can do and find a way to get people, other people to help you do what other people could do.
                                                  • Sometimes I have to work with people to say, well, the reason it's so difficult for you is it has to be perfect. Perfectionists tend to get burned out faster than anybody else. So we have to learn that science of good enough.
                                                  • Burnout can happen in a lot of arenas. It can happen in marriage. It doesn't have to be work. But whatever arena I'm burning out in, the question is, am I doing healthy things away from that arena to help me fight that more challenging battle in that one zone?
                                                  • Signs that you’re potentially facing burnout are massive exhaustion.
                                                    • There’s a difference between being exhausted and being tired. Tired is normal. Tired helps me know I need to rest. The difference between being tired and being exhausted is like when you’re driving down the road and the little gas light comes on, that's tired. If you are on the side of the road and literally your car won't start because there's no gas in it, that's exhausted. So there's a big difference between saying, "I really should rest," and saying, "I have nothing left to give anyone." That's exhaustion. When you start to feel like, "I don't have anything to give anybody," huge sign there, a burnout.
                                                    • So there are a lot of things that people wouldn't necessarily immediately tie to burnout that absolutely can be related. Digestive issues can be related to burnout, migraine headaches, shoulder and neck tension.
                                                    • Anything that ends in itis, pick up a medical manual when you're at your bookstore, look for anything that ends in itis. That is a bodily inflammation illness of some sort. Some, if it ends in itis, inflammation is at the root of it. And we know that stress causes bodily inflammation. So I make myself more likely to have those itis conditions by allowing stress to get out of hand.
                                                    • There are some cognitive things to look for. Burnout effects are working memory. So you have that kind of memory thing where it's sort of like a whiteboard. You can throw some numbers up there, an idea up there, but you don't need it long. You just need it for a second. And we have that in our memory where we can just hold something briefly. And when we're stressed out, that takes a huge hit. I mean, all of us have that experience where you're walking down the hallway and you're like, wait, what did I, what was I doing? Like, why did I come down this hallway? We all have that. But if it happens three or four times more than usual, so you constantly, like all the time, you're finding yourself going, well, I was thinking about something and I lost my train of thought. I was trying to walk down here. I forgot what I was going for. And you just realize, like, I don't remember things nearly as well as I normally do. That's a sign.
                                                    • Listen to people that love you. That's a big one. So when your spouse says, I'm worried about you, don't let that just roll off. Pay attention, right? And know that they care about you. The first thing I always tell anybody who's really thinking “I'm going through burnout” is you need to make three appointments. Just do it now. Just do it now. First appointment needs to be with your doctor. Get with your primary care physician, set up an appointment to go see them, get a checkup, let them know any symptoms you might be experiencing, physical symptoms, let them know that you're going through a season of stress. Have them check you out physically. Make an appointment with a therapist. Sit down with a counselor, a professional counselor, walk through what it is that you're going through. And then finally, make an appointment with a spiritual advisor. That could be your pastor to talk about your spiritual condition. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Mark 4:38 “Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Jonathan Hoover:

                                                  Website / Facebook / LinkedIn / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Jonathan Hoover serves as the senior associate pastor of NewSpring Church in Wichita, Kansas. He also works as an assistant professor at Regent University’s School of Psychology and Counseling, where he is the director of the master of science in psychology program. He lives in Wichita, Kansas, with his wife, Wendy, and daughters, Cheyenne and Summer.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  A recent survey of 15,000 workers across 15 countries found that a quarter of all workers experienced burnout symptoms, but many don’t recognize it for what it is until after the crash has occurred. Join me with Dr. Jonathan Hoover, author of Stress Fracture: Your Ultimate Guide to Beating Burnout.

                                                  Together, we will unpack the root causes of burnout and explore how it impacts physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Dr. Hoover shares actionable strategies and faith-based insights for recognizing stress fractures in life and taking steps to heal holistically. With practical advice, scientific understanding, and a focus on hope, this episode will equip you to overcome burnout and restore balance, resilience, and joy.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We can go from being okay to not being okay really quickly.
                                                  • Burnout is a legitimate path straight to depression.
                                                  • I found out that it’s (burnout) not a unique situation. It happens a lot, and especially even to people that we would look up to as incredibly productive people.
                                                  • It is very, very common, especially amongst highly productive individuals, because we have a tendency to even push through our body's normal signals that, hey, you need a rest. We kind of push through and go, I'll take time for a rest after I get this done, after I get that done and we don't take the time. But I think what is hard and your example of your father's experience is that often we don't see the early signs of burnout and we don't recognize it for what it is until after we've hit rock bottom.
                                                  • Burnout specifically tends to happen to people that are very driven. And we want to do lots of things and we want to take on the world and we dream big and we execute big. But sometimes we execute beyond what God is calling us to do. And we have to grieve the fact that there are lots of good things we could do but Paul taught us that not everything I could do is something I should do.
                                                  • There is something about the emotions we experience that are at the core of who we are as a person. And we sort of use that emotional capital in understanding how other people feel, sharing with them how we feel, using our emotions to achieve goals, exercising our emotions to be Christ -like. I mean, tells us about Jesus' emotion. So often we see that Jesus was compassionate. That is an emotion. And there is a season where Jesus wants to get off by himself because there wasn't even enough time for them to eat. Him and his disciples didn't even have enough time to eat. But what you see is that what was he tired of doing? He was giving of himself emotionally. There was this compassion, there was the desire to help people who were struggling. And we don't realize in our daily life how much emotional capital we are doling out from our emotional wallet. 
                                                  • When it comes to caring about our kids, caring about our spouse, caring about our job, putting our passion and energy into our life's calling and At some point what can happen is we can write those emotional checks beyond what the balance is in the account That's what happens with burnout is and that's why it can start with such a benevolent and well-meaning direction in life. I want to give as much of myself as I can to as many people as I possibly can I want to accomplish big things, nothing wrong with any of that, until we write a check that's bigger than the balance. And then what happens is, this is something that we're still trying to figure out psychologically. There is a sort of, of last straw that happens with emotions. We haven't figured it out yet, but you go from being okay to not being okay very fast, very fast. And that is I think what is so challenging when you work with people as I do who are burned out is one day they're doing fine, and then the next day they're not.
                                                  • I like to treat the analog of going to the gym as a good way of thinking about burnout. So if I'm going to the gym and I'm hurting myself because I'm pushing myself beyond my limits. So let's say I go and I try to lift too much weight or something like that. I have three options for how to deal with it. I could, one, reduce the weight that I'm lifting. So sometimes when I work with people who are burned out, my first suggestion is let's try to figure out what we can delegate that you do. Let's figure out how to get you doing what only you can do and find a way to get people, other people to help you do what other people could do.
                                                  • Sometimes I have to work with people to say, well, the reason it's so difficult for you is it has to be perfect. Perfectionists tend to get burned out faster than anybody else. So we have to learn that science of good enough.
                                                  • Burnout can happen in a lot of arenas. It can happen in marriage. It doesn't have to be work. But whatever arena I'm burning out in, the question is, am I doing healthy things away from that arena to help me fight that more challenging battle in that one zone?
                                                  • Signs that you’re potentially facing burnout are massive exhaustion.
                                                    • There’s a difference between being exhausted and being tired. Tired is normal. Tired helps me know I need to rest. The difference between being tired and being exhausted is like when you’re driving down the road and the little gas light comes on, that's tired. If you are on the side of the road and literally your car won't start because there's no gas in it, that's exhausted. So there's a big difference between saying, "I really should rest," and saying, "I have nothing left to give anyone." That's exhaustion. When you start to feel like, "I don't have anything to give anybody," huge sign there, a burnout.
                                                    • So there are a lot of things that people wouldn't necessarily immediately tie to burnout that absolutely can be related. Digestive issues can be related to burnout, migraine headaches, shoulder and neck tension.
                                                    • Anything that ends in itis, pick up a medical manual when you're at your bookstore, look for anything that ends in itis. That is a bodily inflammation illness of some sort. Some, if it ends in itis, inflammation is at the root of it. And we know that stress causes bodily inflammation. So I make myself more likely to have those itis conditions by allowing stress to get out of hand.
                                                    • There are some cognitive things to look for. Burnout effects are working memory. So you have that kind of memory thing where it's sort of like a whiteboard. You can throw some numbers up there, an idea up there, but you don't need it long. You just need it for a second. And we have that in our memory where we can just hold something briefly. And when we're stressed out, that takes a huge hit. I mean, all of us have that experience where you're walking down the hallway and you're like, wait, what did I, what was I doing? Like, why did I come down this hallway? We all have that. But if it happens three or four times more than usual, so you constantly, like all the time, you're finding yourself going, well, I was thinking about something and I lost my train of thought. I was trying to walk down here. I forgot what I was going for. And you just realize, like, I don't remember things nearly as well as I normally do. That's a sign.
                                                    • Listen to people that love you. That's a big one. So when your spouse says, I'm worried about you, don't let that just roll off. Pay attention, right? And know that they care about you. The first thing I always tell anybody who's really thinking “I'm going through burnout” is you need to make three appointments. Just do it now. Just do it now. First appointment needs to be with your doctor. Get with your primary care physician, set up an appointment to go see them, get a checkup, let them know any symptoms you might be experiencing, physical symptoms, let them know that you're going through a season of stress. Have them check you out physically. Make an appointment with a therapist. Sit down with a counselor, a professional counselor, walk through what it is that you're going through. And then finally, make an appointment with a spiritual advisor. That could be your pastor to talk about your spiritual condition. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Mark 4:38 “Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Jonathan Hoover:

                                                  Website / Facebook / LinkedIn / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Jonathan Hoover serves as the senior associate pastor of NewSpring Church in Wichita, Kansas. He also works as an assistant professor at Regent University’s School of Psychology and Counseling, where he is the director of the master of science in psychology program. He lives in Wichita, Kansas, with his wife, Wendy, and daughters, Cheyenne and Summer.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 313 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 8eba42a6-b253-4ce6-928f-b2ba0106b07d 8eba42a6-b253-4ce6-928f-b2ba0106b07d Thu, 10 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1845 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-overcome-burnout-with-faith-based-strategies-for-a-healthier-happier-life                                                   How To Manage Stress and Work Toward Better Work-Life Balance How To Manage Stress and Work Toward Better Work-Life Balance Episode Summary:

                                                  In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by my friend, Pastor Jessica Van Roekel, as we talk about something so many of us are facing today—the growing challenges of stress and a work-life balance that feels anything but balanced. Together, we share from our personal stories, our professional backgrounds, and, most importantly, from a place of faith.  We offer practical strategies to help you reclaim peace, set healthy boundaries, and redefine what true success looks like. My hope is that through our honest conversation, you’ll be reminded that grace and flexibility are available, and that lasting peace is found when we anchor our lives in faith.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Stress is something we all face to a greater or lesser extent. We live in a culture that promotes “If it’s going to be, it’s up to me” but if we aren’t careful to attend to appropriate stress management, prolonged stress can have a detrimental impact on our physical, emotional, mental well-being. If we go too long, for too strong, ultimately our bodies will demand we stop. So how do we work toward better work-life balance?
                                                  • Stress comes from a variety of places, but if we don’t learn to manage stress, it will manage us. We as women struggle with the work/life balance in a unique way because culture tells us success is gained or lost in the workplace, yet we are often the primary caregivers for our family (including everything from laundry to holiday costume sewing to permission slip signing to kissing boo-boos).
                                                  • In 1970, about 43 percent of women ages 16 and older were in the labor force. By 2000, 61 percent of adult women were in the labor force and that has continued through today. Arguably, today women have more on their plates than a generation ago, with less down time to rest and restore.
                                                  • Stress is a physiological and psychological response that occurs when we perceive a threat or challenge that EXCEEDS OUR COPING RESOURCES.  This perception triggers the body's CENTRAL STRESS MGMT SYSTEM, particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system (increased Heart Rate, Blood is directed to our muscles, increased alertness so you can face danger or run away) leading to the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
                                                  • Once stress passes, the HPA axis should return to normal but often doesn’t because we live life in a heightened state of stress.
                                                  • Our brain doesn’t know the difference between good stress and bad stress.
                                                  • While this natural stress response is useful for short-term danger, chronic stress keeps these hormones elevated for extended periods, which can harm both mental and physical health.
                                                  • Perfect balance is a myth; instead, balance is fluid and flexible.
                                                  • Sometimes career demands take precedence, while other times, family needs do. Extending grace to yourself and adjusting priorities based on seasons of life can prevent both guilt and burnout.
                                                  • The myth of “multi-tasking”—it’s physiologically impossible for your brain to multitask.
                                                  • Physically, chronic stress can cause headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and a weakened immune system. It also raises the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, digestive issues, and sleep disturbances, impacting overall physical wellness.
                                                  • Stress has significant effects on brain function and structure. ACUTE stress can sharpen focus and improve short-term performance by enhancing activity in brain regions like the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. However, chronic stress can have adverse effects and lead to structural changes in the brain, such as a reduction in the size of the hippocampus (affecting memory) and prefrontal cortex (affecting decision-making and executive function), while potentially increasing the size and activity of the amygdala (heightening emotional responses).
                                                  • Chronic stress often leads to constant worry, difficulty concentrating, and memory issues. The brain, under prolonged stress, struggles to function optimally, making it harder to focus and think clearly.
                                                  • Emotionally, prolonged stress can lead to feelings of irritability, anxiety, and even hopelessness and despair. It can cause mood swings and may contribute to depression, as persistent stress wears down emotional resilience.
                                                  • Constant connectivity has been shown to increase stress, as people may feel pressured by comparisons, notifications, and the need to stay updated.
                                                  • Increased academic and career pressures, societal instability, and economic uncertainty can all contribute to heightened stress.
                                                  • Having too much on our plate in one arena of our life leading to insufficient time and energy to devote to other areas of our life can spur stress.
                                                  • Consider adopting both a weekly and daily planning ritual across both your work and personal life whereby you establish the top 10 priorities for the week, then the top 3 priorities for each day, while circling the non-negotiable tasks. This narrows our focus and reduces the overwhelm of a long to-do list.
                                                  • When we consider that stress arises when situations exceed our coping resources and anxiety results from a fear of losing control, if we lower our expectations of others it leads to decreased stress & anxiety when things don’t measure up.
                                                  • Also, we often expect more from ourselves than do others. If you were to list everything you expect of yourself in a day or week, would you reasonably expect the same from others?
                                                  • Set Boundaries: we teach people how to treat us, and part of that is by setting and respecting boundaries. This includes learning to say “no” or “not now” gracefully and asking for help without guilt. Furthermore, appropriate boundary setting includes prioritizing non-negotiable family time, reserving specific hours for work, and protecting time for self-care.
                                                  • Consider Self-Care as Non-Negotiable: Redefine self-care as essential for your mental and physical health, including basics like adequate nutrition, exercise, scheduled rest breaks throughout the day, and consistent sleep-hygiene.
                                                  • Self-care also includes self-compassion especially on challenging days. There are no perfect days, but how we talk to ourselves on both good and challenging days matters! Pay attention to your thoughts and assess if you would talk to a friend the way you talk to yourself?
                                                  • Adopt a growth mindset: understanding that true success includes inner peace and joy, not just career milestones.
                                                  • Redefine “Success” in the Context of Balance: Never has anyone said at the end of their life that they wish they’d worked more. Consider envisioning a successful life that includes time for loved ones, mental wellness, and personal fulfillment.
                                                  • Return to Faith as Your Foundation: Surrender control to God and stay anchored in faith.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  •  Ecclesiastes 3
                                                  • Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
                                                  • Isaiah 30:15 “This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.”
                                                  • Psalm 23

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by my friend, Pastor Jessica Van Roekel, as we talk about something so many of us are facing today—the growing challenges of stress and a work-life balance that feels anything but balanced. Together, we share from our personal stories, our professional backgrounds, and, most importantly, from a place of faith.  We offer practical strategies to help you reclaim peace, set healthy boundaries, and redefine what true success looks like. My hope is that through our honest conversation, you’ll be reminded that grace and flexibility are available, and that lasting peace is found when we anchor our lives in faith.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Stress is something we all face to a greater or lesser extent. We live in a culture that promotes “If it’s going to be, it’s up to me” but if we aren’t careful to attend to appropriate stress management, prolonged stress can have a detrimental impact on our physical, emotional, mental well-being. If we go too long, for too strong, ultimately our bodies will demand we stop. So how do we work toward better work-life balance?
                                                  • Stress comes from a variety of places, but if we don’t learn to manage stress, it will manage us. We as women struggle with the work/life balance in a unique way because culture tells us success is gained or lost in the workplace, yet we are often the primary caregivers for our family (including everything from laundry to holiday costume sewing to permission slip signing to kissing boo-boos).
                                                  • In 1970, about 43 percent of women ages 16 and older were in the labor force. By 2000, 61 percent of adult women were in the labor force and that has continued through today. Arguably, today women have more on their plates than a generation ago, with less down time to rest and restore.
                                                  • Stress is a physiological and psychological response that occurs when we perceive a threat or challenge that EXCEEDS OUR COPING RESOURCES.  This perception triggers the body's CENTRAL STRESS MGMT SYSTEM, particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system (increased Heart Rate, Blood is directed to our muscles, increased alertness so you can face danger or run away) leading to the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
                                                  • Once stress passes, the HPA axis should return to normal but often doesn’t because we live life in a heightened state of stress.
                                                  • Our brain doesn’t know the difference between good stress and bad stress.
                                                  • While this natural stress response is useful for short-term danger, chronic stress keeps these hormones elevated for extended periods, which can harm both mental and physical health.
                                                  • Perfect balance is a myth; instead, balance is fluid and flexible.
                                                  • Sometimes career demands take precedence, while other times, family needs do. Extending grace to yourself and adjusting priorities based on seasons of life can prevent both guilt and burnout.
                                                  • The myth of “multi-tasking”—it’s physiologically impossible for your brain to multitask.
                                                  • Physically, chronic stress can cause headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and a weakened immune system. It also raises the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, digestive issues, and sleep disturbances, impacting overall physical wellness.
                                                  • Stress has significant effects on brain function and structure. ACUTE stress can sharpen focus and improve short-term performance by enhancing activity in brain regions like the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. However, chronic stress can have adverse effects and lead to structural changes in the brain, such as a reduction in the size of the hippocampus (affecting memory) and prefrontal cortex (affecting decision-making and executive function), while potentially increasing the size and activity of the amygdala (heightening emotional responses).
                                                  • Chronic stress often leads to constant worry, difficulty concentrating, and memory issues. The brain, under prolonged stress, struggles to function optimally, making it harder to focus and think clearly.
                                                  • Emotionally, prolonged stress can lead to feelings of irritability, anxiety, and even hopelessness and despair. It can cause mood swings and may contribute to depression, as persistent stress wears down emotional resilience.
                                                  • Constant connectivity has been shown to increase stress, as people may feel pressured by comparisons, notifications, and the need to stay updated.
                                                  • Increased academic and career pressures, societal instability, and economic uncertainty can all contribute to heightened stress.
                                                  • Having too much on our plate in one arena of our life leading to insufficient time and energy to devote to other areas of our life can spur stress.
                                                  • Consider adopting both a weekly and daily planning ritual across both your work and personal life whereby you establish the top 10 priorities for the week, then the top 3 priorities for each day, while circling the non-negotiable tasks. This narrows our focus and reduces the overwhelm of a long to-do list.
                                                  • When we consider that stress arises when situations exceed our coping resources and anxiety results from a fear of losing control, if we lower our expectations of others it leads to decreased stress & anxiety when things don’t measure up.
                                                  • Also, we often expect more from ourselves than do others. If you were to list everything you expect of yourself in a day or week, would you reasonably expect the same from others?
                                                  • Set Boundaries: we teach people how to treat us, and part of that is by setting and respecting boundaries. This includes learning to say “no” or “not now” gracefully and asking for help without guilt. Furthermore, appropriate boundary setting includes prioritizing non-negotiable family time, reserving specific hours for work, and protecting time for self-care.
                                                  • Consider Self-Care as Non-Negotiable: Redefine self-care as essential for your mental and physical health, including basics like adequate nutrition, exercise, scheduled rest breaks throughout the day, and consistent sleep-hygiene.
                                                  • Self-care also includes self-compassion especially on challenging days. There are no perfect days, but how we talk to ourselves on both good and challenging days matters! Pay attention to your thoughts and assess if you would talk to a friend the way you talk to yourself?
                                                  • Adopt a growth mindset: understanding that true success includes inner peace and joy, not just career milestones.
                                                  • Redefine “Success” in the Context of Balance: Never has anyone said at the end of their life that they wish they’d worked more. Consider envisioning a successful life that includes time for loved ones, mental wellness, and personal fulfillment.
                                                  • Return to Faith as Your Foundation: Surrender control to God and stay anchored in faith.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  •  Ecclesiastes 3
                                                  • Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
                                                  • Isaiah 30:15 “This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.”
                                                  • Psalm 23

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 312 Dr. Michelle Bengtson fa79b530-c200-4639-b2d2-b2b4000d4dfb fa79b530-c200-4639-b2d2-b2b4000d4dfb Thu, 03 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2095 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-manage-stress-and-work-toward-better-work-life-balance                                                   How to Keep Running with God After Life Hits You Hard How to Keep Running with God After Life Hits You Hard Episode Summary: 

                                                  When we talk about wounds, pain, and scars, we need to remember that those come in the form of physical, emotional, relational, spiritual, grief and loss. This week’s guest, Kimberly Joy, shares of severe physical pain she endured after being hit by a car when she was out for a run, and the excruciating recovery she endured, but how she experienced God has her comfort and coach throughout her recovery. Her story is a powerful reminder of how to keep running with God after life hits you hard.  I know you’ll be encouraged by her story!


                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Everybody I meet has gone through some painful trials, whether it's physical pain, relational pain or even spiritual pain or grief or loss. And what amazes me time and time again is that frequently those really painful trials that we've been through are an opportunity for God to use us to minister to others.
                                                  • Have you ever felt like what happened to you was like getting hit by a car? Well, I actually did get hit by a car!
                                                  • At the hospital, doctors said, “well, the good news is you've only broken bones. And they said, this is a miracle. We don't know how you have no internal organ damage, no spinal cord damage, no brain damage, no head injury. All you have are broken bones, but are you ready for the bad news? And I said, yeah, what's the bad news? They said you broke the two most painful bones in the human body, your pelvis and your ribs.”
                                                  • I was no stranger to pain. But I'm telling you, this pain was unlike anything I could even describe. I describe it as a thousand sharp objects being stabbed into my body in some medieval torture session.
                                                  • I just want to say this to your listeners, whether it's a relational, financial, physical, whatever, spiritual injury, the way that we immediately blame ourselves is so from the pit of hell, you know, that we would immediately heap condemnation right onto our wound. And that's what I did. And but I didn't blame God, and I wasn't mad at him. And I just thought the Lord is with me.
                                                  • I've done a lot of things with him that were hard. This is another thing that God and I are going to do together. That was my attitude. This is another thing God, and I are going to do together. And he's never failed me. So, he's going to not fail me now. And I had an attitude of faith, but also that underlying self -blame.
                                                  • The question to ask is who, not why. Who, Lord, do you want to be for me in this pain? Who is the question I've learned to ask, are you going to be my healer, my savior, my deliver, my friend, my comforter? Who are you going to be? And I already knew he was being my comforter.
                                                  • It was the most fearless season of my life, which made no sense, which proved to me. He was so with me, that peace that he gave me when I rolled up onto the hood of the car had not left me.
                                                  • **You can tell the size of your destiny by the size of your opposition.
                                                  • This pain, this problem is evidence of the size of your destiny. This is not evidence of your foolishness running out in the middle of the street. This is not evidence about how you do everything the hard way because I had to stay awake while I was being hit by a car. This is evidence of the size of your call.
                                                  • Previously, God told me to run. And so I thought, if I can run in the physical, I can run in the spirit. And my evidence, Michelle, was I crossed a finish line of a half marathon. One month later, I couldn't even walk. One month later, I came home in a wheelchair. And this was my enemy's direct and immediate assault on two things I did that put me closer to my destiny than I had ever been. So I decided that I was going to come back stronger, go further, and do it bigger. And Lord, whatever dream you put in my heart, stretch out the tent pegs, expand my borders, because if he thinks that he's going to kill me before I do what I was put on this earth to do, he's got another thing coming. And this holy indignation just rose up in me.
                                                  • The doctor came in the next morning and told me that it would take a year to recover from my injuries. What was in my mind was this message God had given me that this was a direct and immediate assault on my destiny. And I knew that this race that I had just run 30 days prior was happening again in 11 more months. And so, I looked at the doctor and I said, I'm going to be running a half marathon in 11 months.
                                                  • I ran that race in 11 months. Eleven months later, I crossed that finish line, that same one again. And this time, I cannot even tell you the emotion. I got a taste of what it's going to be like when we meet Jesus, and we cross our final finish line. I got a taste because I came out of such opposition, such pain, such limitation, such focus, such faith it took me to go from that bed to that finish line in 11 months.
                                                  • It was like such a metaphor for this walk with God, this race we're running with Christ. Paul said, run your race in such a way as to win. And I did that in the natural realm, but it made me see what it's going to be like when we meet him and we crossed that line. And when I crossed the finish line that day, I felt a victory.
                                                  • I do want to say that with all the faith that I had and all the trust I had in God, there was still some practical things I needed to do on my journey. And I heard someone say, if the counsel you're given isn't both spiritual and practical, then it's not spiritual at all. And I really, really stand as a testament of that, that God didn't just, you know, encourage me spiritually and give me promises in his word and comfort me. He pointed me to people that could help me with the practical things I needed to heal my body, my health, and the PTSD to deal with the fear that I had.
                                                  • What we go through, whether it's physical or emotional or relational or spiritual, that is not our not our identity. So often what I see and what I've experienced myself is that during those times when we are in the most painful trials, that is also the time when we are most susceptible to the enemy's lies. And that's why we have to lean into God. That's why we have to stay in this Word. And that's why we have to be around people who will speak truth when we're having a hard time recognizing that we're listening to a lie.
                                                  • My story is universal in that life hits you like you were hit by a car, life hits you with various kinds of pain, but Jesus called you to run your race with him. He's the best running coach. He's the best guide. He's the best father. He's the best friend. If you do this with him, he will lead you to everything you need to walk in your real identity.
                                                  • I kept saying to myself, this is my life right now, but this is temporary. I will heal. I will heal. I am on my way to healing. This is temporary. And then I would stop and say, thank you, Lord, that it's temporary, that this is not permanent. And I would remind myself to remind myself and to thank him.
                                                  • You're going to cross your finish line. And you're going to look back on what you overcame and say, look what God and I can do together. Look what we can do together. And that is such a beautiful hope -filled perspective because God doesn't want us to have to do it on our own. No. He wants us to lean into him, hold his hand, and move in forward direction.
                                                  • Realize that Jesus is your coach and that he wants you to run the race with him. Finish well. He doesn't want you to do it on your own. He says,
                                                  • “Come to me all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. And rest was part of Kimberly's training. And it may just be the part that God wants you to focus on right now.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kimberly Joy:

                                                  Website / Facebook The Few Women / Instagram The Few Women / Instagram Kimberly Joy

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kimberly Joy is celebrated as the award-winning Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Fellowship of Extraordinary Women (FEW) International. She is on a mission to equip and empower professional Christian woman to fulfill their Kingdom assignments and divine destinies, and to leave lasting legacies in their faith, family, and finances. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  When we talk about wounds, pain, and scars, we need to remember that those come in the form of physical, emotional, relational, spiritual, grief and loss. This week’s guest, Kimberly Joy, shares of severe physical pain she endured after being hit by a car when she was out for a run, and the excruciating recovery she endured, but how she experienced God has her comfort and coach throughout her recovery. Her story is a powerful reminder of how to keep running with God after life hits you hard.  I know you’ll be encouraged by her story!


                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Everybody I meet has gone through some painful trials, whether it's physical pain, relational pain or even spiritual pain or grief or loss. And what amazes me time and time again is that frequently those really painful trials that we've been through are an opportunity for God to use us to minister to others.
                                                  • Have you ever felt like what happened to you was like getting hit by a car? Well, I actually did get hit by a car!
                                                  • At the hospital, doctors said, “well, the good news is you've only broken bones. And they said, this is a miracle. We don't know how you have no internal organ damage, no spinal cord damage, no brain damage, no head injury. All you have are broken bones, but are you ready for the bad news? And I said, yeah, what's the bad news? They said you broke the two most painful bones in the human body, your pelvis and your ribs.”
                                                  • I was no stranger to pain. But I'm telling you, this pain was unlike anything I could even describe. I describe it as a thousand sharp objects being stabbed into my body in some medieval torture session.
                                                  • I just want to say this to your listeners, whether it's a relational, financial, physical, whatever, spiritual injury, the way that we immediately blame ourselves is so from the pit of hell, you know, that we would immediately heap condemnation right onto our wound. And that's what I did. And but I didn't blame God, and I wasn't mad at him. And I just thought the Lord is with me.
                                                  • I've done a lot of things with him that were hard. This is another thing that God and I are going to do together. That was my attitude. This is another thing God, and I are going to do together. And he's never failed me. So, he's going to not fail me now. And I had an attitude of faith, but also that underlying self -blame.
                                                  • The question to ask is who, not why. Who, Lord, do you want to be for me in this pain? Who is the question I've learned to ask, are you going to be my healer, my savior, my deliver, my friend, my comforter? Who are you going to be? And I already knew he was being my comforter.
                                                  • It was the most fearless season of my life, which made no sense, which proved to me. He was so with me, that peace that he gave me when I rolled up onto the hood of the car had not left me.
                                                  • **You can tell the size of your destiny by the size of your opposition.
                                                  • This pain, this problem is evidence of the size of your destiny. This is not evidence of your foolishness running out in the middle of the street. This is not evidence about how you do everything the hard way because I had to stay awake while I was being hit by a car. This is evidence of the size of your call.
                                                  • Previously, God told me to run. And so I thought, if I can run in the physical, I can run in the spirit. And my evidence, Michelle, was I crossed a finish line of a half marathon. One month later, I couldn't even walk. One month later, I came home in a wheelchair. And this was my enemy's direct and immediate assault on two things I did that put me closer to my destiny than I had ever been. So I decided that I was going to come back stronger, go further, and do it bigger. And Lord, whatever dream you put in my heart, stretch out the tent pegs, expand my borders, because if he thinks that he's going to kill me before I do what I was put on this earth to do, he's got another thing coming. And this holy indignation just rose up in me.
                                                  • The doctor came in the next morning and told me that it would take a year to recover from my injuries. What was in my mind was this message God had given me that this was a direct and immediate assault on my destiny. And I knew that this race that I had just run 30 days prior was happening again in 11 more months. And so, I looked at the doctor and I said, I'm going to be running a half marathon in 11 months.
                                                  • I ran that race in 11 months. Eleven months later, I crossed that finish line, that same one again. And this time, I cannot even tell you the emotion. I got a taste of what it's going to be like when we meet Jesus, and we cross our final finish line. I got a taste because I came out of such opposition, such pain, such limitation, such focus, such faith it took me to go from that bed to that finish line in 11 months.
                                                  • It was like such a metaphor for this walk with God, this race we're running with Christ. Paul said, run your race in such a way as to win. And I did that in the natural realm, but it made me see what it's going to be like when we meet him and we crossed that line. And when I crossed the finish line that day, I felt a victory.
                                                  • I do want to say that with all the faith that I had and all the trust I had in God, there was still some practical things I needed to do on my journey. And I heard someone say, if the counsel you're given isn't both spiritual and practical, then it's not spiritual at all. And I really, really stand as a testament of that, that God didn't just, you know, encourage me spiritually and give me promises in his word and comfort me. He pointed me to people that could help me with the practical things I needed to heal my body, my health, and the PTSD to deal with the fear that I had.
                                                  • What we go through, whether it's physical or emotional or relational or spiritual, that is not our not our identity. So often what I see and what I've experienced myself is that during those times when we are in the most painful trials, that is also the time when we are most susceptible to the enemy's lies. And that's why we have to lean into God. That's why we have to stay in this Word. And that's why we have to be around people who will speak truth when we're having a hard time recognizing that we're listening to a lie.
                                                  • My story is universal in that life hits you like you were hit by a car, life hits you with various kinds of pain, but Jesus called you to run your race with him. He's the best running coach. He's the best guide. He's the best father. He's the best friend. If you do this with him, he will lead you to everything you need to walk in your real identity.
                                                  • I kept saying to myself, this is my life right now, but this is temporary. I will heal. I will heal. I am on my way to healing. This is temporary. And then I would stop and say, thank you, Lord, that it's temporary, that this is not permanent. And I would remind myself to remind myself and to thank him.
                                                  • You're going to cross your finish line. And you're going to look back on what you overcame and say, look what God and I can do together. Look what we can do together. And that is such a beautiful hope -filled perspective because God doesn't want us to have to do it on our own. No. He wants us to lean into him, hold his hand, and move in forward direction.
                                                  • Realize that Jesus is your coach and that he wants you to run the race with him. Finish well. He doesn't want you to do it on your own. He says,
                                                  • “Come to me all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. And rest was part of Kimberly's training. And it may just be the part that God wants you to focus on right now.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kimberly Joy:

                                                  Website / Facebook The Few Women / Instagram The Few Women / Instagram Kimberly Joy

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kimberly Joy is celebrated as the award-winning Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Fellowship of Extraordinary Women (FEW) International. She is on a mission to equip and empower professional Christian woman to fulfill their Kingdom assignments and divine destinies, and to leave lasting legacies in their faith, family, and finances. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 311 Dr. Michelle Bengtson d0085320-e172-417d-a53e-b2ad000c4911 d0085320-e172-417d-a53e-b2ad000c4911 Thu, 27 Mar 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1808 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/how-to-keep-running-with-god-after-life-hits-you-h                                                   310 Count It All Joy: What Does It Really Mean? 310 Count It All Joy: What Does It Really Mean? Episode Summary:

                                                  In honor of International Happiness Day, join me as I sit down with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel to explore what it really means to count it all joy.  As we reflect on personal experiences and biblical examples, we’ll highlight the distinction between circumstantial happiness and the deep, steadfast joy that comes from trusting God through trials.

                                                   

                                                  You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how joy can be a deliberate response to life’s challenges, cultivating faith and steadfastness. Whether you’re navigating hardship or seeking a renewed perspective, this conversation offers hope and encouragement to find joy in every circumstance.

                                                   

                                                  International Day of Happiness aims to make people around the world realize the importance of happiness within their lives. This day encourages people to spread happiness through a small action. But what happens when actions don’t cut it, and the feeling of happiness lasts mere seconds? What do we do when the idea of happiness seems far off and impossible?

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                   

                                                  • I liken joy and happiness, the difference between that is that a river usually has a source. And A river can get filled up with mud and leaves and twigs and even beavers come along and build dams and so further on down the little stream, it's just dried up, rocky, dry bed. But if you follow that stream, you eventually come to the source and the source is where it just bubbles out. And that's how I liken happiness and joy is that joy is the source. My relationship with the Lord is my source of really life. It's my source of source of strength. It's my source of everything. The breath that I breathe comes from God and that is my joy. So, I can have these circumstances like postpartum where it felt like continue on with the analogy that streambed dried up. It's like the depression built this dam between the feelings of happiness and yet that joy, the source was still bubbling and still there.
                                                  • From a neuroscience perspective, happiness and joy engage the brain in distinct but overlapping ways. Both emotions activate reward systems in the brain, but their triggers, durations, and neural pathways differ significantly.
                                                  • Happiness is often a fleeting emotional state triggered by external stimuli or achievements, like eating a favorite meal, receiving a compliment, or reaching a goal.
                                                  • The brain's happiness response is typically short-lived, subsiding once the rewarding experience ends or the novelty wears off.
                                                  • Joy is a deeper, more enduring emotional state that often arises from intrinsic sources, such as gratitude, faith, or connection with others. Unlike happiness, it does not rely solely on external circumstances.
                                                  • Joy is more sustainable than happiness because it is less tied to transient external factors and more rooted in internal states like faith, gratitude, and meaningful relationships.
                                                  • Happiness primarily relies on external stimuli and rewards, triggering immediate but temporary dopamine release
                                                  • Joy emerges from internal processes and deeper reflections, engaging serotonin pathways and regions involved in emotional and existential meaning.
                                                  • Happiness is short-term, as the brain’s reward circuitry adapts quickly to pleasurable stimuli (a phenomenon called hedonic adaptation).
                                                  • Joy is longer-lasting, supported by neural circuits linked to emotional regulation, contentment, and resilience.
                                                  • Happiness can be disrupted by stress, as the brain's focus shifts to managing perceived threats.
                                                  • Joy can coexist with stress, as it often stems from a sense of purpose or faith that provides emotional resilience during trials.
                                                  • Happiness happens to us while joy happens within us—fruit of the Spirit, a choice, endures hardships/sufferings.
                                                  • Happiness is a reaction but joy is a practice and a behavior, deliberate and intentional.
                                                  • In the Bible, happiness appears less than 30 times but joy appears hundreds of times.
                                                  • Counting it all joy when we face trials means we:
                                                    • experience God’s strength,
                                                    • feel the power of faith,
                                                    • hang on God’s powerful arm,
                                                    • and witness God’s work.
                                                  • When we “count it all joy” God proves himself faithful to produce steadfastness in our hearts.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                   

                                                  • James 1:2-4, ESV “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And Let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
                                                  • Esther 8:16, NIV “For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor.”
                                                  • Proverbs 23:25, NLT “So give your father and mother joy! May she who gave you birth be happy.”
                                                  • Psalm 92:4, NET “For you, O Lord, have made me happy by your work. I will sing for joy because of what you have done.”
                                                  • Isaiah 52:7, ESV and NASB “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”
                                                  • Psalm 32:1-2 NLT “Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In honor of International Happiness Day, join me as I sit down with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel to explore what it really means to count it all joy.  As we reflect on personal experiences and biblical examples, we’ll highlight the distinction between circumstantial happiness and the deep, steadfast joy that comes from trusting God through trials.

                                                   

                                                  You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how joy can be a deliberate response to life’s challenges, cultivating faith and steadfastness. Whether you’re navigating hardship or seeking a renewed perspective, this conversation offers hope and encouragement to find joy in every circumstance.

                                                   

                                                  International Day of Happiness aims to make people around the world realize the importance of happiness within their lives. This day encourages people to spread happiness through a small action. But what happens when actions don’t cut it, and the feeling of happiness lasts mere seconds? What do we do when the idea of happiness seems far off and impossible?

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                   

                                                  • I liken joy and happiness, the difference between that is that a river usually has a source. And A river can get filled up with mud and leaves and twigs and even beavers come along and build dams and so further on down the little stream, it's just dried up, rocky, dry bed. But if you follow that stream, you eventually come to the source and the source is where it just bubbles out. And that's how I liken happiness and joy is that joy is the source. My relationship with the Lord is my source of really life. It's my source of source of strength. It's my source of everything. The breath that I breathe comes from God and that is my joy. So, I can have these circumstances like postpartum where it felt like continue on with the analogy that streambed dried up. It's like the depression built this dam between the feelings of happiness and yet that joy, the source was still bubbling and still there.
                                                  • From a neuroscience perspective, happiness and joy engage the brain in distinct but overlapping ways. Both emotions activate reward systems in the brain, but their triggers, durations, and neural pathways differ significantly.
                                                  • Happiness is often a fleeting emotional state triggered by external stimuli or achievements, like eating a favorite meal, receiving a compliment, or reaching a goal.
                                                  • The brain's happiness response is typically short-lived, subsiding once the rewarding experience ends or the novelty wears off.
                                                  • Joy is a deeper, more enduring emotional state that often arises from intrinsic sources, such as gratitude, faith, or connection with others. Unlike happiness, it does not rely solely on external circumstances.
                                                  • Joy is more sustainable than happiness because it is less tied to transient external factors and more rooted in internal states like faith, gratitude, and meaningful relationships.
                                                  • Happiness primarily relies on external stimuli and rewards, triggering immediate but temporary dopamine release
                                                  • Joy emerges from internal processes and deeper reflections, engaging serotonin pathways and regions involved in emotional and existential meaning.
                                                  • Happiness is short-term, as the brain’s reward circuitry adapts quickly to pleasurable stimuli (a phenomenon called hedonic adaptation).
                                                  • Joy is longer-lasting, supported by neural circuits linked to emotional regulation, contentment, and resilience.
                                                  • Happiness can be disrupted by stress, as the brain's focus shifts to managing perceived threats.
                                                  • Joy can coexist with stress, as it often stems from a sense of purpose or faith that provides emotional resilience during trials.
                                                  • Happiness happens to us while joy happens within us—fruit of the Spirit, a choice, endures hardships/sufferings.
                                                  • Happiness is a reaction but joy is a practice and a behavior, deliberate and intentional.
                                                  • In the Bible, happiness appears less than 30 times but joy appears hundreds of times.
                                                  • Counting it all joy when we face trials means we:
                                                    • experience God’s strength,
                                                    • feel the power of faith,
                                                    • hang on God’s powerful arm,
                                                    • and witness God’s work.
                                                  • When we “count it all joy” God proves himself faithful to produce steadfastness in our hearts.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                   

                                                  • James 1:2-4, ESV “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And Let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
                                                  • Esther 8:16, NIV “For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor.”
                                                  • Proverbs 23:25, NLT “So give your father and mother joy! May she who gave you birth be happy.”
                                                  • Psalm 92:4, NET “For you, O Lord, have made me happy by your work. I will sing for joy because of what you have done.”
                                                  • Isaiah 52:7, ESV and NASB “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”
                                                  • Psalm 32:1-2 NLT “Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 310 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9418f52f-cc44-4c20-9393-b2a600165f52 9418f52f-cc44-4c20-9393-b2a600165f52 Thu, 20 Mar 2025 10:30:00 +0000 2113 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/310-count-it-all-joy-what-does-it-really-mean                                                   309 How to Find Hope and Flourish When Parenting a Special Needs Child 309 How to Find Hope and Flourish When Parenting a Special Needs Child Episode Summary: 

                                                  Mothers of children with special needs experience a wide range of emotions: fear, disappointment, guilt, grief, despair. They have a yearning for relief but often feel isolated and inadequate as they look at the parenting experience of others. As you pour your energy and resources into raising a special needs child, it’s easy to struggle with feelings of isolation, competition, and overwhelm.

                                                  For the special needs mom who yearns for community and support on what can be a lonely road, my guest, Carrie Holt, wants to remind you that you are not alone, your best IS good enough, and even on the hard days, there are blessings to be had. In honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we’re sharing how to find hope and flourish when parenting a special needs child.


                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I have seen how families lose hope, feel strung out, and all alone living this life of being in and out of the hospital. From the time my son was around 20 months of age, I began volunteering at our local children’s hospital and have been passionate about encouraging others ever since.
                                                  • I was joyfully expecting our third child when at a 20 week ultrasound, our doctor told us something was wrong with the baby. We learned he had Myelomeningocele (Spina Bifida) and Hydrocephalus and would require two life-saving surgeries the first day of his life, with one following a few days later. I read a lot about his condition, grieved, and then planned – trying to control everything.
                                                  • It wasn’t until the last few years, that I have truly grieved that, and have been learning to live in the tension of lament. My son ended up being admitted for 64 days, 30 of those in the PICU. He came home with a trach, ventilator, and g-tube with 16 hours a day/7 days a week of home nursing care. He’s been in and out of the hospital repeatedly and to date has had 64 surgeries.
                                                  • The life of parenting a special needs child is continual, so we are all learning to live in the tension of our kids not being healed and how God is with us in all of this. I’m learning that it’s okay to feel disappointed, to lament that to God, and grieve the hard moments of realizing that my son isn’t going to be like other kids. I’m also trying to help him navigate life’s hard questions: “Why did God allow this? Why didn’t he heal me?” His complex emotions, doubts, and anger over being in a wheelchair has been really hard for us.
                                                  • Do not be afraid of grief. Sometimes we feel like it’s going to drown us, but it’s so important to take our messy emotions to God.
                                                  • It’s okay to take our messy emotions to God – even anger, doubt, and fear, but it’s actually essential to our relationship with God and how He meets us there. Emotions aren’t something we get over, they continually come up again and again, but we’ve learned some strategies to deal with them. Gratefulness, getting quiet, and lament are just a few.
                                                  • I think for me personally, it is learning to take this one day at a time, crying out in the pain when it’s there, and then also remembering that God is in control. It’s also just looking for the little gifts of hope and joy that he gives us on a daily basis.
                                                  • Probably the biggest thing has just been his presence and knowing him in a way that I had not known him if I wasn’t in this.
                                                  • As difficult as pain and suffering is, God has showed me his character and his presence and sometimes it's just that perspective shift of Lord show me you, instead of my eyes being on my pain and my suffering, show me how you've prepared me for this, show me your character, show me your glory, show me your comfort.
                                                  • Jesus wants to be present in your pain.


                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 40:1-3 ESV I waited patiently for the LORD; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the LORD.
                                                  • Lamentations 3:21-26, ESV But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Carrie Holt:

                                                  Website / Carrie Instagram / Special Moms Instagram / Carrie Facebook / Podcast & Book

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carrie M. Holt is the co-host of the Take Heart Special Moms Podcast, an author and speaker whose passion is to encourage women to flourish in the unexpected. Through her testimony of raising and homeschooling four children, including her son, with medical, mental, and physical disabilities, her desire is for women and mothers to experience the hope we have in trials through the steadfast love of Christ. Her recent book, "The Other Side of Special: Navigating the Messy, Emotional, Joy-Filled Life of a Special Needs Mom," was released May 9th through Revell Publishing. She spent twelve years speaking and advocating through volunteer groups such as Family as Faculty and the Family Advisory Council at Nationwide Children's Hospital, a press conference in Washington D.C., several hospital fundraisers, and an event featuring former Ohio Governor John Kasich. She has also been a guest on various radio shows, including KNEO Author's Corner, Family Life Radio, and Moody Radio, and has spoken for women's events in churches, conferences, and smaller homeschool groups. 

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Mothers of children with special needs experience a wide range of emotions: fear, disappointment, guilt, grief, despair. They have a yearning for relief but often feel isolated and inadequate as they look at the parenting experience of others. As you pour your energy and resources into raising a special needs child, it’s easy to struggle with feelings of isolation, competition, and overwhelm.

                                                  For the special needs mom who yearns for community and support on what can be a lonely road, my guest, Carrie Holt, wants to remind you that you are not alone, your best IS good enough, and even on the hard days, there are blessings to be had. In honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we’re sharing how to find hope and flourish when parenting a special needs child.


                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I have seen how families lose hope, feel strung out, and all alone living this life of being in and out of the hospital. From the time my son was around 20 months of age, I began volunteering at our local children’s hospital and have been passionate about encouraging others ever since.
                                                  • I was joyfully expecting our third child when at a 20 week ultrasound, our doctor told us something was wrong with the baby. We learned he had Myelomeningocele (Spina Bifida) and Hydrocephalus and would require two life-saving surgeries the first day of his life, with one following a few days later. I read a lot about his condition, grieved, and then planned – trying to control everything.
                                                  • It wasn’t until the last few years, that I have truly grieved that, and have been learning to live in the tension of lament. My son ended up being admitted for 64 days, 30 of those in the PICU. He came home with a trach, ventilator, and g-tube with 16 hours a day/7 days a week of home nursing care. He’s been in and out of the hospital repeatedly and to date has had 64 surgeries.
                                                  • The life of parenting a special needs child is continual, so we are all learning to live in the tension of our kids not being healed and how God is with us in all of this. I’m learning that it’s okay to feel disappointed, to lament that to God, and grieve the hard moments of realizing that my son isn’t going to be like other kids. I’m also trying to help him navigate life’s hard questions: “Why did God allow this? Why didn’t he heal me?” His complex emotions, doubts, and anger over being in a wheelchair has been really hard for us.
                                                  • Do not be afraid of grief. Sometimes we feel like it’s going to drown us, but it’s so important to take our messy emotions to God.
                                                  • It’s okay to take our messy emotions to God – even anger, doubt, and fear, but it’s actually essential to our relationship with God and how He meets us there. Emotions aren’t something we get over, they continually come up again and again, but we’ve learned some strategies to deal with them. Gratefulness, getting quiet, and lament are just a few.
                                                  • I think for me personally, it is learning to take this one day at a time, crying out in the pain when it’s there, and then also remembering that God is in control. It’s also just looking for the little gifts of hope and joy that he gives us on a daily basis.
                                                  • Probably the biggest thing has just been his presence and knowing him in a way that I had not known him if I wasn’t in this.
                                                  • As difficult as pain and suffering is, God has showed me his character and his presence and sometimes it's just that perspective shift of Lord show me you, instead of my eyes being on my pain and my suffering, show me how you've prepared me for this, show me your character, show me your glory, show me your comfort.
                                                  • Jesus wants to be present in your pain.


                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 40:1-3 ESV I waited patiently for the LORD; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the LORD.
                                                  • Lamentations 3:21-26, ESV But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Carrie Holt:

                                                  Website / Carrie Instagram / Special Moms Instagram / Carrie Facebook / Podcast & Book

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carrie M. Holt is the co-host of the Take Heart Special Moms Podcast, an author and speaker whose passion is to encourage women to flourish in the unexpected. Through her testimony of raising and homeschooling four children, including her son, with medical, mental, and physical disabilities, her desire is for women and mothers to experience the hope we have in trials through the steadfast love of Christ. Her recent book, "The Other Side of Special: Navigating the Messy, Emotional, Joy-Filled Life of a Special Needs Mom," was released May 9th through Revell Publishing. She spent twelve years speaking and advocating through volunteer groups such as Family as Faculty and the Family Advisory Council at Nationwide Children's Hospital, a press conference in Washington D.C., several hospital fundraisers, and an event featuring former Ohio Governor John Kasich. She has also been a guest on various radio shows, including KNEO Author's Corner, Family Life Radio, and Moody Radio, and has spoken for women's events in churches, conferences, and smaller homeschool groups. 

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 309 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f81d3de3-6ffd-49a1-83ca-b29e017ccb1f f81d3de3-6ffd-49a1-83ca-b29e017ccb1f Thu, 13 Mar 2025 10:30:00 +0000 1940 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/309-how-to-find-hope-and-flourish-when-parenting-a                                                   308 How Inspiring Women of the Bible Teach Us to Live with Hope, Faith, and Courage 308 How Inspiring Women of the Bible Teach Us to Live with Hope, Faith, and Courage Episode Summary: 

                                                  In celebration of International Women’s Day, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of women across the globe, this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective shines a light on some of the most inspiring women in the Bible. 

                                                  From Leah’s resilience in the face of rejection to Deborah’s fearless leadership, these women modeled faith and hope that transcend time and culture. As we explore their lives, we are reminded that the greatest advocate for equality and empowerment is Jesus, whose grace offers freedom to live courageously and faithfully.

                                                  Join me with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel as we reflect on these timeless examples of strength and hope, and learn how they inspire us to live with faith and purpose today.


                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The greatest proponent of equality is Jesus, and we can only know the kind of freedom he brings when we receive his saving grace and live for him. He broke barriers between humanity and God, people groups, and genders. It’s when we live apart from him that we experience disparity.
                                                  • We're all equivalent at the foot of the cross and we can really only know the kind of freedom he brings when we receive his saving grace and live for him. You know Jesus broke barriers between humanity and God between people groups and genders and it's when we live apart from him that we really experience disparity.
                                                  • We can trace that through the old and new Testament. In fact, some influential and powerful women throughout the Bible are, you mentioned her Leah, she stayed strong through heartache and rejection. We had Jacobad, the mother of Moses, Abra led Israelites as a judge and prophetess for 40 years. Esther had the courage to say yes to God and in doing so she saved her people. Mary the mother of Jesus shows us how to have the courage to surrender completely. Then we have Ruth and Mary Bethany. These women were in a very male dominated society but God elevated them to positions of leadership.
                                                  • Sarah became my example of faith in the face of fear. She messed up and I messed up. And I think that's what I love so much about her is because she messed up royally. I mean, she created a whole mess with Ishmael and Isaac. She couldn't wait for God to fulfill his promise to her. And yet he did eventually, but she made this big mess. And yet she's still touted as a woman of faith in the Hall of, you know, Hebrews 11, the Hall of Fame chapter. She is our example of not to give into fear. And I think it's because of her faith, even in the midst of making so many mistakes.
                                                  • I would have to say that one of the women in the Bible who has inspired me the most was the woman at the well. You know, she lived a rejected life. She lived her life apart from other people. She had plenty of sins where she had messed up and yet I love that scripture says that Jesus had to go that way. He had to encounter her. And when he talked about her sin, it wasn't in a demeaning way, but it was to let her know, "Oh, I know so much more, and yet I'm still here with you. I'm still going against societal norms to have a conversation with you." And he revealed himself to her as Messiah and gave her hope to the point that she left and went and told people that she had met the Messiah. And so that's such a good example for me because I don't know about you, but when I've messed up, sometimes I don't even wanna go to God and tell Him, but He already knows. He already knows and it's a safe place.
                                                  • Jesus validated her when he said, "Go in peace. Your faith has made you well." In that, he gave her back her identity. He esteemed her. He loved her. And we don't even know her name, Jessica, but her story encourages us today and it encourages me to keep pursuing after Jesus when I've tried everything else. Jesus is the one place I need to go. Oh, yes. She is a wonderful example of we can feel so set aside. Unseen. Unseen. Rejected.
                                                  • And yet God elevated her. He saw her. He called her to go go into the fact that she believed that Jesus was her only hope and she pushed against the crowd.
                                                  • Leadership doesn't always mean, it doesn't always mean leading your family. It doesn't always mean leading in business. I think leadership, if we expand on that concept, means using our gifts to influence. And our gifts might be the gift of hospitality. It might be the gift of mercy. It might be the gift of compassion or encouragement, but when we use our God -given gifts to influence others, that is assuming a leadership role.
                                                  • Since Old Testament times, the idea of setting boundaries between men and women has been challenged. God has always placed women in leadership positions. Influential and powerful women exist throughout the Bible.
                                                  • Some inspiring women of the Bible include:
                                                    • Leah—strong through heartache and rejection
                                                    • Jochebed—mother of Moses
                                                    • Deborah—prophetess and judge of Israel (40Years) who inspired complete obedience to God
                                                    • Esther—courage to be bold, say yes to God and save her people
                                                    • Mary—trust and courage to surrender completely
                                                    • Miriam—our words matter
                                                    • Rahab—knowing God protects us
                                                    • Ruth—selflessness and seeking God leads to our betterment
                                                    • Priscilla—help each other mature in our faith
                                                    • Mary Magdalene—the power of a submitted heart
                                                    • Rachel—the power of patience to wait on God
                                                    • Hannah—God prizes faithfulness
                                                    • Abigail—equipped for wisdom
                                                    • Martha—God equips us to use our practical gifts
                                                    • Hagar—God gives us strength to move forward
                                                    • Anna—keep watch for God’s works
                                                    • Lydia—grow in love for God for others
                                                    • Rebekah—know that God’s plans are always good
                                                  • Many of the inspiring women of the Bible encourage us to know our strengths, use our influence as an invitation to know God, lead by example and lead with love.
                                                  • Our hardships don’t preempt us from living a life of faith and hope. They propel us toward faith and hope when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
                                                  • One of the key commonalities between all of these women is that they did face hardships. So my hope filled perspective is this, that hardships don't preempt us from living a life of faith and hope. They actually propel us toward faith and hope when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. That's so important because I think in our culture, we look at hardships and Lord. We're doing everything that we can that's right. Jesus told us we would experience hardships. - He did. Read though for the accounts of the women in scripture and how they modeled getting through those hardships and the lessons that they teach us. And there have been so many as we listed off some of the other women that we didn't have time to really talk about in depth today. We would encourage you pick one or two of those women's accounts and go study them for yourself. 


                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
                                                  • 1 Peter 3:6 “For instance, Sarah obeyed her husband, Abraham, and called him her master. You are her daughters when you do what is right without fear of what your husbands might do.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In celebration of International Women’s Day, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of women across the globe, this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective shines a light on some of the most inspiring women in the Bible. 

                                                  From Leah’s resilience in the face of rejection to Deborah’s fearless leadership, these women modeled faith and hope that transcend time and culture. As we explore their lives, we are reminded that the greatest advocate for equality and empowerment is Jesus, whose grace offers freedom to live courageously and faithfully.

                                                  Join me with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel as we reflect on these timeless examples of strength and hope, and learn how they inspire us to live with faith and purpose today.


                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The greatest proponent of equality is Jesus, and we can only know the kind of freedom he brings when we receive his saving grace and live for him. He broke barriers between humanity and God, people groups, and genders. It’s when we live apart from him that we experience disparity.
                                                  • We're all equivalent at the foot of the cross and we can really only know the kind of freedom he brings when we receive his saving grace and live for him. You know Jesus broke barriers between humanity and God between people groups and genders and it's when we live apart from him that we really experience disparity.
                                                  • We can trace that through the old and new Testament. In fact, some influential and powerful women throughout the Bible are, you mentioned her Leah, she stayed strong through heartache and rejection. We had Jacobad, the mother of Moses, Abra led Israelites as a judge and prophetess for 40 years. Esther had the courage to say yes to God and in doing so she saved her people. Mary the mother of Jesus shows us how to have the courage to surrender completely. Then we have Ruth and Mary Bethany. These women were in a very male dominated society but God elevated them to positions of leadership.
                                                  • Sarah became my example of faith in the face of fear. She messed up and I messed up. And I think that's what I love so much about her is because she messed up royally. I mean, she created a whole mess with Ishmael and Isaac. She couldn't wait for God to fulfill his promise to her. And yet he did eventually, but she made this big mess. And yet she's still touted as a woman of faith in the Hall of, you know, Hebrews 11, the Hall of Fame chapter. She is our example of not to give into fear. And I think it's because of her faith, even in the midst of making so many mistakes.
                                                  • I would have to say that one of the women in the Bible who has inspired me the most was the woman at the well. You know, she lived a rejected life. She lived her life apart from other people. She had plenty of sins where she had messed up and yet I love that scripture says that Jesus had to go that way. He had to encounter her. And when he talked about her sin, it wasn't in a demeaning way, but it was to let her know, "Oh, I know so much more, and yet I'm still here with you. I'm still going against societal norms to have a conversation with you." And he revealed himself to her as Messiah and gave her hope to the point that she left and went and told people that she had met the Messiah. And so that's such a good example for me because I don't know about you, but when I've messed up, sometimes I don't even wanna go to God and tell Him, but He already knows. He already knows and it's a safe place.
                                                  • Jesus validated her when he said, "Go in peace. Your faith has made you well." In that, he gave her back her identity. He esteemed her. He loved her. And we don't even know her name, Jessica, but her story encourages us today and it encourages me to keep pursuing after Jesus when I've tried everything else. Jesus is the one place I need to go. Oh, yes. She is a wonderful example of we can feel so set aside. Unseen. Unseen. Rejected.
                                                  • And yet God elevated her. He saw her. He called her to go go into the fact that she believed that Jesus was her only hope and she pushed against the crowd.
                                                  • Leadership doesn't always mean, it doesn't always mean leading your family. It doesn't always mean leading in business. I think leadership, if we expand on that concept, means using our gifts to influence. And our gifts might be the gift of hospitality. It might be the gift of mercy. It might be the gift of compassion or encouragement, but when we use our God -given gifts to influence others, that is assuming a leadership role.
                                                  • Since Old Testament times, the idea of setting boundaries between men and women has been challenged. God has always placed women in leadership positions. Influential and powerful women exist throughout the Bible.
                                                  • Some inspiring women of the Bible include:
                                                    • Leah—strong through heartache and rejection
                                                    • Jochebed—mother of Moses
                                                    • Deborah—prophetess and judge of Israel (40Years) who inspired complete obedience to God
                                                    • Esther—courage to be bold, say yes to God and save her people
                                                    • Mary—trust and courage to surrender completely
                                                    • Miriam—our words matter
                                                    • Rahab—knowing God protects us
                                                    • Ruth—selflessness and seeking God leads to our betterment
                                                    • Priscilla—help each other mature in our faith
                                                    • Mary Magdalene—the power of a submitted heart
                                                    • Rachel—the power of patience to wait on God
                                                    • Hannah—God prizes faithfulness
                                                    • Abigail—equipped for wisdom
                                                    • Martha—God equips us to use our practical gifts
                                                    • Hagar—God gives us strength to move forward
                                                    • Anna—keep watch for God’s works
                                                    • Lydia—grow in love for God for others
                                                    • Rebekah—know that God’s plans are always good
                                                  • Many of the inspiring women of the Bible encourage us to know our strengths, use our influence as an invitation to know God, lead by example and lead with love.
                                                  • Our hardships don’t preempt us from living a life of faith and hope. They propel us toward faith and hope when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
                                                  • One of the key commonalities between all of these women is that they did face hardships. So my hope filled perspective is this, that hardships don't preempt us from living a life of faith and hope. They actually propel us toward faith and hope when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. That's so important because I think in our culture, we look at hardships and Lord. We're doing everything that we can that's right. Jesus told us we would experience hardships. - He did. Read though for the accounts of the women in scripture and how they modeled getting through those hardships and the lessons that they teach us. And there have been so many as we listed off some of the other women that we didn't have time to really talk about in depth today. We would encourage you pick one or two of those women's accounts and go study them for yourself. 


                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
                                                  • 1 Peter 3:6 “For instance, Sarah obeyed her husband, Abraham, and called him her master. You are her daughters when you do what is right without fear of what your husbands might do.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 308 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 210d478b-d3db-4620-81f3-b2980015d7b2 210d478b-d3db-4620-81f3-b2980015d7b2 Thu, 06 Mar 2025 11:30:00 +0000 1771 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/308-how-inspiring-women-of-the-bible-teach-us-to-l                                                   307 How to Find Hope and Healing When Alcohol Addiction Affects Your Family 307 How to Find Hope and Healing When Alcohol Addiction Affects Your Family Episode Summary:

                                                  When alcohol addiction enters a family, it can bring heartache, uncertainty, and difficult choices. Sonja Meyrer shares her deeply personal journey of navigating her husband’s battle with alcohol addiction and his tragic loss. Through grief and unanswered questions, she discovered God’s presence in the midst of pain.

                                                  Now, she helps others find healing, set healthy boundaries, and move forward with faith. If you're struggling with the effects of addiction in your family, this conversation offers encouragement and practical wisdom.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The word redemption really resonates because I believe that as Christ followers, nothing is wasted.
                                                  • Jesus had to have his scars in his resurrected body to prove that he was who he said he was and that he had done what he said he would do. So his scars are beautiful, and so are ours.
                                                  • Frequently our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest pain and woundedness.
                                                  • About twenty years into our marriage, the disease of alcohol addiction showed up. It wasn’t something I was familiar with—it was not present in my family growing up.
                                                  •  Anyone who has suffered the effects of addiction can tell you that there is a day when “something is different.” On that day when something changed, I realized I was really in over my head.
                                                  • Especially as a spouse, who was raising children, I had to ask how do I fit into this. We say “in sickness and in health,” and that is true, but how do I protect myself and my kids?
                                                  • I didn’t start my career thinking, “I’d love to be an addiction specialist!” I don’t think anyone starts off that way. But it is my greatest honor and joy to sit with other people as a coach to find their own God-given hope and peace regardless of the choices of other people.
                                                  • Now I get to share out of my own experience how I navigated that time.
                                                  • When we will change the verbiage from “I have to” to “I get to,” first, that puts more control back into our hands in otherwise powerless situations, and, it gives us a more hope-filled perspective.
                                                  • So often, the ministries that many of us have are not ministries we would have asked for or signed up for but that is the goodness of God to bring you to the place where you can say “it’s my honor and privilege to walk with others.”
                                                  • The difference between those who stay angry and disgruntled versus those who say, “okay God, what do you have for me?” is operating from a place of surrender. Along the way, I had to learn to let go.
                                                  • I learned to say, “Even if, God, this all falls apart, you are still good, and I will still find my way forward.” I no longer hold onto what I think the future should look like. Instead, I say, “wherever you lead me is a good place to go.”
                                                  • In the letting go, it gives God the freedom to work his will, his way, and his timing.
                                                  • Unfortunately, my spouse fell into a deep depression and after a few years made the regretful decision to end his life. As a Christian spouse, I had to navigate the questions, “God why didn’t you heal him?” and at the same time, wondering, did I do everything well? Did I do it all right?
                                                  • The process of trying to learn how to honor the dignity of his suffering and yet still finding joy and happiness in my own life, was a process that takes some time. But I do believe that God can give us true joy from knowing He’s on our side if we’re willing to let go of our expectations of what we think life is supposed to be like.
                                                  • Some of us fall under faulty theology and think that if we’re doing the right things, we won’t experience suffering but that isn’t at all what Jesus told us. He said “in this world, you will experience trouble/suffering/pain, BUT take heart, I have overcome the world.” He also said, “If you’re going to follow me, you are going to suffer.”
                                                  • When I can get to the place that I can say, “This is for you to handle, God” it goes so much better.
                                                  • We say in the recovery community that “expectation is the root of all suffering.”
                                                  • Where we can live a life where are hands are truly open and we can say to God, “This is what I want…however, make me an instrument” and not be disgruntled and not get discouraged, it goes so much better.
                                                  • I’m grateful for Jesus’s example. In the garden before His death, Jesus cried out to God, “I don’t want to do this…if there is any other way please show me” but then he came back to the point of submission and surrender where he said “but I want your will more than I want mine.”
                                                  • The struggle of watching someone not be able to conquer the disease that they have is very sad.
                                                  • Jesus did a really good job of setting boundaries both when he said “yes,” and when he said “no.”
                                                  • This tragedy created an enormous bond between me and my children. They want to stay connected. They care for each other in a way that they hadn’t before.
                                                  • Another blessing that came out of this was my willingness to ask for help, my willingness to show my vulnerability, and it has allowed those around us the opportunity to love on us and love our family. So, it has helped me to not be so proud.
                                                  • You are not alone. There is hope. We don’t have to do this alone. Being around like-minded people who are also on the same path can lend so much relief.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 16:33 NIV “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world!”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Sonja Meyrer:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                   Guest:

                                                  Sonja Meyrer is a certified professional coach who helps people navigate difficult relationships and situations where they feel “stuck.” She offers individual coaching and intensive workshops through her private practice. A former educator and curriculum designer, she is also deeply embedded in the recovery community and works closely with people whose lives have been affected by addiction Her book, “And Then You Went Missing – A Hope-Filled Guide for Anyone Stuck in a Difficult Relationship” launched as an Amazon best-seller in several categories. Sonja resides in St. Louis, loves Jesus, running, her family and anything that involves coffee or chocolate.

                                                  For more information or to book a workshop or speaking engagement, please visitwww.sonjamcoaching.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  When alcohol addiction enters a family, it can bring heartache, uncertainty, and difficult choices. Sonja Meyrer shares her deeply personal journey of navigating her husband’s battle with alcohol addiction and his tragic loss. Through grief and unanswered questions, she discovered God’s presence in the midst of pain.

                                                  Now, she helps others find healing, set healthy boundaries, and move forward with faith. If you're struggling with the effects of addiction in your family, this conversation offers encouragement and practical wisdom.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The word redemption really resonates because I believe that as Christ followers, nothing is wasted.
                                                  • Jesus had to have his scars in his resurrected body to prove that he was who he said he was and that he had done what he said he would do. So his scars are beautiful, and so are ours.
                                                  • Frequently our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest pain and woundedness.
                                                  • About twenty years into our marriage, the disease of alcohol addiction showed up. It wasn’t something I was familiar with—it was not present in my family growing up.
                                                  •  Anyone who has suffered the effects of addiction can tell you that there is a day when “something is different.” On that day when something changed, I realized I was really in over my head.
                                                  • Especially as a spouse, who was raising children, I had to ask how do I fit into this. We say “in sickness and in health,” and that is true, but how do I protect myself and my kids?
                                                  • I didn’t start my career thinking, “I’d love to be an addiction specialist!” I don’t think anyone starts off that way. But it is my greatest honor and joy to sit with other people as a coach to find their own God-given hope and peace regardless of the choices of other people.
                                                  • Now I get to share out of my own experience how I navigated that time.
                                                  • When we will change the verbiage from “I have to” to “I get to,” first, that puts more control back into our hands in otherwise powerless situations, and, it gives us a more hope-filled perspective.
                                                  • So often, the ministries that many of us have are not ministries we would have asked for or signed up for but that is the goodness of God to bring you to the place where you can say “it’s my honor and privilege to walk with others.”
                                                  • The difference between those who stay angry and disgruntled versus those who say, “okay God, what do you have for me?” is operating from a place of surrender. Along the way, I had to learn to let go.
                                                  • I learned to say, “Even if, God, this all falls apart, you are still good, and I will still find my way forward.” I no longer hold onto what I think the future should look like. Instead, I say, “wherever you lead me is a good place to go.”
                                                  • In the letting go, it gives God the freedom to work his will, his way, and his timing.
                                                  • Unfortunately, my spouse fell into a deep depression and after a few years made the regretful decision to end his life. As a Christian spouse, I had to navigate the questions, “God why didn’t you heal him?” and at the same time, wondering, did I do everything well? Did I do it all right?
                                                  • The process of trying to learn how to honor the dignity of his suffering and yet still finding joy and happiness in my own life, was a process that takes some time. But I do believe that God can give us true joy from knowing He’s on our side if we’re willing to let go of our expectations of what we think life is supposed to be like.
                                                  • Some of us fall under faulty theology and think that if we’re doing the right things, we won’t experience suffering but that isn’t at all what Jesus told us. He said “in this world, you will experience trouble/suffering/pain, BUT take heart, I have overcome the world.” He also said, “If you’re going to follow me, you are going to suffer.”
                                                  • When I can get to the place that I can say, “This is for you to handle, God” it goes so much better.
                                                  • We say in the recovery community that “expectation is the root of all suffering.”
                                                  • Where we can live a life where are hands are truly open and we can say to God, “This is what I want…however, make me an instrument” and not be disgruntled and not get discouraged, it goes so much better.
                                                  • I’m grateful for Jesus’s example. In the garden before His death, Jesus cried out to God, “I don’t want to do this…if there is any other way please show me” but then he came back to the point of submission and surrender where he said “but I want your will more than I want mine.”
                                                  • The struggle of watching someone not be able to conquer the disease that they have is very sad.
                                                  • Jesus did a really good job of setting boundaries both when he said “yes,” and when he said “no.”
                                                  • This tragedy created an enormous bond between me and my children. They want to stay connected. They care for each other in a way that they hadn’t before.
                                                  • Another blessing that came out of this was my willingness to ask for help, my willingness to show my vulnerability, and it has allowed those around us the opportunity to love on us and love our family. So, it has helped me to not be so proud.
                                                  • You are not alone. There is hope. We don’t have to do this alone. Being around like-minded people who are also on the same path can lend so much relief.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 16:33 NIV “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world!”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Sonja Meyrer:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                   Guest:

                                                  Sonja Meyrer is a certified professional coach who helps people navigate difficult relationships and situations where they feel “stuck.” She offers individual coaching and intensive workshops through her private practice. A former educator and curriculum designer, she is also deeply embedded in the recovery community and works closely with people whose lives have been affected by addiction Her book, “And Then You Went Missing – A Hope-Filled Guide for Anyone Stuck in a Difficult Relationship” launched as an Amazon best-seller in several categories. Sonja resides in St. Louis, loves Jesus, running, her family and anything that involves coffee or chocolate.

                                                  For more information or to book a workshop or speaking engagement, please visitwww.sonjamcoaching.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 307 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 67773650-5c95-47e5-a92e-b28f0155cc5c 67773650-5c95-47e5-a92e-b28f0155cc5c Thu, 27 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000 1529 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/307-how-to-find-hope-and-healing-when-alcohol-addi                                                   306 Support for Caregivers: Navigating Challenges, Embracing Faith, and Prioritizing Self-Care 306 Support for Caregivers: Navigating Challenges, Embracing Faith, and Prioritizing Self-Care Episode Summary: In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, we honor National Caregivers Month by shining a light on the often unseen challenges and rewards of care-giving. Whether you’re a caregiver yourself or know someone who is, this conversation will provide encouragement, practical tips, and faith-based hope to navigate the emotional, physical, and spiritual toll of caregiving. Carole Leathem and I discuss the misconceptions about caregiving, the importance of self-care, and ways communities can better support caregivers. Join us as we explore how faith and community can sustain caregivers through their most challenging moments while also revealing the unexpected blessings caregiving can bring.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • There are 55 million caregivers in the world.
                                                  • Caregiving often comes with, as you've alluded to, a range of emotions. You called it a roller coaster of emotions, which I think is a beautiful picture of just exactly what's that like. It comes with grief, it comes with guilt. Sometimes it even comes with resentment.
                                                  • How can caregivers process these feelings in a healthy way? Well, for me, it really boils down to what I call asking the right questions. Because early on, I was asking, why in the heck is this happening? What did I do to cause this? I would cry out to God and say, why are you allowing this? I would say all of these why, why, why, why, why questions. And the why questions would get me nowhere. And one day, God, in my quiet time, said to me, “Carol, you're asking the wrong question.” And the question I needed to be doing asking was “okay this is happening, now what?” 
                                                  • What I have now done is, I have taken the focus off the why which is the focus on me and what I'm going through and what I'm feeling now I'm not diminishing those emotions but when I am focused on me and my hurt and my pain and my resentment, then I'm not doing anything to get myself off that hamster wheel or that roller coaster.
                                                  • When I ask the right question, which is, I make a statement to God, “okay, this is happening. Now, what?” Then I can take a step back, my eyes are us back on God. My heart is now open to the mistakes that I'm making. And the emotions now can one by one be dealt with. How do I deal with the resentment? Well, when I say to “God, you know, I didn't sign up for this.” God says to me, “Oh girl, yeah, you did. Remember those vows that you took 48 years ago.” And I'm like, yeah, you're right. And all that does is it just kind of puts it back into a perspective, because the perspective of focusing on me is not as healthy as the perspective of focusing on God.
                                                  • God didn't answer Job. When Job said why, God had something else for Job to learn. And when you say now what that offers God the opportunity to teach you either something about yourself, something about your spouse, or something about him. Yeah,… those are hard fought lessons. But I'm convinced that sometimes the only way we learn those lessons is walking through the hard times. I agree. I agree with you 100%. “
                                                  • I have this space created so that when I walk into this room, it's me. It's my safe place. It's my place where I do my quiet time. It's my place where I work. It's my place where I do my podcasts. It's where I do everything in this room. I had to create a space. And fortunately, I had a room that I could do that with. So I come in here and if life is particularly hard, I have to tell myself 15 minutes is not going to change anything outside these walls, but it can make a big difference in me.
                                                  • We make time for the things that are important. We can always find time if we make it important enough.
                                                  • The real bottom line is, and I deal with a lot of caregivers, we make time for what's important, and that is the honest truth. … we can always find time if we make it important enough. So we have to make it important. And I hope that you're listening because that is such a valuable nugget because we really do make time for what's important. The number of times that I hear people say, oh, I just don't have time. You know, we all have 24 hours in a day, And we are all going to spend every minute of those 24 hours, but we will spend it on what we deem is important. And so if your loved one that you are caring for, if you deem them as important, you need to also deem your own self -care as important.
                                                  • You can still experience joy even in the midst of sorrow.
                                                  • It comes down to perspective and how we’re looking at it. It’s not about me, even though it feels like it’s about me.
                                                  • We have to know our limits. There are some things when we’re dealing with caregiving there’s things I can do, and then there’s things I can’t do. The hardest thing is to understand where those boundaries are. What am I responsible for? What am I not responsible for?

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 25:40 “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
                                                  • 1 Timothy 5:8 “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
                                                  • Galatians 6:10 “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Carole Leathem:

                                                   Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                   Guest:

                                                  Carole is a speaker, teacher, author, storyteller, podcaster, and encourager, and she has been speaking at women’s retreats and teaching Bible studies for over thirty years. She is a certified mental health coach, professional life coach, and a spiritual formation coach. Carole is passionate about sharing her story with those God puts in her life and loves spending time with her 7 grandchildren.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, we honor National Caregivers Month by shining a light on the often unseen challenges and rewards of care-giving. Whether you’re a caregiver yourself or know someone who is, this conversation will provide encouragement, practical tips, and faith-based hope to navigate the emotional, physical, and spiritual toll of caregiving. Carole Leathem and I discuss the misconceptions about caregiving, the importance of self-care, and ways communities can better support caregivers. Join us as we explore how faith and community can sustain caregivers through their most challenging moments while also revealing the unexpected blessings caregiving can bring.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • There are 55 million caregivers in the world.
                                                  • Caregiving often comes with, as you've alluded to, a range of emotions. You called it a roller coaster of emotions, which I think is a beautiful picture of just exactly what's that like. It comes with grief, it comes with guilt. Sometimes it even comes with resentment.
                                                  • How can caregivers process these feelings in a healthy way? Well, for me, it really boils down to what I call asking the right questions. Because early on, I was asking, why in the heck is this happening? What did I do to cause this? I would cry out to God and say, why are you allowing this? I would say all of these why, why, why, why, why questions. And the why questions would get me nowhere. And one day, God, in my quiet time, said to me, “Carol, you're asking the wrong question.” And the question I needed to be doing asking was “okay this is happening, now what?” 
                                                  • What I have now done is, I have taken the focus off the why which is the focus on me and what I'm going through and what I'm feeling now I'm not diminishing those emotions but when I am focused on me and my hurt and my pain and my resentment, then I'm not doing anything to get myself off that hamster wheel or that roller coaster.
                                                  • When I ask the right question, which is, I make a statement to God, “okay, this is happening. Now, what?” Then I can take a step back, my eyes are us back on God. My heart is now open to the mistakes that I'm making. And the emotions now can one by one be dealt with. How do I deal with the resentment? Well, when I say to “God, you know, I didn't sign up for this.” God says to me, “Oh girl, yeah, you did. Remember those vows that you took 48 years ago.” And I'm like, yeah, you're right. And all that does is it just kind of puts it back into a perspective, because the perspective of focusing on me is not as healthy as the perspective of focusing on God.
                                                  • God didn't answer Job. When Job said why, God had something else for Job to learn. And when you say now what that offers God the opportunity to teach you either something about yourself, something about your spouse, or something about him. Yeah,… those are hard fought lessons. But I'm convinced that sometimes the only way we learn those lessons is walking through the hard times. I agree. I agree with you 100%. “
                                                  • I have this space created so that when I walk into this room, it's me. It's my safe place. It's my place where I do my quiet time. It's my place where I work. It's my place where I do my podcasts. It's where I do everything in this room. I had to create a space. And fortunately, I had a room that I could do that with. So I come in here and if life is particularly hard, I have to tell myself 15 minutes is not going to change anything outside these walls, but it can make a big difference in me.
                                                  • We make time for the things that are important. We can always find time if we make it important enough.
                                                  • The real bottom line is, and I deal with a lot of caregivers, we make time for what's important, and that is the honest truth. … we can always find time if we make it important enough. So we have to make it important. And I hope that you're listening because that is such a valuable nugget because we really do make time for what's important. The number of times that I hear people say, oh, I just don't have time. You know, we all have 24 hours in a day, And we are all going to spend every minute of those 24 hours, but we will spend it on what we deem is important. And so if your loved one that you are caring for, if you deem them as important, you need to also deem your own self -care as important.
                                                  • You can still experience joy even in the midst of sorrow.
                                                  • It comes down to perspective and how we’re looking at it. It’s not about me, even though it feels like it’s about me.
                                                  • We have to know our limits. There are some things when we’re dealing with caregiving there’s things I can do, and then there’s things I can’t do. The hardest thing is to understand where those boundaries are. What am I responsible for? What am I not responsible for?

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 25:40 “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
                                                  • 1 Timothy 5:8 “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
                                                  • Galatians 6:10 “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Carole Leathem:

                                                   Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book  Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /   Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

                                                   

                                                   Guest:

                                                  Carole is a speaker, teacher, author, storyteller, podcaster, and encourager, and she has been speaking at women’s retreats and teaching Bible studies for over thirty years. She is a certified mental health coach, professional life coach, and a spiritual formation coach. Carole is passionate about sharing her story with those God puts in her life and loves spending time with her 7 grandchildren.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   full 306 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 47943a54-8108-441c-964b-b288015cd4af 47943a54-8108-441c-964b-b288015cd4af Thu, 20 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2244 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/306-support-for-caregivers-navigating-challenges-e                                                   305 How to Love God, Yourself, and Others: Living Out God’s Love in Everyday Life 305 How to Love God, Yourself, and Others: Living Out God’s Love in Everyday Life Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this heartwarming episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we explore how to love God, yourself, and others as I welcome author Rachael Adams. We discuss why she wrote her devotional, Everyday Prayers for Love, and what she learned while writing it. Inspired by a moment in a church pew, Rachael shares how God called her to be His “love offering” and to help others experience His transforming love.

                                                  In this episode, we explore biblical love, the importance of accepting God’s love, and practical ways to love ourselves and others. With insights on prayer and purpose, this conversation invites listeners to discover how to start living out God’s love in everyday life.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The biggest battle has always been maybe striving for approval and striving for acceptance and for love. I grew up in a divorced home and my earthly father was not around much. And so I think I just always wanted just to be seen and known and loved. And So, I went in search of that.
                                                  • I'm so scared to disappoint anybody. I’m very much a people-pleaser, and so to really start to learn of God's love and experience that from my heavenly father has just really shaped the person I am and changed everything. It changed the trajectory of my life. And now I just want to share that with the world around me.
                                                  • Our early experiences, before we're even really cognitively aware of what's going on or what God has to say about it, really does shape our perspective and how we look at God, at the world, and ourselves.
                                                  • So how we’re living our faith maybe is different, but our goal is all the same. What does the Bible teach us about both the nature and the characteristic of love?
                                                  • After I had my son, I really believe that as God was teaching me how to become a mother, he was also teaching me how he was my father. And I believe that as I was holding my son, God was really holding me.
                                                  • He can use us flawed humans to be an expression of his love to others.
                                                  • The greatest act of love was that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us! That’s why he came to save us. He knew we weren’t perfect and that we needed him.
                                                  • It’s so important for us to be filled with God’s love first, to have anything to give to others. Scripture talks about the fullness of God. So what are we watching? What are we reading? Who are we surrounding ourselves with? What are the words that are on repeat? Nothing else in the world will satisfy but Christ himself.
                                                  • When we receive God’s love, there’s a freedom in that, and a security in that. There’s the saying that there’s nothing that we can do to make God love us any more, and there’s nothing that we can do to make God love us any less, and we don’t have to work for it.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 22:36-40 “’Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and without all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
                                                  • Ephesians 3:17-19 “And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,…grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and…know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
                                                  • 1 John 4:19 encourages, “I pray this not just for your sake, but also so that you may extend this newfound love to others. Afterall, ‘We love you because he first loved us.”
                                                  • Romans 8:39 “…No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
                                                  • Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Rachael Adams:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Author of A Little Goes a Long Way and Everyday Prayers for Love, Rachael Adams, hopes to help women realize God’s love and purpose for their lives. She and her husband, Bryan, live in Kentucky with their two children, Will and Kate. Her work has been featured on Good Morning America, Crosswalk, Proverbs 31, Today Parenting, and YouVersion. Connect with her by visiting rachaelkadams.com, searching @rachaeladamsauthor on Instagram and Facebook, and tuning in to The Love Offering podcast every Tuesday on your favorite listening platform. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this heartwarming episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we explore how to love God, yourself, and others as I welcome author Rachael Adams. We discuss why she wrote her devotional, Everyday Prayers for Love, and what she learned while writing it. Inspired by a moment in a church pew, Rachael shares how God called her to be His “love offering” and to help others experience His transforming love.

                                                  In this episode, we explore biblical love, the importance of accepting God’s love, and practical ways to love ourselves and others. With insights on prayer and purpose, this conversation invites listeners to discover how to start living out God’s love in everyday life.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The biggest battle has always been maybe striving for approval and striving for acceptance and for love. I grew up in a divorced home and my earthly father was not around much. And so I think I just always wanted just to be seen and known and loved. And So, I went in search of that.
                                                  • I'm so scared to disappoint anybody. I’m very much a people-pleaser, and so to really start to learn of God's love and experience that from my heavenly father has just really shaped the person I am and changed everything. It changed the trajectory of my life. And now I just want to share that with the world around me.
                                                  • Our early experiences, before we're even really cognitively aware of what's going on or what God has to say about it, really does shape our perspective and how we look at God, at the world, and ourselves.
                                                  • So how we’re living our faith maybe is different, but our goal is all the same. What does the Bible teach us about both the nature and the characteristic of love?
                                                  • After I had my son, I really believe that as God was teaching me how to become a mother, he was also teaching me how he was my father. And I believe that as I was holding my son, God was really holding me.
                                                  • He can use us flawed humans to be an expression of his love to others.
                                                  • The greatest act of love was that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us! That’s why he came to save us. He knew we weren’t perfect and that we needed him.
                                                  • It’s so important for us to be filled with God’s love first, to have anything to give to others. Scripture talks about the fullness of God. So what are we watching? What are we reading? Who are we surrounding ourselves with? What are the words that are on repeat? Nothing else in the world will satisfy but Christ himself.
                                                  • When we receive God’s love, there’s a freedom in that, and a security in that. There’s the saying that there’s nothing that we can do to make God love us any more, and there’s nothing that we can do to make God love us any less, and we don’t have to work for it.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 22:36-40 “’Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and without all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
                                                  • Ephesians 3:17-19 “And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,…grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and…know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
                                                  • 1 John 4:19 encourages, “I pray this not just for your sake, but also so that you may extend this newfound love to others. Afterall, ‘We love you because he first loved us.”
                                                  • Romans 8:39 “…No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
                                                  • Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Rachael Adams:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Author of A Little Goes a Long Way and Everyday Prayers for Love, Rachael Adams, hopes to help women realize God’s love and purpose for their lives. She and her husband, Bryan, live in Kentucky with their two children, Will and Kate. Her work has been featured on Good Morning America, Crosswalk, Proverbs 31, Today Parenting, and YouVersion. Connect with her by visiting rachaelkadams.com, searching @rachaeladamsauthor on Instagram and Facebook, and tuning in to The Love Offering podcast every Tuesday on your favorite listening platform. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this heartwarming episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we explore how to love God, yourself, and others as I welcome author Rachael Adams. We discuss why she wrote her devotional, Everyday Prayers for Love, and what she... full 305 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 22bd3f16-d70d-4c0d-a528-b6fd06c50abc f0908462-52bb-4256-bdc6-b28701137bcf Thu, 13 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000 1910 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/305-how-to-love-god-yourself-and-others-living-out                                                   304 Stop Reacting, Start Responding: Tips to Overcome Reactivity and Build a Healthy Marriage 304 Stop Reacting, Start Responding: Tips to Overcome Reactivity and Build a Healthy Marriage Episode Summary: 

                                                  When you marry, your heart overflows with enthusiasm, exhilaration, and optimism. You can’t wait to start a new life with this one whose mere presence or voice causes an abundance of feel-good neurotransmitters to your brain.

                                                  But soon after, differences in temperament, gender, family of origin, and marital expectations collide. You discover that the characteristics and behaviors you once found attractive in your mate, are now sources of irritation and frustration. Conflict erupts, causing reactivity in your temperament to surface more often. Before long, your dialogue degrades with frequent accusations and debates about perspective.

                                                  The enemy in this fight isn’t your spouse. Unmanaged reactivity, those involuntary and unregulated reactive messages you inadvertently send your spouse when you’re triggered is the culprit. Today, Dr. Donald Welch joins me to talk about how to recognize reactivity, understand its origin and work together to eliminate it, learning to respond rather than react in our marriages.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The enemy is not your spouse.
                                                  • Our temperament is really the way God made us. And so understanding how we are made allows us to become more comfortable and really at peace with who we are and who we are not, because we're created in God's image. And as we embrace our natural temperament, we are then in a better position to also accept and embrace our spouses temperament rather than trying to change them into someone they aren't. Before marriage, there's a tendency to attract to the opposite and after marriage to attack that opposite when it's really one of our best friends in a healthy marriage. So, as we learn more about our temperament, we can focus on enhancing our strengths and minimizing our weaknesses.
                                                  • The way God made us is to be able to protect ourselves. So for example, if I were to touch or you were to touch something hot, your hand or my hand would react before the brain knows it's hot. It's a way to protect ourselves. So what happens with the limbic system is that we can have all sorts of reactions. Like for example, if I squint my eyes, the other person or we're having dialogue, you might involuntarily react to it. Or if somebody screams or you hear something sharp, you might have a reaction to be awakened to see, do I need to take care of something? So we have hundreds of these normal reactions, and I've seen it for 40 years in marriages, in the sense of working with couples, that they will tend to react to each other before they're aware and then they're off to the races, and it's difficult to decrease that. So I define reactivity as involuntary, unconscious thought, uncontrolled relationship, impeding behaviors that originate from the feeling part of our brain known as the limbic system.
                                                  • We can have these involuntary reactions in a marriage that actually set up the marriage for difficulty. So since these originate from the feeling part of the brain rather than the thinking part of the brain, they're largely outside of our conscious awareness, so it can make it insidious to the relationship. So we want awareness.
                                                  • Is it possible that we react to present conflict even based out of past wounds in other relationships? - Oh yes, that's very common. In fact, it's why unfortunately, second marriages move up to about 80 % of potentially divorce because they're bringing in those reactions. In my opinion, those reactions, and there's what I believe support this, is that those reactions are coming into the relationship. And so now that person reminds me of something from the past. That's why those first eight years of life for any child are incredibly important because we are, the way our brains design, we absorb emotion and then that emotion can stay with us and then we can practice it without even knowing and then it's a reaction into adulthood.
                                                  • You suggest that the greater a couple's differences, the more likely their marriage will be to succeed. And that's not what society typically says, so help us understand that a bit. Yes, that's a fascinating concept that really God created the opposite, man and woman. And may I just quickly tie into this idea of wounds and how it may impact your current question because many people believe that their past is the past and it does not affect them now. Others may believe that their past can affect them but they think they have dealt with it and it is now irrelevant. The truth is emotions never forget.
                                                  • There is nothing ambiguous about marriage in the Bible. It is far superior to any other permutation—offering stability for kids, security for spouses, and higher rates of happiness overall.
                                                  • Intimacy only exists in an environment filled with trust and loyalty.
                                                  • Intimacy can be defined as a close relationship that does not operate at the expense of the self, with a self that does not operate at the expense of the other, and in which each person is fully known and fully loved.
                                                  • The freedom to choose to respond rather than react is a gift of being human.
                                                  • Love only exists where choice is present. When choice is eliminated, so is intimacy.
                                                  • The path out of reactivity to a responsive marriage is a continuous journey to discover the fulfilling and deeply satisfying marriage you desire.
                                                  • Fewer adults are getting and staying married. Those who do tend to have unrealistic expectations or poor communication and conflict resolution skills.
                                                  • When one understands and embraces their natural temperament and learns to minimize negative reactivity in the expression of their temperament, their important relationships will flourish and grow.
                                                  • A relationship lacking nurture wipes out any trust one may have in the other person.
                                                  • Unmet expectations are relationship killers.
                                                  • Intimacy only exists in an environment filled with trust and loyalty.
                                                  • We can’t simply change the definition of marriage and think you can solve relationship problems. No studies show any form of alternative family as better than what has been traditionally defined for millenia.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
                                                  • Ephesians 5
                                                  • Galatians 5
                                                  • Romans 4:17 As it is written: "I have made you a father of many nations." He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed--the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Donald Welch, Ph.D., LMFT:

                                                  Enriching Relationships Website / Welch Therapy Institute Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Donald Welch is a licensed marriage and family therapist, professor, and national speaker. He holds three master’s degree and a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas. He’s an ordained minister, and founder of the Center for Enriching Relationships, a professional counseling center with multiple sites in San Diego, California. He lives in Coronado, California with his wife, and together they have two grown children.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  When you marry, your heart overflows with enthusiasm, exhilaration, and optimism. You can’t wait to start a new life with this one whose mere presence or voice causes an abundance of feel-good neurotransmitters to your brain.

                                                  But soon after, differences in temperament, gender, family of origin, and marital expectations collide. You discover that the characteristics and behaviors you once found attractive in your mate, are now sources of irritation and frustration. Conflict erupts, causing reactivity in your temperament to surface more often. Before long, your dialogue degrades with frequent accusations and debates about perspective.

                                                  The enemy in this fight isn’t your spouse. Unmanaged reactivity, those involuntary and unregulated reactive messages you inadvertently send your spouse when you’re triggered is the culprit. Today, Dr. Donald Welch joins me to talk about how to recognize reactivity, understand its origin and work together to eliminate it, learning to respond rather than react in our marriages.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The enemy is not your spouse.
                                                  • Our temperament is really the way God made us. And so understanding how we are made allows us to become more comfortable and really at peace with who we are and who we are not, because we're created in God's image. And as we embrace our natural temperament, we are then in a better position to also accept and embrace our spouses temperament rather than trying to change them into someone they aren't. Before marriage, there's a tendency to attract to the opposite and after marriage to attack that opposite when it's really one of our best friends in a healthy marriage. So, as we learn more about our temperament, we can focus on enhancing our strengths and minimizing our weaknesses.
                                                  • The way God made us is to be able to protect ourselves. So for example, if I were to touch or you were to touch something hot, your hand or my hand would react before the brain knows it's hot. It's a way to protect ourselves. So what happens with the limbic system is that we can have all sorts of reactions. Like for example, if I squint my eyes, the other person or we're having dialogue, you might involuntarily react to it. Or if somebody screams or you hear something sharp, you might have a reaction to be awakened to see, do I need to take care of something? So we have hundreds of these normal reactions, and I've seen it for 40 years in marriages, in the sense of working with couples, that they will tend to react to each other before they're aware and then they're off to the races, and it's difficult to decrease that. So I define reactivity as involuntary, unconscious thought, uncontrolled relationship, impeding behaviors that originate from the feeling part of our brain known as the limbic system.
                                                  • We can have these involuntary reactions in a marriage that actually set up the marriage for difficulty. So since these originate from the feeling part of the brain rather than the thinking part of the brain, they're largely outside of our conscious awareness, so it can make it insidious to the relationship. So we want awareness.
                                                  • Is it possible that we react to present conflict even based out of past wounds in other relationships? - Oh yes, that's very common. In fact, it's why unfortunately, second marriages move up to about 80 % of potentially divorce because they're bringing in those reactions. In my opinion, those reactions, and there's what I believe support this, is that those reactions are coming into the relationship. And so now that person reminds me of something from the past. That's why those first eight years of life for any child are incredibly important because we are, the way our brains design, we absorb emotion and then that emotion can stay with us and then we can practice it without even knowing and then it's a reaction into adulthood.
                                                  • You suggest that the greater a couple's differences, the more likely their marriage will be to succeed. And that's not what society typically says, so help us understand that a bit. Yes, that's a fascinating concept that really God created the opposite, man and woman. And may I just quickly tie into this idea of wounds and how it may impact your current question because many people believe that their past is the past and it does not affect them now. Others may believe that their past can affect them but they think they have dealt with it and it is now irrelevant. The truth is emotions never forget.
                                                  • There is nothing ambiguous about marriage in the Bible. It is far superior to any other permutation—offering stability for kids, security for spouses, and higher rates of happiness overall.
                                                  • Intimacy only exists in an environment filled with trust and loyalty.
                                                  • Intimacy can be defined as a close relationship that does not operate at the expense of the self, with a self that does not operate at the expense of the other, and in which each person is fully known and fully loved.
                                                  • The freedom to choose to respond rather than react is a gift of being human.
                                                  • Love only exists where choice is present. When choice is eliminated, so is intimacy.
                                                  • The path out of reactivity to a responsive marriage is a continuous journey to discover the fulfilling and deeply satisfying marriage you desire.
                                                  • Fewer adults are getting and staying married. Those who do tend to have unrealistic expectations or poor communication and conflict resolution skills.
                                                  • When one understands and embraces their natural temperament and learns to minimize negative reactivity in the expression of their temperament, their important relationships will flourish and grow.
                                                  • A relationship lacking nurture wipes out any trust one may have in the other person.
                                                  • Unmet expectations are relationship killers.
                                                  • Intimacy only exists in an environment filled with trust and loyalty.
                                                  • We can’t simply change the definition of marriage and think you can solve relationship problems. No studies show any form of alternative family as better than what has been traditionally defined for millenia.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
                                                  • Ephesians 5
                                                  • Galatians 5
                                                  • Romans 4:17 As it is written: "I have made you a father of many nations." He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed--the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Donald Welch, Ph.D., LMFT:

                                                  Enriching Relationships Website / Welch Therapy Institute Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Donald Welch is a licensed marriage and family therapist, professor, and national speaker. He holds three master’s degree and a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas. He’s an ordained minister, and founder of the Center for Enriching Relationships, a professional counseling center with multiple sites in San Diego, California. He lives in Coronado, California with his wife, and together they have two grown children.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  When you marry, your heart overflows with enthusiasm, exhilaration, and optimism. You can’t wait to start a new life with this one whose mere presence or voice causes an abundance of feel-good neurotransmitters to your brain.... full 304 Dr. Michelle Bengtson cbcdff12-5949-4798-ab51-bbe9f360d107 1d5c7bbd-6bce-4e0b-bf75-b28701137bf6 Thu, 06 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2216 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/304-stop-reacting-start-responding-tips-to-overcom                                                   303 How to Handle Conflict: Choosing Healing, Honor, and Hope Over Retaliation 303 How to Handle Conflict: Choosing Healing, Honor, and Hope Over Retaliation Episode Summary: 

                                                  We've all had moments where we look back on a conflict, shake our heads, and think, why did I handle it that way?

                                                  With three decades of ministry experience, Donna Jones has had a front-row seat to--and been in the middle of--all kinds of conflict and she understands the regret, guilt, heartache, and hurt conflict can produce. But she also knows it's possible for God to use those chaotic, painful moments and turn them into opportunities for better connection with those around us. 

                                                  Whether you are dealing with daily disagreements or occasional blowups, our discussion on how to handle conflict will offer you a new paradigm, one where you learn how to honor God when you've been hurt, communicate when you'd rather retaliate, and move toward others when it seems easier to run away.

                                                  Have you ever looked back on a conflict and wished you'd handled it better? Donna Jones shares wisdom on how to handle conflict with humility, communicating effectively, and honoring God in tough moments. Learn how to turn conflict into an opportunity for growth and connection.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Conflict actually serves as a platform for personal development.
                                                  • During that difficult season, I had to come to terms with something. I would have nodded and given an intellectual ascent to this truth that I'm about to say, but I didn't yet have to really live it. And that is that you cannot change another person. You can only change yourself.”
                                                  • You cannot change another person. You can only change yourself.
                                                  • I need to stop focusing and obsessing over the other people and start really assessing myself and how I'm dealing with this, that's when breakthroughs started to happen.
                                                  • I grew in my relationship with the Lord because I really got to the point where I had to invite God into this and just say, God, this hurts. I invite you into this pain. I had to search the scriptures and go, I can't do anything about them, but I am responsible for handling my side of the to your word.
                                                  • Even in the worst-case scenario, when there's not reconciliation in a conflict, there can be personal growth. Because you surrender and you start to go, okay, Lord, I, this is where I really am putting my faith into practice in the really hard stuff of life.
                                                  • What is the single most important quality necessary for handling conflict in a healthy way? And why is that important? There actually is one single thing that if this piece is missing, you cannot handle conflict in a healthy way. It's that important. And interestingly, Michelle, you brought up Romans 8:28. God causes all things together for the good, for those who love him, for those who are called according to his purpose, but Romans 8:29 is, for whom those he foreknew, he predestined to become conformed to the image of Christ. So how he works things out is he causes us to be more Christ -like. And that one quality that you cannot handle conflict well without is humility. And that's the mark of Jesus.
                                                  • Humility does not make us a doormat for exploitation. It makes us a doorway for conversation. You can still be angry and be humble. You can still speak your mind and voice your thoughts, feelings, and opinions, and be humble, right? You can still have boundaries and be humble, because biblically, humility is strength restrained. So, it comes from a place of strength. It doesn't come from a place of weakness. And see, when I allow myself just to be humiliated, that comes from a place where I don't have a voice. I don't have, you know, it's a place of weakness, not strength. But if I am choosing to be humble, that is me making a choice to restrain myself.
                                                  • "At its root, all conflict is really a power struggle." So, think about that, whether it's your toddler or your teenager or your teammate at work, when there's conflict at its root, it's really a power struggle, right? So, who's gonna get their way? Whose voice gets heard? Whose opinion is validated? Who, you know, it's a power struggle.
                                                  • So, what ends up happening is that when conflict escalates, we're vying for power. You know “you listen to me. No, you listen to me. No, you listen to me. No, no, no, you listen to me, right?” It escalates. This is why that humility is like the key because humility doesn't play the power game. Humility takes the escalation and it deescalates it and that's why it is the superpower for handling conflict.
                                                  • There's a sweet spot in the middle where we're not avoiders or not attackers. We are addressers. And these are the people who actually go, okay, this is conflict. Avoiding it is not going to make it go away. It's still going to be there and it's still going to be eating me up inside.
                                                  • Here’s one that most people don’t think of, but it's particularly lethal, and that's being dismissive. So when another person approaches us with a concern, when we say things like, “again? like, oh my gosh, why are you making this such a big deal? Like, just get over it. Like, you're such a drama queen.” Or we roll our eyes, even though we're listening and we're nonverbally, that is basically saying, “I don't care about you, I care about me.” If that is not the precursor to destruction of a relationship, I don't know what it is because when we are dismissive of another person's concern, we're basically disregarding them and it's disrespecting them and you cannot have a relationship with disrespect.
                                                  • Don’t be dismissive. I would say that's a no -no. And then number two, I would think, is the way we apologize. And sometimes we think, “why do I have to be the first one to apologize?”
                                                  • Worrying about who goes first or, and this is just as destructive: is to apologize, but add the word “but.”  “I'm sorry that I hurt your feelings but you know you…” and then because what that was really saying is the whole fault is yours, I would never have done what I did if you didn't do first what you did and while sometimes that's true that doesn't go far in healing or reconciliation and it certainly doesn't show humility.
                                                  • Also, don't say, “I'm sorry you feel that way.” That is not an apology, because I'm not owning anything I did.
                                                  • Somebody has to go first. Why not me, right?
                                                  • It seems like through this conversation, the word that keeps coming to mind is “honor.” Conflict doesn't usually honor another person. It stirs up pain and accusation which produces resentment and guilt and remorse and all the things. Honor doesn't mean that you agree with them. It doesn't mean that you don't have your own side and your own justification. Isn't that what we all want? Isn't that what drives so much of conflict is we feel like we're dismissed, we're not seen, or not heard and that's what stirs us up to more conflict.
                                                  • We want to be understood so the faster we can say oh we don't have to agree with it but like, "Oh, I understand why you would feel that way." then it makes the other person feel acknowledged and seen, and it takes this escalation that's happening with the power struggle, 'cause the person's saying, "Please understand me, "please understand me, please understand me." And all of a sudden, it just tones it down, right? This does not mean that we don't have a voice and that we don't also say our perspective, or our opinions, but it's the way we do it is with honor, honoring the other person. And that's the difference.
                                                  • Whenever I have to have a hard conversation, I pray this, “Lord, let this be a conversation of three, not two.” That's a game changer. So, I would say that's number one. Just “Lord, let this be a conversation of three, you and me and the other person, not just two. “

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 15:18 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.
                                                  • Romans 8:28-30 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who i have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
                                                  • Hebrews 12:14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Donna Jones:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Podcast

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Donna Jones is a national speaker, church planter, pastor’s wife, and self-described “Bible-explainer” who has spoken in 26 states and four continents. A graduate of UCLA with a degree in interpersonal communications, she hosts the weekly “That’s Just What I Needed” podcast, and is the author of “Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide for Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regrets.” Donna is passionate about equipping others to know, love, and follow God in their real, everyday lives. She wants to know, love, and follow God this way herself. She and her husband, JP Jones, make their home in Southern California.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  We've all had moments where we look back on a conflict, shake our heads, and think, why did I handle it that way?

                                                  With three decades of ministry experience, Donna Jones has had a front-row seat to--and been in the middle of--all kinds of conflict and she understands the regret, guilt, heartache, and hurt conflict can produce. But she also knows it's possible for God to use those chaotic, painful moments and turn them into opportunities for better connection with those around us. 

                                                  Whether you are dealing with daily disagreements or occasional blowups, our discussion on how to handle conflict will offer you a new paradigm, one where you learn how to honor God when you've been hurt, communicate when you'd rather retaliate, and move toward others when it seems easier to run away.

                                                  Have you ever looked back on a conflict and wished you'd handled it better? Donna Jones shares wisdom on how to handle conflict with humility, communicating effectively, and honoring God in tough moments. Learn how to turn conflict into an opportunity for growth and connection.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Conflict actually serves as a platform for personal development.
                                                  • During that difficult season, I had to come to terms with something. I would have nodded and given an intellectual ascent to this truth that I'm about to say, but I didn't yet have to really live it. And that is that you cannot change another person. You can only change yourself.”
                                                  • You cannot change another person. You can only change yourself.
                                                  • I need to stop focusing and obsessing over the other people and start really assessing myself and how I'm dealing with this, that's when breakthroughs started to happen.
                                                  • I grew in my relationship with the Lord because I really got to the point where I had to invite God into this and just say, God, this hurts. I invite you into this pain. I had to search the scriptures and go, I can't do anything about them, but I am responsible for handling my side of the to your word.
                                                  • Even in the worst-case scenario, when there's not reconciliation in a conflict, there can be personal growth. Because you surrender and you start to go, okay, Lord, I, this is where I really am putting my faith into practice in the really hard stuff of life.
                                                  • What is the single most important quality necessary for handling conflict in a healthy way? And why is that important? There actually is one single thing that if this piece is missing, you cannot handle conflict in a healthy way. It's that important. And interestingly, Michelle, you brought up Romans 8:28. God causes all things together for the good, for those who love him, for those who are called according to his purpose, but Romans 8:29 is, for whom those he foreknew, he predestined to become conformed to the image of Christ. So how he works things out is he causes us to be more Christ -like. And that one quality that you cannot handle conflict well without is humility. And that's the mark of Jesus.
                                                  • Humility does not make us a doormat for exploitation. It makes us a doorway for conversation. You can still be angry and be humble. You can still speak your mind and voice your thoughts, feelings, and opinions, and be humble, right? You can still have boundaries and be humble, because biblically, humility is strength restrained. So, it comes from a place of strength. It doesn't come from a place of weakness. And see, when I allow myself just to be humiliated, that comes from a place where I don't have a voice. I don't have, you know, it's a place of weakness, not strength. But if I am choosing to be humble, that is me making a choice to restrain myself.
                                                  • "At its root, all conflict is really a power struggle." So, think about that, whether it's your toddler or your teenager or your teammate at work, when there's conflict at its root, it's really a power struggle, right? So, who's gonna get their way? Whose voice gets heard? Whose opinion is validated? Who, you know, it's a power struggle.
                                                  • So, what ends up happening is that when conflict escalates, we're vying for power. You know “you listen to me. No, you listen to me. No, you listen to me. No, no, no, you listen to me, right?” It escalates. This is why that humility is like the key because humility doesn't play the power game. Humility takes the escalation and it deescalates it and that's why it is the superpower for handling conflict.
                                                  • There's a sweet spot in the middle where we're not avoiders or not attackers. We are addressers. And these are the people who actually go, okay, this is conflict. Avoiding it is not going to make it go away. It's still going to be there and it's still going to be eating me up inside.
                                                  • Here’s one that most people don’t think of, but it's particularly lethal, and that's being dismissive. So when another person approaches us with a concern, when we say things like, “again? like, oh my gosh, why are you making this such a big deal? Like, just get over it. Like, you're such a drama queen.” Or we roll our eyes, even though we're listening and we're nonverbally, that is basically saying, “I don't care about you, I care about me.” If that is not the precursor to destruction of a relationship, I don't know what it is because when we are dismissive of another person's concern, we're basically disregarding them and it's disrespecting them and you cannot have a relationship with disrespect.
                                                  • Don’t be dismissive. I would say that's a no -no. And then number two, I would think, is the way we apologize. And sometimes we think, “why do I have to be the first one to apologize?”
                                                  • Worrying about who goes first or, and this is just as destructive: is to apologize, but add the word “but.”  “I'm sorry that I hurt your feelings but you know you…” and then because what that was really saying is the whole fault is yours, I would never have done what I did if you didn't do first what you did and while sometimes that's true that doesn't go far in healing or reconciliation and it certainly doesn't show humility.
                                                  • Also, don't say, “I'm sorry you feel that way.” That is not an apology, because I'm not owning anything I did.
                                                  • Somebody has to go first. Why not me, right?
                                                  • It seems like through this conversation, the word that keeps coming to mind is “honor.” Conflict doesn't usually honor another person. It stirs up pain and accusation which produces resentment and guilt and remorse and all the things. Honor doesn't mean that you agree with them. It doesn't mean that you don't have your own side and your own justification. Isn't that what we all want? Isn't that what drives so much of conflict is we feel like we're dismissed, we're not seen, or not heard and that's what stirs us up to more conflict.
                                                  • We want to be understood so the faster we can say oh we don't have to agree with it but like, "Oh, I understand why you would feel that way." then it makes the other person feel acknowledged and seen, and it takes this escalation that's happening with the power struggle, 'cause the person's saying, "Please understand me, "please understand me, please understand me." And all of a sudden, it just tones it down, right? This does not mean that we don't have a voice and that we don't also say our perspective, or our opinions, but it's the way we do it is with honor, honoring the other person. And that's the difference.
                                                  • Whenever I have to have a hard conversation, I pray this, “Lord, let this be a conversation of three, not two.” That's a game changer. So, I would say that's number one. Just “Lord, let this be a conversation of three, you and me and the other person, not just two. “

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 15:18 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.
                                                  • Romans 8:28-30 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who i have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
                                                  • Hebrews 12:14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Donna Jones:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Podcast

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Donna Jones is a national speaker, church planter, pastor’s wife, and self-described “Bible-explainer” who has spoken in 26 states and four continents. A graduate of UCLA with a degree in interpersonal communications, she hosts the weekly “That’s Just What I Needed” podcast, and is the author of “Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide for Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regrets.” Donna is passionate about equipping others to know, love, and follow God in their real, everyday lives. She wants to know, love, and follow God this way herself. She and her husband, JP Jones, make their home in Southern California.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  We've all had moments where we look back on a conflict, shake our heads, and think, why did I handle it that way? With three decades of ministry experience, Donna Jones has had a front-row seat to--and been in the middle of--all... full 303 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 30ae68ed-5896-4d6b-9833-bea3b94f6c1e c793c099-047f-4051-91f3-b28701138162 Thu, 30 Jan 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2571 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/303-how-to-handle-conflict-choosing-healing-honor                                                   302 Tips and Strategies for Coping With Seasonal Affective Disorder 302 Tips and Strategies for Coping With Seasonal Affective Disorder Episode Summary: 

                                                  In the last episode, Jessica and I discussed managing seasonal affective disorder with faith and hope. We talked about what Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is, how to recognize it, and some practical strategies to cope with it. This week, we’re offering additional tips and strategies for coping with SAD. If you’re struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder, these tips will help you find renewed strength and hope through practical, faith-filled strategies grounded in both Scripture and proven clinical insights. Learn how to care for your mind, body, and spirit while trusting God to meet you in your need.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Seasonal Affective Disorder is a mental health concern that typically shows up in the colder, darker winter months, linked to seasonal changes.
                                                  • Some common symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include fatigue or exhaustion, feelings of sadness, increased loneliness, discouragement, lack of motivation, decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities, change in appetite, and/or change in sleep patterns. If you’ve experienced more than a couple of these for more than a few weeks, you might be struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder
                                                  • When we struggle with depression or other mental health disorders, it can impact our faith walk in our faith journey.
                                                  • We need to address mind, body, and soul, so we cannot leave out the spiritual aspect of our emotional struggles.
                                                  • When you’re in the middle of seasonal affective disorder, immerse yourself in Scripture somehow, whether you listen to it read to you through the YouVersion Bible app, or maybe You just camp out in Ephesians and you just reread that book through the month of January and then pick another book in the month of February.
                                                  • Worship music, that ministers to my heart in so many ways, especially when it's so hard to read. When I'm depressed, I find it hard to comprehend what I'm reading, but worship music penetrates all of that and I still feel touched and connected and I can praise God.
                                                  • Rest is so important for one thing because we can have a tendency to push and push and push and push especially during the holidays. We have mentioned this in previous episodes that a lot of us take on a lot of extra duties during the holidays, but nothing ever comes off our plate. So then we get to January and February, we feel depleted.
                                                  • We cannot continue to pour out of an empty cup. So we have to take time to physically rest, mentally rest, and spiritually rest to recharge.
                                                  • God wants us to take some time to rest. And the good news about that is that while we are resting in him, he's doing things in the background. We're not going to do anything important. So, if we could look at these wintering months with expectancy of what God's going to do, maybe they won't have such a downcast experience in our soul.
                                                  • It's also important to stay connected with friends and family. When I have been in the throes of SAD,  as an extrovert, it's tempting to withdraw because it just takes too much energy. But I know that I need to have interaction and even having 50 % of my family introverts, they still need social interaction just because you're an introvert doesn't mean that you're not social. It means how you rejuvenate your energy. But it's so important to keep reaching out to friends, to stay connected to family, and your faith community for support.
                                                  • Call a friend once a week. And if calling is too much, send them a text just saying, "Hey, thinking of you, I have found when I am in the depths, the darkness, I am encouraged, I can encourage myself when I reach out to someone else." And it doesn't have to be something major, it could just be say, "Hey, thinking of you, I saw this funny, funny meme and it made me think of you." That type of a thing.
                                                  • God plants the name of somebody in my heart to reach out to. And it's countless times when I've done that and they've responded that that was just what I needed or I needed to feel seen and you did that today. So if that inkling is there, that's probably the Holy Spirit putting them on your heart.
                                                  • When we're struggling with seasonal effective disorder, it is really easy to read into other people's motives and intentions. And we don't want them to do that to us. Exactly. Exactly. We also want you to stay attached to the vine. And as Jesus talks about, he is the vine, God is the vine keeper, and we are the branches. And when we are apart from the vine, we will bear no fruit. It can be really tempting when we're struggling with any degree of depression to pull back. - Yes. - To not pray. To give up our time in the word. We want to encourage you to immerse yourself.
                                                  • If you’re having a hard time remembering truth, ask the Holy Spirit to remind you of truth. That is his job. Jesus said he was going to send the Holy Spirit to remind us of all truth but the Holy Spirit cannot remind us of truth that we have not already taken in. It’s our responsibility to be in the Word so that the Holy Spirit can remind us of the Word.
                                                  • Getting counseling or therapy is a very good practical thing to do and it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
                                                  • It’s important to get a medical physical to rule out medical contributors to your mood.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
                                                  • Psalm 18
                                                  • Psalm 118
                                                  • Psalm 30
                                                  • Psalm 74
                                                  • Psalm 77

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In the last episode, Jessica and I discussed managing seasonal affective disorder with faith and hope. We talked about what Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is, how to recognize it, and some practical strategies to cope with it. This week, we’re offering additional tips and strategies for coping with SAD. If you’re struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder, these tips will help you find renewed strength and hope through practical, faith-filled strategies grounded in both Scripture and proven clinical insights. Learn how to care for your mind, body, and spirit while trusting God to meet you in your need.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Seasonal Affective Disorder is a mental health concern that typically shows up in the colder, darker winter months, linked to seasonal changes.
                                                  • Some common symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include fatigue or exhaustion, feelings of sadness, increased loneliness, discouragement, lack of motivation, decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities, change in appetite, and/or change in sleep patterns. If you’ve experienced more than a couple of these for more than a few weeks, you might be struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder
                                                  • When we struggle with depression or other mental health disorders, it can impact our faith walk in our faith journey.
                                                  • We need to address mind, body, and soul, so we cannot leave out the spiritual aspect of our emotional struggles.
                                                  • When you’re in the middle of seasonal affective disorder, immerse yourself in Scripture somehow, whether you listen to it read to you through the YouVersion Bible app, or maybe You just camp out in Ephesians and you just reread that book through the month of January and then pick another book in the month of February.
                                                  • Worship music, that ministers to my heart in so many ways, especially when it's so hard to read. When I'm depressed, I find it hard to comprehend what I'm reading, but worship music penetrates all of that and I still feel touched and connected and I can praise God.
                                                  • Rest is so important for one thing because we can have a tendency to push and push and push and push especially during the holidays. We have mentioned this in previous episodes that a lot of us take on a lot of extra duties during the holidays, but nothing ever comes off our plate. So then we get to January and February, we feel depleted.
                                                  • We cannot continue to pour out of an empty cup. So we have to take time to physically rest, mentally rest, and spiritually rest to recharge.
                                                  • God wants us to take some time to rest. And the good news about that is that while we are resting in him, he's doing things in the background. We're not going to do anything important. So, if we could look at these wintering months with expectancy of what God's going to do, maybe they won't have such a downcast experience in our soul.
                                                  • It's also important to stay connected with friends and family. When I have been in the throes of SAD,  as an extrovert, it's tempting to withdraw because it just takes too much energy. But I know that I need to have interaction and even having 50 % of my family introverts, they still need social interaction just because you're an introvert doesn't mean that you're not social. It means how you rejuvenate your energy. But it's so important to keep reaching out to friends, to stay connected to family, and your faith community for support.
                                                  • Call a friend once a week. And if calling is too much, send them a text just saying, "Hey, thinking of you, I have found when I am in the depths, the darkness, I am encouraged, I can encourage myself when I reach out to someone else." And it doesn't have to be something major, it could just be say, "Hey, thinking of you, I saw this funny, funny meme and it made me think of you." That type of a thing.
                                                  • God plants the name of somebody in my heart to reach out to. And it's countless times when I've done that and they've responded that that was just what I needed or I needed to feel seen and you did that today. So if that inkling is there, that's probably the Holy Spirit putting them on your heart.
                                                  • When we're struggling with seasonal effective disorder, it is really easy to read into other people's motives and intentions. And we don't want them to do that to us. Exactly. Exactly. We also want you to stay attached to the vine. And as Jesus talks about, he is the vine, God is the vine keeper, and we are the branches. And when we are apart from the vine, we will bear no fruit. It can be really tempting when we're struggling with any degree of depression to pull back. - Yes. - To not pray. To give up our time in the word. We want to encourage you to immerse yourself.
                                                  • If you’re having a hard time remembering truth, ask the Holy Spirit to remind you of truth. That is his job. Jesus said he was going to send the Holy Spirit to remind us of all truth but the Holy Spirit cannot remind us of truth that we have not already taken in. It’s our responsibility to be in the Word so that the Holy Spirit can remind us of the Word.
                                                  • Getting counseling or therapy is a very good practical thing to do and it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
                                                  • It’s important to get a medical physical to rule out medical contributors to your mood.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
                                                  • Psalm 18
                                                  • Psalm 118
                                                  • Psalm 30
                                                  • Psalm 74
                                                  • Psalm 77

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In the last episode, Jessica and I discussed managing seasonal affective disorder with faith and hope. We talked about what Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is, how to recognize it, and some practical strategies to cope with... full 302 Dr. Michelle Bengtson c4c53078-58f9-42ac-a16d-cade8ba7fcd4 bc823784-5e06-422c-8d50-b28701137bf4 Thu, 23 Jan 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2242 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/302-tips-and-strategies-for-coping-with-seasonal-a                                                   301 Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder with Faith and Hope: Finding Light in the Darkness 301 Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder with Faith and Hope: Finding Light in the Darkness Episode Summary: 

                                                  Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a subtype of depression characterized by recurrent episodes that occur at specific times of the year, most commonly during the fall and winter months. It is officially classified as a type of major depressive disorder with seasonal pattern in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). If you struggle with seasonal depression during the winter months, know that you aren’t alone, and there is help. In this episode, Jessica and I discuss managing seasonal affective disorder: what it is, how to recognize it, and practical strategies to cope with it.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Seasonal Affective Disorder is a mental health concern that typically shows up in the colder, darker winter months, linked to seasonal changes.
                                                  • Up to 3% of the general population is prone to Seasonal Affective Disorder. But those who are prone to depression are 10-20 times more likely to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder.
                                                  • Some common symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include fatigue or exhaustion, feelings of sadness, increased loneliness, discouragement, lack of motivation, decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities, change in appetite, and/or change in sleep patterns. If you’ve experienced more than a couple of these for more than a few weeks, you might be struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder.
                                                  • There are many contributors to seasonal affective disorder:
                                                  • Biologically, studies have proven that the changes in the amount of sunlight significantly impacts our hormones and our mood.
                                                  • There are psychological contributors to seasonal affective disorder: we have just come off the holidays where there’s so much to do that it’s difficult to maintain a consistent schedule. Often we skimp on eating nutritionally, we skimp on sleep because we need more time to get everything done. Then come January 2nd, we wonder “what now? What do I have to look forward to now?”
                                                  • Seasonal affective disorder can impact our ability to hear God’s voice.
                                                  • There are examples in the Bible that if we were to apply current clinical diagnostic criteria 2000 years ago, there are several who probably would have been diagnosed with depression: Jeremiah, Job, David.
                                                  • The winter months look so barren. Everything appears dead, but it’s not. It’s a season of wintering. If the land doesn’t have winter rest, the soil gets depleted. If we can look at SAD as a time of wintering and hold on to the fact that God does a mighty work even in the winter, it can give us hope and it can build our faith even when we are struggling with SAD.”
                                                  • During the wintering months, God is doing something even our outside environment looks like it’s dead. If we focus on the fact that life feels really dark when you struggle with seasonal affective disorder, but God is our light.
                                                  • John 1:5 “The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” But when we’re struggling with seasonal affective disorder, it can feel like darkness has overcome us.
                                                  • For many who struggle with seasonal affective disorder, a light therapy lamp can be helpful because it mimics the sunshine we don’t get enough of during the winter months. You can sit in front of that light for 10-30 minutes a day while you’re reading, while you’re doing your quiet time in the morning, or have it next to you in the kitchen where you’re fixing a meal.
                                                  • Because seasonal affective disorder can have an impact physiologically on our body, it’s important during the winter months that we are still getting time outside, even when it’s not sunny.
                                                  • Research has shown that just taking a walk for 10-15 minutes outside significantly elevates mood.
                                                  • When it’s too cold to get outside, you can move with the sun through your house. Sit near a sunny window.
                                                  • During the winter months, it’s important to make sure you are getting enough vitamin D.
                                                  • During winter months, consider taking up a new hobby that would bring you joy.
                                                  • When I have too much time alone, I find myself in this weird cycle of knowing that I need to do, which is to go be by people, but not having the energy or motivation to go be by people.
                                                  • During the darker winter months, my daughter and I plan Saturday fun days. We made a list of things that we could do each Saturday through January and February so we’d have something to look forward to. They don’t have to cost any money. One Saturday it was “Let’s stay in our pajamas and watch morning movies.” One Saturday we did painting.
                                                  • You may not feel like you have the energy to exercise, so start small. Set a small goal of just 5 minutes, and over time you will find that that will give you more energy to exercise longer two or three days later.
                                                  • If you are suffering, cling to the Lord. He will guide your steps. He will walk you through this darkness.
                                                  • In part 2, we will be offering more practical strategies to help you cope with seasonal affective disorder.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 1:5 “The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:1-3 ““Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a subtype of depression characterized by recurrent episodes that occur at specific times of the year, most commonly during the fall and winter months. It is officially classified as a type of major depressive disorder with seasonal pattern in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). If you struggle with seasonal depression during the winter months, know that you aren’t alone, and there is help. In this episode, Jessica and I discuss managing seasonal affective disorder: what it is, how to recognize it, and practical strategies to cope with it.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Seasonal Affective Disorder is a mental health concern that typically shows up in the colder, darker winter months, linked to seasonal changes.
                                                  • Up to 3% of the general population is prone to Seasonal Affective Disorder. But those who are prone to depression are 10-20 times more likely to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder.
                                                  • Some common symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include fatigue or exhaustion, feelings of sadness, increased loneliness, discouragement, lack of motivation, decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities, change in appetite, and/or change in sleep patterns. If you’ve experienced more than a couple of these for more than a few weeks, you might be struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder.
                                                  • There are many contributors to seasonal affective disorder:
                                                  • Biologically, studies have proven that the changes in the amount of sunlight significantly impacts our hormones and our mood.
                                                  • There are psychological contributors to seasonal affective disorder: we have just come off the holidays where there’s so much to do that it’s difficult to maintain a consistent schedule. Often we skimp on eating nutritionally, we skimp on sleep because we need more time to get everything done. Then come January 2nd, we wonder “what now? What do I have to look forward to now?”
                                                  • Seasonal affective disorder can impact our ability to hear God’s voice.
                                                  • There are examples in the Bible that if we were to apply current clinical diagnostic criteria 2000 years ago, there are several who probably would have been diagnosed with depression: Jeremiah, Job, David.
                                                  • The winter months look so barren. Everything appears dead, but it’s not. It’s a season of wintering. If the land doesn’t have winter rest, the soil gets depleted. If we can look at SAD as a time of wintering and hold on to the fact that God does a mighty work even in the winter, it can give us hope and it can build our faith even when we are struggling with SAD.”
                                                  • During the wintering months, God is doing something even our outside environment looks like it’s dead. If we focus on the fact that life feels really dark when you struggle with seasonal affective disorder, but God is our light.
                                                  • John 1:5 “The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” But when we’re struggling with seasonal affective disorder, it can feel like darkness has overcome us.
                                                  • For many who struggle with seasonal affective disorder, a light therapy lamp can be helpful because it mimics the sunshine we don’t get enough of during the winter months. You can sit in front of that light for 10-30 minutes a day while you’re reading, while you’re doing your quiet time in the morning, or have it next to you in the kitchen where you’re fixing a meal.
                                                  • Because seasonal affective disorder can have an impact physiologically on our body, it’s important during the winter months that we are still getting time outside, even when it’s not sunny.
                                                  • Research has shown that just taking a walk for 10-15 minutes outside significantly elevates mood.
                                                  • When it’s too cold to get outside, you can move with the sun through your house. Sit near a sunny window.
                                                  • During the winter months, it’s important to make sure you are getting enough vitamin D.
                                                  • During winter months, consider taking up a new hobby that would bring you joy.
                                                  • When I have too much time alone, I find myself in this weird cycle of knowing that I need to do, which is to go be by people, but not having the energy or motivation to go be by people.
                                                  • During the darker winter months, my daughter and I plan Saturday fun days. We made a list of things that we could do each Saturday through January and February so we’d have something to look forward to. They don’t have to cost any money. One Saturday it was “Let’s stay in our pajamas and watch morning movies.” One Saturday we did painting.
                                                  • You may not feel like you have the energy to exercise, so start small. Set a small goal of just 5 minutes, and over time you will find that that will give you more energy to exercise longer two or three days later.
                                                  • If you are suffering, cling to the Lord. He will guide your steps. He will walk you through this darkness.
                                                  • In part 2, we will be offering more practical strategies to help you cope with seasonal affective disorder.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 1:5 “The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:1-3 ““Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a subtype of depression characterized by recurrent episodes that occur at specific times of the year, most commonly during the fall and winter months. It is officially classified as a type of... full 301 Dr. Michelle Bengtson cfc35e1a-b63e-402b-9dfe-fba1659717b5 ff868b81-35c5-45ae-b96f-b28701137bfc Thu, 16 Jan 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2017 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/301-managing-seasonal-affective-disorder-with-fait                                                   300 How to Transform Body Image Wounds into Sacred Scars with God's Healing 300 How to Transform Body Image Wounds into Sacred Scars with God's Healing Episode Summary: 

                                                  Research suggests that girls as young as three years old prioritize beauty, and children in elementary school frequently exhibit body image issues. In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, I chatted with Heather Creekmore of Compared to Who about the pain, wounds, and ultimately, sacred scars, she experienced as a result of body image issues starting in childhood. Together, we explore how God's healing can transform body image wounds into sacred scars, offering hope and freedom.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I really believed I had the perfect life, and yet, I have issues.
                                                  • I struggled with the way I looked, but I rationalized that as normal because I believed every woman struggled with that.
                                                  • Even within the church, the message that seemed to be presented was that part of being a good Christian was following whatever culture told you to follow in terms of taking care of your body.
                                                  • Counseling revealed the depth of my identity struggles. I had no idea to feel God’s love, and to feel accepted and approved apart from striving for it.
                                                  • Subtly through the years I had built an ideal that I was constantly trying to live up to.
                                                  • As I looked up to pastor’s wives, they seemed that ideal. They were thin and trim and beautiful. I believed my greatest gift for our congregation was to be that pastor’s wife.
                                                  • I came to realize that my greatest gift to our congregation was to be authentic and vulnerable and let them know I had struggles too.
                                                  • I’m angry at the enemy now, as I look at pictures of me as my younger self, and realize that there was nothing wrong with my body back then but he had me believing there was.
                                                  • What I’m most sad about is that I was so focused on fixing my body that I really didn’t pursue the opportunities that the Lord had for me to grow spiritually and things that I could have done for Him that would last.
                                                  • I invested a lot in deeds that will burn up, like what I ate and how much I exercised and how those two numbers went together to create a calorie-deficit.
                                                  • What turned everything around for me was when I had made my own body an idol. There was no weight or body size I could achieve that would bring about satisfaction, peace, and contentment.
                                                  • I had to come to a place or repentance and really turn from that…when I realized the depth of my sin and pride and self-righteousness, I realized I was a broken sinner desperately in need of a savior, just like everyone else. That changed it all for me.
                                                  • The enemy either comes in and says “oh that’s not that bad,” or he comes in on the other end and says “who do you think you are? You’re worthless!”
                                                  • God healed this wound through allowing me to build an identity on Him.
                                                  • God can only build if I’ve broken down what I tried to construct. He needed me to come to a clean foundation so I could build my identity on Him, which is stronger, more long lasting, and so much more secure.
                                                  • I have freedom in my body image, but that doesn’t mean I never have another thought what I weigh or how I look, but now I have the tools to respond, and I no longer agree with the enemy regarding those thoughts.
                                                  • When I’m tempted to go back to that kind of behavior, I instead ask, “What does God want me to do today? What does He want me to focus on?” He doesn’t want me spending my day thinking about my body—that renders me useless for God’s kingdom, and then the enemy wins.
                                                  • I do take care of my body, but that is no longer my primary purpose.
                                                  • As I have been able to share the darkest parts of my journey, the harder parts of my journey to share, the more others share that they can relate to those wounds and pain!
                                                  • Through my pain and wounds surrounding body image, God has given me a ministry to other women through my books, podcast, and coaching women to body image freedom, bring sacred scars for my pain.
                                                  • It is an overwhelming blessing to walk with women and lead them into freedom in Christ!

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Timothy 4:4 “For every creation of God is good, and nothing that is received with thanksgiving should be rejected, because it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.”
                                                  • Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Heather Creekmore:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram/ YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Heather Creekmore writes and speaks hope to thousands of women each week, inspiring them to stop comparing and start living. The host of the popular podcast, Compared to Who?, she has been featured on dozens of other shows and podcasts as well as on Fox News and HuffPost. She was a contestant on the hit Netflix bake fails show Nailed It. Heather and her marine-fighter-pilot turned pastor-husband, Eric, have four children and live in Austin, Texas.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Research suggests that girls as young as three years old prioritize beauty, and children in elementary school frequently exhibit body image issues. In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, I chatted with Heather Creekmore of Compared to Who about the pain, wounds, and ultimately, sacred scars, she experienced as a result of body image issues starting in childhood. Together, we explore how God's healing can transform body image wounds into sacred scars, offering hope and freedom.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I really believed I had the perfect life, and yet, I have issues.
                                                  • I struggled with the way I looked, but I rationalized that as normal because I believed every woman struggled with that.
                                                  • Even within the church, the message that seemed to be presented was that part of being a good Christian was following whatever culture told you to follow in terms of taking care of your body.
                                                  • Counseling revealed the depth of my identity struggles. I had no idea to feel God’s love, and to feel accepted and approved apart from striving for it.
                                                  • Subtly through the years I had built an ideal that I was constantly trying to live up to.
                                                  • As I looked up to pastor’s wives, they seemed that ideal. They were thin and trim and beautiful. I believed my greatest gift for our congregation was to be that pastor’s wife.
                                                  • I came to realize that my greatest gift to our congregation was to be authentic and vulnerable and let them know I had struggles too.
                                                  • I’m angry at the enemy now, as I look at pictures of me as my younger self, and realize that there was nothing wrong with my body back then but he had me believing there was.
                                                  • What I’m most sad about is that I was so focused on fixing my body that I really didn’t pursue the opportunities that the Lord had for me to grow spiritually and things that I could have done for Him that would last.
                                                  • I invested a lot in deeds that will burn up, like what I ate and how much I exercised and how those two numbers went together to create a calorie-deficit.
                                                  • What turned everything around for me was when I had made my own body an idol. There was no weight or body size I could achieve that would bring about satisfaction, peace, and contentment.
                                                  • I had to come to a place or repentance and really turn from that…when I realized the depth of my sin and pride and self-righteousness, I realized I was a broken sinner desperately in need of a savior, just like everyone else. That changed it all for me.
                                                  • The enemy either comes in and says “oh that’s not that bad,” or he comes in on the other end and says “who do you think you are? You’re worthless!”
                                                  • God healed this wound through allowing me to build an identity on Him.
                                                  • God can only build if I’ve broken down what I tried to construct. He needed me to come to a clean foundation so I could build my identity on Him, which is stronger, more long lasting, and so much more secure.
                                                  • I have freedom in my body image, but that doesn’t mean I never have another thought what I weigh or how I look, but now I have the tools to respond, and I no longer agree with the enemy regarding those thoughts.
                                                  • When I’m tempted to go back to that kind of behavior, I instead ask, “What does God want me to do today? What does He want me to focus on?” He doesn’t want me spending my day thinking about my body—that renders me useless for God’s kingdom, and then the enemy wins.
                                                  • I do take care of my body, but that is no longer my primary purpose.
                                                  • As I have been able to share the darkest parts of my journey, the harder parts of my journey to share, the more others share that they can relate to those wounds and pain!
                                                  • Through my pain and wounds surrounding body image, God has given me a ministry to other women through my books, podcast, and coaching women to body image freedom, bring sacred scars for my pain.
                                                  • It is an overwhelming blessing to walk with women and lead them into freedom in Christ!

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Timothy 4:4 “For every creation of God is good, and nothing that is received with thanksgiving should be rejected, because it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.”
                                                  • Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Heather Creekmore:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram/ YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Heather Creekmore writes and speaks hope to thousands of women each week, inspiring them to stop comparing and start living. The host of the popular podcast, Compared to Who?, she has been featured on dozens of other shows and podcasts as well as on Fox News and HuffPost. She was a contestant on the hit Netflix bake fails show Nailed It. Heather and her marine-fighter-pilot turned pastor-husband, Eric, have four children and live in Austin, Texas.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Research suggests that girls as young as three years old prioritize beauty, and children in elementary school frequently exhibit body image issues. In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, I chatted with Heather... full 300 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9be30cda-e3d3-4f73-b064-84b1f1ecc96a d65a3609-1ee0-473b-8522-b28701137c27 Thu, 09 Jan 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2128 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/300-how-to-transform-body-image-wounds-into-sacred                                                   299 Faithfulness Over Resolutions: Embracing God’s Path for You Right Now 299 Faithfulness Over Resolutions: Embracing God’s Path for You Right Now Episode Summary: 

                                                  As a new year approaches, many of us feel pressured to make big changes and set ambitious resolutions. But what if God is calling us to be faithful in the work we’re already doing? In this episode, we explore how faithfulness in our current season can bring deeper fulfillment, peace, and a stronger sense of purpose than constantly striving for the next goal.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Today we're going to be talking about faithfulness over resolutions, embracing God's path for you right now. As we enter into this new year, many of us feel pressured to make big changes and set ambitious resolutions. But what if God is calling us to be faithful in the work we're already doing?
                                                  • Think about this, just because the calendar changes doesn't mean that God's ready for us to move on a previous assignment or an area in our heart that he's working on. So in this episode, we're going to explore how faithfulness in our current season can bring deeper fulfillment, peace, and a stronger sense of purpose than constantly striving for the next goal.
                                                  • According to the US News and World Report, over 80% of people failed to keep their New Year’s resolutions.
                                                  • Society pushes us to aim higher at the start of each year, in the form of New Year’s resolutions, yet faithfulness in our existing roles can be just as impactful.
                                                  • You can go to the grocery store and stand in line and see on every single magazine that's there at the checkout lane about how to set the best New Year's resolutions and what the in vogue resolutions are. But that leaves out the very distinct possibility that maybe God is calling us to be faithful where we are instead of feeling the pressure by resolutions and change.
                                                  • Society may pressure us to “do more,” but God values consistency, dedication, and a heart of gratitude.
                                                  • There are unexpected blessings and growth that come from sticking to what God has already entrusted to us.
                                                  • Actionable steps to focus on faithfulness include:
                                                    • Practicing gratitude for current blessings.
                                                    • Setting intentions to honor God in daily tasks.
                                                    • Asking God for strength and wisdom to serve well where you are.
                                                    • Make a list of current responsibilities and consider how you can serve God more fully in each or let something go for a season.
                                                  • One of the problems with New Year’s resolutions is that they often tend to be grand and often unrealistic and unattainable, whereas I want to set people up for success, which takes time, faithfulness, and intentionality.
                                                  • Faithfulness is representative of consistency, but not perfection.
                                                  • Society always pressures us to do more, or be more. Do more or be more. And yet I don’t hear that from God in scripture. He values dedication to him and what he’s asked us to be obedient to.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 16:10 "Whoever is faithful with little will also be faithful with much."
                                                  • Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord."

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  As a new year approaches, many of us feel pressured to make big changes and set ambitious resolutions. But what if God is calling us to be faithful in the work we’re already doing? In this episode, we explore how faithfulness in our current season can bring deeper fulfillment, peace, and a stronger sense of purpose than constantly striving for the next goal.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Today we're going to be talking about faithfulness over resolutions, embracing God's path for you right now. As we enter into this new year, many of us feel pressured to make big changes and set ambitious resolutions. But what if God is calling us to be faithful in the work we're already doing?
                                                  • Think about this, just because the calendar changes doesn't mean that God's ready for us to move on a previous assignment or an area in our heart that he's working on. So in this episode, we're going to explore how faithfulness in our current season can bring deeper fulfillment, peace, and a stronger sense of purpose than constantly striving for the next goal.
                                                  • According to the US News and World Report, over 80% of people failed to keep their New Year’s resolutions.
                                                  • Society pushes us to aim higher at the start of each year, in the form of New Year’s resolutions, yet faithfulness in our existing roles can be just as impactful.
                                                  • You can go to the grocery store and stand in line and see on every single magazine that's there at the checkout lane about how to set the best New Year's resolutions and what the in vogue resolutions are. But that leaves out the very distinct possibility that maybe God is calling us to be faithful where we are instead of feeling the pressure by resolutions and change.
                                                  • Society may pressure us to “do more,” but God values consistency, dedication, and a heart of gratitude.
                                                  • There are unexpected blessings and growth that come from sticking to what God has already entrusted to us.
                                                  • Actionable steps to focus on faithfulness include:
                                                    • Practicing gratitude for current blessings.
                                                    • Setting intentions to honor God in daily tasks.
                                                    • Asking God for strength and wisdom to serve well where you are.
                                                    • Make a list of current responsibilities and consider how you can serve God more fully in each or let something go for a season.
                                                  • One of the problems with New Year’s resolutions is that they often tend to be grand and often unrealistic and unattainable, whereas I want to set people up for success, which takes time, faithfulness, and intentionality.
                                                  • Faithfulness is representative of consistency, but not perfection.
                                                  • Society always pressures us to do more, or be more. Do more or be more. And yet I don’t hear that from God in scripture. He values dedication to him and what he’s asked us to be obedient to.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 16:10 "Whoever is faithful with little will also be faithful with much."
                                                  • Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord."

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  As a new year approaches, many of us feel pressured to make big changes and set ambitious resolutions. But what if God is calling us to be faithful in the work we’re already doing? In this episode, we explore how faithfulness... full 299 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 0ed06173-b810-4ed7-9817-2c278b86a76a f84a9633-3d97-409f-b7bc-b28701137c68 Thu, 02 Jan 2025 11:30:00 +0000 2598 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/299-faithfulness-over-resolutions-embracing-god-s                                                   298 Finding Hope While Grieving at Christmas: Practical Tips for Navigating the Holidays with Hope 298 Finding Hope While Grieving at Christmas: Practical Tips for Navigating the Holidays with Hope Episode Summary: 

                                                  For many, the holiday season is synonymous with joy, family, and celebration. But for others, it brings a heavy reminder of loss and sorrow. Grief can take many forms—the loss of a loved one, a relationship that ended, or even a dream that was never realized. Today, we will navigate this journey together and explore how, even in the midst of grief, we can find glimpses of hope. You are not alone in this, and we’ll spend time talking about practical strategies, share stories, and dig into Scripture to see what God says about our pain.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I want to start by acknowledging your grief. During the Christmas season, there’s often a societal expectation to be cheerful and merry, but if you’re dealing with loss, that expectation can feel impossible to meet. Maybe it’s the first Christmas without a loved one, or perhaps the memories from past years are bittersweet. Your pain is real, and it’s valid. Remember that Jesus was familiar with grief.
                                                  • The shortest verse in the Bible, ‘Jesus wept’ (John 11:35), shows us that even the Savior of the world mourned with those He loved. He is not indifferent to your sorrow.
                                                  • The Psalms are filled with the raw, honest emotions of those who suffered, reminding us that we can bring our pain to God, and He meets us there.
                                                  • Grief is not linear, and it doesn’t follow a predictable timeline. It’s normal for grief to feel sharper around the holidays. Instead of suppressing your emotions or feeling like you need to ‘move on,’ give yourself the space to grieve. Remember that Jesus invites us to come to Him with our burdens.
                                                  • Rest doesn’t mean the absence of grief, but the presence of God in the midst of it.
                                                  • Traditions can be both comforting and painful. If certain traditions feel like too much to handle, give yourself permission to simplify. This might be the year you skip decorating the tree or decide not to host a large gathering.
                                                  • Consider creating a new tradition that honors your loss while bringing some comfort. Perhaps lighting a candle at the dinner table, donating in your loved one’s name, or hanging a special ornament in their memory.
                                                  • Grief and joy can coexist. Even in the midst of sorrow, there can be moments of beauty and joy—if we’re open to seeing them. This could be as simple as enjoying a favorite Christmas song, taking a walk in nature, or sitting quietly with a warm drink.
                                                  • Grief can feel incredibly isolating, especially during a season that emphasizes togetherness. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
                                                  • Christmas, at its core, is about the hope of Jesus. It’s easy to get caught up in the decorations, presents, and festivities, but the real meaning of Christmas is that Jesus came to be with us—God with us, Immanuel.
                                                  • He came into a broken world to bring light in the darkness. When grief feels overwhelming, return to this truth: that Jesus came to bind up the brokenhearted and bring hope to the hopeless.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 11:35 ‘Jesus wept.’
                                                  • Matthew 11:28 says, “‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’”
                                                  • Zephaniah 3:17 says, ‘The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.’
                                                  • Galatians 6:2 reminds us to ‘Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.’ Sometimes, we need others to help carry the weight of our grief.”
                                                  • Isaiah 9:2 says, ‘The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.’
                                                  • Psalm 34:18 - ‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’
                                                  • Revelation 21:4 - ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’
                                                  • Matthew 5:4 - ‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.’

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, Breaking Anxiety’s Grip, The Hem of His Garment, and Sacred Scars. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  For many, the holiday season is synonymous with joy, family, and celebration. But for others, it brings a heavy reminder of loss and sorrow. Grief can take many forms—the loss of a loved one, a relationship that ended, or even a dream that was never realized. Today, we will navigate this journey together and explore how, even in the midst of grief, we can find glimpses of hope. You are not alone in this, and we’ll spend time talking about practical strategies, share stories, and dig into Scripture to see what God says about our pain.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I want to start by acknowledging your grief. During the Christmas season, there’s often a societal expectation to be cheerful and merry, but if you’re dealing with loss, that expectation can feel impossible to meet. Maybe it’s the first Christmas without a loved one, or perhaps the memories from past years are bittersweet. Your pain is real, and it’s valid. Remember that Jesus was familiar with grief.
                                                  • The shortest verse in the Bible, ‘Jesus wept’ (John 11:35), shows us that even the Savior of the world mourned with those He loved. He is not indifferent to your sorrow.
                                                  • The Psalms are filled with the raw, honest emotions of those who suffered, reminding us that we can bring our pain to God, and He meets us there.
                                                  • Grief is not linear, and it doesn’t follow a predictable timeline. It’s normal for grief to feel sharper around the holidays. Instead of suppressing your emotions or feeling like you need to ‘move on,’ give yourself the space to grieve. Remember that Jesus invites us to come to Him with our burdens.
                                                  • Rest doesn’t mean the absence of grief, but the presence of God in the midst of it.
                                                  • Traditions can be both comforting and painful. If certain traditions feel like too much to handle, give yourself permission to simplify. This might be the year you skip decorating the tree or decide not to host a large gathering.
                                                  • Consider creating a new tradition that honors your loss while bringing some comfort. Perhaps lighting a candle at the dinner table, donating in your loved one’s name, or hanging a special ornament in their memory.
                                                  • Grief and joy can coexist. Even in the midst of sorrow, there can be moments of beauty and joy—if we’re open to seeing them. This could be as simple as enjoying a favorite Christmas song, taking a walk in nature, or sitting quietly with a warm drink.
                                                  • Grief can feel incredibly isolating, especially during a season that emphasizes togetherness. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
                                                  • Christmas, at its core, is about the hope of Jesus. It’s easy to get caught up in the decorations, presents, and festivities, but the real meaning of Christmas is that Jesus came to be with us—God with us, Immanuel.
                                                  • He came into a broken world to bring light in the darkness. When grief feels overwhelming, return to this truth: that Jesus came to bind up the brokenhearted and bring hope to the hopeless.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 11:35 ‘Jesus wept.’
                                                  • Matthew 11:28 says, “‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’”
                                                  • Zephaniah 3:17 says, ‘The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.’
                                                  • Galatians 6:2 reminds us to ‘Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.’ Sometimes, we need others to help carry the weight of our grief.”
                                                  • Isaiah 9:2 says, ‘The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.’
                                                  • Psalm 34:18 - ‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’
                                                  • Revelation 21:4 - ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’
                                                  • Matthew 5:4 - ‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.’

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, Breaking Anxiety’s Grip, The Hem of His Garment, and Sacred Scars. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  For many, the holiday season is synonymous with joy, family, and celebration. But for others, it brings a heavy reminder of loss and sorrow. Grief can take many forms—the loss of a loved one, a relationship that ended, or even... full 298 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 2d74b740-0c94-4219-be76-377031541f4e 9eaf9dcd-8989-486f-aeec-b28701138c51 Thu, 26 Dec 2024 11:30:00 +0000 1494 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/298-finding-hope-while-grieving-at-christmas-pract                                                   297 Word of the Year or Not? How to Reflect, Grow, and Plan Without the Pressure 297 Word of the Year or Not? How to Reflect, Grow, and Plan Without the Pressure Episode Summary: 

                                                  The end of the year often brings about a time of reflection over our growth and achievements from the past year, as well as dreaming and planning for the next year. A popular practice at the start of a new year is to choose “a word of the year” to guide our focus, goals, and resolutions for the next year. For some, this is a rewarding and encouraging practice. For others, it leads to guilt and shame when they don’t have a word of the year. 

                                                  In this episode, Dr. Michelle and Rev. Jessica share their experience with the practice, as well as several alternatives to the popular “word of the year” practice so that we can continue in the new year growing in our faith walk without the pressure thinking that there’s just one way to do this.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  When others are following a practice, and God is not confirming it for you, it can lead to you feeling inferior, feeling left out, feeling like a failure, and wondering if you don’t hear from God.

                                                  The problem with many of the quizzes out there is that we can skew the results based on our answers. They are strongly influenced by our personality, by our expectations of ourselves, and by what other people have said to or about us.

                                                  God’s approach with each one of us is not a cookie cutter format.

                                                  1.    Reflect on Past Growth

                                                  When we get to the new year, we can tend to be so focused on what's coming that we lose sight of what has been and what has God done for us in us and through us. And there is a good place to pause and reflect on how you grew and changed, especially over the past year. That can guide where we need to go, where we want more growth. What do we need to continue doing that the Lord has shown us?

                                                  Reflect on God’s Faithfulness Through Journaling Oftentimes God's faithfulness in our lives is tied to a difficult circumstance. And especially if we've had a hard year, we kind of just want to close the chapter on the year and open up the new one. And there is a time and a place. We don't want to dwell. Dwelling in negativity and the frustration part of it isn't healthy, but dwelling in God's faithfulness is absolutely healthy because remembering His faithfulness is going to carry us through future hard things. When we can look back, when we can reflect on the past year to see God's hand at work, even in those unforeseen circumstances. And if we can start celebrating those small victories, those unexpected lessons, when we can build altars of God's faithfulness, that can actually propel us into the new year.

                                                  Questions to ask yourself at the end of the year:

                                                  • “What were some of the most significant moments of the past year?”
                                                  • “What did I learn about myself through the trials and triumphs of the past year?”
                                                  • “How did I grow in my faith and understanding of God’s purpose?”

                                                  We can get so focused on our accomplishments that we lose sight of the fact that our purpose is to fellowship with God.

                                                  Our purpose and our call are slightly different things. When we pursue our purpose, our call will follow.

                                                  Our purpose is to fellowship with God.

                                                  God will not bless my call when I make my call my idol.

                                                  2.    Choose a Guiding Verse or Scripture  Choosing a Bible verse or a passage to meditate on throughout the year, it’ll help us keep our focus on God’s guidance rather than our personal ambition.

                                                  3.    Set up a monthly or quarterly intention. Break up the entire year inter shorter time frames. It might be monthly or it might be seasonal. Use those shorter time frames to focus on areas of growth that God is encouraging you. It could be, for example, to focus on one of the fruit of the spirit at a time, or focus on a theme like prayer one season and gratitude the next, forgiveness another, the armor of God, etc.

                                                  4.    Anchor Yourself in Prayerful Reflection If we are anchored in prayerful reflection, God will guide how he wants us to focus going into the new year.

                                                  Spending time in prayerful reflection gives us clarity, and it gives us wisdom, and it gives us peace.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
                                                  • Philippians 4:13 "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."
                                                  • Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.”
                                                  • John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
                                                  • 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:2 “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
                                                  • Hebrews 4:12-16 “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
                                                  • Hebrews 10:35-36 “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.”
                                                  • Joel 2:25 “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten— the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm — my great army that I sent among you.”
                                                  • Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  The end of the year often brings about a time of reflection over our growth and achievements from the past year, as well as dreaming and planning for the next year. A popular practice at the start of a new year is to choose “a word of the year” to guide our focus, goals, and resolutions for the next year. For some, this is a rewarding and encouraging practice. For others, it leads to guilt and shame when they don’t have a word of the year. 

                                                  In this episode, Dr. Michelle and Rev. Jessica share their experience with the practice, as well as several alternatives to the popular “word of the year” practice so that we can continue in the new year growing in our faith walk without the pressure thinking that there’s just one way to do this.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  When others are following a practice, and God is not confirming it for you, it can lead to you feeling inferior, feeling left out, feeling like a failure, and wondering if you don’t hear from God.

                                                  The problem with many of the quizzes out there is that we can skew the results based on our answers. They are strongly influenced by our personality, by our expectations of ourselves, and by what other people have said to or about us.

                                                  God’s approach with each one of us is not a cookie cutter format.

                                                  1.    Reflect on Past Growth

                                                  When we get to the new year, we can tend to be so focused on what's coming that we lose sight of what has been and what has God done for us in us and through us. And there is a good place to pause and reflect on how you grew and changed, especially over the past year. That can guide where we need to go, where we want more growth. What do we need to continue doing that the Lord has shown us?

                                                  Reflect on God’s Faithfulness Through Journaling Oftentimes God's faithfulness in our lives is tied to a difficult circumstance. And especially if we've had a hard year, we kind of just want to close the chapter on the year and open up the new one. And there is a time and a place. We don't want to dwell. Dwelling in negativity and the frustration part of it isn't healthy, but dwelling in God's faithfulness is absolutely healthy because remembering His faithfulness is going to carry us through future hard things. When we can look back, when we can reflect on the past year to see God's hand at work, even in those unforeseen circumstances. And if we can start celebrating those small victories, those unexpected lessons, when we can build altars of God's faithfulness, that can actually propel us into the new year.

                                                  Questions to ask yourself at the end of the year:

                                                  • “What were some of the most significant moments of the past year?”
                                                  • “What did I learn about myself through the trials and triumphs of the past year?”
                                                  • “How did I grow in my faith and understanding of God’s purpose?”

                                                  We can get so focused on our accomplishments that we lose sight of the fact that our purpose is to fellowship with God.

                                                  Our purpose and our call are slightly different things. When we pursue our purpose, our call will follow.

                                                  Our purpose is to fellowship with God.

                                                  God will not bless my call when I make my call my idol.

                                                  2.    Choose a Guiding Verse or Scripture  Choosing a Bible verse or a passage to meditate on throughout the year, it’ll help us keep our focus on God’s guidance rather than our personal ambition.

                                                  3.    Set up a monthly or quarterly intention. Break up the entire year inter shorter time frames. It might be monthly or it might be seasonal. Use those shorter time frames to focus on areas of growth that God is encouraging you. It could be, for example, to focus on one of the fruit of the spirit at a time, or focus on a theme like prayer one season and gratitude the next, forgiveness another, the armor of God, etc.

                                                  4.    Anchor Yourself in Prayerful Reflection If we are anchored in prayerful reflection, God will guide how he wants us to focus going into the new year.

                                                  Spending time in prayerful reflection gives us clarity, and it gives us wisdom, and it gives us peace.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
                                                  • Philippians 4:13 "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."
                                                  • Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.”
                                                  • John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
                                                  • 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:2 “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
                                                  • Hebrews 4:12-16 “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
                                                  • Hebrews 10:35-36 “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.”
                                                  • Joel 2:25 “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten— the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm — my great army that I sent among you.”
                                                  • Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  The end of the year often brings about a time of reflection over our growth and achievements from the past year, as well as dreaming and planning for the next year. A popular practice at the start of a new year is to choose “a... full 297 Dr. Michelle Bengtson d0b19e88-2fd0-4b8a-af81-8b6797f91b47 ef89cc49-f9c0-4075-99ee-b28701138cd6 Thu, 19 Dec 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2314 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/297-word-of-the-year-or-not-how-to-reflect-grow-an                                                   296 How to Find Healing and Purpose After a Life-Threatening Crisis 296 How to Find Healing and Purpose After a Life-Threatening Crisis Episode Summary: 

                                                  Continuing in our “Sacred Scar Story Series,” in this episode I chatted with Veronica Sites, who shared about the pain and wounds she endured that culminated in her believing the lies that she would be better off dead. She attempted to eliminate her life, but God had other plans. Now she shares the sacred scar that God is using to educate the church and leaders about how to respond in such a mental health crisis.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • If you have ever experienced depression or anxiety, or suffered the loss of a friend or loved one to death by suicide, then today is the perfect show for you.
                                                  • My guest today, Veronica Sites, is a first response crisis chaplain. She grew up in a family of first responders. And sadly, she lost a family member to death by suicide. This experience caused a shift in how she responded in such situations. But she also experienced some tragic life experiences which brought her to the point that she began to believe some lies that took her down the path to attempting to end her own life by suicide.
                                                  • When she woke up, she told a friend, “The Lord is going to use this for His glory. You just watch.” And that is what has happened, as she now serves as a first response crisis chaplain, and she tries to educate about suicide prevention.
                                                  • I no longer believe that my previous suicide attempt is my identity. I am first and foremost a child of God.
                                                  • My painful wounds that led to my desperation also made me forgiving and more merciful.
                                                  • Healing my wounds has caused me to have greater compassion and empathy for others who suffer.
                                                  • The enemy is relentless to get us to take his bait. Once I regained consciousness, I became angry that I believed the enemy’s lies.
                                                  • Victory is in the vulnerability with the Victor.
                                                  • The most unhealed wounds are usually the invisible ones.
                                                  • God can be trusted with our vulnerability.
                                                  • Our painful wounds can be both destructive and productive. We get to choose what result they will have by how we respond to our hurts.
                                                  • Can we listen to others as if there is something to learn?

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:18  “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
                                                  • Proverbs 17:17 says “A brother is born for a time of adversity.” 
                                                  • Proverbs 27:17 “Just as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen the minds of each other”.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Veronica Sites:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X / Pinterest / Vimeo / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Veronica Sites is a Trauma-Informed Behavioral Health Coach. She serves as peer support and creates safe space for ministering to survivors touched by and that seek recovery beyond the moral injury left by suicide. She challenges the church and her leaders to be equipped and have a plan and protocol every volunteer knows and uses to connect people to next step help.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Continuing in our “Sacred Scar Story Series,” in this episode I chatted with Veronica Sites, who shared about the pain and wounds she endured that culminated in her believing the lies that she would be better off dead. She attempted to eliminate her life, but God had other plans. Now she shares the sacred scar that God is using to educate the church and leaders about how to respond in such a mental health crisis.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • If you have ever experienced depression or anxiety, or suffered the loss of a friend or loved one to death by suicide, then today is the perfect show for you.
                                                  • My guest today, Veronica Sites, is a first response crisis chaplain. She grew up in a family of first responders. And sadly, she lost a family member to death by suicide. This experience caused a shift in how she responded in such situations. But she also experienced some tragic life experiences which brought her to the point that she began to believe some lies that took her down the path to attempting to end her own life by suicide.
                                                  • When she woke up, she told a friend, “The Lord is going to use this for His glory. You just watch.” And that is what has happened, as she now serves as a first response crisis chaplain, and she tries to educate about suicide prevention.
                                                  • I no longer believe that my previous suicide attempt is my identity. I am first and foremost a child of God.
                                                  • My painful wounds that led to my desperation also made me forgiving and more merciful.
                                                  • Healing my wounds has caused me to have greater compassion and empathy for others who suffer.
                                                  • The enemy is relentless to get us to take his bait. Once I regained consciousness, I became angry that I believed the enemy’s lies.
                                                  • Victory is in the vulnerability with the Victor.
                                                  • The most unhealed wounds are usually the invisible ones.
                                                  • God can be trusted with our vulnerability.
                                                  • Our painful wounds can be both destructive and productive. We get to choose what result they will have by how we respond to our hurts.
                                                  • Can we listen to others as if there is something to learn?

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:18  “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
                                                  • Proverbs 17:17 says “A brother is born for a time of adversity.” 
                                                  • Proverbs 27:17 “Just as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen the minds of each other”.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Veronica Sites:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X / Pinterest / Vimeo / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Veronica Sites is a Trauma-Informed Behavioral Health Coach. She serves as peer support and creates safe space for ministering to survivors touched by and that seek recovery beyond the moral injury left by suicide. She challenges the church and her leaders to be equipped and have a plan and protocol every volunteer knows and uses to connect people to next step help.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Continuing in our “Sacred Scar Story Series,” in this episode I chatted with Veronica Sites, who shared about the pain and wounds she endured that culminated in her believing the lies that she would be better off dead. She... full 296 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 41783174-146f-49a2-88db-47ee129b878a ad54ef99-27d9-46de-b731-b28701138ca7 Thu, 12 Dec 2024 11:30:00 +0000 1756 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/296-how-to-find-healing-and-purpose-after-a-life-t                                                   295 How To Celebrate the Holidays with Hope, Even When Life Isn’t Merry 295 How To Celebrate the Holidays with Hope, Even When Life Isn’t Merry Episode Summary:

                                                  Reverend Jessica Van Roekel joins me as a co-host as we take on the challenge of how to celebrate the holidays with hope, even when life isn’t merry. They explore common struggles such as grief, unmet expectations, loneliness, and the pressures of maintaining traditions. Offering both spiritual and practical tips, they share how to hold joy and sorrow simultaneously, lean into God's presence, and embrace meaningful rest during this season. Whether you're personally struggling or know someone who is, this episode provides encouragement and tangible ways to navigate the season with grace and hope.

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • "We can hold sorrow and joy simultaneously. God gives us grace to feel both and meet us there." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "Social media is just a shadow of people’s lives—you see the shape, but not the details." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "Rest isn’t running away from life—it’s running to life in Him." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "Those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "If you’re lonely, invite someone into your loneliness—it creates community and shared comfort." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "We can celebrate the holidays even when life isn’t merry by holding both joy and sorrow, knowing God meets us right where we are." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "Grief doesn’t follow a timeline—it ebbs and flows, and that’s okay." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "When we abide in Him, even the busiest season can feel more manageable." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "We often extend grace to others but forget to offer that same grace to ourselves." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "Loneliness during the holidays isn’t just about being alone; it’s about what feels missing." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "Doing the minimally acceptable is still celebrating—there’s no rule that says it has to be perfect." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Scriptures References:

                                                  • Psalm 30: "O Lord, my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me. O Lord, you brought me up from the grave."
                                                  • Deuteronomy 31:8: "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
                                                  • Romans 12:12: "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."
                                                  • Galatians 6:9: "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
                                                  • Romans 12:15: "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Reverend Jessica Van Roekel joins me as a co-host as we take on the challenge of how to celebrate the holidays with hope, even when life isn’t merry. They explore common struggles such as grief, unmet expectations, loneliness, and the pressures of maintaining traditions. Offering both spiritual and practical tips, they share how to hold joy and sorrow simultaneously, lean into God's presence, and embrace meaningful rest during this season. Whether you're personally struggling or know someone who is, this episode provides encouragement and tangible ways to navigate the season with grace and hope.

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • "We can hold sorrow and joy simultaneously. God gives us grace to feel both and meet us there." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "Social media is just a shadow of people’s lives—you see the shape, but not the details." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "Rest isn’t running away from life—it’s running to life in Him." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "Those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "If you’re lonely, invite someone into your loneliness—it creates community and shared comfort." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "We can celebrate the holidays even when life isn’t merry by holding both joy and sorrow, knowing God meets us right where we are." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "Grief doesn’t follow a timeline—it ebbs and flows, and that’s okay." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "When we abide in Him, even the busiest season can feel more manageable." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "We often extend grace to others but forget to offer that same grace to ourselves." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson
                                                  • "Loneliness during the holidays isn’t just about being alone; it’s about what feels missing." — Rev. Jessica Van Roekel
                                                  • "Doing the minimally acceptable is still celebrating—there’s no rule that says it has to be perfect." — Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Scriptures References:

                                                  • Psalm 30: "O Lord, my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me. O Lord, you brought me up from the grave."
                                                  • Deuteronomy 31:8: "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
                                                  • Romans 12:12: "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."
                                                  • Galatians 6:9: "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
                                                  • Romans 12:15: "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Co-Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Co-Host:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Reverend Jessica Van Roekel joins me as a co-host as we take on the challenge of how to celebrate the holidays with hope, even when life isn’t merry. They explore common struggles such as grief, unmet expectations, loneliness, and... full 295 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 2a582cac-cc2e-4cbc-afd2-a208c776c295 2d19e94c-9950-4931-acf2-b28701138d36 Thu, 05 Dec 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2491 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/295-how-to-celebrate-the-holidays-with-hope-even-w                                                   294 How to Change Your Life with Gratitude and Neuroscience 294 How to Change Your Life with Gratitude and Neuroscience Episode Summary:

                                                  As the holidays approach and we’re inundated with messages about thankfulness, you may wonder: does gratitude actually change anything? Is there science behind the old advice to “count your blessings”? In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m diving into the connection between Gratitude and Neuroscience, showing how adopting a heart of gratitude impacts not just our spiritual lives but also our mental and physical health. Scripture reminds us that what God commands aligns beautifully with how He created us. I’ll share 25+ unique things to be grateful for and why cultivating thankfulness, even during tough times, is so important. Together, we’ll look at how gratitude helps us see hidden blessings and keeps our focus on God’s faithfulness.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God never wastes our pain; even in difficulty, we can find reasons to be grateful.
                                                  • When we will be continually in a prayerful posture, God will open our eyes, our minds, and our hearts to recognize and then be willing to thank him for all those things that we had previously dismissed or not considered.
                                                  • I want to have a constantly grateful heart. So I'm consistently challenging myself to notice little or unusual things in life, those things that maybe I sometimes take for granted, and offer up thanks for them. 
                                                  • When God tells us to be thankful in all situations, He means it, but I believe that as we pray without ceasing, like that verse in First Thessalonians said, that God is the one who creates a thankful heart in us.
                                                  • Start with the small things. Start with the unusual things. And I'm firmly convinced that the more we cultivate an attitude of gratitude, the more we realize we really do have to be blessed and thank God for.
                                                  • Gratitude shifts our perspective, revealing God’s hidden blessings in our everyday lives.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 “Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Proverbs 17:22 “A merry heart does good like medicine.”
                                                  • Psalm 139:16 “Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”
                                                  • Romans 12:18 “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, Breaking Anxiety’s Grip, The Hem of His Garment, and Sacred Scars. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  As the holidays approach and we’re inundated with messages about thankfulness, you may wonder: does gratitude actually change anything? Is there science behind the old advice to “count your blessings”? In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m diving into the connection between Gratitude and Neuroscience, showing how adopting a heart of gratitude impacts not just our spiritual lives but also our mental and physical health. Scripture reminds us that what God commands aligns beautifully with how He created us. I’ll share 25+ unique things to be grateful for and why cultivating thankfulness, even during tough times, is so important. Together, we’ll look at how gratitude helps us see hidden blessings and keeps our focus on God’s faithfulness.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God never wastes our pain; even in difficulty, we can find reasons to be grateful.
                                                  • When we will be continually in a prayerful posture, God will open our eyes, our minds, and our hearts to recognize and then be willing to thank him for all those things that we had previously dismissed or not considered.
                                                  • I want to have a constantly grateful heart. So I'm consistently challenging myself to notice little or unusual things in life, those things that maybe I sometimes take for granted, and offer up thanks for them. 
                                                  • When God tells us to be thankful in all situations, He means it, but I believe that as we pray without ceasing, like that verse in First Thessalonians said, that God is the one who creates a thankful heart in us.
                                                  • Start with the small things. Start with the unusual things. And I'm firmly convinced that the more we cultivate an attitude of gratitude, the more we realize we really do have to be blessed and thank God for.
                                                  • Gratitude shifts our perspective, revealing God’s hidden blessings in our everyday lives.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 “Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Proverbs 17:22 “A merry heart does good like medicine.”
                                                  • Psalm 139:16 “Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”
                                                  • Romans 12:18 “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, Breaking Anxiety’s Grip, The Hem of His Garment, and Sacred Scars. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: As the holidays approach and we’re inundated with messages about thankfulness, you may wonder: does gratitude actually change anything? Is there science behind the old advice to “count your blessings”? In this episode of Your... full 294 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 20a1d692-8ce1-4abf-b150-87ed3a85c827 f7a086ef-92c6-4bbc-bb2e-b28701138d5a Wed, 27 Nov 2024 11:30:00 +0000 1207 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/294-how-to-change-your-life-with-gratitude-and-neu                                                   293 How to Heal and Trust God When Life Doesn’t Go as We Hoped 293 How to Heal and Trust God When Life Doesn’t Go as We Hoped Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode of the Sacred Scar Story Series on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I had the opportunity to talk with Becky Beresford about a significant time in her life when things didn’t go as she hoped and meticulously planned. She experienced physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual pain. She shares how her first pregnancy was fraught with complications, leading to grief, loss, and deep wounds. Becky discusses how she learned to trust God through her struggles and how He brought healing, leaving her with beautiful sacred scars as a reminder of His faithfulness.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Jesus is good and with us in our suffering.
                                                  • If it weren’t for my scars, I wouldn’t know Jesus like I do.
                                                  • When life turned out the opposite of what we prayed for, I had to heal from the inside out.
                                                  • God uses our seasons of painful darkness to bring comfort to others.
                                                  • Joy and grief can and often are intertwined.
                                                  • Scars remind me what God brought me through.
                                                  • The enemy kept telling me “You’re not enough.” The truth is, I’m not enough, but God is enough.
                                                  • Satan tried to define me by what I considered my failures but my God is bigger.
                                                  • God shines through my weakness.
                                                  • God is so faithful and he got me through the hardest time of my life, and now my scars are a reminder of what he has done.
                                                  • Rainbows aren’t actually arches, but rather, full circles. Rainbows can only be seen from a higher perspective, and God’s promises are still true even when I can’t see the whole picture.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Becky Beresford:

                                                  Website / Empowered Email Tribe / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  BECKY BERESFORD lives in North Carolina and is happily outnumbered by her husband and three wonderful boys. She is an author, speaker and coach with a Master's Certificate in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship from Moody Theological Seminary. Becky loves encouraging God’s Daughters to embrace Christ-centered empowerment through the truth found in the gospel, and her first book with Moody Publishers, She Believed HE Could, So She Did, released in March, 2024.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode of the Sacred Scar Story Series on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I had the opportunity to talk with Becky Beresford about a significant time in her life when things didn’t go as she hoped and meticulously planned. She experienced physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual pain. She shares how her first pregnancy was fraught with complications, leading to grief, loss, and deep wounds. Becky discusses how she learned to trust God through her struggles and how He brought healing, leaving her with beautiful sacred scars as a reminder of His faithfulness.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Jesus is good and with us in our suffering.
                                                  • If it weren’t for my scars, I wouldn’t know Jesus like I do.
                                                  • When life turned out the opposite of what we prayed for, I had to heal from the inside out.
                                                  • God uses our seasons of painful darkness to bring comfort to others.
                                                  • Joy and grief can and often are intertwined.
                                                  • Scars remind me what God brought me through.
                                                  • The enemy kept telling me “You’re not enough.” The truth is, I’m not enough, but God is enough.
                                                  • Satan tried to define me by what I considered my failures but my God is bigger.
                                                  • God shines through my weakness.
                                                  • God is so faithful and he got me through the hardest time of my life, and now my scars are a reminder of what he has done.
                                                  • Rainbows aren’t actually arches, but rather, full circles. Rainbows can only be seen from a higher perspective, and God’s promises are still true even when I can’t see the whole picture.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Becky Beresford:

                                                  Website / Empowered Email Tribe / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  BECKY BERESFORD lives in North Carolina and is happily outnumbered by her husband and three wonderful boys. She is an author, speaker and coach with a Master's Certificate in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship from Moody Theological Seminary. Becky loves encouraging God’s Daughters to embrace Christ-centered empowerment through the truth found in the gospel, and her first book with Moody Publishers, She Believed HE Could, So She Did, released in March, 2024.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this episode of the Sacred Scar Story Series on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I had the opportunity to talk with Becky Beresford about a significant time in her life when things didn’t go as she hoped and meticulously... full 293 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6920d629-c89d-468d-aa30-208db1361243 f811f5e0-bce6-46e5-9c65-b28701138d01 Thu, 21 Nov 2024 11:30:00 +0000 1462 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/293-how-to-heal-and-trust-god-when-life-doesn-t-go                                                   292 How a Mother Helped Her Child Find Healing from Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidal Thoughts 292 How a Mother Helped Her Child Find Healing from Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidal Thoughts Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this Sacred Scar Story, we hear from Lori Wildenberg who faced the unimaginable pain of nearly losing her daughter to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. She shares how her faith and God’s presence guided her through this dark journey, ultimately bringing healing to both her daughter and herself. This story of resilience and hope offers encouragement for anyone navigating similar struggles.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Wounds have to be uncovered and cleaned out before real healing can take place.
                                                  • With great pain often comes fear, which can paralyze us and keep us from moving forward.
                                                  • Even when God healed my loved one, I had to come to the realization that I, too, had wounds that needed healing.
                                                  • It sounds counterintuitive but helping others helped heal me.
                                                  • God sets us up to have interdependent relationships.
                                                  • God is our helper.
                                                  • Even those parts of our lives that are messy and embarrassing can be used by God to help others.
                                                  • If you suspect your child is suffering from anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation, ask them if they are thinking of hurting themselves, so you don’t have to ask, ‘Why didn’t they tell me?’ 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Hebrews 6:19 (NIV) We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. 
                                                  • John 16:33 (NIV) I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Lori Wildenberg:

                                                  Website / Facebook / FB Community / FB Group / Instagram Lori / Instagram Moms / Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Helping families create connections that last a lifetime is Lori Wildenberg’s passion. Lori, wife to Tom, mom of 4, and Mimi to 1, shares her stories of failures and successes, in her books and talks, to encourage and equip parents. As a licensed parent and family educator, she leads the Moms Together Facebook group and page and co-hosts the Moms Together Podcast. The Wildenberg home is nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. www.loriwildenberg.com 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this Sacred Scar Story, we hear from Lori Wildenberg who faced the unimaginable pain of nearly losing her daughter to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. She shares how her faith and God’s presence guided her through this dark journey, ultimately bringing healing to both her daughter and herself. This story of resilience and hope offers encouragement for anyone navigating similar struggles.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Wounds have to be uncovered and cleaned out before real healing can take place.
                                                  • With great pain often comes fear, which can paralyze us and keep us from moving forward.
                                                  • Even when God healed my loved one, I had to come to the realization that I, too, had wounds that needed healing.
                                                  • It sounds counterintuitive but helping others helped heal me.
                                                  • God sets us up to have interdependent relationships.
                                                  • God is our helper.
                                                  • Even those parts of our lives that are messy and embarrassing can be used by God to help others.
                                                  • If you suspect your child is suffering from anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation, ask them if they are thinking of hurting themselves, so you don’t have to ask, ‘Why didn’t they tell me?’ 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Hebrews 6:19 (NIV) We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. 
                                                  • John 16:33 (NIV) I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Lori Wildenberg:

                                                  Website / Facebook / FB Community / FB Group / Instagram Lori / Instagram Moms / Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Helping families create connections that last a lifetime is Lori Wildenberg’s passion. Lori, wife to Tom, mom of 4, and Mimi to 1, shares her stories of failures and successes, in her books and talks, to encourage and equip parents. As a licensed parent and family educator, she leads the Moms Together Facebook group and page and co-hosts the Moms Together Podcast. The Wildenberg home is nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. www.loriwildenberg.com 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this Sacred Scar Story, we hear from Lori Wildenberg who faced the unimaginable pain of nearly losing her daughter to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. She shares how her faith and God’s presence guided her... full 292 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 865b3f25-fe81-4c2f-85f3-11291563acce 031fc7d8-1c11-411a-bd58-b28701138da5 Thu, 14 Nov 2024 11:30:00 +0000 1501 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/292-how-a-mother-helped-her-child-find-healing-fro                                                   291 How to Find Freedom from Anger and Build Healthier Family Relationships Through Faith 291 How to Find Freedom from Anger and Build Healthier Family Relationships Through Faith Episode Summary:

                                                  Our guest on this episode, Kathy Collard Miller, was raised by a very angry mother. The more Kathy tried to suppress her anger, the more it surfaced. Over time, Kathy found herself expressing her anger toward her husband and her daughter, and in her own words, abusing her daughter. Kathy shares her painful wounds in this episode, as well as the story of redemption and the beautiful sacred scars God has given her.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Sometimes when we talk about pain or wounds, that pain comes at the hand of another. Sometimes we have no explanation for why it happens (like a medical diagnosis), and sometimes we participate in choices that end up hurting us in the long run.
                                                  • Frequently our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of pain.
                                                  • I have a unique story because not only was I wounded, but I wounded others in turn.
                                                  • As a child, I didn’t know I had anger building up inside of me until in third grade I hit my best friend in the nose. To this day, I have no recollection what I was so angry about that would prompt me to be aggressive. As my friend ran away sobbing, I thought to myself, “See what happens when you get angry, Kathy? You’d better never get angry again!”
                                                  • Buried anger doesn’t go anywhere except making a volcano.
                                                  • Also in the third grade, I was sexually harmed, although I didn’t know that that was what it was called, but I thought it was my fault and that I should have prevented it. So the anger toward myself began to build.
                                                  • My mother was orphaned at the age of ten, resulting in her own anger issues toward me that built up inside of me. I didn’t know it would be detrimental toward others later, but I’ve also found it to be something that God has used in amazing ways.
                                                  • I was never taught how to appropriately deal with my anger. As a little girl who tried to be perfect to prevent me from overreacting in anger, I then thought that God must be disappointed in me and that he was expecting me to be angry.
                                                  • Because of the messages I was taught when I was growing up, I pictured God in heaven with his arms crossed saying, “Kathy, when are you going to be perfect so I can love you?”
                                                  • After I became a Christian at 17, I married my husband, Larry. But all the anger that had built up in me started coming out toward him because his promise of being my perfect, Godly, prince charming didn’t come true and left me totally disappointed. I interpreted that as there was something wrong with me.
                                                  • I began to believe I wasn’t loved or cared for and that came out in bitterness, anger, criticism, never being happy, or never being thankful for what my husband did do.
                                                  • I began to displace my anger toward my husband on to my two-year-old daughter because when she misbehaved, I interpreted that as “I am a horrible mother.” In the end, I began to physically abuse her.
                                                  • I kept praying for an instantaneous deliverance of my anger and when God didn’t do that, I believed God had given up on me, and I almost took my life. But God intervened.
                                                  • We have to feel it to heal it, meaning we have to acknowledge the pain. Then we have to choose to engage in the healing process. When we don’t choose the path of healing, other things will happen and there will be consequences of that, until one day it comes out at a less opportune time and a less opportune way.
                                                  • Scripture talks about the importance of getting wise counsel. There is no shame in needing help. Seek out a trusted friend, a mentor, a counselor, a coach, or a pastor and get help.  Do not try to handle your pain alone.
                                                  • When people didn’t follow through with what they said they were going to do, I concluded that I was worthless.
                                                  • My healing began when I got the courage to share my sin with the women in my Bible study that I led in my neighborhood. They began to hold me accountable, and they prayed for me. I started taking parenting classes and reading books and I read in the Bible Ephesians 4:26, “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
                                                  • I can be angry, but surrender whatever it is that I think I deserve that’s causing my anger.
                                                  • God showed me that I was making my husband an idol because I was expecting him to be responsible for my happiness and contentment. That brought me to the place where I could acknowledge God was the only one who could fully meet my needs. And whether or not my husband ever changed, that was up to God.
                                                  • As God began to have me share my story, other women would come up to tell me that they struggled with the same thing but had never told anyone else.
                                                  • My relationship with my daughter and our family is healed. She has always supported my ministry sharing with others how I treated her. She loves God. I thought I had destroyed her, but God has redeemed us and brought about a sacred scar. There is always hope with the Lord.
                                                  • What the enemy intended for evil, God is using for good.
                                                  • There is healing when we share our story in safe places. We need to get wise, safe counsel so that we don’t go back into the hiding. Satan loves secrets and he loves to cause us to hide and isolate.
                                                  • My journey of healing came little by little by little.
                                                  • When we have thoughts, we need to stop and ask, “Is this the truth according to scripture?” If it is, we allow it in. But if it is not, we need to reject it, and recite God’s truth.
                                                  • If God can deliver a child abuser on the verge of suicide, God can help you!
                                                  • I was more concerned about Jesus’s reputation than my own. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 4:26 NIV “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
                                                  • Genesis 50:20 NIV “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
                                                  • Revelation 12:11 NIV “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                                  • James 5:16 NIV “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Kathy Collard Miller:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kathy Collard Miller (www.KathyCollardMiller.com) is the author of over 60 books including women’s Bible studies, a memoir, Christian living books and Bible commentaries. She is also a popular women’s conference speaker who has shared in over 30 US states and 9 foreign countries. She has been married to Larry for 55 years, is the mother of two and grandmother of two and lives in Boise, Idaho.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Our guest on this episode, Kathy Collard Miller, was raised by a very angry mother. The more Kathy tried to suppress her anger, the more it surfaced. Over time, Kathy found herself expressing her anger toward her husband and her daughter, and in her own words, abusing her daughter. Kathy shares her painful wounds in this episode, as well as the story of redemption and the beautiful sacred scars God has given her.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Sometimes when we talk about pain or wounds, that pain comes at the hand of another. Sometimes we have no explanation for why it happens (like a medical diagnosis), and sometimes we participate in choices that end up hurting us in the long run.
                                                  • Frequently our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of pain.
                                                  • I have a unique story because not only was I wounded, but I wounded others in turn.
                                                  • As a child, I didn’t know I had anger building up inside of me until in third grade I hit my best friend in the nose. To this day, I have no recollection what I was so angry about that would prompt me to be aggressive. As my friend ran away sobbing, I thought to myself, “See what happens when you get angry, Kathy? You’d better never get angry again!”
                                                  • Buried anger doesn’t go anywhere except making a volcano.
                                                  • Also in the third grade, I was sexually harmed, although I didn’t know that that was what it was called, but I thought it was my fault and that I should have prevented it. So the anger toward myself began to build.
                                                  • My mother was orphaned at the age of ten, resulting in her own anger issues toward me that built up inside of me. I didn’t know it would be detrimental toward others later, but I’ve also found it to be something that God has used in amazing ways.
                                                  • I was never taught how to appropriately deal with my anger. As a little girl who tried to be perfect to prevent me from overreacting in anger, I then thought that God must be disappointed in me and that he was expecting me to be angry.
                                                  • Because of the messages I was taught when I was growing up, I pictured God in heaven with his arms crossed saying, “Kathy, when are you going to be perfect so I can love you?”
                                                  • After I became a Christian at 17, I married my husband, Larry. But all the anger that had built up in me started coming out toward him because his promise of being my perfect, Godly, prince charming didn’t come true and left me totally disappointed. I interpreted that as there was something wrong with me.
                                                  • I began to believe I wasn’t loved or cared for and that came out in bitterness, anger, criticism, never being happy, or never being thankful for what my husband did do.
                                                  • I began to displace my anger toward my husband on to my two-year-old daughter because when she misbehaved, I interpreted that as “I am a horrible mother.” In the end, I began to physically abuse her.
                                                  • I kept praying for an instantaneous deliverance of my anger and when God didn’t do that, I believed God had given up on me, and I almost took my life. But God intervened.
                                                  • We have to feel it to heal it, meaning we have to acknowledge the pain. Then we have to choose to engage in the healing process. When we don’t choose the path of healing, other things will happen and there will be consequences of that, until one day it comes out at a less opportune time and a less opportune way.
                                                  • Scripture talks about the importance of getting wise counsel. There is no shame in needing help. Seek out a trusted friend, a mentor, a counselor, a coach, or a pastor and get help.  Do not try to handle your pain alone.
                                                  • When people didn’t follow through with what they said they were going to do, I concluded that I was worthless.
                                                  • My healing began when I got the courage to share my sin with the women in my Bible study that I led in my neighborhood. They began to hold me accountable, and they prayed for me. I started taking parenting classes and reading books and I read in the Bible Ephesians 4:26, “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
                                                  • I can be angry, but surrender whatever it is that I think I deserve that’s causing my anger.
                                                  • God showed me that I was making my husband an idol because I was expecting him to be responsible for my happiness and contentment. That brought me to the place where I could acknowledge God was the only one who could fully meet my needs. And whether or not my husband ever changed, that was up to God.
                                                  • As God began to have me share my story, other women would come up to tell me that they struggled with the same thing but had never told anyone else.
                                                  • My relationship with my daughter and our family is healed. She has always supported my ministry sharing with others how I treated her. She loves God. I thought I had destroyed her, but God has redeemed us and brought about a sacred scar. There is always hope with the Lord.
                                                  • What the enemy intended for evil, God is using for good.
                                                  • There is healing when we share our story in safe places. We need to get wise, safe counsel so that we don’t go back into the hiding. Satan loves secrets and he loves to cause us to hide and isolate.
                                                  • My journey of healing came little by little by little.
                                                  • When we have thoughts, we need to stop and ask, “Is this the truth according to scripture?” If it is, we allow it in. But if it is not, we need to reject it, and recite God’s truth.
                                                  • If God can deliver a child abuser on the verge of suicide, God can help you!
                                                  • I was more concerned about Jesus’s reputation than my own. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 4:26 NIV “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
                                                  • Genesis 50:20 NIV “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
                                                  • Revelation 12:11 NIV “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                                  • James 5:16 NIV “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Kathy Collard Miller:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kathy Collard Miller (www.KathyCollardMiller.com) is the author of over 60 books including women’s Bible studies, a memoir, Christian living books and Bible commentaries. She is also a popular women’s conference speaker who has shared in over 30 US states and 9 foreign countries. She has been married to Larry for 55 years, is the mother of two and grandmother of two and lives in Boise, Idaho.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Our guest on this episode, Kathy Collard Miller, was raised by a very angry mother. The more Kathy tried to suppress her anger, the more it surfaced. Over time, Kathy found herself expressing her anger toward her husband and her... full 291 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6d3264f6-bb5e-4db8-a49c-fe81eb312196 17affa2b-ae0b-4e7f-82e4-b2870113effa Thu, 07 Nov 2024 11:30:00 +0000 1892 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/291-how-to-find-freedom-from-anger-and-build-healt                                                   290 How to Pray in Faith and Release Control to God’s Timing 290 How to Pray in Faith and Release Control to God’s Timing Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever prayed fervently for something for years, or even decades and began to doubt that God would answer your prayers? My guest on today’s episode is Bunny Yekzaman who prayed for over 20 years for her Muslim husband to receive God’s gift of salvation. Her journey took a powerful turn when she learned to pray in faith and release control to God’s timing. Thought it was a painful time in her life, Bunny shares how God redeemed that pain, bringing beautiful sacred scars in place of her painful wounds. 

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Sometimes we create wounds ourselves and we don’t even realize we are doing it.
                                                  • I was raised to not marry an unbeliever. I was told “don’t do this” or “don’t do that” but there was really no education as to why. But there are important principles in God’s word about why we shouldn’t be unequally yoked—it’s an element of protection that God puts around us if we will just obey his word.
                                                  • Sometimes we don’t really mean to disobey Him, but sometimes we just really don’t understand that that protection is coming from God.
                                                  • I knew not to marry an unbeliever, but I didn’t understand why. Was that really from God, or was that just another rule to follow?
                                                  • When I got into college, I met a man who was totally on the other side of the world from me. He was raised Muslim, raised in Iran, came here to go to school, denounced his beliefs, accepted the communist teaching and was teaching that in an undergraduate class at the college I attended. When they told me to stay away from him, it just made me want to run toward him.
                                                  • When I realized that I was a believer and he was an unbeliever, I began to think that maybe this was supposed to be my goal: to change this man so I spent 8 years trying to change him. We knew each other for eight months and then got married. Nobody said it would work, and it almost didn’t because I did step into a relationship unequally yoked.
                                                  • We think love is going to cure everything, but there is not true love where there isn’t a relationship with Christ.
                                                  • So maybe I had this deep abiding love for Jesus and for my husband, but my husband couldn’t understand that because he didn’t know the love of Christ.
                                                  • I went for years, trying to prove to him who Christ was and that he needed to know Jesus. I raised our children in the church, and it became a real battle because he began to believe that he was in competition with God.
                                                  • I realized that I had stepped outside of God’s will when I married him. I prayed and prayed for his salvation, and I learned how to love my husband with the love of Christ and not expect anything in return.
                                                  • He was a great husband and a great father in all other aspects, but it angered him that the children and I were praying for him and that I could have this confidence that when I died, I would go to heaven.
                                                  • In the Muslim faith there was an evidence of works in everything they did, so even though he denounced his faith, he couldn’t understand how the gift of eternal life was based on God’s grace.
                                                  • It took about 20 years of marriage before I really started seeing change. My children were on a mission trip, and I was at home, on my knees again praying for God to save my husband when I sensed a gentle voice in my spirit saying, “Bunny, don’t ask me again.” The Bible talks about being persistent in prayer, so I didn’t understand what God meant.
                                                  • There are three reasons why we often continue to plead with God to answer our prayers: 1) impatience, 2) wanting to be in control, and 3) not believing God for his answer.
                                                  • God was showing me that I was asking him for my husband’s salvation, but I wasn’t asking in faith—I was asking in doubt.
                                                  • We can have confidence when we pray. There is no shred of doubt that when we ask God according to his will, it will be done. But that means we have to know what his will is.
                                                  • If I’m praying for someone’s salvation, that’s God’s will. And if I believe that’s God’s will, and it is, then I can have a confident assurance that God is going to do what he said he is going to do. I can hold onto that promise and it changes the way I pray!
                                                  • After that, I stopped praying asking God to save my husband, and began praying, “Thank you God for saving my husband.” I’m thanking God for what he said he would do.
                                                  • He wants us to have faith. Faith isn’t believing after we see it, it’s believing before we see it.
                                                  • When I realized God’s word is true, I wasn’t trusting in me, I was trusting Him.
                                                  • Ultimately, my husband gave his life to Christ, he surrendered to the ministry, went to seminary, and has been the pastor at the nursing home where I work for three years now.
                                                  • Get out of God’s way. Get on your knees and thank God in advance for whatever it is you’re praying for, and trust him.
                                                  • Don’t pray with an agenda. Praying believing God will answer, but then surrender the how and the when to him. That way he gets the glory, but we get to witness God’s goodness and faithfulness.
                                                  • God has never and will never go back on a promise.
                                                  • If you stop getting into God’s word, that’s when the flesh takes over.  The flesh will start questioning and doubting when you aren’t studying God’s word.
                                                  • God’s word is where you will find the strength, the wisdom, the courage, the faith, and everything you need to push through your painful trial. The enemy will do everything he can to try to doubt God.
                                                  • Hold onto God’s promises. The only strength that you have is God’s word.
                                                  • The longer a tea bag stays in boiling water, the stronger that tea becomes. Likewise, the more we stay in God’s word, the stronger we become, not in our own strength but in His, so that when those trials come, we can stand steadfast on those promises we know.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 6:14 NIV “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
                                                  • James 1:6 NIV “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.”
                                                  • 2 Peter 3:9 NIV “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
                                                  • 1 John 5:14-15 NIV “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.  And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.”
                                                  • Joshua 23:14 NIV "Now I am about to go the way of all the earth. You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the LORD your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled; not one has failed.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:19 NIV “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Genesis 50:20 NIV “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:6 NIV “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Bunny Zekzaman:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Bunny Yekzaman is a child of the King, a wife of over 40 years, mother of four & grandmother of many grandchildren  She is a disaster relief chaplain, and works as an Enrichment specialist for a nursing home. Her passion is sharing God’s love & truth with a faith in His faithfulness to His promises. She lives with hope for her lost family and friends and finds it her calling to pray in faith for them.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever prayed fervently for something for years, or even decades and began to doubt that God would answer your prayers? My guest on today’s episode is Bunny Yekzaman who prayed for over 20 years for her Muslim husband to receive God’s gift of salvation. Her journey took a powerful turn when she learned to pray in faith and release control to God’s timing. Thought it was a painful time in her life, Bunny shares how God redeemed that pain, bringing beautiful sacred scars in place of her painful wounds. 

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Sometimes we create wounds ourselves and we don’t even realize we are doing it.
                                                  • I was raised to not marry an unbeliever. I was told “don’t do this” or “don’t do that” but there was really no education as to why. But there are important principles in God’s word about why we shouldn’t be unequally yoked—it’s an element of protection that God puts around us if we will just obey his word.
                                                  • Sometimes we don’t really mean to disobey Him, but sometimes we just really don’t understand that that protection is coming from God.
                                                  • I knew not to marry an unbeliever, but I didn’t understand why. Was that really from God, or was that just another rule to follow?
                                                  • When I got into college, I met a man who was totally on the other side of the world from me. He was raised Muslim, raised in Iran, came here to go to school, denounced his beliefs, accepted the communist teaching and was teaching that in an undergraduate class at the college I attended. When they told me to stay away from him, it just made me want to run toward him.
                                                  • When I realized that I was a believer and he was an unbeliever, I began to think that maybe this was supposed to be my goal: to change this man so I spent 8 years trying to change him. We knew each other for eight months and then got married. Nobody said it would work, and it almost didn’t because I did step into a relationship unequally yoked.
                                                  • We think love is going to cure everything, but there is not true love where there isn’t a relationship with Christ.
                                                  • So maybe I had this deep abiding love for Jesus and for my husband, but my husband couldn’t understand that because he didn’t know the love of Christ.
                                                  • I went for years, trying to prove to him who Christ was and that he needed to know Jesus. I raised our children in the church, and it became a real battle because he began to believe that he was in competition with God.
                                                  • I realized that I had stepped outside of God’s will when I married him. I prayed and prayed for his salvation, and I learned how to love my husband with the love of Christ and not expect anything in return.
                                                  • He was a great husband and a great father in all other aspects, but it angered him that the children and I were praying for him and that I could have this confidence that when I died, I would go to heaven.
                                                  • In the Muslim faith there was an evidence of works in everything they did, so even though he denounced his faith, he couldn’t understand how the gift of eternal life was based on God’s grace.
                                                  • It took about 20 years of marriage before I really started seeing change. My children were on a mission trip, and I was at home, on my knees again praying for God to save my husband when I sensed a gentle voice in my spirit saying, “Bunny, don’t ask me again.” The Bible talks about being persistent in prayer, so I didn’t understand what God meant.
                                                  • There are three reasons why we often continue to plead with God to answer our prayers: 1) impatience, 2) wanting to be in control, and 3) not believing God for his answer.
                                                  • God was showing me that I was asking him for my husband’s salvation, but I wasn’t asking in faith—I was asking in doubt.
                                                  • We can have confidence when we pray. There is no shred of doubt that when we ask God according to his will, it will be done. But that means we have to know what his will is.
                                                  • If I’m praying for someone’s salvation, that’s God’s will. And if I believe that’s God’s will, and it is, then I can have a confident assurance that God is going to do what he said he is going to do. I can hold onto that promise and it changes the way I pray!
                                                  • After that, I stopped praying asking God to save my husband, and began praying, “Thank you God for saving my husband.” I’m thanking God for what he said he would do.
                                                  • He wants us to have faith. Faith isn’t believing after we see it, it’s believing before we see it.
                                                  • When I realized God’s word is true, I wasn’t trusting in me, I was trusting Him.
                                                  • Ultimately, my husband gave his life to Christ, he surrendered to the ministry, went to seminary, and has been the pastor at the nursing home where I work for three years now.
                                                  • Get out of God’s way. Get on your knees and thank God in advance for whatever it is you’re praying for, and trust him.
                                                  • Don’t pray with an agenda. Praying believing God will answer, but then surrender the how and the when to him. That way he gets the glory, but we get to witness God’s goodness and faithfulness.
                                                  • God has never and will never go back on a promise.
                                                  • If you stop getting into God’s word, that’s when the flesh takes over.  The flesh will start questioning and doubting when you aren’t studying God’s word.
                                                  • God’s word is where you will find the strength, the wisdom, the courage, the faith, and everything you need to push through your painful trial. The enemy will do everything he can to try to doubt God.
                                                  • Hold onto God’s promises. The only strength that you have is God’s word.
                                                  • The longer a tea bag stays in boiling water, the stronger that tea becomes. Likewise, the more we stay in God’s word, the stronger we become, not in our own strength but in His, so that when those trials come, we can stand steadfast on those promises we know.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 6:14 NIV “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
                                                  • James 1:6 NIV “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.”
                                                  • 2 Peter 3:9 NIV “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
                                                  • 1 John 5:14-15 NIV “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.  And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.”
                                                  • Joshua 23:14 NIV "Now I am about to go the way of all the earth. You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the LORD your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled; not one has failed.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:19 NIV “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Genesis 50:20 NIV “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:6 NIV “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Bunny Zekzaman:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Bunny Yekzaman is a child of the King, a wife of over 40 years, mother of four & grandmother of many grandchildren  She is a disaster relief chaplain, and works as an Enrichment specialist for a nursing home. Her passion is sharing God’s love & truth with a faith in His faithfulness to His promises. She lives with hope for her lost family and friends and finds it her calling to pray in faith for them.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever prayed fervently for something for years, or even decades and began to doubt that God would answer your prayers? My guest on today’s episode is Bunny Yekzaman who prayed for over 20 years for her Muslim husband... full 290 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f483883e-1001-4311-95fe-af387e52c159 a59c9268-4e48-415b-b321-b2870113f027 Thu, 31 Oct 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1655 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/290-how-to-pray-in-faith-and-release-control-to-go                                                   289 How to Navigate Gender Identity Issues with Faith and Love 289 How to Navigate Gender Identity Issues with Faith and Love Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, author, speaker, and mother, Jodi Howe, shares the painful wounds she has gone through as she has parented a child with gender identity issues. She shares the wisdom that God has granted her in how to remain true to the gospel of Jesus Christ, but still love her daughter.  

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Often God uses our most painful experiences to minister to others.
                                                  • The ultimate way to glorify the Lord is to turn our pain into power.
                                                  • My testimonies come from experience with anxiety, divorce, and having a transgender child. But He equips, He leads, He walks alongside us, and I’m at the point now where I’m speaking from a healed scar, not a wound.
                                                  • I’ve gone through years of learning, growing, messing up, and trying to stay close to my faith in Christ and love my daughter through this.
                                                  • The thorn in my flesh came about ten years ago when my daughter told me she doesn’t like the skin that she is in and wants to transition into a male.
                                                  • I firmly believe that God does not mistakes and that the gender you are born in is the gender you are to live in. But that doesn’t mean that our children and the culture they live in don’t feel lost in who they are.
                                                  • In the course of a decade, not much has changed in her decision, but what has changed is how I approach it as a mom who is adamantly and passionately in love with Jesus Christ and is adamantly and passionately in love with my child.
                                                  • The Lord has shown me that I need to be open to what an agape love looks like, not just the love a mother to a child, but His love as spelled out in First Corinthians.
                                                  • God has shown me such incredible growth in this process.
                                                  • Gender identity issues is not being born in the wrong skin. This is actual societal pressure, infused by the internet, put upon lonely hearts and minds that are struggling just to get by at the times when they are the most vulnerable and the affirmations by doctors, therapists, teachers and educators who say if you want to be a duck, and act like a duck, we’re going to help you be a duck.
                                                  • Satan, through society, is really putting a stronghold on those vulnerabilities. But the good news is, God is prevailing through it as I knew He would, in my life, in my family’s life, and in my child’s life.
                                                  • You grow in Christ as fast as you are intentional about growing.
                                                  • I have been intentional from the day I accepted Jesus into my heart that I was going to build a life and a foundation on who He is, on His foundation. I am going to build my life around Him.
                                                  • These children are told that if your parents won’t let you be who you want to be, you need to threaten suicide or even attempt it so they will get on your bandwagon of transitional change in your body.
                                                  • 90% of transgender men and women are coming from a traumatic circumstance.
                                                  • It’s crucial to thoroughly vet the mental health therapists you go to for therapy.
                                                  • We don’t have agree or like the choices of our children. But when God says “love the Lord with all your strength, heart and soul, and love thy neighbor,” when we appreciate how much he loved us to send Jesus to die for our sins, we don’t get to love haphazardly—it is a full love of acceptance.
                                                  • What it has shown me is that I can love her alongside the struggles and the choices she has made. It has softened my heart to not feel as much shame, to not feel as much resentment, to not worry what people think of me…when I go to bed at night, I only care what God thinks of me.
                                                  • I believe that our omniscient God is going to be able to weave this into something beautiful.
                                                  • I know the Lord would want me to have a relationship with my child no matter what. I adore my child, and she is going to see how I, her mother who loves the Lord, is going to honor her. So there is going to be a lot of pressure on me to keep my Godly heart in check, and I’m willing to do it for the sake of my child, and most importantly, to glorify the Lord.
                                                  • You can stay a beautiful believer in Jesus Christ, believe that the gospels are real, and you can still love your LBGT family member but you can’t do it without God.
                                                  • God will show you. He will equip you, He will provide for you, and He will comfort your heart when it’s at the lowest of lows. He will speak to you, and He will give you the words to say that will speak love.
                                                  • We need to go to God and ask Him how to navigate this world.
                                                  • The only hill to die on is the one that Jesus tells me to die on, and so far, He has told me to keep going.
                                                  • Are we loving God’s people to life?
                                                  • Jesus keeps the door open, and I think He’s asking us to do the same thing.
                                                  • We often can’t help what happens to us, but we can take it to the Lord and we can trust that He’s weaving it and working it out for good.
                                                  • I’m trying very hard that regardless of what comes before me, before I react I pray; before I speak I pray. I take it to the Lord.
                                                  • Stop leaning on the world. It’s going to disappoint you. It’s going to hurt you. Take it to the Lord first and ask Him how he wants you to handle the situation with integrity as a friend, as a coworker, as a parent, as a child…we need to do what God tells us to do, but we have to be willing to listen first. 
                                                  • Wisdom from the Lord will never steer us wrong. That doesn’t mean it will always be comfortable, but it will not mislead. 
                                                  • God doesn’t care as much about our comfort as he cares about our character.
                                                  • When you walk with Christ, His favor is upon you. And when we walk in His favor, that makes us more attractive to those around us.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 13:6 NIV “But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.”
                                                  • Romans 12:1-2 NIV “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. But do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jodi Howe:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jodi Howe is an engaging stage performer, author, and award-winning podcaster known for her heartfelt messages and magnetic energy. She hosts "The Air That I Breathe," podcast and released a book of the same name last year, both inspired by her passion for sharing messages of hope through the gospel of Jesus. Based in Cary, North Carolina, Jodi inspires through her writing, music, and dedication to her family.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, author, speaker, and mother, Jodi Howe, shares the painful wounds she has gone through as she has parented a child with gender identity issues. She shares the wisdom that God has granted her in how to remain true to the gospel of Jesus Christ, but still love her daughter.  

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Often God uses our most painful experiences to minister to others.
                                                  • The ultimate way to glorify the Lord is to turn our pain into power.
                                                  • My testimonies come from experience with anxiety, divorce, and having a transgender child. But He equips, He leads, He walks alongside us, and I’m at the point now where I’m speaking from a healed scar, not a wound.
                                                  • I’ve gone through years of learning, growing, messing up, and trying to stay close to my faith in Christ and love my daughter through this.
                                                  • The thorn in my flesh came about ten years ago when my daughter told me she doesn’t like the skin that she is in and wants to transition into a male.
                                                  • I firmly believe that God does not mistakes and that the gender you are born in is the gender you are to live in. But that doesn’t mean that our children and the culture they live in don’t feel lost in who they are.
                                                  • In the course of a decade, not much has changed in her decision, but what has changed is how I approach it as a mom who is adamantly and passionately in love with Jesus Christ and is adamantly and passionately in love with my child.
                                                  • The Lord has shown me that I need to be open to what an agape love looks like, not just the love a mother to a child, but His love as spelled out in First Corinthians.
                                                  • God has shown me such incredible growth in this process.
                                                  • Gender identity issues is not being born in the wrong skin. This is actual societal pressure, infused by the internet, put upon lonely hearts and minds that are struggling just to get by at the times when they are the most vulnerable and the affirmations by doctors, therapists, teachers and educators who say if you want to be a duck, and act like a duck, we’re going to help you be a duck.
                                                  • Satan, through society, is really putting a stronghold on those vulnerabilities. But the good news is, God is prevailing through it as I knew He would, in my life, in my family’s life, and in my child’s life.
                                                  • You grow in Christ as fast as you are intentional about growing.
                                                  • I have been intentional from the day I accepted Jesus into my heart that I was going to build a life and a foundation on who He is, on His foundation. I am going to build my life around Him.
                                                  • These children are told that if your parents won’t let you be who you want to be, you need to threaten suicide or even attempt it so they will get on your bandwagon of transitional change in your body.
                                                  • 90% of transgender men and women are coming from a traumatic circumstance.
                                                  • It’s crucial to thoroughly vet the mental health therapists you go to for therapy.
                                                  • We don’t have agree or like the choices of our children. But when God says “love the Lord with all your strength, heart and soul, and love thy neighbor,” when we appreciate how much he loved us to send Jesus to die for our sins, we don’t get to love haphazardly—it is a full love of acceptance.
                                                  • What it has shown me is that I can love her alongside the struggles and the choices she has made. It has softened my heart to not feel as much shame, to not feel as much resentment, to not worry what people think of me…when I go to bed at night, I only care what God thinks of me.
                                                  • I believe that our omniscient God is going to be able to weave this into something beautiful.
                                                  • I know the Lord would want me to have a relationship with my child no matter what. I adore my child, and she is going to see how I, her mother who loves the Lord, is going to honor her. So there is going to be a lot of pressure on me to keep my Godly heart in check, and I’m willing to do it for the sake of my child, and most importantly, to glorify the Lord.
                                                  • You can stay a beautiful believer in Jesus Christ, believe that the gospels are real, and you can still love your LBGT family member but you can’t do it without God.
                                                  • God will show you. He will equip you, He will provide for you, and He will comfort your heart when it’s at the lowest of lows. He will speak to you, and He will give you the words to say that will speak love.
                                                  • We need to go to God and ask Him how to navigate this world.
                                                  • The only hill to die on is the one that Jesus tells me to die on, and so far, He has told me to keep going.
                                                  • Are we loving God’s people to life?
                                                  • Jesus keeps the door open, and I think He’s asking us to do the same thing.
                                                  • We often can’t help what happens to us, but we can take it to the Lord and we can trust that He’s weaving it and working it out for good.
                                                  • I’m trying very hard that regardless of what comes before me, before I react I pray; before I speak I pray. I take it to the Lord.
                                                  • Stop leaning on the world. It’s going to disappoint you. It’s going to hurt you. Take it to the Lord first and ask Him how he wants you to handle the situation with integrity as a friend, as a coworker, as a parent, as a child…we need to do what God tells us to do, but we have to be willing to listen first. 
                                                  • Wisdom from the Lord will never steer us wrong. That doesn’t mean it will always be comfortable, but it will not mislead. 
                                                  • God doesn’t care as much about our comfort as he cares about our character.
                                                  • When you walk with Christ, His favor is upon you. And when we walk in His favor, that makes us more attractive to those around us.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 13:6 NIV “But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.”
                                                  • Romans 12:1-2 NIV “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. But do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jodi Howe:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jodi Howe is an engaging stage performer, author, and award-winning podcaster known for her heartfelt messages and magnetic energy. She hosts "The Air That I Breathe," podcast and released a book of the same name last year, both inspired by her passion for sharing messages of hope through the gospel of Jesus. Based in Cary, North Carolina, Jodi inspires through her writing, music, and dedication to her family.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this episode, author, speaker, and mother, Jodi Howe, shares the painful wounds she has gone through as she has parented a child with gender identity issues. She shares the wisdom that God has granted her in how to remain... full 289 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 987c1037-346d-4f26-96af-f4608c6a3e24 ff68c148-71e1-41a8-8720-b2870113f021 Thu, 24 Oct 2024 10:30:00 +0000 2263 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/289-how-to-navigate-gender-identity-issues-with-fa                                                   288 How to Move Forward After a Broken Engagement and Heal from Painful Trials 288 How to Move Forward After a Broken Engagement and Heal from Painful Trials Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode we continue the “Sacred Scar Story Series.” My guest, Georgia Shaffer, shares the pain of a broken engagement and what she thought that meant for her ministry and service to God. She shares the beautiful sacred scar that her wounds have produced, and how God is using her in the lives of others.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Shame from the actions of another made me feel like there was “something wrong with me!” I felt like a fool, and believed I was unlovable.
                                                  • Because of the pain I went through, I was sure God would never use me again.
                                                  • Healing came when I got involved in a supportive community that helped me to focus on the truth of God’s word.
                                                  • I learned I had to take my focus off the pain, and place my full focus on God.
                                                  • Painful trials make us more powerful because we can relate to the suffering of others.
                                                  • When you’re in a painful trial that you had no control over, don’t isolate, take time to grief, and seek out a supportive community with whom you can process your pain.
                                                  • In my painful circumstances, I learned what God can do.
                                                  • Pain is an opportunity for growth.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Georgia Shaffer:

                                                  Website / Membership / Facebook / X / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Georgia Shaffer, is an author, PA licensed psychologist and a Professional Certified Coach. In 2023, the International Christian Coaching Association chose her as the Christian Coach of the Year. She has written 6 books including A Gift of Mourning Glories: Restoring Your Life after Loss and Taking Out Your Emotional Trash. Georgia offers individual and group coaching online including ReBUILD After Divorce https://georgiashaffer.com/rebuildmembership, a community for Christian women struggling to begin anew after a shattered marriage. www.georgiashaffer.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode we continue the “Sacred Scar Story Series.” My guest, Georgia Shaffer, shares the pain of a broken engagement and what she thought that meant for her ministry and service to God. She shares the beautiful sacred scar that her wounds have produced, and how God is using her in the lives of others.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Shame from the actions of another made me feel like there was “something wrong with me!” I felt like a fool, and believed I was unlovable.
                                                  • Because of the pain I went through, I was sure God would never use me again.
                                                  • Healing came when I got involved in a supportive community that helped me to focus on the truth of God’s word.
                                                  • I learned I had to take my focus off the pain, and place my full focus on God.
                                                  • Painful trials make us more powerful because we can relate to the suffering of others.
                                                  • When you’re in a painful trial that you had no control over, don’t isolate, take time to grief, and seek out a supportive community with whom you can process your pain.
                                                  • In my painful circumstances, I learned what God can do.
                                                  • Pain is an opportunity for growth.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Georgia Shaffer:

                                                  Website / Membership / Facebook / X / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Georgia Shaffer, is an author, PA licensed psychologist and a Professional Certified Coach. In 2023, the International Christian Coaching Association chose her as the Christian Coach of the Year. She has written 6 books including A Gift of Mourning Glories: Restoring Your Life after Loss and Taking Out Your Emotional Trash. Georgia offers individual and group coaching online including ReBUILD After Divorce https://georgiashaffer.com/rebuildmembership, a community for Christian women struggling to begin anew after a shattered marriage. www.georgiashaffer.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this episode we continue the “Sacred Scar Story Series.” My guest, Georgia Shaffer, shares the pain of a broken engagement and what she thought that meant for her ministry and service to God. She shares the beautiful... full 288 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 4f84adbb-12b6-473b-942c-ef5fd1bb60da 2df89bab-a39f-4787-b913-b2870113f093 Thu, 17 Oct 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1014 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/288-how-to-move-forward-after-a-broken-engagement                                                   287 How to Overcome Shame and Find Healing After Abuse 287 How to Overcome Shame and Find Healing After Abuse Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, Karen DeArmond Gardner opens up about the deep shame she experienced as a victim of domestic abuse in her thirty-year marriage. She shares the painful journey of living through abuse and the healing after abuse that transformed her life. Karen explains the key factors in her healing process, including how God replaced her pain and shame with sacred scars, giving her a powerful testimony of restoration and hope.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Some of our greatest areas of ministry comes out of our greatest areas of pain.
                                                  • I survived a thirty-year abusive marriage. I’ve been out 19 years, and it’s easier for me to talk about now becomes there comes a time when there’s been enough healing that it’s more about remembering than reliving the experience that happened.
                                                  • I experienced force of control, the threat of violence to control, to manipulate, and to gaslight so I would do what he wanted, how and when he wanted.
                                                  • Often, domestic abuse doesn’t involve hitting.
                                                  • I believed as a Christian that God hates divorce, so I thought this was my cross to bear and that I was called to suffer through it for Jesus.
                                                  • I didn’t know I could leave. People often asked, “Why did you stay?” Because I didn’t know I could leave and I was terrified of my husband who was in law enforcement, and I knew his capabilities.
                                                  •  Instead of asking someone “why did you stay?” The better question is, “Why would he abuse his wife whom he supposedly loves?” Put it back on the one who caused the harm rather than the one who endured the harm.
                                                  • I didn’t want this to be my story. The shame was so powerful. I was a good Christian girl, so rather than share the shame of my story, I buried it. It was like putting a Band-Aid on a bullet wound and being unable to stop the bleeding.
                                                  • When I chose to leave, the aftermath was just as hard. Back then we didn’t have the resources that we have today. So there was the trauma of an abusive marriage, but then there was the aftermath in the healing.
                                                  • None of us would say “Oh I want to marry an abuser.” Being a Christ follower did not prevent me from experiencing abuse.
                                                  • When I left, shame covered me like a scratchy wool blanket and people could see it. I couldn’t look anyone in the eye and I didn’t want to be seen. When I realized no one wanted to know my story of pain, I internalized the shame and I put on a mask. You would see the absolute ugliness if I let you in, so I didn’t show you my real self.
                                                  • Shame has a look and a sound and how we behave. Shame affects how we talk and behave.
                                                  • Shame comes from the enemy and from the abuser. So, a lot of the shame we carry isn’t even ours.
                                                  • With His death, Jesus shamed the enemy with the cross. So, we can put the shame back on the enemy where it belongs.
                                                  • I changed churches over time and started attending a church where I was taught that I could heal from this experience.  For me, it started with reading “Mending the Soul.”
                                                  • About a decade later, I went through a period of grieving over something else and I realized I had never grieved my pain or losses before. That propelled my healing. So I always recommend grieving while you heal.
                                                  • God doesn’t have a cookie-cutter way of healing. If you can go to therapy, do that. Nothing gets wasted in your healing journey.
                                                  • In my healing journey, I realized who God really is, and who I really am.
                                                  • God says to call unto Him and He will come to us.
                                                  • Trauma is a liar. It distorts who God is. He is so much kinder, so much more loving, so much more gentle, but yet, God is a lion, He is my protector, He is my body guard.
                                                  • It is encountering God in those dark, painful places that we learn who God really is to us and for us.
                                                  • Frequently, the sacred scar that comes out of these painful wounds is greater intimacy with God, knowing Him deeper, it’s understanding the fullness of His character.
                                                  • Anger is part of the healing process. God can handle that anger! Anger is not the primary emotion—it’s the secondary. There is something else that is going on.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 2:4 “It is the kindness of God that leads to repentance.”
                                                  • Isaiah 45:3 NIV “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.”
                                                  • Ezekiel 34

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Karen DeArmond Gardner:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Karen DeArmond Gardner is a certified advocate who provides emotional support for domestic abuse survivors. Walking with survivors in the aftermath of domestic, as they discover how to reframe what is normal and real as they process their pain and trauma. Learning how to move from hopelessness to hope and from death to life through mentoring and inner healing.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, Karen DeArmond Gardner opens up about the deep shame she experienced as a victim of domestic abuse in her thirty-year marriage. She shares the painful journey of living through abuse and the healing after abuse that transformed her life. Karen explains the key factors in her healing process, including how God replaced her pain and shame with sacred scars, giving her a powerful testimony of restoration and hope.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Some of our greatest areas of ministry comes out of our greatest areas of pain.
                                                  • I survived a thirty-year abusive marriage. I’ve been out 19 years, and it’s easier for me to talk about now becomes there comes a time when there’s been enough healing that it’s more about remembering than reliving the experience that happened.
                                                  • I experienced force of control, the threat of violence to control, to manipulate, and to gaslight so I would do what he wanted, how and when he wanted.
                                                  • Often, domestic abuse doesn’t involve hitting.
                                                  • I believed as a Christian that God hates divorce, so I thought this was my cross to bear and that I was called to suffer through it for Jesus.
                                                  • I didn’t know I could leave. People often asked, “Why did you stay?” Because I didn’t know I could leave and I was terrified of my husband who was in law enforcement, and I knew his capabilities.
                                                  •  Instead of asking someone “why did you stay?” The better question is, “Why would he abuse his wife whom he supposedly loves?” Put it back on the one who caused the harm rather than the one who endured the harm.
                                                  • I didn’t want this to be my story. The shame was so powerful. I was a good Christian girl, so rather than share the shame of my story, I buried it. It was like putting a Band-Aid on a bullet wound and being unable to stop the bleeding.
                                                  • When I chose to leave, the aftermath was just as hard. Back then we didn’t have the resources that we have today. So there was the trauma of an abusive marriage, but then there was the aftermath in the healing.
                                                  • None of us would say “Oh I want to marry an abuser.” Being a Christ follower did not prevent me from experiencing abuse.
                                                  • When I left, shame covered me like a scratchy wool blanket and people could see it. I couldn’t look anyone in the eye and I didn’t want to be seen. When I realized no one wanted to know my story of pain, I internalized the shame and I put on a mask. You would see the absolute ugliness if I let you in, so I didn’t show you my real self.
                                                  • Shame has a look and a sound and how we behave. Shame affects how we talk and behave.
                                                  • Shame comes from the enemy and from the abuser. So, a lot of the shame we carry isn’t even ours.
                                                  • With His death, Jesus shamed the enemy with the cross. So, we can put the shame back on the enemy where it belongs.
                                                  • I changed churches over time and started attending a church where I was taught that I could heal from this experience.  For me, it started with reading “Mending the Soul.”
                                                  • About a decade later, I went through a period of grieving over something else and I realized I had never grieved my pain or losses before. That propelled my healing. So I always recommend grieving while you heal.
                                                  • God doesn’t have a cookie-cutter way of healing. If you can go to therapy, do that. Nothing gets wasted in your healing journey.
                                                  • In my healing journey, I realized who God really is, and who I really am.
                                                  • God says to call unto Him and He will come to us.
                                                  • Trauma is a liar. It distorts who God is. He is so much kinder, so much more loving, so much more gentle, but yet, God is a lion, He is my protector, He is my body guard.
                                                  • It is encountering God in those dark, painful places that we learn who God really is to us and for us.
                                                  • Frequently, the sacred scar that comes out of these painful wounds is greater intimacy with God, knowing Him deeper, it’s understanding the fullness of His character.
                                                  • Anger is part of the healing process. God can handle that anger! Anger is not the primary emotion—it’s the secondary. There is something else that is going on.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 2:4 “It is the kindness of God that leads to repentance.”
                                                  • Isaiah 45:3 NIV “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.”
                                                  • Ezekiel 34

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Karen DeArmond Gardner:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Karen DeArmond Gardner is a certified advocate who provides emotional support for domestic abuse survivors. Walking with survivors in the aftermath of domestic, as they discover how to reframe what is normal and real as they process their pain and trauma. Learning how to move from hopelessness to hope and from death to life through mentoring and inner healing.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this episode, Karen DeArmond Gardner opens up about the deep shame she experienced as a victim of domestic abuse in her thirty-year marriage. She shares the painful journey of living through abuse and the healing after abuse... full 287 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 13e2a6eb-aa07-4d52-a8d1-d9283bbc9a6c f5367d8a-dc45-4d24-a53c-b2870113f13d Thu, 10 Oct 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1600 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/287-how-to-overcome-shame-and-find-healing-after-a                                                   286 How to Cope with the Emotional Impact of Being a Mental Health Caregiver 286 How to Cope with the Emotional Impact of Being a Mental Health Caregiver Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this Sacred Scar Story, I chat with Carole Leathem, a mental health caregiver who founded a caregiving ministry after becoming the primary caregiver for her pastor husband who struggled with mental health issues, and later, her mother. Carole shares how she coped with the emotional impact of her caregiving journey, including the pain of being disqualified from ministry due to her husband's struggles. She opens up about the deep wounds she experienced and how God turned things around for good, transforming her scars into a powerful source of healing and service to others.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • So often our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of pain and woundedness.
                                                  • I experienced physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual wounds and it completely changed the trajectory of my life and ministry. My husband of many years was a pastor and woke up one morning experiencing anxiety that continued to worsen. By the end of 2016, the anxiety led to full blown depression. It kind of blindsided me because I had never been around anyone with such devastating anxiety or depression.
                                                  • Eventuallly, he became suicidal and had to go into a psychiatric hospital for seven days which created chaos and messiness in our lives. When the dust settled, he could no longer pastor or do his job resulting in his early retirement.
                                                  • I had a fulltime speaking ministry, but all of a sudden my speaking engagements began to cancel because somehow, his mental instability disqualified me in their eyes.
                                                  • Scars remind us that there was a pain, that there was an injury.
                                                  • I went from having an incredible life, to standing in a parking lot one night asking God, “God, what has happened to my life?”
                                                  • But I found God walking through it with me one step at a time. I found that he had put things into place for this season 20-25 years ago that I was going to need that day.
                                                  • The wound was so deep, and we didn’t know who was safe to talk about our pain. I’ve been through a lot, but this was probably the most pivotal turning point in my life.
                                                  • In my book, Sacred Scars, I (Dr. B) shared that I was raised by a mother who was depressed my entire childhood and then I experienced severe clinical depression. I feared that that would disqualify me from my work in mental health. But what I found was that experience made me much more compassionate and empathic toward others, and my patients and readers could tell that I truly understand them because I had experienced it myself.
                                                  • I had already found freedom from having been raised by an alcoholic father and a narcissistic, abusive mother, but when you go through something so catastrophic, like I did with my husband, it triggered all the thoughts about not being good enough, who do you think you are, and now what do I do?
                                                  • Immediately I got into Scripture because I knew that if I didn’t stay grounded in God’s Word, those lies were going to destroy me. I needed to be strong not only for myself but for my husband, and I needed to go where the absolute truth was.
                                                  • I said to God, “Even if I never stand on a platform or teach the Bible again, I know it’ll be okay because you are in this with me.”
                                                  • When a crisis hits, we have to already know what we believe because that is what we will fall back on. We can’t wait until a crisis hits to determine what we believe because in a crisis we are more likely to react than to respond, if we don’t have a firm foundation based on truth.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • James 1:2-4 MSG “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Carole Leathem:

                                                  Website / Podcast / Book / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carole Leathem is a speaker, teacher, author, storyteller, podcaster, and encourager, and she has been speaking at women’s retreats and teaching Bible studies for over thirty years. She is a certified mental health coach, professional life coach, and a spiritual formation coach.

                                                  Carole is passionate about sharing her story with those God puts in her life and loves spending time with her 7 grandchildren.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this Sacred Scar Story, I chat with Carole Leathem, a mental health caregiver who founded a caregiving ministry after becoming the primary caregiver for her pastor husband who struggled with mental health issues, and later, her mother. Carole shares how she coped with the emotional impact of her caregiving journey, including the pain of being disqualified from ministry due to her husband's struggles. She opens up about the deep wounds she experienced and how God turned things around for good, transforming her scars into a powerful source of healing and service to others.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • So often our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of pain and woundedness.
                                                  • I experienced physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual wounds and it completely changed the trajectory of my life and ministry. My husband of many years was a pastor and woke up one morning experiencing anxiety that continued to worsen. By the end of 2016, the anxiety led to full blown depression. It kind of blindsided me because I had never been around anyone with such devastating anxiety or depression.
                                                  • Eventuallly, he became suicidal and had to go into a psychiatric hospital for seven days which created chaos and messiness in our lives. When the dust settled, he could no longer pastor or do his job resulting in his early retirement.
                                                  • I had a fulltime speaking ministry, but all of a sudden my speaking engagements began to cancel because somehow, his mental instability disqualified me in their eyes.
                                                  • Scars remind us that there was a pain, that there was an injury.
                                                  • I went from having an incredible life, to standing in a parking lot one night asking God, “God, what has happened to my life?”
                                                  • But I found God walking through it with me one step at a time. I found that he had put things into place for this season 20-25 years ago that I was going to need that day.
                                                  • The wound was so deep, and we didn’t know who was safe to talk about our pain. I’ve been through a lot, but this was probably the most pivotal turning point in my life.
                                                  • In my book, Sacred Scars, I (Dr. B) shared that I was raised by a mother who was depressed my entire childhood and then I experienced severe clinical depression. I feared that that would disqualify me from my work in mental health. But what I found was that experience made me much more compassionate and empathic toward others, and my patients and readers could tell that I truly understand them because I had experienced it myself.
                                                  • I had already found freedom from having been raised by an alcoholic father and a narcissistic, abusive mother, but when you go through something so catastrophic, like I did with my husband, it triggered all the thoughts about not being good enough, who do you think you are, and now what do I do?
                                                  • Immediately I got into Scripture because I knew that if I didn’t stay grounded in God’s Word, those lies were going to destroy me. I needed to be strong not only for myself but for my husband, and I needed to go where the absolute truth was.
                                                  • I said to God, “Even if I never stand on a platform or teach the Bible again, I know it’ll be okay because you are in this with me.”
                                                  • When a crisis hits, we have to already know what we believe because that is what we will fall back on. We can’t wait until a crisis hits to determine what we believe because in a crisis we are more likely to react than to respond, if we don’t have a firm foundation based on truth.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • James 1:2-4 MSG “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Carole Leathem:

                                                  Website / Podcast / Book / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carole Leathem is a speaker, teacher, author, storyteller, podcaster, and encourager, and she has been speaking at women’s retreats and teaching Bible studies for over thirty years. She is a certified mental health coach, professional life coach, and a spiritual formation coach.

                                                  Carole is passionate about sharing her story with those God puts in her life and loves spending time with her 7 grandchildren.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this Sacred Scar Story, I chat with Carole Leathem, a mental health caregiver who founded a caregiving ministry after becoming the primary caregiver for her pastor husband who struggled with mental health issues, and later,... full 286 Dr. Michelle Bengtson acf80538-eef2-4562-a1dd-e77b85920161 44e95ddd-a550-469e-ba13-b2870113efed Thu, 03 Oct 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1849 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/286-how-to-cope-with-the-emotional-impact-of-being                                                   285 How to Heal from the Scars of Childhood Prejudice 285 How to Heal from the Scars of Childhood Prejudice Episode Summary: 

                                                  This week’s guest on the Sacred Scar Story Series, Barb Roose, faced prejudice from early childhood. This led to her believing she was never enough and compensating by trying to “outperform her race.” She shares her story, and how she found healing, and God’s peace. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I love the message that God can use all things because when we’re in deep pain, that’s the opposite of what we’re thinking: that the pain becomes a limiting factor in our lives.
                                                  • In my particular story, this idea of wounding actually happened even before I recognized it. In kindergarten, there was just something about me that my kindergarten teacher didn’t like. I came to find out later on that it was because of my skin color.
                                                  • When I was five years old, I received a very strong, palpable message: before that it was my parents and family and I was surrounded by love, belonging, and acceptance, but when I went out into the world, my kindergarten teacher sent me the message that I was not enough; there was something intrinsically wrong with me.
                                                  • When I was in high school, I found my kindergarten report card and my teacher had written that “Barbara will struggle in life and won’t amount to much.”
                                                  • At an early age, even before I knew that there was a wound, something opened up inside of me and I spent a lot of my spiritual journey working to out-perform my race.
                                                  • As life would go on, I lived in a community that was more than 99% Caucasian, which was not me, so there were many points when that wound would reopen.
                                                  • I recognized the blessing that God gave me parents and family who would show me unconditional love and I recognize that not everyone gets that. But in my case, that helped the wound not grow exponentially. I’ve seen many people from diverse communities where that wound keeps opening and deepening.
                                                  • Throughout my entire life I tried to heal that wound with performance. Couple that with a faith-based community that was a little more legalistic and add that to competition in a very competitive school environment and that set me up later in life to have other family difficulties like addiction issues and my divorce, where some of the themes of my past wounds would be repeated and meant that God needed to do a lot of healing.
                                                  • Often, some of the wounds that are the most painful start in childhood before we know who we are in Christ, before we can recognize that there is another voice that whispers to us. Because it happens when we are so young, it becomes entrenched, and we continue to carry those lies into other situations. That’s the enemy’s M.O. in that he will always go back to where he was effective in our lives before.
                                                  • Fast-forward 40 years later from that 5-year-old girl to 45-year-old me when I was in the midst of a divorce after 26 years of marriage. This was not a place I ever thought I would be. I had been on staff at a church for many years, was an author and a speaker for many years, and I loved Jesus when a significant portion of my life was ending. I went 8 years trying to hold on to a marriage where addiction was running rampant in a spouse who was struggling and who eventually left.
                                                  • All of those performance issues and trying to do the very best that I could in my capacity, on March 11, 2019, I literally crawled up the steps to my third floor apartment after my divorce hearing, and I laid in bed for 3 days. I was so overwhelmed with the trauma of it all that I lost the ability to speak. I could text but not speak.
                                                  • Just because we love Jesus and are walking with Jesus does not mean that life does not get overwhelming.
                                                  • In that season of life, I had to reform a part of my identity in Christ. I knew that I was deeply loved by God. I knew that he was with me and for me. But I had lost a significant part of myself in the brokenness of my family and who I thought I was and who I would be from that moment on.
                                                  • A friend encouraged me to pray and ask God for a new name. I had been Mrs. Roose for 26 years. As I prayed over the next month, God gave me a phrase that constituted my new name: “You are God’s beautiful, loveable, capable daughter. You are confident in Christ, and you are worthy of God’s best.”
                                                  • If you follow after Christ, you are going to participate in suffering. You are going to go through stuff, but God can and will redeem it.
                                                  • Healing began years before in a healing journey. The evidence of healing took a while, but I had the opportunity to work with great Christian counselors on things in me that I knew weren’t where God wanted me to be. So that healing journey began about 7-8 years before the divorce.
                                                  • During the pandemic, I was divorced and an empty nester all within six months. I had lost my father, my father-in-law and my husband all within one year.
                                                  • But one spring day, I sensed God whisper “I have restored what the locusts have eaten.” And in that, I realized I had the perfect peace of God.
                                                  • As a Christian woman, the “scarlet D” for divorce is something that is like a 1,000-pound heavy weight. That weight of shame was so deep and as I began talking with other friends who had been through similar experiences, there was a compassion that I began to develop.
                                                  • For me to let go of the shame meant clinging to the promises of God’s truth because Satan was using that “scarlet D” as a sword.
                                                  • I began doing something called “God Morning; God Night.” I began doing this during my alcoholism years. Alcohol walked in my door at 7am every morning so when I first woke up, I had to deal with the effects of alcoholism first thing in the morning. So, I began repeating 5 promises of God to myself before I put my feet on the floor. Later on, I would tape that note card on my bathroom mirror so I would steal myself to God’s promises. That was a slow march, every day believing the promises of God and repeating them until the whisper of shame faded away.
                                                  • The ABC’s of the wilderness season:
                                                    • A: Always believe God loves you
                                                    • B: Believe God’s promises for you
                                                    • C: Challenge yourself to surrender and let go of what you can’t control
                                                  • Surrender really is the path of peace. God’s got it, and it may not look like it, but the reality is that he is able to do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine. When we let go and release our circumstances to God, we need and receive his peace and his power to get through it.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Joel 2:25 NIV “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten—the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm—my great army that I sent among you.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Barb Roose:

                                                  Website / Book / Facebook / X / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Barb Roose is a popular speaker and author who is passionate about teaching women to live beautifully strong and courageous in spite of their fears so that they can experience God’s great adventure of faith and purpose for their lives. Since 2005, Barb has been speaking to audiences in the US and abroad, including national platforms such as the Aspire Women’s Events, She Speaks Conference, and the UMC Leadership Institute. She’s a Bible teacher who loves following God more than anything else in life. Barb makes God’s Word come alive through powerful teaching, personal stories and practical next steps. Audiences love her authenticity and humor. Barb is a real woman who has experienced depression and anxiety, parenting challenges, family addiction trauma and long seasons of walking by faith in unanswered prayer. Rather than teaching audiences to follow God to get what they want, Barb inspires audiences to discover that God is all they need!

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  This week’s guest on the Sacred Scar Story Series, Barb Roose, faced prejudice from early childhood. This led to her believing she was never enough and compensating by trying to “outperform her race.” She shares her story, and how she found healing, and God’s peace. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I love the message that God can use all things because when we’re in deep pain, that’s the opposite of what we’re thinking: that the pain becomes a limiting factor in our lives.
                                                  • In my particular story, this idea of wounding actually happened even before I recognized it. In kindergarten, there was just something about me that my kindergarten teacher didn’t like. I came to find out later on that it was because of my skin color.
                                                  • When I was five years old, I received a very strong, palpable message: before that it was my parents and family and I was surrounded by love, belonging, and acceptance, but when I went out into the world, my kindergarten teacher sent me the message that I was not enough; there was something intrinsically wrong with me.
                                                  • When I was in high school, I found my kindergarten report card and my teacher had written that “Barbara will struggle in life and won’t amount to much.”
                                                  • At an early age, even before I knew that there was a wound, something opened up inside of me and I spent a lot of my spiritual journey working to out-perform my race.
                                                  • As life would go on, I lived in a community that was more than 99% Caucasian, which was not me, so there were many points when that wound would reopen.
                                                  • I recognized the blessing that God gave me parents and family who would show me unconditional love and I recognize that not everyone gets that. But in my case, that helped the wound not grow exponentially. I’ve seen many people from diverse communities where that wound keeps opening and deepening.
                                                  • Throughout my entire life I tried to heal that wound with performance. Couple that with a faith-based community that was a little more legalistic and add that to competition in a very competitive school environment and that set me up later in life to have other family difficulties like addiction issues and my divorce, where some of the themes of my past wounds would be repeated and meant that God needed to do a lot of healing.
                                                  • Often, some of the wounds that are the most painful start in childhood before we know who we are in Christ, before we can recognize that there is another voice that whispers to us. Because it happens when we are so young, it becomes entrenched, and we continue to carry those lies into other situations. That’s the enemy’s M.O. in that he will always go back to where he was effective in our lives before.
                                                  • Fast-forward 40 years later from that 5-year-old girl to 45-year-old me when I was in the midst of a divorce after 26 years of marriage. This was not a place I ever thought I would be. I had been on staff at a church for many years, was an author and a speaker for many years, and I loved Jesus when a significant portion of my life was ending. I went 8 years trying to hold on to a marriage where addiction was running rampant in a spouse who was struggling and who eventually left.
                                                  • All of those performance issues and trying to do the very best that I could in my capacity, on March 11, 2019, I literally crawled up the steps to my third floor apartment after my divorce hearing, and I laid in bed for 3 days. I was so overwhelmed with the trauma of it all that I lost the ability to speak. I could text but not speak.
                                                  • Just because we love Jesus and are walking with Jesus does not mean that life does not get overwhelming.
                                                  • In that season of life, I had to reform a part of my identity in Christ. I knew that I was deeply loved by God. I knew that he was with me and for me. But I had lost a significant part of myself in the brokenness of my family and who I thought I was and who I would be from that moment on.
                                                  • A friend encouraged me to pray and ask God for a new name. I had been Mrs. Roose for 26 years. As I prayed over the next month, God gave me a phrase that constituted my new name: “You are God’s beautiful, loveable, capable daughter. You are confident in Christ, and you are worthy of God’s best.”
                                                  • If you follow after Christ, you are going to participate in suffering. You are going to go through stuff, but God can and will redeem it.
                                                  • Healing began years before in a healing journey. The evidence of healing took a while, but I had the opportunity to work with great Christian counselors on things in me that I knew weren’t where God wanted me to be. So that healing journey began about 7-8 years before the divorce.
                                                  • During the pandemic, I was divorced and an empty nester all within six months. I had lost my father, my father-in-law and my husband all within one year.
                                                  • But one spring day, I sensed God whisper “I have restored what the locusts have eaten.” And in that, I realized I had the perfect peace of God.
                                                  • As a Christian woman, the “scarlet D” for divorce is something that is like a 1,000-pound heavy weight. That weight of shame was so deep and as I began talking with other friends who had been through similar experiences, there was a compassion that I began to develop.
                                                  • For me to let go of the shame meant clinging to the promises of God’s truth because Satan was using that “scarlet D” as a sword.
                                                  • I began doing something called “God Morning; God Night.” I began doing this during my alcoholism years. Alcohol walked in my door at 7am every morning so when I first woke up, I had to deal with the effects of alcoholism first thing in the morning. So, I began repeating 5 promises of God to myself before I put my feet on the floor. Later on, I would tape that note card on my bathroom mirror so I would steal myself to God’s promises. That was a slow march, every day believing the promises of God and repeating them until the whisper of shame faded away.
                                                  • The ABC’s of the wilderness season:
                                                    • A: Always believe God loves you
                                                    • B: Believe God’s promises for you
                                                    • C: Challenge yourself to surrender and let go of what you can’t control
                                                  • Surrender really is the path of peace. God’s got it, and it may not look like it, but the reality is that he is able to do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine. When we let go and release our circumstances to God, we need and receive his peace and his power to get through it.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Joel 2:25 NIV “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten—the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm—my great army that I sent among you.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Barb Roose:

                                                  Website / Book / Facebook / X / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Barb Roose is a popular speaker and author who is passionate about teaching women to live beautifully strong and courageous in spite of their fears so that they can experience God’s great adventure of faith and purpose for their lives. Since 2005, Barb has been speaking to audiences in the US and abroad, including national platforms such as the Aspire Women’s Events, She Speaks Conference, and the UMC Leadership Institute. She’s a Bible teacher who loves following God more than anything else in life. Barb makes God’s Word come alive through powerful teaching, personal stories and practical next steps. Audiences love her authenticity and humor. Barb is a real woman who has experienced depression and anxiety, parenting challenges, family addiction trauma and long seasons of walking by faith in unanswered prayer. Rather than teaching audiences to follow God to get what they want, Barb inspires audiences to discover that God is all they need!

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  This week’s guest on the Sacred Scar Story Series, Barb Roose, faced prejudice from early childhood. This led to her believing she was never enough and compensating by trying to “outperform her race.” She shares her story,... full 285 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 8d0764e9-7523-4d1d-9c11-c7b461fac530 5d044356-e504-4e7f-9c33-b2870113f035 Thu, 26 Sep 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1395 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/285-how-to-heal-from-the-scars-of-childhood-prejud                                                   284 How to Stop People Pleasing and Break the Cycle of Co-Dependency 284 How to Stop People Pleasing and Break the Cycle of Co-Dependency Episode Summary: 

                                                  Many of us unknowingly invest our time and energy seeking validation and acceptance from others, often at the cost of our own well-being. On this episode, I sat down with Aliene Thompson, founder of Treasured Ministries International, to discuss her journey through painful emotional wounds that led to co-dependency. She shares how God revealed these patterns to her and brought healing, turning her pain into sacred scars. Aliene shares how this transformation allows her to help others find freedom and healing in God’s love.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We will all go through painful experiences, but when we will give those painful wounds to our heavenly father, he will redeem and restore what was lost and bring beautiful sacred scars for them.
                                                  • I learned at an early age to perform to be perfect in order to receive love.
                                                  • Emotional wounds exist but are harder to see than physical wounds.
                                                  • Ugly words are equated with murder in Scripture, so Jesus validates emotional wounds from the words of others.
                                                  • When I came to the Lord, I learned I don’t have to perform in order to receive His love.
                                                  • I consistently found myself in a place of overwhelm, trying to please others.
                                                  • I used to be ashamed to share my weaknesses with others, but I learned it actually helped others.
                                                  • All of my works came tumbling down, and I struggled to understand how these works could be wrong.
                                                  • Codependency is really idolatry of man.
                                                  • Any time we have a lack of God dependency in our lives, God will not allow the idol to succeed.
                                                  • The enemy convinced me to soothe my emotional wounds through performance, people pleasing, and perfectionism, which is me looking to people to gain my worth and value, which led to a co-dependency crash.
                                                  • The enemy is not very creative. He always goes back to where he was successful before. So, if you have struggled with people pleasing, he will try to get you to please more people.
                                                  • An idol is putting something or someone ahead of God, but those idols will never satisfy.
                                                  • God fought for my heart. In his love for me, he would not let my idols win. I felt like I was being punished by God, but now I know it was Him fighting for my heart. He was freeing me. It was a pruning season out of love.
                                                  • What you bow down to, you will be bound to!
                                                  • God ushered me into my wilderness season. In the wilderness is where I learned God-dependency. That is where the healing came, and I learned to put God first. He is now all the validation I need.
                                                  • God was teaching the Israelites God-dependency before entering the Promised Land so that they would always remain dependent on Him.
                                                  • My promised land season was when called me back into ministry and had me teach more and brought healthy great friendships and relationships.
                                                  • I never want to spend one more day without God-dependency.
                                                  • Before Moses died, he looked into the Promised Land. God didn’t take him into the Promised Land, but Psalm 90 tells us that God was his home.
                                                  • Home with intimacy with God brought great healing.
                                                  • The deeper we go in our healing, the more quickly we recognize the efforts of the enemy and the more quickly we can run back to God and use the tools He has taught us.
                                                  • The wilderness season gave me the opportunity to return to my family as my top priority ministry. That was a beautiful piece of redemption. Our family is our greatest ministry.
                                                  • God also gave me the opportunity to see my pain wasn’t in vain. God gave me lessons that I could then share with other women, so I could comfort them.
                                                  • The enemy will use a half-truth and mix it with lies to us. But God gives us complete truth.
                                                  • God always has a greater plan, that we are often not even aware of. But if you will trust God, he can turn your situation all around and use it for good, as a beautiful sacred scar.
                                                  • Loss is not the end of your story. For every child of God, endings are beginnings. Loss is often the beginning of life.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Aliene Thompson:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Aliene Thompson, is the founder of Treasured Ministries and the creator of the Nourish Bible Study Method and the author of the Nourish Bible Study Series. Aliene describes herself as a biblical soul strategist, which means that she helps women transform their lives by changing their approach to Bible study and by educating them on how timeless biblical truths heal soul hurts. She is passionate about helping women uncover how timeless biblical truths heal soul hurts. Aliene is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication studies.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Many of us unknowingly invest our time and energy seeking validation and acceptance from others, often at the cost of our own well-being. On this episode, I sat down with Aliene Thompson, founder of Treasured Ministries International, to discuss her journey through painful emotional wounds that led to co-dependency. She shares how God revealed these patterns to her and brought healing, turning her pain into sacred scars. Aliene shares how this transformation allows her to help others find freedom and healing in God’s love.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We will all go through painful experiences, but when we will give those painful wounds to our heavenly father, he will redeem and restore what was lost and bring beautiful sacred scars for them.
                                                  • I learned at an early age to perform to be perfect in order to receive love.
                                                  • Emotional wounds exist but are harder to see than physical wounds.
                                                  • Ugly words are equated with murder in Scripture, so Jesus validates emotional wounds from the words of others.
                                                  • When I came to the Lord, I learned I don’t have to perform in order to receive His love.
                                                  • I consistently found myself in a place of overwhelm, trying to please others.
                                                  • I used to be ashamed to share my weaknesses with others, but I learned it actually helped others.
                                                  • All of my works came tumbling down, and I struggled to understand how these works could be wrong.
                                                  • Codependency is really idolatry of man.
                                                  • Any time we have a lack of God dependency in our lives, God will not allow the idol to succeed.
                                                  • The enemy convinced me to soothe my emotional wounds through performance, people pleasing, and perfectionism, which is me looking to people to gain my worth and value, which led to a co-dependency crash.
                                                  • The enemy is not very creative. He always goes back to where he was successful before. So, if you have struggled with people pleasing, he will try to get you to please more people.
                                                  • An idol is putting something or someone ahead of God, but those idols will never satisfy.
                                                  • God fought for my heart. In his love for me, he would not let my idols win. I felt like I was being punished by God, but now I know it was Him fighting for my heart. He was freeing me. It was a pruning season out of love.
                                                  • What you bow down to, you will be bound to!
                                                  • God ushered me into my wilderness season. In the wilderness is where I learned God-dependency. That is where the healing came, and I learned to put God first. He is now all the validation I need.
                                                  • God was teaching the Israelites God-dependency before entering the Promised Land so that they would always remain dependent on Him.
                                                  • My promised land season was when called me back into ministry and had me teach more and brought healthy great friendships and relationships.
                                                  • I never want to spend one more day without God-dependency.
                                                  • Before Moses died, he looked into the Promised Land. God didn’t take him into the Promised Land, but Psalm 90 tells us that God was his home.
                                                  • Home with intimacy with God brought great healing.
                                                  • The deeper we go in our healing, the more quickly we recognize the efforts of the enemy and the more quickly we can run back to God and use the tools He has taught us.
                                                  • The wilderness season gave me the opportunity to return to my family as my top priority ministry. That was a beautiful piece of redemption. Our family is our greatest ministry.
                                                  • God also gave me the opportunity to see my pain wasn’t in vain. God gave me lessons that I could then share with other women, so I could comfort them.
                                                  • The enemy will use a half-truth and mix it with lies to us. But God gives us complete truth.
                                                  • God always has a greater plan, that we are often not even aware of. But if you will trust God, he can turn your situation all around and use it for good, as a beautiful sacred scar.
                                                  • Loss is not the end of your story. For every child of God, endings are beginnings. Loss is often the beginning of life.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Aliene Thompson:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Aliene Thompson, is the founder of Treasured Ministries and the creator of the Nourish Bible Study Method and the author of the Nourish Bible Study Series. Aliene describes herself as a biblical soul strategist, which means that she helps women transform their lives by changing their approach to Bible study and by educating them on how timeless biblical truths heal soul hurts. She is passionate about helping women uncover how timeless biblical truths heal soul hurts. Aliene is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication studies.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Many of us unknowingly invest our time and energy seeking validation and acceptance from others, often at the cost of our own well-being. On this episode, I sat down with Aliene Thompson, founder of Treasured Ministries... full 284 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 7c2a544b-530e-4c60-ad4d-f42d2e4b7979 e4f3f021-a88a-4d13-aa39-b28701141cf4 Thu, 19 Sep 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1647 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/284-how-to-stop-people-pleasing-and-break-the-cycl                                                   283 How To Hold On To Hope When Your Child Becomes a Prodigal 283 How To Hold On To Hope When Your Child Becomes a Prodigal Episode Summary: 

                                                  As a parent, we try to do the best job we can raising our children. While children don’t come with a “how-to” manual, God gives us wisdom in His word. Proverbs 22:6 tells us “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” So, what do we do, when our children choose their own path? On this episode, I chatted with Laine Lawson Craft and we discussed her story, her pain, her wounds, and now her sacred scars that came after walking a long journey with three prodigal children.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  In simple terms, a prodigal child is challenged and gets off track despite being raised under the wisdom of God.

                                                  I thought I was doing everything God destined me to do. Yet all three of my children succumbed to the enemy and encountered battles with depression, drugs, alcohol, and pornography, and I didn’t even know how big the battle was.

                                                  As a mother who tried to raise my children in the Lord, when they turned from Him, I experienced shame, guilt, and fear. We have a very dark world we’re raising our kids in.

                                                  The phone is the #1 tool our enemy uses against our kids.

                                                  When we step out for the kingdom of God, we become a target for our children.

                                                  Our son was high and drunk and in an Uber car when he encountered Jesus. He didn’t have to clean up before God began working in his life.

                                                  Every prayer we pray is captured in heaven. Prayer is your most powerful, essential weapon.

                                                  God is creating a story that brings Him glory.

                                                  The only way we have a story is with a Savior who redeems us.

                                                  God redeems me every day. I know without a doubt it was the Lord who came in, rescued my children, and set them free.

                                                  God underscored the message of hope that at no-one is too far gone, too messed up, for the hand of God to touch their heart and change their life. And that forever changed me.

                                                  God loves you right where you are. God loves you and your prodigal. You don’t have to clean up for God to come in, and rescue and deliver you.

                                                  Don’t give up “in the meantime” when your prodigal child may be mean while you are waiting for God to change their heart and their ways. You may be disappointed, discouraged, and at times hopeless, but don’t give up.

                                                  God has a great plan for your child, and He is the true parent of your child. He formed them into your womb and has plans for them and we can partner with God and trust Him that He will bring them home!

                                                  Realize today that you are NOT in war with your defiant child you are in war with the darkness and evil of the world! 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

                                                  2 chronicles 20:15 ESV ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's.

                                                  Isaiah 62

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Laine Lawson Craft:

                                                  Website / Facebook / X / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laine Lawson Craft (www.lainelawsoncraft.com) is an award-winning author, popular media host, and in-demand speaker. The founder and publisher of WHOAwomen magazine (2010-2018), she regularly hosts online challenges and masterclasses as well as Facebook Live events that reach thousands. Her Warfare Parenting podcast encourages parents of adult children. Laine and her husband, Steve, have three children and live in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  As a parent, we try to do the best job we can raising our children. While children don’t come with a “how-to” manual, God gives us wisdom in His word. Proverbs 22:6 tells us “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” So, what do we do, when our children choose their own path? On this episode, I chatted with Laine Lawson Craft and we discussed her story, her pain, her wounds, and now her sacred scars that came after walking a long journey with three prodigal children.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  In simple terms, a prodigal child is challenged and gets off track despite being raised under the wisdom of God.

                                                  I thought I was doing everything God destined me to do. Yet all three of my children succumbed to the enemy and encountered battles with depression, drugs, alcohol, and pornography, and I didn’t even know how big the battle was.

                                                  As a mother who tried to raise my children in the Lord, when they turned from Him, I experienced shame, guilt, and fear. We have a very dark world we’re raising our kids in.

                                                  The phone is the #1 tool our enemy uses against our kids.

                                                  When we step out for the kingdom of God, we become a target for our children.

                                                  Our son was high and drunk and in an Uber car when he encountered Jesus. He didn’t have to clean up before God began working in his life.

                                                  Every prayer we pray is captured in heaven. Prayer is your most powerful, essential weapon.

                                                  God is creating a story that brings Him glory.

                                                  The only way we have a story is with a Savior who redeems us.

                                                  God redeems me every day. I know without a doubt it was the Lord who came in, rescued my children, and set them free.

                                                  God underscored the message of hope that at no-one is too far gone, too messed up, for the hand of God to touch their heart and change their life. And that forever changed me.

                                                  God loves you right where you are. God loves you and your prodigal. You don’t have to clean up for God to come in, and rescue and deliver you.

                                                  Don’t give up “in the meantime” when your prodigal child may be mean while you are waiting for God to change their heart and their ways. You may be disappointed, discouraged, and at times hopeless, but don’t give up.

                                                  God has a great plan for your child, and He is the true parent of your child. He formed them into your womb and has plans for them and we can partner with God and trust Him that He will bring them home!

                                                  Realize today that you are NOT in war with your defiant child you are in war with the darkness and evil of the world! 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

                                                  2 chronicles 20:15 ESV ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's.

                                                  Isaiah 62

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Laine Lawson Craft:

                                                  Website / Facebook / X / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laine Lawson Craft (www.lainelawsoncraft.com) is an award-winning author, popular media host, and in-demand speaker. The founder and publisher of WHOAwomen magazine (2010-2018), she regularly hosts online challenges and masterclasses as well as Facebook Live events that reach thousands. Her Warfare Parenting podcast encourages parents of adult children. Laine and her husband, Steve, have three children and live in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  As a parent, we try to do the best job we can raising our children. While children don’t come with a “how-to” manual, God gives us wisdom in His word. Proverbs 22:6 tells us “Train up a child in the way he should go: and... full 283 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 4fc0b0ff-348a-4ffd-84e4-4fc3e2e2d34d 824cabf6-fe17-4f2c-96fe-b28701141d3e Thu, 12 Sep 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1111 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/283-how-to-hold-on-to-hope-when-your-child-becomes                                                   282 How to Find Hope and Healing When Life and Parenthood Don’t Go as Expected 282 How to Find Hope and Healing When Life and Parenthood Don’t Go as Expected Episode Summary: 

                                                  It’s human to have a picture, an expectation, in our mind of how life is going to go. But what do we do when our experience doesn’t match our expectations? My guest today, Julie Sunne, shares from her painful wounds of when life and parenthood didn’t go as she expected, having gone through five miscarriages and two children born with significant disabilities. But Julie also shares about the faithfulness of God and how she has seen Him redeem her pain and bring beautiful sacred scars from it.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • As a young wife, I experienced four miscarriages, and gave birth to four children, two of whom had disabilities: my oldest son was born with a disabled arm, our daughter was born with significant intellectual disabilities, and another son was born with learning disabilities.
                                                  • I expected my pregnancies and parenthood being textbook, and my view of God, since I viewed myself as a “good person,” I expected to have a “good life” so to speak.
                                                  • We often have this naïve expectation that if we do good, God will bless us. It’s not that he doesn’t bless us, but too often, we are expecting him to bless us in a certain way and it doesn’t always look like that.
                                                  • My wounds caused me to turn away from the source of all freedom. I was very angry and had a lot of bitterness which captured me and took me to a very dark place. I didn’t have peace, I didn’t have joy, and I didn’t know the freedom that Christ would give.
                                                  • My anger was largely toward God, although also toward my husband because we were grieving differently. We both needed to grow in our faith but were growing at different rates.
                                                  • I also had some guilt that I couldn’t save my baby, and that I had perhaps done something wrong.
                                                  • In my deepest depression, after a miscarriage, I didn’t want anything to do with God, and I didn’t want to get out of bed, I didn’t want people talking to me, and I didn’t want to hear from God.
                                                  • God exercises His sovereignty not based on what makes us comfortable but on what will edify and refine us.
                                                  • Looking back, I so clearly see how he used the most devastating things in my life to bring about such beauty and hope. I couldn’t be the parent I am now, I couldn’t be the caregiver I am now, without the trials I went through.
                                                  • One of the things I had to learn with my daughter was to accept the whole of who she is and not to separate her out from her disabilities.
                                                  • Looking to the future is a scary thing for us with our daughter, but I would be in a panic all the time if I didn’t know and had seen his faithfulness through all these years in the struggles and the valleys.
                                                  • God has allowed me to share my story to help others feel less alone in what they are experiencing. Since he has healed me, I’ve been able to draw strength from what I’ve gone through.
                                                  • I’ve been able to accept my daughter, draw strength from my daughter, and love her for who she is, and even learn from her. She has taught me so much like how to love and have compassion and empathy. Those are not that were inherent in me.
                                                  • The Lord used those wounds to make me a more beautiful person on the inside. I wouldn’t want to walk through what I walked through again but I can see so much beauty in what he’s done through it. He allows me to comfort others and reach out to others to make a difference and point them toward Him.
                                                  • Because He has created beauty on the inside, that is what spills over onto others when we get bumped and pressed.
                                                  • Whatever difficult situation we face, the God of the universe is in charge of it. Whether large issues or seemingly small ones, He knows what’s going on, and He has a plan.
                                                  • As the Sovereign, He is allowing the hardship in this season for a reason. We may not understand, but when we accept the mystery of the Divine Supreme Being, believing He has control over all and is never caught off guard, we can choose trust over worry.
                                                  • When something difficult happens in my life, God has to keep reminding me that it took me by surprise, but it didn’t take Him by surprise, and He already knows how He’s going to get me through it.
                                                  • What flipped the switch for me was taking my attention off my anger and putting it on the needs of my daughter; it gave me purpose and realizing apart from Him, I didn’t have the strength for that either.
                                                  • God showed me that I couldn’t fix my daughter the way I wanted to, and it made me put my eyes on Him. He created her, He knows her. When that realization came, that I had to surrender my strength to Him, surrender her, and surrender all my expectations to Him, I could begin to see that He was there all along.
                                                  • God is trustworthy. We can trust Him even when we can’t understand Him. He’s going to be there for you; He loves you. Just take it one minute at a time. He’ll meet you in that minute. You’ll look back and see that He was faithful and He’s not going to leave you.
                                                  • We all have wounds. But in the hands of a sovereign God, we can trust that He really will use it all for good.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Julie Sunne:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X / Pinterest / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Julie Sunne writes about finding real hope amid life’s real struggles. Her own struggles include enduring multiple miscarriages and caregiving for her adult daughter who has significant intellectual disabilities. Julie’s writing has been featured in print devotionals for several online sites. Julie and her husband, David, are parents to three grown sons and a daughter and reside with their daughter in rural northeast Iowa.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  It’s human to have a picture, an expectation, in our mind of how life is going to go. But what do we do when our experience doesn’t match our expectations? My guest today, Julie Sunne, shares from her painful wounds of when life and parenthood didn’t go as she expected, having gone through five miscarriages and two children born with significant disabilities. But Julie also shares about the faithfulness of God and how she has seen Him redeem her pain and bring beautiful sacred scars from it.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • As a young wife, I experienced four miscarriages, and gave birth to four children, two of whom had disabilities: my oldest son was born with a disabled arm, our daughter was born with significant intellectual disabilities, and another son was born with learning disabilities.
                                                  • I expected my pregnancies and parenthood being textbook, and my view of God, since I viewed myself as a “good person,” I expected to have a “good life” so to speak.
                                                  • We often have this naïve expectation that if we do good, God will bless us. It’s not that he doesn’t bless us, but too often, we are expecting him to bless us in a certain way and it doesn’t always look like that.
                                                  • My wounds caused me to turn away from the source of all freedom. I was very angry and had a lot of bitterness which captured me and took me to a very dark place. I didn’t have peace, I didn’t have joy, and I didn’t know the freedom that Christ would give.
                                                  • My anger was largely toward God, although also toward my husband because we were grieving differently. We both needed to grow in our faith but were growing at different rates.
                                                  • I also had some guilt that I couldn’t save my baby, and that I had perhaps done something wrong.
                                                  • In my deepest depression, after a miscarriage, I didn’t want anything to do with God, and I didn’t want to get out of bed, I didn’t want people talking to me, and I didn’t want to hear from God.
                                                  • God exercises His sovereignty not based on what makes us comfortable but on what will edify and refine us.
                                                  • Looking back, I so clearly see how he used the most devastating things in my life to bring about such beauty and hope. I couldn’t be the parent I am now, I couldn’t be the caregiver I am now, without the trials I went through.
                                                  • One of the things I had to learn with my daughter was to accept the whole of who she is and not to separate her out from her disabilities.
                                                  • Looking to the future is a scary thing for us with our daughter, but I would be in a panic all the time if I didn’t know and had seen his faithfulness through all these years in the struggles and the valleys.
                                                  • God has allowed me to share my story to help others feel less alone in what they are experiencing. Since he has healed me, I’ve been able to draw strength from what I’ve gone through.
                                                  • I’ve been able to accept my daughter, draw strength from my daughter, and love her for who she is, and even learn from her. She has taught me so much like how to love and have compassion and empathy. Those are not that were inherent in me.
                                                  • The Lord used those wounds to make me a more beautiful person on the inside. I wouldn’t want to walk through what I walked through again but I can see so much beauty in what he’s done through it. He allows me to comfort others and reach out to others to make a difference and point them toward Him.
                                                  • Because He has created beauty on the inside, that is what spills over onto others when we get bumped and pressed.
                                                  • Whatever difficult situation we face, the God of the universe is in charge of it. Whether large issues or seemingly small ones, He knows what’s going on, and He has a plan.
                                                  • As the Sovereign, He is allowing the hardship in this season for a reason. We may not understand, but when we accept the mystery of the Divine Supreme Being, believing He has control over all and is never caught off guard, we can choose trust over worry.
                                                  • When something difficult happens in my life, God has to keep reminding me that it took me by surprise, but it didn’t take Him by surprise, and He already knows how He’s going to get me through it.
                                                  • What flipped the switch for me was taking my attention off my anger and putting it on the needs of my daughter; it gave me purpose and realizing apart from Him, I didn’t have the strength for that either.
                                                  • God showed me that I couldn’t fix my daughter the way I wanted to, and it made me put my eyes on Him. He created her, He knows her. When that realization came, that I had to surrender my strength to Him, surrender her, and surrender all my expectations to Him, I could begin to see that He was there all along.
                                                  • God is trustworthy. We can trust Him even when we can’t understand Him. He’s going to be there for you; He loves you. Just take it one minute at a time. He’ll meet you in that minute. You’ll look back and see that He was faithful and He’s not going to leave you.
                                                  • We all have wounds. But in the hands of a sovereign God, we can trust that He really will use it all for good.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Julie Sunne:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X / Pinterest / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Julie Sunne writes about finding real hope amid life’s real struggles. Her own struggles include enduring multiple miscarriages and caregiving for her adult daughter who has significant intellectual disabilities. Julie’s writing has been featured in print devotionals for several online sites. Julie and her husband, David, are parents to three grown sons and a daughter and reside with their daughter in rural northeast Iowa.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  It’s human to have a picture, an expectation, in our mind of how life is going to go. But what do we do when our experience doesn’t match our expectations? My guest today, Julie Sunne, shares from her painful wounds of when... full Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9a7bb9c6-bee3-453a-95ec-61fd14853086 49e2f4c6-3636-4818-bc1b-b28701141ec9 Thu, 05 Sep 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1320 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/282-how-to-find-hope-and-healing-when-life-and-par                                                   281 How to Find Your True Worth in Christ: Overcoming Lies and Embracing God’s Truth 281 How to Find Your True Worth in Christ: Overcoming Lies and Embracing God’s Truth Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, I talked with former runway model, Jennifer Strickland. Jennifer shared how she suffered emotional and spiritual wounds when she allowed others’ opinions of her to determine her worth and value. Through her journey, she discovered the importance of finding the true source of her worth -- in Christ. Now, she ministers to other women who need to know this life-changing truth as well.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We all have pain and hurt, and if we aren’t careful and don’t get healing, that is what the enemy uses to hold us back, to think that we are not worthy to be used by God, that we are not worthy of love and acceptance.
                                                  • Sometimes, those things are things that have happened to us. Other times, they are things that we have made a conscious decision to participate in.
                                                  • But I’m here to tell you that your past is not wasted. And that thing that you think is so shameful, embarrassing, or disgraceful is often exactly what God wants to use to encourage others and to help you grow.
                                                  • I was 22 years old when I lived in Milan and was modeling on the runway. A particular man came into my life as a father figure and he saw that I could be a top model. That began a long journey in my life of believing that I was what man said about me.
                                                  • The lens that agents and photographers saw me became the lens through which I saw myself. If they said I was beautiful, I believed it, but if they said that I was ugly or anorexic then I believed that.
                                                  • This particular relationship became toxic for me spiritually. I really believe that the enemy worked through this man to plant some really poisonous lies in my heart.
                                                  • When I didn’t make the choices that he wanted me to make, he told me I was disposable, so I allowed man to determine my value.
                                                  • On the spiritual side of things, when I discovered Jesus, it drove me into a deep study of who was man? The word of God says, “do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save…but if you put your trust in God it will be like a well-watered garden.”
                                                  • It was the destructive lies that I heard from my interaction with this man that led me to write many of the messages I write now which helps women understand what’s going on with them when they allow a good man or a bad man to give them their identity, value, or worth.
                                                  • I carried the lies I believed about man determining my identity even into my marriage even after I became a Christian. So, if my husband said anything, even if he was trying to help me, I became very defensive and fearful based on what he said. I had to heal from those lies.
                                                  • I had to wallpaper my mind with truth. I had to forgive. It was very difficult for me to forgive a couple of particular people in the modeling industry for how they impacted my life, but when I did, I could then filter what other people were saying to me through a lens of wholeness.
                                                  • I had to do that healing work first before I could receive from Godly men, like my husband or father figures in a healthy way. I could receive constructive criticism or correction without believing it had anything to do with my identity.
                                                  • The enemy often plants lies in our childhood before we are mature enough to identify them as lies. The longer and more frequently we hear them, the more they become imbedded. It takes a lot of time and willingness to go deep and ask, “what lies have I believed?”
                                                  • Healing is a process and if we will take those wounds to God, he can take them, heal them, and turn them into beautiful sacred scars.
                                                  • The key to healing is always honesty.
                                                  • For me, healing began with writing my story, speaking my story, and identifying the patterns that were going on.
                                                  • I also believed that I was only as valuable as what I saw in the mirror or what I saw in other girls. That continued into my ministry as social media was throwing other people in my face, whereas when ministry was one on one with me and another girl, I never thought about that or played the comparison game.
                                                  • I had to learn to celebrate other women and continue running in my own lane and do it well.
                                                  • It’s a matter of dealing with the memories, assessing the lies and replacing them with the truth of what God says about us.
                                                  • I am his ambassador, I am his daughter, I am the apple of his eye. He never takes his eye off of me. I am loved by him every single day. His grace is sufficient for me.
                                                  • We have to stand on his truth and then walk in it. Confession and repentance is so important. The power of being honest about our sin is unmatched.
                                                  • Once we get honest about our struggle, is the first step, and then replacing it with truth of who we are.
                                                  • Culture today talks about “my truth” but that is just more deception from the enemy because there is only one truth and it is God’s truth based on what he has already spelled out and told us in his Word.
                                                  • You are already loved, accepted, and adored by the God of the universe!
                                                  • Scripture says that the heart is deceitful above all else, and we rely on “our truth” that is deception.
                                                  • What I admire about your ministry is that you are taking a very painful wound from your teen and young adult years, and using it to minister to other women, as a beautiful sacred scar because you can say, “I’ve been through this. I know the lies you’re believing. But let me share with you what I’ve learned on my journey.”
                                                  • God showed me my scars served a redemptive purpose by allowing me to get to the bottom of the well where things were so dark and so destructive for me. I was suicidal, I was using drugs and alcohol. I was starving myself. I hated myself. God allowed me to get to a place of total darkness.
                                                  • At that point, when I began reading God’s Word for the first time, and Christians invited me to church, I began to see that the lies the world tells us about beauty, worth, purpose, “my truth” means nothing. It’s such a shallow wide ocean that you drown in real quick.
                                                  • But his love is endlessly deep. You can dip your toe into the word of God the rest of your life and stay endlessly refreshed.
                                                  • It’s a lifelong walk of saying society is not going to define me, media is not going to define me, but God is going to be the one to define me and fill me up.
                                                  • We need to turn every day to the Lord and say, “I need you to fill me up. I need your wisdom today. I’m not going to find it in me.
                                                  • If something devastating has happened to you, or if you’ve made poor choices, you are not too far gone for the God of the universe to reach down into that pit and say, “Let me show you a different way and let me not only bring you out of it but redeem it for good and for my glory.”
                                                  • When it seems impossible, remember God is the God of the impossible so let him do the seemingly impossible in your life.
                                                  • The hope filled perspective is that God will shine his light into the depths of your dark sea, but you have to choose to swim after it. God sold everything he had for you, and that was his son, Jesus. Jesus is the light of the world. So, when he wants to shine that light on the beautiful person you are, but you have to be honest and let him wash you with his spirit to be able to reveal who you are really intended to be.
                                                  • When you’re in that very painful place, that sand of adversity, let it shape you more into his likeness.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalms 25:20 NIV “Guard my life and rescue me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.”
                                                  • Psalms 146:3 NIV “Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.”
                                                  • Jeremiah 17:9 NIV “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jennifer Strickland: 

                                                  Website URMore / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / X

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jennifer Strickland is a former international model, TEDx speaker, author, wife, mother of three, and the founder of a non-profit called U R More, that helps women and girls discover their value, identity, and purpose. 

                                                  Jen has written several books and studies teaching women and girls their true worth, including Girl Perfect, More Beautiful Than You Know, Beautiful Lies, and 21 Myths (Even Good) Girls Believe About Sex. She holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and a master’s degree in writing with an emphasis in biblical studies.

                                                  In her earlier days, Jen worked for 15 years as a professional model, appearing in Vogue, Glamour, and Cosmopolitan. She was featured in ads for Converse Tennis Shoes, Oil of O’lay, Mercedes Benz, Eddie Bauer, and Jordache; and at the height of her career, she walked the runways of Europe for Giorgio Armani and represented Barbie for the 35th anniversary of the doll. But Jen learned beauty is more than what meets the eye when she discovered what she looked like in God’s eyes.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, I talked with former runway model, Jennifer Strickland. Jennifer shared how she suffered emotional and spiritual wounds when she allowed others’ opinions of her to determine her worth and value. Through her journey, she discovered the importance of finding the true source of her worth -- in Christ. Now, she ministers to other women who need to know this life-changing truth as well.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We all have pain and hurt, and if we aren’t careful and don’t get healing, that is what the enemy uses to hold us back, to think that we are not worthy to be used by God, that we are not worthy of love and acceptance.
                                                  • Sometimes, those things are things that have happened to us. Other times, they are things that we have made a conscious decision to participate in.
                                                  • But I’m here to tell you that your past is not wasted. And that thing that you think is so shameful, embarrassing, or disgraceful is often exactly what God wants to use to encourage others and to help you grow.
                                                  • I was 22 years old when I lived in Milan and was modeling on the runway. A particular man came into my life as a father figure and he saw that I could be a top model. That began a long journey in my life of believing that I was what man said about me.
                                                  • The lens that agents and photographers saw me became the lens through which I saw myself. If they said I was beautiful, I believed it, but if they said that I was ugly or anorexic then I believed that.
                                                  • This particular relationship became toxic for me spiritually. I really believe that the enemy worked through this man to plant some really poisonous lies in my heart.
                                                  • When I didn’t make the choices that he wanted me to make, he told me I was disposable, so I allowed man to determine my value.
                                                  • On the spiritual side of things, when I discovered Jesus, it drove me into a deep study of who was man? The word of God says, “do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save…but if you put your trust in God it will be like a well-watered garden.”
                                                  • It was the destructive lies that I heard from my interaction with this man that led me to write many of the messages I write now which helps women understand what’s going on with them when they allow a good man or a bad man to give them their identity, value, or worth.
                                                  • I carried the lies I believed about man determining my identity even into my marriage even after I became a Christian. So, if my husband said anything, even if he was trying to help me, I became very defensive and fearful based on what he said. I had to heal from those lies.
                                                  • I had to wallpaper my mind with truth. I had to forgive. It was very difficult for me to forgive a couple of particular people in the modeling industry for how they impacted my life, but when I did, I could then filter what other people were saying to me through a lens of wholeness.
                                                  • I had to do that healing work first before I could receive from Godly men, like my husband or father figures in a healthy way. I could receive constructive criticism or correction without believing it had anything to do with my identity.
                                                  • The enemy often plants lies in our childhood before we are mature enough to identify them as lies. The longer and more frequently we hear them, the more they become imbedded. It takes a lot of time and willingness to go deep and ask, “what lies have I believed?”
                                                  • Healing is a process and if we will take those wounds to God, he can take them, heal them, and turn them into beautiful sacred scars.
                                                  • The key to healing is always honesty.
                                                  • For me, healing began with writing my story, speaking my story, and identifying the patterns that were going on.
                                                  • I also believed that I was only as valuable as what I saw in the mirror or what I saw in other girls. That continued into my ministry as social media was throwing other people in my face, whereas when ministry was one on one with me and another girl, I never thought about that or played the comparison game.
                                                  • I had to learn to celebrate other women and continue running in my own lane and do it well.
                                                  • It’s a matter of dealing with the memories, assessing the lies and replacing them with the truth of what God says about us.
                                                  • I am his ambassador, I am his daughter, I am the apple of his eye. He never takes his eye off of me. I am loved by him every single day. His grace is sufficient for me.
                                                  • We have to stand on his truth and then walk in it. Confession and repentance is so important. The power of being honest about our sin is unmatched.
                                                  • Once we get honest about our struggle, is the first step, and then replacing it with truth of who we are.
                                                  • Culture today talks about “my truth” but that is just more deception from the enemy because there is only one truth and it is God’s truth based on what he has already spelled out and told us in his Word.
                                                  • You are already loved, accepted, and adored by the God of the universe!
                                                  • Scripture says that the heart is deceitful above all else, and we rely on “our truth” that is deception.
                                                  • What I admire about your ministry is that you are taking a very painful wound from your teen and young adult years, and using it to minister to other women, as a beautiful sacred scar because you can say, “I’ve been through this. I know the lies you’re believing. But let me share with you what I’ve learned on my journey.”
                                                  • God showed me my scars served a redemptive purpose by allowing me to get to the bottom of the well where things were so dark and so destructive for me. I was suicidal, I was using drugs and alcohol. I was starving myself. I hated myself. God allowed me to get to a place of total darkness.
                                                  • At that point, when I began reading God’s Word for the first time, and Christians invited me to church, I began to see that the lies the world tells us about beauty, worth, purpose, “my truth” means nothing. It’s such a shallow wide ocean that you drown in real quick.
                                                  • But his love is endlessly deep. You can dip your toe into the word of God the rest of your life and stay endlessly refreshed.
                                                  • It’s a lifelong walk of saying society is not going to define me, media is not going to define me, but God is going to be the one to define me and fill me up.
                                                  • We need to turn every day to the Lord and say, “I need you to fill me up. I need your wisdom today. I’m not going to find it in me.
                                                  • If something devastating has happened to you, or if you’ve made poor choices, you are not too far gone for the God of the universe to reach down into that pit and say, “Let me show you a different way and let me not only bring you out of it but redeem it for good and for my glory.”
                                                  • When it seems impossible, remember God is the God of the impossible so let him do the seemingly impossible in your life.
                                                  • The hope filled perspective is that God will shine his light into the depths of your dark sea, but you have to choose to swim after it. God sold everything he had for you, and that was his son, Jesus. Jesus is the light of the world. So, when he wants to shine that light on the beautiful person you are, but you have to be honest and let him wash you with his spirit to be able to reveal who you are really intended to be.
                                                  • When you’re in that very painful place, that sand of adversity, let it shape you more into his likeness.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalms 25:20 NIV “Guard my life and rescue me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.”
                                                  • Psalms 146:3 NIV “Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.”
                                                  • Jeremiah 17:9 NIV “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jennifer Strickland: 

                                                  Website URMore / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / X

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jennifer Strickland is a former international model, TEDx speaker, author, wife, mother of three, and the founder of a non-profit called U R More, that helps women and girls discover their value, identity, and purpose. 

                                                  Jen has written several books and studies teaching women and girls their true worth, including Girl Perfect, More Beautiful Than You Know, Beautiful Lies, and 21 Myths (Even Good) Girls Believe About Sex. She holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and a master’s degree in writing with an emphasis in biblical studies.

                                                  In her earlier days, Jen worked for 15 years as a professional model, appearing in Vogue, Glamour, and Cosmopolitan. She was featured in ads for Converse Tennis Shoes, Oil of O’lay, Mercedes Benz, Eddie Bauer, and Jordache; and at the height of her career, she walked the runways of Europe for Giorgio Armani and represented Barbie for the 35th anniversary of the doll. But Jen learned beauty is more than what meets the eye when she discovered what she looked like in God’s eyes.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this episode, I talked with former runway model, Jennifer Strickland. Jennifer shared how she suffered emotional and spiritual wounds when she allowed others’ opinions of her to determine her worth and value. Through her... full 281 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 3c52cacc-7c92-4d99-87ce-50510811bc12 1c96b087-f727-4bcb-8997-b28701141d88 Thu, 29 Aug 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1484 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/281-how-to-find-your-true-worth-in-christ-overcomi                                                   280 How to Find Purpose in Pain After a Hemorrhagic Stroke 280 How to Find Purpose in Pain After a Hemorrhagic Stroke Episode Summary: 

                                                  My guest today suffered a hemorrhagic stroke at the age of 29, and then subsequently developed epilepsy. I speak with Lori Vober about how God has taken her painful wounds and fashioned them into beautiful sacred scars, teaching her that every trial we face provides us with unique opportunities we might not have otherwise encountered.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • With the right perspective, attitude, and perseverance, we can stay unstuck and keep moving forward even with our difficulties.
                                                  • Some of our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of pain and woundedness.
                                                  • My journey took me through pain physically, mentally, and emotionally but God had me in the palm of his hand because he not only saved my life but he started me on my faith journey long before the stroke so I had a firm foundation to stand on and I learned more and more about how to depend on him.
                                                  • He gives us a choice regarding how we are going to look at our painful wounds, and I’m so grateful that allowed me to go through the fire but also to become closer to him.
                                                  • When we go through trials, we can either lean into God or we can run the other way. But he’s not going to chase us. He wants us to willingly come to him.
                                                  • When things are going well, I have a tendency to think, “I’ve got this, God. I’ll let you know when I need help!” But when I go through the trials that seem so dark, that’s when I hold onto every nugget that the Lord has given me over my life.
                                                  • Trials offer opportunities. Too often, we begrudge the trials and don’t dig in to look for opportunities and don’t consider things outside our box.
                                                  • Perseverance ends up yielding the blessing of God’s mercy and compassion.
                                                  •  Perseverance has definitely been required. No one clued me in that 21 years down the road I would still have a disability.
                                                  • Grief and loss have also been part of the equation but didn’t hit me right away, but rather, has been a journey that I’ve had to go through over time. But it has helped me to recognize the importance of processing grief and loss in order to move forward.
                                                  • Sometimes we associate grief and loss with the death of a loved one, but grief and loss also occur when we lose our functioning or lose our dreams.
                                                  • God gives us so many mini-miracles, and when God doesn’t give you the dream of your heart, we have to be okay with that and thank him for all the other mini-miracles He has provided. If He had granted me the full desires of my heart, I would not have had the blessing of the journey that has led me to where I am today.
                                                  • We need to let God be God and still trust him.
                                                  • I woke up paralyzed on one side. I can walk, but I do so with a limp. I have physical pain. I’m still actively engaged in therapy. But He keeps giving me amazing opportunities.
                                                  • God can handle our anger…He knows about it anyway.
                                                  • When I finally expressed my frustration and anger to God, it was as if He was saying, “now we can deal with it and get somewhere.”
                                                  • Vulnerability is so important, but we can do so honestly in a positive way.
                                                  • I’ve learned so much through my own need for emotional support, that was never really met, how to support others.
                                                  • When we are vulnerable in our suffering, it gives other people permission to be honest and vulnerable about their situation too.
                                                  • We’re all going to go through something painful, embarrassing, shameful, but in the hands of a redemptive God, he can bring about a beautiful sacred scar.
                                                  • We have to give grace to ourselves as well as to our friends and family members who aren’t sure how to help because they haven’t gone through it themselves and truly don’t understand.
                                                  • Every challenge, every trial that we go through is part of His master plan and purpose for us, it’s just a matter of us getting out of the way of our plans and saying, “Yes, God, I understand that this doesn’t fit into my plan, but it does fit into yours.” We have to be willing to look at how our situation fits into God’s master plan.
                                                  • I have a tendency to make my plans and want God to fit in it, but we need to surrender to His perfect plan.
                                                  • God is the only thing that is going to get you through painful situations. Our true hope is in God. The One who created us and the One who is waiting for us at the end of this earthly life is the only One who truly matters.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • James 5:11 “As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Lori Vober:

                                                  Website / Facebook / LinkedIn / X

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lori Vober suffered a hemorrhagic stroke at age twenty-nine, and then developed epilepsy from the stroke. She is a survivor, overcomer, connector, and passionate about sharing hope with others. With the right perspective, attitude, and perseverance, we can stay unstuck and keep moving forward. Even with her difficulties, Lori and her husband, Dainis, were able to become adoptive parents to a sibling group of three. Lori’s journey and books can be found at www.lorivober.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  My guest today suffered a hemorrhagic stroke at the age of 29, and then subsequently developed epilepsy. I speak with Lori Vober about how God has taken her painful wounds and fashioned them into beautiful sacred scars, teaching her that every trial we face provides us with unique opportunities we might not have otherwise encountered.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • With the right perspective, attitude, and perseverance, we can stay unstuck and keep moving forward even with our difficulties.
                                                  • Some of our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of pain and woundedness.
                                                  • My journey took me through pain physically, mentally, and emotionally but God had me in the palm of his hand because he not only saved my life but he started me on my faith journey long before the stroke so I had a firm foundation to stand on and I learned more and more about how to depend on him.
                                                  • He gives us a choice regarding how we are going to look at our painful wounds, and I’m so grateful that allowed me to go through the fire but also to become closer to him.
                                                  • When we go through trials, we can either lean into God or we can run the other way. But he’s not going to chase us. He wants us to willingly come to him.
                                                  • When things are going well, I have a tendency to think, “I’ve got this, God. I’ll let you know when I need help!” But when I go through the trials that seem so dark, that’s when I hold onto every nugget that the Lord has given me over my life.
                                                  • Trials offer opportunities. Too often, we begrudge the trials and don’t dig in to look for opportunities and don’t consider things outside our box.
                                                  • Perseverance ends up yielding the blessing of God’s mercy and compassion.
                                                  •  Perseverance has definitely been required. No one clued me in that 21 years down the road I would still have a disability.
                                                  • Grief and loss have also been part of the equation but didn’t hit me right away, but rather, has been a journey that I’ve had to go through over time. But it has helped me to recognize the importance of processing grief and loss in order to move forward.
                                                  • Sometimes we associate grief and loss with the death of a loved one, but grief and loss also occur when we lose our functioning or lose our dreams.
                                                  • God gives us so many mini-miracles, and when God doesn’t give you the dream of your heart, we have to be okay with that and thank him for all the other mini-miracles He has provided. If He had granted me the full desires of my heart, I would not have had the blessing of the journey that has led me to where I am today.
                                                  • We need to let God be God and still trust him.
                                                  • I woke up paralyzed on one side. I can walk, but I do so with a limp. I have physical pain. I’m still actively engaged in therapy. But He keeps giving me amazing opportunities.
                                                  • God can handle our anger…He knows about it anyway.
                                                  • When I finally expressed my frustration and anger to God, it was as if He was saying, “now we can deal with it and get somewhere.”
                                                  • Vulnerability is so important, but we can do so honestly in a positive way.
                                                  • I’ve learned so much through my own need for emotional support, that was never really met, how to support others.
                                                  • When we are vulnerable in our suffering, it gives other people permission to be honest and vulnerable about their situation too.
                                                  • We’re all going to go through something painful, embarrassing, shameful, but in the hands of a redemptive God, he can bring about a beautiful sacred scar.
                                                  • We have to give grace to ourselves as well as to our friends and family members who aren’t sure how to help because they haven’t gone through it themselves and truly don’t understand.
                                                  • Every challenge, every trial that we go through is part of His master plan and purpose for us, it’s just a matter of us getting out of the way of our plans and saying, “Yes, God, I understand that this doesn’t fit into my plan, but it does fit into yours.” We have to be willing to look at how our situation fits into God’s master plan.
                                                  • I have a tendency to make my plans and want God to fit in it, but we need to surrender to His perfect plan.
                                                  • God is the only thing that is going to get you through painful situations. Our true hope is in God. The One who created us and the One who is waiting for us at the end of this earthly life is the only One who truly matters.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • James 5:11 “As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Lori Vober:

                                                  Website / Facebook / LinkedIn / X

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lori Vober suffered a hemorrhagic stroke at age twenty-nine, and then developed epilepsy from the stroke. She is a survivor, overcomer, connector, and passionate about sharing hope with others. With the right perspective, attitude, and perseverance, we can stay unstuck and keep moving forward. Even with her difficulties, Lori and her husband, Dainis, were able to become adoptive parents to a sibling group of three. Lori’s journey and books can be found at www.lorivober.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  My guest today suffered a hemorrhagic stroke at the age of 29, and then subsequently developed epilepsy. I speak with Lori Vober about how God has taken her painful wounds and fashioned them into beautiful sacred scars, teaching... full 280 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 1be457e6-52eb-4e83-8d02-93a5a9682ea6 48374943-fdc0-4be2-9b25-b28701141d81 Thu, 22 Aug 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1617 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/280-how-to-find-purpose-in-pain-after-a-hemorrhagi                                                   279 How To Find Healing After Unplanned Pregnancy and Adoption 279 How To Find Healing After Unplanned Pregnancy and Adoption Episode Summary: 

                                                  As part of our Sacred Scar Story Series, my guest, Julie McLaughlin, opens up about her deeply personal journey through teenage pregnancy and the heart-wrenching decision to give her baby up for adoption. For over 40 years, Julie and her husband kept this secret hidden, carrying the heavy burden of shame that often follows birth moms in similar situations. Julie shares how God transformed her painful wounds into sacred scars, bringing healing and redemption when her son found them decades later. Tune in to hear Julie's powerful story of overcoming the stigma of unplanned pregnancy and discovering the freedom that comes from sharing her story.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Areas that God puts us in to minister to others often comes out of our areas of our painful wounds.
                                                  • I was shamed, embarrassed, and shocked when I became pregnant by my then-boyfriend (now-husband). I wasn’t ready to be a mom, and I wasn’t ready to get married, and with a lot of help by my parish-priest and others, I made the difficult decision to put my baby up for adoption.
                                                  • The stigma of that unplanned pregnancy has been with me my entire life. I kept that secret from everyone for over 40 years.
                                                  • I experienced so much shame attached to my actions. Shame makes you feel like you have fallen off the pedestal of life. I disappointed my parents (I was the oldest of five, and my younger brothers didn’t even know about it), and I disappointed myself.  There was so much shame. I didn’t feel like I was the good Catholic girl I thought I was supposed to be.
                                                  • I married my baby’s father, and we kept the secret for forty years from most of the people in our lives, including our two daughters we had. We didn’t tell that I had had a son and had put him up for adoption. At the time that happened, only a few people knew. I fabricated a story and that’s what people believed.
                                                  • Although I lived a very full and fulfilling life, there were many things I shied away from (like running for public office) because I didn’t want my story to be found out.
                                                  • Even when other people talked about teenage pregnancy or adoption, I never talked about it.
                                                  • Our painful wounds often tempt us to keep our secrets hidden. Shame prompts fear (fear that we are going to be found out, fear of ridicule, fear that we are going to be rejected or abandoned, fear that people will share our story and it won’t be within our control…).
                                                  • Out of fear, we often then isolate because we don’t want anyone to find out.
                                                  • I probably experienced undiagnosed Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, I suffered with medical problems through the years, I tried counseling but found out that the counselor’s husband worked with my husband so I feared my story wouldn’t be kept confidential, so I quit going.
                                                  • When you keep your secrets quiet, I believe it will come out manifesting in different ways emotionally, physically, etc.
                                                  • About six years ago, after I placed my son in an entirely private adoption, through Facebook and an ancestry service, my son found us (we had not been looking for him).
                                                  • He found us and told us that he had had a great life, and that he appreciated the decision we had made, and ironically, he and his wife adopted a child (from the same agency I had used) when they were initially unable to have a baby, but then went on to have two more biological children.
                                                  • When my son validated the painful decision we made decades before, not only healed the wound, but filled a hole in my heart all those years.
                                                  • Because the story was out after my son found us, we started sharing our story, and we were received in such a loving way that was nothing like I had feared all those years ago. What we received instead was love and joy and peace.
                                                  • So I was able to write a book about our story, shared my story with countless people and I’ve had the incredible opportunity to meet other birth moms with the same story, adoptive parents, adoptive kids, which has helped to heal me and my husband, and now there’s no longer a secret we can talk about it openly.
                                                  • So often, when we are vulnerable enough to share our story with others, the outcome is rarely as bad as the enemy convinces us it will be. God wants to redeem and restore us, but He is waiting for us to come out of the darkness to share our pain with Him in the light of His love.
                                                  • The most important redemption came through our daughters, who for over 30 years had no knowledge of having an older brother, loved us and accepted us and told us they were proud of us when we told them the news. They lovingly and unselfishly opened their hearts to him and his family.
                                                  • God’s hand has been in this since our son was conceived. A friend told me that we had given a gift to another family years ago, and God has given it back to us to see his redemptive work and to see the joy. I’m not ashamed anymore!
                                                  • Healing came with validation. We all need some sort of validation.
                                                  • You may be in a situation where no one is validating you. But Jesus has already validated you. He died to pay the price, so He has already validated you.
                                                  • Guilt, shame and regret do not come from your heavenly father. Scripture says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. So accept his validation of you.
                                                  • There is enough love to go around if we will open our hearts.
                                                  • Keeping a secret all those years was VERY very hard. Being able to talk about it openly has been freeing physically, emotionally, and mentally.
                                                  • Find someone to trust with whom you can talk it out.
                                                  • There are resources out there for women with an unplanned pregnancy.
                                                  • For me, that adoption decision was nothing short of a true blessing. I had given it over to God, but it does feel good to openly and honestly talk about it from a real human perspective.
                                                  • We all have a story, and someone out there needs to hear our story.
                                                  • After sharing our story with our daughters, one of them said, “Mom, you actually seem like a new you!” That shocked me. I think she was picking up on freedom.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 3:10 NIV “There is no one righteous, not even one.”
                                                  • Romans 8:1 NIV “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Julie McLaughlin:

                                                  Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Julie McLaughlin is a retired paralegal and legal secretary.  She won numerous awards during her career in the legal field, and she is very active in her church. “The Gift of Time: A Birth Mother’s Memoir” is Julie’s first book about her adoption journey.  She and her husband, Mike, have been married for 43 years.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  As part of our Sacred Scar Story Series, my guest, Julie McLaughlin, opens up about her deeply personal journey through teenage pregnancy and the heart-wrenching decision to give her baby up for adoption. For over 40 years, Julie and her husband kept this secret hidden, carrying the heavy burden of shame that often follows birth moms in similar situations. Julie shares how God transformed her painful wounds into sacred scars, bringing healing and redemption when her son found them decades later. Tune in to hear Julie's powerful story of overcoming the stigma of unplanned pregnancy and discovering the freedom that comes from sharing her story.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Areas that God puts us in to minister to others often comes out of our areas of our painful wounds.
                                                  • I was shamed, embarrassed, and shocked when I became pregnant by my then-boyfriend (now-husband). I wasn’t ready to be a mom, and I wasn’t ready to get married, and with a lot of help by my parish-priest and others, I made the difficult decision to put my baby up for adoption.
                                                  • The stigma of that unplanned pregnancy has been with me my entire life. I kept that secret from everyone for over 40 years.
                                                  • I experienced so much shame attached to my actions. Shame makes you feel like you have fallen off the pedestal of life. I disappointed my parents (I was the oldest of five, and my younger brothers didn’t even know about it), and I disappointed myself.  There was so much shame. I didn’t feel like I was the good Catholic girl I thought I was supposed to be.
                                                  • I married my baby’s father, and we kept the secret for forty years from most of the people in our lives, including our two daughters we had. We didn’t tell that I had had a son and had put him up for adoption. At the time that happened, only a few people knew. I fabricated a story and that’s what people believed.
                                                  • Although I lived a very full and fulfilling life, there were many things I shied away from (like running for public office) because I didn’t want my story to be found out.
                                                  • Even when other people talked about teenage pregnancy or adoption, I never talked about it.
                                                  • Our painful wounds often tempt us to keep our secrets hidden. Shame prompts fear (fear that we are going to be found out, fear of ridicule, fear that we are going to be rejected or abandoned, fear that people will share our story and it won’t be within our control…).
                                                  • Out of fear, we often then isolate because we don’t want anyone to find out.
                                                  • I probably experienced undiagnosed Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, I suffered with medical problems through the years, I tried counseling but found out that the counselor’s husband worked with my husband so I feared my story wouldn’t be kept confidential, so I quit going.
                                                  • When you keep your secrets quiet, I believe it will come out manifesting in different ways emotionally, physically, etc.
                                                  • About six years ago, after I placed my son in an entirely private adoption, through Facebook and an ancestry service, my son found us (we had not been looking for him).
                                                  • He found us and told us that he had had a great life, and that he appreciated the decision we had made, and ironically, he and his wife adopted a child (from the same agency I had used) when they were initially unable to have a baby, but then went on to have two more biological children.
                                                  • When my son validated the painful decision we made decades before, not only healed the wound, but filled a hole in my heart all those years.
                                                  • Because the story was out after my son found us, we started sharing our story, and we were received in such a loving way that was nothing like I had feared all those years ago. What we received instead was love and joy and peace.
                                                  • So I was able to write a book about our story, shared my story with countless people and I’ve had the incredible opportunity to meet other birth moms with the same story, adoptive parents, adoptive kids, which has helped to heal me and my husband, and now there’s no longer a secret we can talk about it openly.
                                                  • So often, when we are vulnerable enough to share our story with others, the outcome is rarely as bad as the enemy convinces us it will be. God wants to redeem and restore us, but He is waiting for us to come out of the darkness to share our pain with Him in the light of His love.
                                                  • The most important redemption came through our daughters, who for over 30 years had no knowledge of having an older brother, loved us and accepted us and told us they were proud of us when we told them the news. They lovingly and unselfishly opened their hearts to him and his family.
                                                  • God’s hand has been in this since our son was conceived. A friend told me that we had given a gift to another family years ago, and God has given it back to us to see his redemptive work and to see the joy. I’m not ashamed anymore!
                                                  • Healing came with validation. We all need some sort of validation.
                                                  • You may be in a situation where no one is validating you. But Jesus has already validated you. He died to pay the price, so He has already validated you.
                                                  • Guilt, shame and regret do not come from your heavenly father. Scripture says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. So accept his validation of you.
                                                  • There is enough love to go around if we will open our hearts.
                                                  • Keeping a secret all those years was VERY very hard. Being able to talk about it openly has been freeing physically, emotionally, and mentally.
                                                  • Find someone to trust with whom you can talk it out.
                                                  • There are resources out there for women with an unplanned pregnancy.
                                                  • For me, that adoption decision was nothing short of a true blessing. I had given it over to God, but it does feel good to openly and honestly talk about it from a real human perspective.
                                                  • We all have a story, and someone out there needs to hear our story.
                                                  • After sharing our story with our daughters, one of them said, “Mom, you actually seem like a new you!” That shocked me. I think she was picking up on freedom.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 3:10 NIV “There is no one righteous, not even one.”
                                                  • Romans 8:1 NIV “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Julie McLaughlin:

                                                  Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Julie McLaughlin is a retired paralegal and legal secretary.  She won numerous awards during her career in the legal field, and she is very active in her church. “The Gift of Time: A Birth Mother’s Memoir” is Julie’s first book about her adoption journey.  She and her husband, Mike, have been married for 43 years.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  As part of our Sacred Scar Story Series, my guest, Julie McLaughlin, opens up about her deeply personal journey through teenage pregnancy and the heart-wrenching decision to give her baby up for adoption. For over 40 years,... full 279 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9656dbfd-5a56-4f3c-b27b-cc915eb78b6b 3f83595a-db22-448c-b0b6-b28701141cdc Thu, 15 Aug 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1407 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/279-how-to-find-healing-after-unplanned-pregnancy                                                   278 How to Heal and Find Hope After an Incarcerated Child’s Trauma 278 How to Heal and Find Hope After an Incarcerated Child’s Trauma Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, I chatted with Shonda Whitworth, who shared about her wounds, her pain, and now her sacred scars after walking through a most devastating experience when her son was incarcerated. What the enemy tried to use to quiet and shut Shonda down, God has now used to bring her into a greater aspect of her calling. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When they said “Your son has been arrested for aggravated assault,” I went numb and didn’t know how to respond because the person they were describing on my phone was not the son I knew.
                                                  • I grabbed hold of Romans 8:28. At the time, that verse just felt overused to me, like a Bible verse Band-Aid. But I held my Bible and declared that this was God’s Word, and asked Him to make it real for me.
                                                  • This was one of the last things I ever expected to happen. I raised him in the way he should go, taught him the word, took him to Sunday School, and taught him about God. I didn’t expect him to depart from his upbringing and it just devastated me.
                                                  • I was hopeful things would turn around, but that’s not what happened. I was looking for a miracle ending.
                                                  • We take either the fight or flight response, and I took the flight response. I just wanted to hide in my cave. I didn’t want to be seen in social situations and wanted to hide from conversation about our children.
                                                  • The depression and anxiety were overwhelming. It knocked me down. I went dark for a while and retreated for a season.
                                                  • The enemy brings shame, guilt, regret, and fear.
                                                  • I felt like I was wearing a big “F” for mother of a felon. The depression and anxiety came from listening to all the lies about myself. I was operating with a double-mind.
                                                  • In prison, my son began experiencing freedom that doesn’t depend on a location. Scripture says, “where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” He began operating in freedom as he started growing in his relationship with the Lord.
                                                  • I thought, “Isn’t this ironic? Here I am living in the free world, but all these bars of fear, guilt, shame, condemnation were keeping me captive in my own home. But my son who is in prison is experiencing freedom!”
                                                  • The amazing thing is that when I did share about what I was experiencing, I got nothing but compassion, the opposite of what the enemy convinced me I would experience.
                                                  • It gets better as healing comes in layers.
                                                  • One thing that was so helpful in my journey was having a reason to get up every day.
                                                  • The more I share my story, the more I put myself out there, the more healing comes; the more I have courage, and the more my confidence builds.
                                                  • When we experience shame, we want to stay in the dark where no one can see us because with shame comes embarrassment. We fear “if others find out, what will they say? Will they reject me? Will they abandon me? Will they gossip about me?”
                                                  • But when we take what’s in the dark and bring it out into God’s healing light, rarely is it as bad as we think it’s going to be and it brings healing.
                                                  • My husband and I started a ministry to other families with family members incarcerated. By me opening up and sharing our story, it’s helping other people find hope, to find healing, and to encourage them not to give up on this side of eternity. 
                                                  • Every life is valuable, and we can see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Even those who are in prison, their life is invaluable. Everyone has a purpose whether it’s inside prison walls or outside prison walls.
                                                  • The more I tell my story, the more it silences that accusing voice that comes against us from the enemy. When we open our mouths and testify what Jesus has done for us, the more it silences the enemy who accuses us.
                                                  • Jesus came to set the captives free and that includes you.
                                                  • Never give up. Always pray and never give up!
                                                  • Speaking out the Word of God gives us courage and hope and reminds us that everyone has a purpose and not to quit on your purpose.
                                                  • John 15:16 reminds us that Jesus has chosen us. You are chosen. You are not forsaken. You have a purpose. Don’t quit!
                                                  • We are all imperfect and in need of a Savior.  The cross levels the playing field.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:28 NKJV “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 3:17 “Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
                                                  • Luke 18:1 “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.” NLT
                                                  • Psalm 27:13 NIV “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.”
                                                  • Revelations 12:11 NIV “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”
                                                  • John 15:16 NIV “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Shonda Whitworth:

                                                  Shonda Website / Fortress Website / Shonda Facebook / Fortress Facebook / Shonda Twitter / Fortress Twitter / Shonda LinkedIn / Fortress LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Shonda Whitworth’s expertise as an author span two decades, from articles to her most heart-wrenching book, Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven: Petitions for Prisoners and Prison Families. She is a writing and self-publishing coach who nurtures authors visions from manuscript to the marketplace. Discover more at ShondaWhitworth.me.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, I chatted with Shonda Whitworth, who shared about her wounds, her pain, and now her sacred scars after walking through a most devastating experience when her son was incarcerated. What the enemy tried to use to quiet and shut Shonda down, God has now used to bring her into a greater aspect of her calling. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When they said “Your son has been arrested for aggravated assault,” I went numb and didn’t know how to respond because the person they were describing on my phone was not the son I knew.
                                                  • I grabbed hold of Romans 8:28. At the time, that verse just felt overused to me, like a Bible verse Band-Aid. But I held my Bible and declared that this was God’s Word, and asked Him to make it real for me.
                                                  • This was one of the last things I ever expected to happen. I raised him in the way he should go, taught him the word, took him to Sunday School, and taught him about God. I didn’t expect him to depart from his upbringing and it just devastated me.
                                                  • I was hopeful things would turn around, but that’s not what happened. I was looking for a miracle ending.
                                                  • We take either the fight or flight response, and I took the flight response. I just wanted to hide in my cave. I didn’t want to be seen in social situations and wanted to hide from conversation about our children.
                                                  • The depression and anxiety were overwhelming. It knocked me down. I went dark for a while and retreated for a season.
                                                  • The enemy brings shame, guilt, regret, and fear.
                                                  • I felt like I was wearing a big “F” for mother of a felon. The depression and anxiety came from listening to all the lies about myself. I was operating with a double-mind.
                                                  • In prison, my son began experiencing freedom that doesn’t depend on a location. Scripture says, “where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” He began operating in freedom as he started growing in his relationship with the Lord.
                                                  • I thought, “Isn’t this ironic? Here I am living in the free world, but all these bars of fear, guilt, shame, condemnation were keeping me captive in my own home. But my son who is in prison is experiencing freedom!”
                                                  • The amazing thing is that when I did share about what I was experiencing, I got nothing but compassion, the opposite of what the enemy convinced me I would experience.
                                                  • It gets better as healing comes in layers.
                                                  • One thing that was so helpful in my journey was having a reason to get up every day.
                                                  • The more I share my story, the more I put myself out there, the more healing comes; the more I have courage, and the more my confidence builds.
                                                  • When we experience shame, we want to stay in the dark where no one can see us because with shame comes embarrassment. We fear “if others find out, what will they say? Will they reject me? Will they abandon me? Will they gossip about me?”
                                                  • But when we take what’s in the dark and bring it out into God’s healing light, rarely is it as bad as we think it’s going to be and it brings healing.
                                                  • My husband and I started a ministry to other families with family members incarcerated. By me opening up and sharing our story, it’s helping other people find hope, to find healing, and to encourage them not to give up on this side of eternity. 
                                                  • Every life is valuable, and we can see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Even those who are in prison, their life is invaluable. Everyone has a purpose whether it’s inside prison walls or outside prison walls.
                                                  • The more I tell my story, the more it silences that accusing voice that comes against us from the enemy. When we open our mouths and testify what Jesus has done for us, the more it silences the enemy who accuses us.
                                                  • Jesus came to set the captives free and that includes you.
                                                  • Never give up. Always pray and never give up!
                                                  • Speaking out the Word of God gives us courage and hope and reminds us that everyone has a purpose and not to quit on your purpose.
                                                  • John 15:16 reminds us that Jesus has chosen us. You are chosen. You are not forsaken. You have a purpose. Don’t quit!
                                                  • We are all imperfect and in need of a Savior.  The cross levels the playing field.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:28 NKJV “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 3:17 “Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
                                                  • Luke 18:1 “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.” NLT
                                                  • Psalm 27:13 NIV “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.”
                                                  • Revelations 12:11 NIV “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”
                                                  • John 15:16 NIV “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Shonda Whitworth:

                                                  Shonda Website / Fortress Website / Shonda Facebook / Fortress Facebook / Shonda Twitter / Fortress Twitter / Shonda LinkedIn / Fortress LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Shonda Whitworth’s expertise as an author span two decades, from articles to her most heart-wrenching book, Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven: Petitions for Prisoners and Prison Families. She is a writing and self-publishing coach who nurtures authors visions from manuscript to the marketplace. Discover more at ShondaWhitworth.me.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this episode, I chatted with Shonda Whitworth, who shared about her wounds, her pain, and now her sacred scars after walking through a most devastating experience when her son was incarcerated. What the enemy tried to use to... full 278 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 173e6076-e2fe-4786-9c72-4f1ac69203de d3d52d99-569c-46c6-9179-b287011424b2 Thu, 08 Aug 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1741 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/278-how-to-heal-and-find-hope-after-an-incarcerate                                                   277 How to Overcome Pain, Infertility and Divorce while Cherishing Your Miracle Child 277 How to Overcome Pain, Infertility and Divorce while Cherishing Your Miracle Child Episode Summary: 

                                                  Sometimes life seems to bring one heartache after another until we can feel beaten down by all we’ve been through. My guest today, Cherie Denna, shares from her wounds and pain, and the sacred scars she has gained through infertility, divorce, and ultimately a child custody case for the care of her miracle child.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • None of our past experiences is wasted.
                                                  • I have a collection of trauma upon trauma, with lots of PTSD triggers.
                                                  • Years of childhood sexual abuse negatively impacted my dream of becoming a mother. There was a lot of damage to my reproductive organs, which led to anger toward my perpetrator and toward God.
                                                  • God met me in the middle of all this. What the enemy stole, God began redeeming.
                                                  • My hopes and dreams were not fulfilled in the way that I had hoped.
                                                  • It was ironic, or God’s perfect plan, where God had me in a job with four other women who understood the pain of infertility, while there were many others who were having babies and baby showers.
                                                  • I had a perfect picture painted in my mind of what motherhood would look like. Ultimately, after years of treatment, God gave me my miracle daughter.
                                                  • It was devastating to me to have women in my family who chose abortions.
                                                  • I learned a lot about taking my focus off of myself during that painful time.
                                                  • God kept showing up with His promises.
                                                  • My ex-husband couldn’t handle my PTSD triggers, and divorced me, then spent five years in court trying to take my daughter away from me, leaving me to represent myself in court to fight for my daughter.
                                                  • I had to keep remembering God’s promises, and the promise that he would not let the enemy win.
                                                  • When I was fighting for my daughter, I recommitted my life to the Lord. He gave me Matthew 10:26 to hold onto.
                                                  • The previous judge had been removed from the bench, and in his place a righteous judge was put in his place, and he granted me custody of my daughter.
                                                  • There was a lot of healing that had to take place between my daughter and myself because there was a lot of parental alienation during this time period. When I recommitted myself to the Lord, he healed the pain between my daughter and I.
                                                  • After I had my one miracle daughter, it didn’t bother me anymore that I couldn’t have any more children because of the physical scarring in my body.
                                                  • I thank God that He calls me His Beloved.
                                                  • It’s painful to be betrayed, especially by someone who’s supposed to love you forever. I just clung to the hem of his garment. I committed everything to God, and learned to wait on Him to act.
                                                  • Commit your ways to God’s ways, and you will experience the miraculous.
                                                  • We don’t always have a choice about things that happen to us, but we do have a choice in how we will respond!
                                                  • Pain often prompts us to isolate from others and from God, but we have a choice in our pain to either walk away from God or to lean in and reach for the hem of his garment.
                                                  • God loves you. He is for you. He always purposes good for you even your circumstances are not good. When you go through pain and suffering, He hurts for you. Scripture tells us that he is close to the broken hearted.
                                                  • He says draw unto me, and I will draw unto you. That is a promise He makes to you, but He wants you to make the first move.
                                                  • Call out to God and He promises He will meet us there. It won’t always look the way we want it to look, and it won’t always happen in the timing we want it to happen, but God promises you a future and a hope. My challenge to you today is to reach out to Him and watch Him bring a beautiful sacred scar to replace your painful wounds.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 10:26 NLT “But don’t be afraid of those who threaten you. For the time is coming when everything that is covered will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all.”
                                                  • Psalm 37:5-7 NLT “Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.”
                                                  • Psalm 34:17-19 NIV “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Cherie Denna:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  An award-winning writer, author, and speaker, Cherie Denna’s messages guide audiences toward belovedness in Jesus Christ in their everyday lives. You can find her writing on the Northern California coast with frothed coffee in hand or on an RV adventure with her purposed-mate husband. Join the Everyday Belonging Movement at www.cheriedenna.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Sometimes life seems to bring one heartache after another until we can feel beaten down by all we’ve been through. My guest today, Cherie Denna, shares from her wounds and pain, and the sacred scars she has gained through infertility, divorce, and ultimately a child custody case for the care of her miracle child.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • None of our past experiences is wasted.
                                                  • I have a collection of trauma upon trauma, with lots of PTSD triggers.
                                                  • Years of childhood sexual abuse negatively impacted my dream of becoming a mother. There was a lot of damage to my reproductive organs, which led to anger toward my perpetrator and toward God.
                                                  • God met me in the middle of all this. What the enemy stole, God began redeeming.
                                                  • My hopes and dreams were not fulfilled in the way that I had hoped.
                                                  • It was ironic, or God’s perfect plan, where God had me in a job with four other women who understood the pain of infertility, while there were many others who were having babies and baby showers.
                                                  • I had a perfect picture painted in my mind of what motherhood would look like. Ultimately, after years of treatment, God gave me my miracle daughter.
                                                  • It was devastating to me to have women in my family who chose abortions.
                                                  • I learned a lot about taking my focus off of myself during that painful time.
                                                  • God kept showing up with His promises.
                                                  • My ex-husband couldn’t handle my PTSD triggers, and divorced me, then spent five years in court trying to take my daughter away from me, leaving me to represent myself in court to fight for my daughter.
                                                  • I had to keep remembering God’s promises, and the promise that he would not let the enemy win.
                                                  • When I was fighting for my daughter, I recommitted my life to the Lord. He gave me Matthew 10:26 to hold onto.
                                                  • The previous judge had been removed from the bench, and in his place a righteous judge was put in his place, and he granted me custody of my daughter.
                                                  • There was a lot of healing that had to take place between my daughter and myself because there was a lot of parental alienation during this time period. When I recommitted myself to the Lord, he healed the pain between my daughter and I.
                                                  • After I had my one miracle daughter, it didn’t bother me anymore that I couldn’t have any more children because of the physical scarring in my body.
                                                  • I thank God that He calls me His Beloved.
                                                  • It’s painful to be betrayed, especially by someone who’s supposed to love you forever. I just clung to the hem of his garment. I committed everything to God, and learned to wait on Him to act.
                                                  • Commit your ways to God’s ways, and you will experience the miraculous.
                                                  • We don’t always have a choice about things that happen to us, but we do have a choice in how we will respond!
                                                  • Pain often prompts us to isolate from others and from God, but we have a choice in our pain to either walk away from God or to lean in and reach for the hem of his garment.
                                                  • God loves you. He is for you. He always purposes good for you even your circumstances are not good. When you go through pain and suffering, He hurts for you. Scripture tells us that he is close to the broken hearted.
                                                  • He says draw unto me, and I will draw unto you. That is a promise He makes to you, but He wants you to make the first move.
                                                  • Call out to God and He promises He will meet us there. It won’t always look the way we want it to look, and it won’t always happen in the timing we want it to happen, but God promises you a future and a hope. My challenge to you today is to reach out to Him and watch Him bring a beautiful sacred scar to replace your painful wounds.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 10:26 NLT “But don’t be afraid of those who threaten you. For the time is coming when everything that is covered will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all.”
                                                  • Psalm 37:5-7 NLT “Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.”
                                                  • Psalm 34:17-19 NIV “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Cherie Denna:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  An award-winning writer, author, and speaker, Cherie Denna’s messages guide audiences toward belovedness in Jesus Christ in their everyday lives. You can find her writing on the Northern California coast with frothed coffee in hand or on an RV adventure with her purposed-mate husband. Join the Everyday Belonging Movement at www.cheriedenna.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Sometimes life seems to bring one heartache after another until we can feel beaten down by all we’ve been through. My guest today, Cherie Denna, shares from her wounds and pain, and the sacred scars she has gained through... full 277 Dr. Michelle Bengtson b644c80a-41da-4654-96de-52da85f7b6d0 5d927557-f707-4e49-af94-b28701142b0f Thu, 01 Aug 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1683 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/277-how-to-overcome-pain-infertility-and-divorce-w                                                   276 How to Navigate Your Healing Journey: What Helps and What Holds You Back? 276 How to Navigate Your Healing Journey: What Helps and What Holds You Back? Episode Summary: 

                                                  We’re in the midst of the Sacred Scars Stories Series, during which I’m talking to real people who have experienced real pain, real wounds, and come out on the other side of healing with beautiful sacred scars to show for it. This week, I’m talking with author, trauma-informed life coach, Janell Rardon, seeking her perspective as a mental health professional regarding what prevents people from seeking healing as well as key steps or activities to help in our healing journey. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God didn’t create us to go through difficult experiences alone.
                                                  • Asking God “Why did this happen” is rarely of much help. The answer to “why?” doesn’t really satisfy our longing and pain, but there are other questions that are more helpful.
                                                  • A wound is something that disrupts life. It stops you in your tracks and disrupts forward motion and causes pain.
                                                  • We have jarring experiences that interrupt the normal flow, and perhaps interrupts our ability to cope with normal life, and causes physical, emotional, relational, or spiritual pain.
                                                  • On the other hand, a scar is actually a healed wound. Scars don’t erase the memory of the pain from the wound, but they don’t allow the pain to take up the same real estate anymore because healing has taken place.
                                                  • The book Sacred Scars highlights we as humans hurt, and are susceptible to the lies of the enemy. The enemy is referred to as The Father of Lies and as The Accuser of the Brethren. He is constantly whispering in our ears that we aren’t loveable, we can’t be forgiven, and that we have no value, no worth, and no purpose and that we deserve the pain we experience.
                                                  • I’ve had a tendency in the past to look at my scars as an ugly reminder of the pain I have gone through. My hope is that readers of Sacred Scars can get to the point that they no longer look at their scars with disdain but as something beautiful that shows that they have overcome and that there is no shame to those scars.
                                                  • If we can make that shift from shaming or shameful to sacred, then we have won the victory.
                                                  • Shame is liars language, whereas grace is the language of love. If we are filtering our wounded experience through the hands of a Father God who loves us, then He is the one who will help us get from a place of shame to a sacred place.
                                                  • I was so ashamed of my physical scars. I had heard the verse that I was fearfully and wonderfully made. But because my deformity occurred after birth, I could not fathom how God could find it beautiful or wonderful, so I couldn’t either.
                                                  • What brought about healing in my heart was when I read over the resurrection story in the Bible and realized that Jesus still had his scars in his resurrected body. Those scars were beautiful and served the purpose of proving that He was who He said He was and that He had done what He said He would do. In the same way, our scars are beautiful and serve a redemptive purpose.
                                                  • There are primarily four things that prevent people from seeking healing for their painful wounds: 1) Pride 2) Shame 3) Fear and 4) Discomfort
                                                    • Pride says, “I’ve got this.”
                                                    • Shame says, “I am a mistake.”
                                                    • Fear says, “I’m afraid of the future.”
                                                    • Discomfort says, “I’m uncomfortable with others knowing the worst part of me.
                                                  • It takes courage to say, “I need help here” with a wise, discerning purpose who can make space for you and your healing.
                                                  • As a mental health professional, nothing our patients say surprises us anymore. We’ve heard just about everything and just want to help our patients through it, knowing that when they share their darkest secrets and bring them into the light, they no longer hold the power over them.
                                                  • Once we let the light in, shame has to flee!
                                                  • No one comes into our office because everything is going well. Once they share, relief sets in because once they share their pain, they realize it was not as bad as they expected.
                                                  • Some things that help our healing journey are: find things that bring joy and a sense of equanimity, find ways to play and find pleasure, destress and stop the flood of cortisol, live from a place of pre-forgiveness.
                                                  • When we don’t find healing, our brain continues to live from a state of emergency.
                                                  • Extend as much grace to yourself that you would extend to your best friend.
                                                  • God did not create us as human doings. He created us as human beings. He wants us just to be.
                                                  • When reconciliation is impossible, remember that greatest amount of work being done is in you, and that will help you the most in the long run.
                                                  • Live from a state of pre-forgiveness, which means humans will inevitably hurt us, so we look at them having already decided to forgive things they would say or do that would hurt me. Remember, everyone is hurting from something, and hurt people hurt other people.
                                                  • The foundation of our sacred scars is in getting to know who we really are, as God created us.
                                                  • We cannot change another person, but we can work on our own healing and our own wellness.
                                                  • Often, wanting revenge, prevents our own healing. It’s a natural thing to want but detrimental to our own healing.
                                                  • Revenge comes when we are so deeply hurt that we want another to hurt as badly as we do so that they can understand how we feel.
                                                  • God says in his Word, “Vengeance is mine.”
                                                  • We will never fully heal as long as we are harboring bitterness, resentment, and unforgiveness not just toward others, but toward ourselves or God. We are often the hardest person for us to forgive.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:17-19 NKJV “Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.   Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.  

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Janell Rardon:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Author Janell Rardon is a trauma-informed, board-certified life coach specializing in family systems. Her latest book, Stronger Every Day: 9 Tools for an Emotionally Healthy You, helps bridge the gap between faith and mental health. Her newest title, "Grandmother," is the greatest blessing. Visit janellrardon.com for more free resources.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  We’re in the midst of the Sacred Scars Stories Series, during which I’m talking to real people who have experienced real pain, real wounds, and come out on the other side of healing with beautiful sacred scars to show for it. This week, I’m talking with author, trauma-informed life coach, Janell Rardon, seeking her perspective as a mental health professional regarding what prevents people from seeking healing as well as key steps or activities to help in our healing journey. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God didn’t create us to go through difficult experiences alone.
                                                  • Asking God “Why did this happen” is rarely of much help. The answer to “why?” doesn’t really satisfy our longing and pain, but there are other questions that are more helpful.
                                                  • A wound is something that disrupts life. It stops you in your tracks and disrupts forward motion and causes pain.
                                                  • We have jarring experiences that interrupt the normal flow, and perhaps interrupts our ability to cope with normal life, and causes physical, emotional, relational, or spiritual pain.
                                                  • On the other hand, a scar is actually a healed wound. Scars don’t erase the memory of the pain from the wound, but they don’t allow the pain to take up the same real estate anymore because healing has taken place.
                                                  • The book Sacred Scars highlights we as humans hurt, and are susceptible to the lies of the enemy. The enemy is referred to as The Father of Lies and as The Accuser of the Brethren. He is constantly whispering in our ears that we aren’t loveable, we can’t be forgiven, and that we have no value, no worth, and no purpose and that we deserve the pain we experience.
                                                  • I’ve had a tendency in the past to look at my scars as an ugly reminder of the pain I have gone through. My hope is that readers of Sacred Scars can get to the point that they no longer look at their scars with disdain but as something beautiful that shows that they have overcome and that there is no shame to those scars.
                                                  • If we can make that shift from shaming or shameful to sacred, then we have won the victory.
                                                  • Shame is liars language, whereas grace is the language of love. If we are filtering our wounded experience through the hands of a Father God who loves us, then He is the one who will help us get from a place of shame to a sacred place.
                                                  • I was so ashamed of my physical scars. I had heard the verse that I was fearfully and wonderfully made. But because my deformity occurred after birth, I could not fathom how God could find it beautiful or wonderful, so I couldn’t either.
                                                  • What brought about healing in my heart was when I read over the resurrection story in the Bible and realized that Jesus still had his scars in his resurrected body. Those scars were beautiful and served the purpose of proving that He was who He said He was and that He had done what He said He would do. In the same way, our scars are beautiful and serve a redemptive purpose.
                                                  • There are primarily four things that prevent people from seeking healing for their painful wounds: 1) Pride 2) Shame 3) Fear and 4) Discomfort
                                                    • Pride says, “I’ve got this.”
                                                    • Shame says, “I am a mistake.”
                                                    • Fear says, “I’m afraid of the future.”
                                                    • Discomfort says, “I’m uncomfortable with others knowing the worst part of me.
                                                  • It takes courage to say, “I need help here” with a wise, discerning purpose who can make space for you and your healing.
                                                  • As a mental health professional, nothing our patients say surprises us anymore. We’ve heard just about everything and just want to help our patients through it, knowing that when they share their darkest secrets and bring them into the light, they no longer hold the power over them.
                                                  • Once we let the light in, shame has to flee!
                                                  • No one comes into our office because everything is going well. Once they share, relief sets in because once they share their pain, they realize it was not as bad as they expected.
                                                  • Some things that help our healing journey are: find things that bring joy and a sense of equanimity, find ways to play and find pleasure, destress and stop the flood of cortisol, live from a place of pre-forgiveness.
                                                  • When we don’t find healing, our brain continues to live from a state of emergency.
                                                  • Extend as much grace to yourself that you would extend to your best friend.
                                                  • God did not create us as human doings. He created us as human beings. He wants us just to be.
                                                  • When reconciliation is impossible, remember that greatest amount of work being done is in you, and that will help you the most in the long run.
                                                  • Live from a state of pre-forgiveness, which means humans will inevitably hurt us, so we look at them having already decided to forgive things they would say or do that would hurt me. Remember, everyone is hurting from something, and hurt people hurt other people.
                                                  • The foundation of our sacred scars is in getting to know who we really are, as God created us.
                                                  • We cannot change another person, but we can work on our own healing and our own wellness.
                                                  • Often, wanting revenge, prevents our own healing. It’s a natural thing to want but detrimental to our own healing.
                                                  • Revenge comes when we are so deeply hurt that we want another to hurt as badly as we do so that they can understand how we feel.
                                                  • God says in his Word, “Vengeance is mine.”
                                                  • We will never fully heal as long as we are harboring bitterness, resentment, and unforgiveness not just toward others, but toward ourselves or God. We are often the hardest person for us to forgive.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:17-19 NKJV “Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.   Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.  

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Janell Rardon:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Author Janell Rardon is a trauma-informed, board-certified life coach specializing in family systems. Her latest book, Stronger Every Day: 9 Tools for an Emotionally Healthy You, helps bridge the gap between faith and mental health. Her newest title, "Grandmother," is the greatest blessing. Visit janellrardon.com for more free resources.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  We’re in the midst of the Sacred Scars Stories Series, during which I’m talking to real people who have experienced real pain, real wounds, and come out on the other side of healing with beautiful sacred scars to show for... full 276 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 721fb047-ad06-44d8-a3b4-e352e10dc7c1 845b7fd2-579c-4d34-adbf-b28701143714 Thu, 25 Jul 2024 10:30:00 +0000 3189 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/276-how-to-navigate-your-healing-journey-what-help                                                   275 How to Navigate Healing and Trust After Being a Victim of a Violent Crime 275 How to Navigate Healing and Trust After Being a Victim of a Violent Crime Episode Summary: 

                                                  As part of our “Sacred Scar Story Series,” my guest, Lisa Saruga, shares part of her story about being a victim of a violent crime on a college campus, and how God is now using her painful wounds to create a sacred scar that helps and encourages others. Latest statistics indicate that about 20% of Americans have experienced attempted or completed rape. That is over 430,000 American victims each year, 1 rape every 73 seconds. Yet only 5 out of 1,000 rapists go to jail. Part of Lisa’s sacred scar is her work toward changing legislation to provide greater protection for victims than perpetrators.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I’m at a point now, where I’m not grateful for the experience I endured, but I am grateful for my sacred scar.
                                                  • There was no healing until I took the time to process the wound.
                                                  • A lot of people post-trauma minimize what they went through, as a form of self-preservation.
                                                  • My experience impacted all areas of my life, including my parenting out of fear that something could happen to my kids.
                                                  • The assault negatively impacted my ability to trust others and God, but ironically it also deepened my faith in God.
                                                  • God is a God of justice.
                                                  • God didn’t purpose for me to experience trauma, but he can and is using it for his purposes.
                                                  • The key to my healing was to surrender to God.
                                                  • God doesn’t forget our experiences. He wants to heal us, but we have to be open to the work that healing entails. God didn’t purpose for you to be abused, but he can use all things for his purpose.
                                                  • I have learned to trust God, his timing, and his faithfulness. He showed me in a powerful way that when we are working to chip away at walls that stand in the way of healing, we have no idea what kind of powerful work he is doing on the other side of that wall.
                                                  • While God does not purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use our trauma for his purposes if we let him. Sometimes he is up to great things when we don’t even sense that he remembers our trauma.
                                                  • I encourage victims to find a support network and talk about the experience. Hiding it away on a back shelf in our brain does not work forever.
                                                  • We all experience bad things in our life. We can heal from trauma with appropriate help, but tragedy results when we don’t heal from the trauma.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:28 (NLT) And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 1:4 (NLT) He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
                                                  • John 16:33 (NIV) I have told you these things, so that in my you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Lisa Saruga:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X/Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lisa is a licensed professional counselor, keynote speaker, author, and legal and ethical specialist. She specializes in therapy for victims of sexual violence. Her own story resulted in the reopening of her thirty-five-year cold case, when someone finally reported the identity of the man who wore a ski mask when he assaulted Lisa as a freshman in college. The man was never arrested because of archaic laws and loopholes that protect perpetrators over victims. Lisa regularly meets with legislators to advocate for laws to protect victims of sexual violence. She believes that, although God doesn’t purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use every event in our lives for his purposes.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  As part of our “Sacred Scar Story Series,” my guest, Lisa Saruga, shares part of her story about being a victim of a violent crime on a college campus, and how God is now using her painful wounds to create a sacred scar that helps and encourages others. Latest statistics indicate that about 20% of Americans have experienced attempted or completed rape. That is over 430,000 American victims each year, 1 rape every 73 seconds. Yet only 5 out of 1,000 rapists go to jail. Part of Lisa’s sacred scar is her work toward changing legislation to provide greater protection for victims than perpetrators.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I’m at a point now, where I’m not grateful for the experience I endured, but I am grateful for my sacred scar.
                                                  • There was no healing until I took the time to process the wound.
                                                  • A lot of people post-trauma minimize what they went through, as a form of self-preservation.
                                                  • My experience impacted all areas of my life, including my parenting out of fear that something could happen to my kids.
                                                  • The assault negatively impacted my ability to trust others and God, but ironically it also deepened my faith in God.
                                                  • God is a God of justice.
                                                  • God didn’t purpose for me to experience trauma, but he can and is using it for his purposes.
                                                  • The key to my healing was to surrender to God.
                                                  • God doesn’t forget our experiences. He wants to heal us, but we have to be open to the work that healing entails. God didn’t purpose for you to be abused, but he can use all things for his purpose.
                                                  • I have learned to trust God, his timing, and his faithfulness. He showed me in a powerful way that when we are working to chip away at walls that stand in the way of healing, we have no idea what kind of powerful work he is doing on the other side of that wall.
                                                  • While God does not purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use our trauma for his purposes if we let him. Sometimes he is up to great things when we don’t even sense that he remembers our trauma.
                                                  • I encourage victims to find a support network and talk about the experience. Hiding it away on a back shelf in our brain does not work forever.
                                                  • We all experience bad things in our life. We can heal from trauma with appropriate help, but tragedy results when we don’t heal from the trauma.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:28 (NLT) And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 1:4 (NLT) He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
                                                  • John 16:33 (NIV) I have told you these things, so that in my you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Lisa Saruga:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / X/Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lisa is a licensed professional counselor, keynote speaker, author, and legal and ethical specialist. She specializes in therapy for victims of sexual violence. Her own story resulted in the reopening of her thirty-five-year cold case, when someone finally reported the identity of the man who wore a ski mask when he assaulted Lisa as a freshman in college. The man was never arrested because of archaic laws and loopholes that protect perpetrators over victims. Lisa regularly meets with legislators to advocate for laws to protect victims of sexual violence. She believes that, although God doesn’t purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use every event in our lives for his purposes.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  As part of our “Sacred Scar Story Series,” my guest, Lisa Saruga, shares part of her story about being a victim of a violent crime on a college campus, and how God is now using her painful wounds to create a sacred scar that... full 275 Dr. Michelle Bengtson da4195b5-7152-4cb6-a0ae-1f440370f34f 3e4ea66a-885a-43d2-b557-b28701143fa2 Thu, 18 Jul 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1336 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/275-how-to-navigate-healing-and-trust-after-being                                                   274 How to Witness God's Faithfulness in Suffering: From Trauma to Triumph 274 How to Witness God's Faithfulness in Suffering: From Trauma to Triumph Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this week’s episode, I speak with Gina Kelly who was a sixth grader when she was hit by a truck which caused significant physical and emotional injury and wounds. She shares what she endured, as well as how she has seen God use that for good, and how she has witnessed God’s faithfulness to her through it all.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • There was definitely a defining moment in my life, which happened a little over 45 years ago. When I was a 6th grade crossing guard and was crossing the street to get to my post, I was hit by a truck. I flew 100-125 feet in the air and landed in a snowbank. I suffered the most pain in my life from that event: the physical pain, the trauma, the suffering.
                                                  • I had a skull fracture on the right side of my head, which left me deaf in one ear, complete facial paralysis on the right, I had six broken ribs on the right and my right lung collapsed. Physically, my body went through a lot from that.
                                                  • That event caused emotional wounds too. I was just entering middle school when I had to wear an eye patch over my eye, my smile was very asymmetrical, so I experienced a lot of insecurities with my physical body and with the emotional wounds that went along with the physical wounds from my accident.
                                                  • One of the ways that God used the wounds you experienced for someone else’s good was when I was in a car accident and suffered physical injuries and you reached out to me to comfort me in my healing process. That is directly related to the scripture that says, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
                                                  • Before the accident, I was pretty reserved and shy. After the accident, I remember two prominent feelings. One was feeling like I was in a fishbowl because I went back to school and everyone was curious about the girl who almost died so all of a sudden, as someone who preferred to shrink back to the edges of society was thrust into the forefront because everyone wanted to know what happened and that made me uncomfortable.
                                                  • I did experience some cruelness. About two weeks after I returned to school, I participated in the spelling bee. In the very front row were two boys from a different elementary school and every time I went up front, they made faces at me and pointed at me, and I was nervous anyway trying to remember how to spell the words and I remember crying with my parents after we left. I experienced the shame of not wanting people to see my deformity.
                                                  • I was blessed to have one youth leader who sat with me in my pain, listened to me, spoke truth into me and little by little I no longer covered up my asymmetrical smile.
                                                  • Something good came out of it in that they did not put another sixth grader in that role but had an adult as a crossing guard going forward.
                                                  • It’s been 45 years since my accident and just over the past couple of months God has been revealing to me some lies I have held onto since childhood.
                                                  • I was recently at a youth conference and one of the speakers felt the call to pray for someone who was deaf specifically in their right ear. I realized that since my accident no one had ever prayed for me and for what I had gone through. My whole life I’ve praised God for keeping me alive but there was something about going back and specifically praying over that area.
                                                  • When the leader prayed over me, he happened to touch my scar that I hadn’t revealed to him, and God revealed to me that I was still seeing myself as broken, which was a lie and God showed me I am not broken.
                                                  • Also, because I couldn’t hear physically in that ear, I had believed I couldn’t hear God speak very well either. There was that spiritual wound. I had always previously sensed his presence on my left side, but recently, during my quiet time when I was journaling, I sensed God speaking to my heart that “I will always position myself so you can hear me.” Since that prayer for healing of my deafness, I have been able to sense him on my right side as well. 
                                                  • If God can raise dead bones to life, he can speak into a deaf ear and it can hear.
                                                  • As I look back over the course of my life, I can see several ways God redeemed those wounds. It led me into my current profession as a pediatric physical therapist. I worked as a missionary in a clinic with children with special needs and I used my hands to show them God’s love.
                                                  • One particular incident occurred when I was on the mission field when I was working with a woman who had been in an accident and her husband asked me, “What’s wrong with your face?” In that moment, God showed me that this was my opportunity so I told them about my accident and about how even in the hospital I sensed God’s presence, and I knew I would be okay. When I told them about Jesus, the wife said, “I want to know Jesus!” So, I was able to share and to pray with them, and tell them that Jesus loves them and that he died on the cross for them, that he rose again and that he wants to have a relationship with them. I was able to share the gospel in the jungles of Peru.
                                                  • If I’d had that perfect smile, that I had prayed for all those teenage years, I don’t know that he would have asked me about my faith.
                                                  • There was another young girl who was bitten by a snake and lost part of her leg and was really struggling with how she looked. I was able to show her my scar, and my crooked smile, and having only one eyebrow that can raise, and help her to see that it’s okay for her to be different.
                                                  • God has shown me that my scars can be stones of remembrance. They can be something that when people ask me about them, I can either see that as a nuisance, or I can see that as an opportunity to explain the goodness of God.
                                                  • In the hands of a redemptive God, what we view as broken, he views as beautiful.
                                                  • Our scars are really the tapestry on which we can see God’s healing hand.
                                                  • Sometimes we don’t receive the healing that we most want, but God is working on the area of healing that he knows is most important for us now.
                                                  • While we might long for physical healing, and to be restored to our pre-injury state, God is busy healing us emotionally or relationally or spiritually in our walk with him. While we still desire that physical healing, I’m grateful for the healing he has brought.
                                                  • Scripture tells us that if we are Christ followers, we are going to experience pain and brokenness. The question is, what are we going to do with it?
                                                  • One of the things that God keeps showing me is that he continues to want to bring healing.
                                                  • When you see God’s faithfulness in one situation, and then you go through another rocky time, you can rest in knowing God has been faithful and will be faithful.
                                                  • I understand my accident differently, from my parents’ perspective now that I am a parent. As a child, I saw what God did for me, but I also saw my parents walk with faith.
                                                  • As great as a parent’s love for their child, God’s love for them is greater. God is faithful and will care for those you love, including your children.
                                                  • Looking back, would I choose to be hit by a truck again? Not for what I went through physically, but if that is the only way I can know my God will be faithful, hold me and love me in the greatest pain I’ve ever experienced, in the greatest brokenness I’ve ever experienced, if that will give me a faith that is unshakeable, then I would go through it again because in many ways, I am who I am today because of my wounds that are now sacred scars. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 1:4 NIV “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Gina Latta Kelly is wife to her husband Brian, and mother to her two young adult children, Joy and Joseph. She works as a pediatric physical therapist in an outpatient clinic where she lives in south central Pennsylvania. She served as a missionary in Peru, South America prior to getting married. Gina says she still feels as if she left a piece of her heart in Peru with the families she worked with when she was there. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this week’s episode, I speak with Gina Kelly who was a sixth grader when she was hit by a truck which caused significant physical and emotional injury and wounds. She shares what she endured, as well as how she has seen God use that for good, and how she has witnessed God’s faithfulness to her through it all.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • There was definitely a defining moment in my life, which happened a little over 45 years ago. When I was a 6th grade crossing guard and was crossing the street to get to my post, I was hit by a truck. I flew 100-125 feet in the air and landed in a snowbank. I suffered the most pain in my life from that event: the physical pain, the trauma, the suffering.
                                                  • I had a skull fracture on the right side of my head, which left me deaf in one ear, complete facial paralysis on the right, I had six broken ribs on the right and my right lung collapsed. Physically, my body went through a lot from that.
                                                  • That event caused emotional wounds too. I was just entering middle school when I had to wear an eye patch over my eye, my smile was very asymmetrical, so I experienced a lot of insecurities with my physical body and with the emotional wounds that went along with the physical wounds from my accident.
                                                  • One of the ways that God used the wounds you experienced for someone else’s good was when I was in a car accident and suffered physical injuries and you reached out to me to comfort me in my healing process. That is directly related to the scripture that says, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
                                                  • Before the accident, I was pretty reserved and shy. After the accident, I remember two prominent feelings. One was feeling like I was in a fishbowl because I went back to school and everyone was curious about the girl who almost died so all of a sudden, as someone who preferred to shrink back to the edges of society was thrust into the forefront because everyone wanted to know what happened and that made me uncomfortable.
                                                  • I did experience some cruelness. About two weeks after I returned to school, I participated in the spelling bee. In the very front row were two boys from a different elementary school and every time I went up front, they made faces at me and pointed at me, and I was nervous anyway trying to remember how to spell the words and I remember crying with my parents after we left. I experienced the shame of not wanting people to see my deformity.
                                                  • I was blessed to have one youth leader who sat with me in my pain, listened to me, spoke truth into me and little by little I no longer covered up my asymmetrical smile.
                                                  • Something good came out of it in that they did not put another sixth grader in that role but had an adult as a crossing guard going forward.
                                                  • It’s been 45 years since my accident and just over the past couple of months God has been revealing to me some lies I have held onto since childhood.
                                                  • I was recently at a youth conference and one of the speakers felt the call to pray for someone who was deaf specifically in their right ear. I realized that since my accident no one had ever prayed for me and for what I had gone through. My whole life I’ve praised God for keeping me alive but there was something about going back and specifically praying over that area.
                                                  • When the leader prayed over me, he happened to touch my scar that I hadn’t revealed to him, and God revealed to me that I was still seeing myself as broken, which was a lie and God showed me I am not broken.
                                                  • Also, because I couldn’t hear physically in that ear, I had believed I couldn’t hear God speak very well either. There was that spiritual wound. I had always previously sensed his presence on my left side, but recently, during my quiet time when I was journaling, I sensed God speaking to my heart that “I will always position myself so you can hear me.” Since that prayer for healing of my deafness, I have been able to sense him on my right side as well. 
                                                  • If God can raise dead bones to life, he can speak into a deaf ear and it can hear.
                                                  • As I look back over the course of my life, I can see several ways God redeemed those wounds. It led me into my current profession as a pediatric physical therapist. I worked as a missionary in a clinic with children with special needs and I used my hands to show them God’s love.
                                                  • One particular incident occurred when I was on the mission field when I was working with a woman who had been in an accident and her husband asked me, “What’s wrong with your face?” In that moment, God showed me that this was my opportunity so I told them about my accident and about how even in the hospital I sensed God’s presence, and I knew I would be okay. When I told them about Jesus, the wife said, “I want to know Jesus!” So, I was able to share and to pray with them, and tell them that Jesus loves them and that he died on the cross for them, that he rose again and that he wants to have a relationship with them. I was able to share the gospel in the jungles of Peru.
                                                  • If I’d had that perfect smile, that I had prayed for all those teenage years, I don’t know that he would have asked me about my faith.
                                                  • There was another young girl who was bitten by a snake and lost part of her leg and was really struggling with how she looked. I was able to show her my scar, and my crooked smile, and having only one eyebrow that can raise, and help her to see that it’s okay for her to be different.
                                                  • God has shown me that my scars can be stones of remembrance. They can be something that when people ask me about them, I can either see that as a nuisance, or I can see that as an opportunity to explain the goodness of God.
                                                  • In the hands of a redemptive God, what we view as broken, he views as beautiful.
                                                  • Our scars are really the tapestry on which we can see God’s healing hand.
                                                  • Sometimes we don’t receive the healing that we most want, but God is working on the area of healing that he knows is most important for us now.
                                                  • While we might long for physical healing, and to be restored to our pre-injury state, God is busy healing us emotionally or relationally or spiritually in our walk with him. While we still desire that physical healing, I’m grateful for the healing he has brought.
                                                  • Scripture tells us that if we are Christ followers, we are going to experience pain and brokenness. The question is, what are we going to do with it?
                                                  • One of the things that God keeps showing me is that he continues to want to bring healing.
                                                  • When you see God’s faithfulness in one situation, and then you go through another rocky time, you can rest in knowing God has been faithful and will be faithful.
                                                  • I understand my accident differently, from my parents’ perspective now that I am a parent. As a child, I saw what God did for me, but I also saw my parents walk with faith.
                                                  • As great as a parent’s love for their child, God’s love for them is greater. God is faithful and will care for those you love, including your children.
                                                  • Looking back, would I choose to be hit by a truck again? Not for what I went through physically, but if that is the only way I can know my God will be faithful, hold me and love me in the greatest pain I’ve ever experienced, in the greatest brokenness I’ve ever experienced, if that will give me a faith that is unshakeable, then I would go through it again because in many ways, I am who I am today because of my wounds that are now sacred scars. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 1:4 NIV “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Gina Latta Kelly is wife to her husband Brian, and mother to her two young adult children, Joy and Joseph. She works as a pediatric physical therapist in an outpatient clinic where she lives in south central Pennsylvania. She served as a missionary in Peru, South America prior to getting married. Gina says she still feels as if she left a piece of her heart in Peru with the families she worked with when she was there. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this week’s episode, I speak with Gina Kelly who was a sixth grader when she was hit by a truck which caused significant physical and emotional injury and wounds. She shares what she endured, as well as how she has seen God... full 274 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ac6267d1-bf3b-4ae3-a83b-dd48a0a9a49b 942bd8d5-dd49-4d07-bdb8-b287011443b1 Thu, 11 Jul 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1963 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/274-how-to-witness-gods-faithfulness-in-suffering                                                   273 How Do You Overcome Grief after the Death of a Child? 273 How Do You Overcome Grief after the Death of a Child? Episode Summary: 

                                                  No parent expects to live longer than their children. The death of a child brings such unimaginable grief that is almost impossible for others to relate to if they haven’t walked that road. On this episode, I had a conversation with Alycia Morales about the pain, the wounds, and now the sacred scars she bears after her son, Caleb, died a few years ago. She shares the hope that she has found to help her as she grieves. Listen for how to overcome grief from the death of a child.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Frequently, some areas of our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of woundedness and pain.
                                                  • The death of our son caused emotional, relational, and spiritual wounds and pain.
                                                  • I experienced a bout with grief amnesia and couldn’t remember any of the details of his death, until one by one God reminded me what happened and it was like I re-experienced it all over again.
                                                  • Despite death touching each one of us, it’s just a shadow because Jesus conquered it.
                                                  • Even though darkness is overwhelming and I couldn’t see through it, as soon as you let God’s light in, that shadow shifts or disappears completely. So I needed to let God’s light shine into my grief.
                                                  • I went to the Word looking for encouragement and God promises that if we will call out to Him, He will answer you.
                                                  • Grief is a gift from God, but if we’re not careful, it’ll lead us into places we aren’t meant to go.
                                                  • As all the first holidays, his birthday, and the anniversary of his death approached, I could feel myself going deeper and darker, and I realized I was under a spirit of grief, but the minute my pastor prayed over me, that came off me.
                                                  • The hole that my son left in my heart is still there, but is precious to me.
                                                  • We have complete healing in Christ through little drops of his healing balm in our lives.
                                                  • The essence behind Sacred Scars is that we will all go through some form of pain and woundedness, but in the hands of a holy and redemptive God, He can and will bring good from it. What the enemy intended for harm, God will use for good for the saving of His people (Gen. 50:20).
                                                  • Six months after my son died, I was able to comfort another family whose son died.
                                                  • When we’re willing to be authentic and vulnerable and transparent about our pain, even though sometimes it’s really embarrassing what we’ve gone through, what we’ve done, or what’s been done to us, when we bring that out of the dark and into the light, and we share it with others, it brings them comfort.
                                                  • You could step in and comfort that couple in a different way because you understood. You knew what they needed because you had been through something similar, in a way that others of us could not know. That’s a beautiful example of God redeeming the pain in our lives.
                                                  • As I started writing about our grief journey, it helped others know how to help someone else who is going through this.
                                                  • We all still have things that God has called us to do in life and we have people He wants us to minister to out of that pain we’ve endured, and He has lives that He wants to restore out of our pain, and He can use our testimony for His glory.
                                                  • Even though my son died, I have to keep living, I have to keep going. It’s not that we move on, but rather, we move forward with God walking with us through the rest of the story.
                                                  • Every day we get closer to being reunited with our loved ones so continue walking out your faith.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ecclesiastes 3:4 “…a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance…”
                                                  • Proverbs 18:1 “An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Alycia Morales:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / X / Pinterest / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Alycia Morales is the author of Surviving the Year of Firsts: A Mom’s Guide to Grieving Child Loss (*Janis, Alycia is hoping this releases in July 2024, so if it does, we could insert an affiliate link here). She and her husband Victor live in South Carolina, where they’ve raised six kids to adulthood. You can find her at AlyciaWMorales.com

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  No parent expects to live longer than their children. The death of a child brings such unimaginable grief that is almost impossible for others to relate to if they haven’t walked that road. On this episode, I had a conversation with Alycia Morales about the pain, the wounds, and now the sacred scars she bears after her son, Caleb, died a few years ago. She shares the hope that she has found to help her as she grieves. Listen for how to overcome grief from the death of a child.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Frequently, some areas of our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of woundedness and pain.
                                                  • The death of our son caused emotional, relational, and spiritual wounds and pain.
                                                  • I experienced a bout with grief amnesia and couldn’t remember any of the details of his death, until one by one God reminded me what happened and it was like I re-experienced it all over again.
                                                  • Despite death touching each one of us, it’s just a shadow because Jesus conquered it.
                                                  • Even though darkness is overwhelming and I couldn’t see through it, as soon as you let God’s light in, that shadow shifts or disappears completely. So I needed to let God’s light shine into my grief.
                                                  • I went to the Word looking for encouragement and God promises that if we will call out to Him, He will answer you.
                                                  • Grief is a gift from God, but if we’re not careful, it’ll lead us into places we aren’t meant to go.
                                                  • As all the first holidays, his birthday, and the anniversary of his death approached, I could feel myself going deeper and darker, and I realized I was under a spirit of grief, but the minute my pastor prayed over me, that came off me.
                                                  • The hole that my son left in my heart is still there, but is precious to me.
                                                  • We have complete healing in Christ through little drops of his healing balm in our lives.
                                                  • The essence behind Sacred Scars is that we will all go through some form of pain and woundedness, but in the hands of a holy and redemptive God, He can and will bring good from it. What the enemy intended for harm, God will use for good for the saving of His people (Gen. 50:20).
                                                  • Six months after my son died, I was able to comfort another family whose son died.
                                                  • When we’re willing to be authentic and vulnerable and transparent about our pain, even though sometimes it’s really embarrassing what we’ve gone through, what we’ve done, or what’s been done to us, when we bring that out of the dark and into the light, and we share it with others, it brings them comfort.
                                                  • You could step in and comfort that couple in a different way because you understood. You knew what they needed because you had been through something similar, in a way that others of us could not know. That’s a beautiful example of God redeeming the pain in our lives.
                                                  • As I started writing about our grief journey, it helped others know how to help someone else who is going through this.
                                                  • We all still have things that God has called us to do in life and we have people He wants us to minister to out of that pain we’ve endured, and He has lives that He wants to restore out of our pain, and He can use our testimony for His glory.
                                                  • Even though my son died, I have to keep living, I have to keep going. It’s not that we move on, but rather, we move forward with God walking with us through the rest of the story.
                                                  • Every day we get closer to being reunited with our loved ones so continue walking out your faith.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ecclesiastes 3:4 “…a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance…”
                                                  • Proverbs 18:1 “An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Alycia Morales:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / X / Pinterest / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Alycia Morales is the author of Surviving the Year of Firsts: A Mom’s Guide to Grieving Child Loss (*Janis, Alycia is hoping this releases in July 2024, so if it does, we could insert an affiliate link here). She and her husband Victor live in South Carolina, where they’ve raised six kids to adulthood. You can find her at AlyciaWMorales.com

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  No parent expects to live longer than their children. The death of a child brings such unimaginable grief that is almost impossible for others to relate to if they haven’t walked that road. On this episode, I had a... full 273 Dr. Michelle Bengtson a757881e-0476-469f-94b1-bd37ce04b84e 42ee2545-cb87-444a-a3d4-b28701144743 Fri, 05 Jul 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1592 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/273-how-do-you-overcome-grief-after-the-death-of-a                                                   272 How God Turns Our Deepest Wounds into Sacred Scars 272 How God Turns Our Deepest Wounds into Sacred Scars Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, I wanted to share with you what brought me to the place where I knew this book was needed, where I knew God was calling me to share my own sacred scars, why I’ve written the book Sacred Scars for you, and what I hope you’ll get out of it. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Sometimes our wounds come at the hands or wounds of others; sometimes we behave in a way that causes or contributes to our wounds; and sometimes there is no obvious explanation for them. But the hope that we have in Jesus is that when we will take our painful wounds and surrender them to the creator of the universe, the very One who knit us in our mother’s womb, we can experience a redemptive scar, a beautiful sacred scar in place of our wounds when we allow God to heal what has hurt us.
                                                  • The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms is about how we hold onto our faith while we are waiting on God for our healing.
                                                  • Sacred Scars picks up where The Hem of His Garment left off.
                                                  • Sacred Scars is for those who think, I’ve gone through something so bad that it disqualifies me from living the abundant life that Christ came to give; I’ve gone through something so bad or I’ve done something so bad that it disqualifies me from being loved and valued; or I’ve gone through something so bad that it disqualifies me from service to God.
                                                  • Sacred Scars was written for that reader, to assure them that there is nothing they have gone through that is beyond the hands of a redemptive God.
                                                  • Jesus never gave up, so as a child of God, it’s not in my DNA to give up. The thing that drives me the most is that I’m just not going to let the enemy have that much satisfaction.
                                                  • The lies of the enemy is what produces guilt, shame, regret, remorse, isolation, fear. As long as he can take us there because of the wounds that we’ve gone through, as long as we listen to those lies, we will live a defeated life, but Jesus came so we can have victory.
                                                  • The only way to experience that victory is to recognize the lies of the enemy and to determine that I’m willing enough to feel the pain to get healing. 
                                                  • In over 30 years in private practice, I’ve had thousands of people come into my private practice ashamed to share their deep, dark secret because they feared I would reject them or abandon them or give them a strange look like, “I can’t believe what you just said.” But nothing surprises me anymore.
                                                  • What I found, is that when people will share that secret that they are so embarrassed and ashamed of, it doesn’t hold power anymore. Once they bring it out into the light, the enemy loses.
                                                  • Wounds are open assaults either on the body or the mind. They are those things that have been injured, abraded, or infected and leave us in a state of pain. When we are wounded, we need healing.
                                                  • I love what God does: in the physical body, when you get a scratch or a burn, or an infection, your body automatically sends cells to try to produce collagen to produce a scar. This book is focusing on scars, because once we have a scar, that wound, that painful experience (whether it’s physical, emotional, relational, spiritual) doesn’t hold the same pain that it did when it was an open wound.
                                                  • When we will take our wounds to God and let Him heal the wounds, because He’s such a good and redemptive God, He will bring beautiful sacred scars as a reminder not just of the pain we’ve gone through, but of the healing that’s taken place if we’re willing to go on that healing journey.
                                                  • God never pries our heart or our hands open. He’s always waiting for us to say, “Okay, Lord, I’m ready.”
                                                  • Too often, we’re afraid of the pain of the unknown more than we are the pain of the current discomfort of our injured situation.
                                                  • If you will step out and entrust your pain to God, He can bring a beautiful sacred scar.
                                                  • We’re all familiar with physical scars but I think it’s also important to recognize that we all carry invisible scars from emotional wounds, relational wounds, spiritual wounds, grief or loss.
                                                  • I mistakenly thought that being a doctor would protect me or insulate me from depression or any other mental health disorder, but it doesn’t. Neither does being a Christian.
                                                  • The Lord taught me that there was a spiritual root to depression. Previous to that, I had been addressing the physical, the emotional, and the mental, but not the spiritual, because I didn’t know there was one.
                                                  • What initially felt like forced rest, I hated, but over time, on bed rest, I came to appreciate that time because it was like my cocooning time alone with God. I didn’t want that time to end.
                                                  • She said to me, “Thank you. Thank you for sharing out of your pain, so that I would know that I’m not alone and that if you could make it through your ordeal, I can too.” That is a beautiful sacred scar for a physically and emotionally devastating time in my life. But that is the essence behind the message of Sacred Scars.
                                                  • Having gone through depression, I thought that disqualified me from any future ministry for the Lord but He was the one who prompted me to share with others. Sacred scars are when God takes our most devastating circumstance, that we think discounts us or disqualifies us, primarily because we are listening to the lies of the enemy who is the accuser of the brethren and the father of lies, but if we will bring it into the light, into God’s truth, we will realize that what looks impossible to us is not impossible for the God of the universe.
                                                  • I pictured Jesus in his resurrected body as whole without scars, but the Lord showed me the passages where Jesus appeared to his disciples he had his scars in his hands and feet.
                                                  • Jesus kept his scars and they served such a redemptive purpose. His scars prove that he was who he said he was and that he had done what he said he would do.
                                                  • That was such a lightbulb moment for me because I felt like God said, “Just as I have redeemed Jesus’s scars, your scars will have a redemptive purpose too.”
                                                  • Now I look at scars differently because scars attest to the healing that has taken place and our scars are an opportunity to share with others the goodness and faithfulness of God.
                                                  • More than anything, what I want you to know is that those things in your past that you are so ashamed of, embarrassed of, feel guilty about or remorseful, that cause you to isolate and hide from other people, those are the very things that God wants to come in and heal and show you that he not only wants to but is capable of bringing beauty for your ashes and sacred scars for your wounds.
                                                  • What you have to recognize is that we have to be willing to feel the pain to heal it, and we have to be willing to step forward and say “I want that healing” because God isn’t going to pry it out of our hands or our hearts, but if we will surrender to Him, He will bring a redemptive purpose for your wounds and beautiful sacred scars.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 16:33 NIV “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Carolyn Freeman:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Podcast

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carolyn Freeman is the Founder and President of Impact Coaching Ministries. She’s a Certified Professional Life Coach, author, speaker, former nurse and counselor. Her life verse is Jeremiah 29:11. She calls it a privilege and joy to walk with others into God’s healing just as others walked with her into healing, wholeness, and a whole new purpose and passion. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, I wanted to share with you what brought me to the place where I knew this book was needed, where I knew God was calling me to share my own sacred scars, why I’ve written the book Sacred Scars for you, and what I hope you’ll get out of it. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Sometimes our wounds come at the hands or wounds of others; sometimes we behave in a way that causes or contributes to our wounds; and sometimes there is no obvious explanation for them. But the hope that we have in Jesus is that when we will take our painful wounds and surrender them to the creator of the universe, the very One who knit us in our mother’s womb, we can experience a redemptive scar, a beautiful sacred scar in place of our wounds when we allow God to heal what has hurt us.
                                                  • The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms is about how we hold onto our faith while we are waiting on God for our healing.
                                                  • Sacred Scars picks up where The Hem of His Garment left off.
                                                  • Sacred Scars is for those who think, I’ve gone through something so bad that it disqualifies me from living the abundant life that Christ came to give; I’ve gone through something so bad or I’ve done something so bad that it disqualifies me from being loved and valued; or I’ve gone through something so bad that it disqualifies me from service to God.
                                                  • Sacred Scars was written for that reader, to assure them that there is nothing they have gone through that is beyond the hands of a redemptive God.
                                                  • Jesus never gave up, so as a child of God, it’s not in my DNA to give up. The thing that drives me the most is that I’m just not going to let the enemy have that much satisfaction.
                                                  • The lies of the enemy is what produces guilt, shame, regret, remorse, isolation, fear. As long as he can take us there because of the wounds that we’ve gone through, as long as we listen to those lies, we will live a defeated life, but Jesus came so we can have victory.
                                                  • The only way to experience that victory is to recognize the lies of the enemy and to determine that I’m willing enough to feel the pain to get healing. 
                                                  • In over 30 years in private practice, I’ve had thousands of people come into my private practice ashamed to share their deep, dark secret because they feared I would reject them or abandon them or give them a strange look like, “I can’t believe what you just said.” But nothing surprises me anymore.
                                                  • What I found, is that when people will share that secret that they are so embarrassed and ashamed of, it doesn’t hold power anymore. Once they bring it out into the light, the enemy loses.
                                                  • Wounds are open assaults either on the body or the mind. They are those things that have been injured, abraded, or infected and leave us in a state of pain. When we are wounded, we need healing.
                                                  • I love what God does: in the physical body, when you get a scratch or a burn, or an infection, your body automatically sends cells to try to produce collagen to produce a scar. This book is focusing on scars, because once we have a scar, that wound, that painful experience (whether it’s physical, emotional, relational, spiritual) doesn’t hold the same pain that it did when it was an open wound.
                                                  • When we will take our wounds to God and let Him heal the wounds, because He’s such a good and redemptive God, He will bring beautiful sacred scars as a reminder not just of the pain we’ve gone through, but of the healing that’s taken place if we’re willing to go on that healing journey.
                                                  • God never pries our heart or our hands open. He’s always waiting for us to say, “Okay, Lord, I’m ready.”
                                                  • Too often, we’re afraid of the pain of the unknown more than we are the pain of the current discomfort of our injured situation.
                                                  • If you will step out and entrust your pain to God, He can bring a beautiful sacred scar.
                                                  • We’re all familiar with physical scars but I think it’s also important to recognize that we all carry invisible scars from emotional wounds, relational wounds, spiritual wounds, grief or loss.
                                                  • I mistakenly thought that being a doctor would protect me or insulate me from depression or any other mental health disorder, but it doesn’t. Neither does being a Christian.
                                                  • The Lord taught me that there was a spiritual root to depression. Previous to that, I had been addressing the physical, the emotional, and the mental, but not the spiritual, because I didn’t know there was one.
                                                  • What initially felt like forced rest, I hated, but over time, on bed rest, I came to appreciate that time because it was like my cocooning time alone with God. I didn’t want that time to end.
                                                  • She said to me, “Thank you. Thank you for sharing out of your pain, so that I would know that I’m not alone and that if you could make it through your ordeal, I can too.” That is a beautiful sacred scar for a physically and emotionally devastating time in my life. But that is the essence behind the message of Sacred Scars.
                                                  • Having gone through depression, I thought that disqualified me from any future ministry for the Lord but He was the one who prompted me to share with others. Sacred scars are when God takes our most devastating circumstance, that we think discounts us or disqualifies us, primarily because we are listening to the lies of the enemy who is the accuser of the brethren and the father of lies, but if we will bring it into the light, into God’s truth, we will realize that what looks impossible to us is not impossible for the God of the universe.
                                                  • I pictured Jesus in his resurrected body as whole without scars, but the Lord showed me the passages where Jesus appeared to his disciples he had his scars in his hands and feet.
                                                  • Jesus kept his scars and they served such a redemptive purpose. His scars prove that he was who he said he was and that he had done what he said he would do.
                                                  • That was such a lightbulb moment for me because I felt like God said, “Just as I have redeemed Jesus’s scars, your scars will have a redemptive purpose too.”
                                                  • Now I look at scars differently because scars attest to the healing that has taken place and our scars are an opportunity to share with others the goodness and faithfulness of God.
                                                  • More than anything, what I want you to know is that those things in your past that you are so ashamed of, embarrassed of, feel guilty about or remorseful, that cause you to isolate and hide from other people, those are the very things that God wants to come in and heal and show you that he not only wants to but is capable of bringing beauty for your ashes and sacred scars for your wounds.
                                                  • What you have to recognize is that we have to be willing to feel the pain to heal it, and we have to be willing to step forward and say “I want that healing” because God isn’t going to pry it out of our hands or our hearts, but if we will surrender to Him, He will bring a redemptive purpose for your wounds and beautiful sacred scars.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 16:33 NIV “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Carolyn Freeman:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Podcast

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carolyn Freeman is the Founder and President of Impact Coaching Ministries. She’s a Certified Professional Life Coach, author, speaker, former nurse and counselor. Her life verse is Jeremiah 29:11. She calls it a privilege and joy to walk with others into God’s healing just as others walked with her into healing, wholeness, and a whole new purpose and passion. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this episode, I wanted to share with you what brought me to the place where I knew this book was needed, where I knew God was calling me to share my own sacred scars, why I’ve written the book Sacred Scars for you, and what... full 272 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 1f6dfe8f-feda-4843-bd10-2ac4491ad2f1 a36c7493-e9ad-4e9d-a26e-b287011448d1 Thu, 27 Jun 2024 10:30:00 +0000 2256 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/272-how-god-turns-our-deepest-wounds-into-sacred-s                                                   271 How To Overcome Wounds from a Husband’s Pornography Addiction 271 How To Overcome Wounds from a Husband’s Pornography Addiction Episode Summary:

                                                  With one in five mobile searches being for pornography, it may be more prevalent than you think. Jody Allen shares her story, her pain, her wounds, and her sacred scars that resulted from her husband’s addiction to pornography. Tune in as Jody offers hope and strategies for overcoming the deep wounds caused by porn addiction.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Pornography can create emotional, relational, and spiritual wounds.
                                                  • I felt betrayed because I was living with someone who’s behavior was inconsistent with who he was.
                                                  • I lived a constant cycle of regret, apology, relapse, and feeling unimportant which created emotional wounds.
                                                  • Nothing can prepare a person for the breakup of the family.
                                                  • When God didn’t answer my prayers the way I wanted him to answer, that brought about spiritual wounds. Because when the God of the universe, the one who hates divorce, doesn’t answer your prayers in a way that is consistent with his will and pro-marriage, it leads to disappointment.
                                                  • One in five mobile searches is actually for pornography.
                                                  • My husband’s pornography addiction caused me so much shame.
                                                  • We answered all the “what if” questions, and came to the conclusion that we would ultimately be okay if we trusted God.
                                                  • Guilt, shame, and condemnation does not come from our Heavenly Father but from the Father of Lies.
                                                  • Shame made me believe that people were judging me and left me feeling like I wasn’t good enough.
                                                  • The wound is the open painful place that is festering and hurts so bad. But once we have a scar, it doesn’t hurt as much. It’s the place where healing has taken place. It doesn’t mean we forget the pain of the wound, it just means that it doesn’t have the same hold on us.
                                                  • As part of my role as a women’s ministry leader, I didn’t feel I could expect other women to share their story if I wasn’t willing to share my own story. Those hard years were preparation for my future ministry.
                                                  • The enemy wants to isolate us from others to shut us up.
                                                  • Satan is an equal opportunist. He is so sly and wants us to believe in any area of sin that “just once” doesn’t matter.
                                                  • We don’t have to squeak by. We don’t have to get to the other side of our pain and just survive. We can thrive. We can get to the other side of our pain and heartache and flourish. Pain doesn’t have to win. Pornography doesn’t have to win. Divorce doesn’t have to win.
                                                  • Let us take the best things from our time of pain and suffering…maybe it’s a fresh perspective, new skills, or a fresh start. If we know Jesus, we have the potential to get to the other side of our heartache and be whole and even be happy on the other side of it.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

                                                  2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind.”

                                                  Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

                                                  Exodus 12:36 “The Lord caused the Egyptians to look favorably on the Israelites, and they gave the Israelites whatever they asked for. So they stripped the Egyptians of their wealth!”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jody Allen:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jody Allen serves as the Director of Women’s Ministry at her church, where she offers hope and a dose of humor to women in her church and community. Ten years in ministry has allowed her the opportunity to teach workshops, lead small groups, speak at women’s events, and walk alongside women in crisis. Jody’s goal is to point women to Jesus in a relatable and authentic way.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  With one in five mobile searches being for pornography, it may be more prevalent than you think. Jody Allen shares her story, her pain, her wounds, and her sacred scars that resulted from her husband’s addiction to pornography. Tune in as Jody offers hope and strategies for overcoming the deep wounds caused by porn addiction.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Pornography can create emotional, relational, and spiritual wounds.
                                                  • I felt betrayed because I was living with someone who’s behavior was inconsistent with who he was.
                                                  • I lived a constant cycle of regret, apology, relapse, and feeling unimportant which created emotional wounds.
                                                  • Nothing can prepare a person for the breakup of the family.
                                                  • When God didn’t answer my prayers the way I wanted him to answer, that brought about spiritual wounds. Because when the God of the universe, the one who hates divorce, doesn’t answer your prayers in a way that is consistent with his will and pro-marriage, it leads to disappointment.
                                                  • One in five mobile searches is actually for pornography.
                                                  • My husband’s pornography addiction caused me so much shame.
                                                  • We answered all the “what if” questions, and came to the conclusion that we would ultimately be okay if we trusted God.
                                                  • Guilt, shame, and condemnation does not come from our Heavenly Father but from the Father of Lies.
                                                  • Shame made me believe that people were judging me and left me feeling like I wasn’t good enough.
                                                  • The wound is the open painful place that is festering and hurts so bad. But once we have a scar, it doesn’t hurt as much. It’s the place where healing has taken place. It doesn’t mean we forget the pain of the wound, it just means that it doesn’t have the same hold on us.
                                                  • As part of my role as a women’s ministry leader, I didn’t feel I could expect other women to share their story if I wasn’t willing to share my own story. Those hard years were preparation for my future ministry.
                                                  • The enemy wants to isolate us from others to shut us up.
                                                  • Satan is an equal opportunist. He is so sly and wants us to believe in any area of sin that “just once” doesn’t matter.
                                                  • We don’t have to squeak by. We don’t have to get to the other side of our pain and just survive. We can thrive. We can get to the other side of our pain and heartache and flourish. Pain doesn’t have to win. Pornography doesn’t have to win. Divorce doesn’t have to win.
                                                  • Let us take the best things from our time of pain and suffering…maybe it’s a fresh perspective, new skills, or a fresh start. If we know Jesus, we have the potential to get to the other side of our heartache and be whole and even be happy on the other side of it.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

                                                  2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind.”

                                                  Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

                                                  Exodus 12:36 “The Lord caused the Egyptians to look favorably on the Israelites, and they gave the Israelites whatever they asked for. So they stripped the Egyptians of their wealth!”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jody Allen:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jody Allen serves as the Director of Women’s Ministry at her church, where she offers hope and a dose of humor to women in her church and community. Ten years in ministry has allowed her the opportunity to teach workshops, lead small groups, speak at women’s events, and walk alongside women in crisis. Jody’s goal is to point women to Jesus in a relatable and authentic way.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: With one in five mobile searches being for pornography, it may be more prevalent than you think. Jody Allen shares her story, her pain, her wounds, and her sacred scars that resulted from her husband’s addiction to pornography. Tune... full 271 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 45006680-15de-4118-bad2-f3d6966848f4 f513e7af-7e98-46af-9779-b28701144a81 Thu, 20 Jun 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1597 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/271-how-to-overcome-wounds-from-a-husband-s-pornog                                                   270 How to Survive Marital Infidelity: Faith, Forgiveness, and Fidelity 270 How to Survive Marital Infidelity: Faith, Forgiveness, and Fidelity Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, I chat with Jill Savage of “No More Perfect Marriages.” She shared her story of infidelity in her marriage, and how God has since healed her marriage so that she and her husband, Mark, now have a beautiful sacred scar and are able to minister to other married couples in despair.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The normal trials of life is the stuff that ultimately leaves us with sacred scars.
                                                  • Painful trials are part of our normal experience this side of heaven.
                                                  • Our marriage experienced a slow-fade while we both had huge responsibilities outside the home.
                                                  • The downward spiral started with an emotional affair and then resulted in a physical affair.
                                                  • The enemy took a direct hit to our greatest area of ministry.
                                                  • I began a one year process of standing for my marriage.
                                                  • “Standing for Your Marriage” is when one spouse believes and contends for the marriage while the other spouse checks out.
                                                  • The most painful thing I have ever experienced was my husband’s betrayal.
                                                  • I had a ministry based on authenticity and I determined to be open and honest about my pain.
                                                  • I didn’t cause my husband’s infidelity, but I did contribute to the dysfunction in my marriage.
                                                  • It’s important that we build a supportive community outside of times of tragedy because when we’re in a crisis, we don’t have the energy to do that.
                                                  • We can use our hard times as fertilizer for growth!
                                                  • As I began to change, my husband started seeing that as his own personal seeds of growth.
                                                  • God can turn our pain into his purposes.
                                                  • God forgives us the first time we ask—when are we going to forgive ourselves?
                                                  • Nothing is impossible with God.
                                                  • The God of the universe wants to do his best work in the cracks of your life.
                                                  • It takes two to build a marriage, but it takes one to divorce.
                                                  • It takes two to restore a marriage, but it takes One to restore a life.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jill Savage:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Tiktok / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jill Savage is an author and speaker who is passionate about relationships. She has been called one of today’s most exciting female speakers.  Her honest, engaging communication is strengthened by her ability to make her audience laugh while they learn.

                                                  Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books including Empty Nest, Full Life, Real Moms ... Real Jesus, the best-selling No More Perfect Moms, No More Perfect Kids, Better Together, and No More Perfect Marriages. Jill and her husband, Mark, live in Illinois and have five children and eight grandchildren. You can find Jill online at www.jillsavage.org.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In this episode, I chat with Jill Savage of “No More Perfect Marriages.” She shared her story of infidelity in her marriage, and how God has since healed her marriage so that she and her husband, Mark, now have a beautiful sacred scar and are able to minister to other married couples in despair.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The normal trials of life is the stuff that ultimately leaves us with sacred scars.
                                                  • Painful trials are part of our normal experience this side of heaven.
                                                  • Our marriage experienced a slow-fade while we both had huge responsibilities outside the home.
                                                  • The downward spiral started with an emotional affair and then resulted in a physical affair.
                                                  • The enemy took a direct hit to our greatest area of ministry.
                                                  • I began a one year process of standing for my marriage.
                                                  • “Standing for Your Marriage” is when one spouse believes and contends for the marriage while the other spouse checks out.
                                                  • The most painful thing I have ever experienced was my husband’s betrayal.
                                                  • I had a ministry based on authenticity and I determined to be open and honest about my pain.
                                                  • I didn’t cause my husband’s infidelity, but I did contribute to the dysfunction in my marriage.
                                                  • It’s important that we build a supportive community outside of times of tragedy because when we’re in a crisis, we don’t have the energy to do that.
                                                  • We can use our hard times as fertilizer for growth!
                                                  • As I began to change, my husband started seeing that as his own personal seeds of growth.
                                                  • God can turn our pain into his purposes.
                                                  • God forgives us the first time we ask—when are we going to forgive ourselves?
                                                  • Nothing is impossible with God.
                                                  • The God of the universe wants to do his best work in the cracks of your life.
                                                  • It takes two to build a marriage, but it takes one to divorce.
                                                  • It takes two to restore a marriage, but it takes One to restore a life.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jill Savage:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Tiktok / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jill Savage is an author and speaker who is passionate about relationships. She has been called one of today’s most exciting female speakers.  Her honest, engaging communication is strengthened by her ability to make her audience laugh while they learn.

                                                  Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books including Empty Nest, Full Life, Real Moms ... Real Jesus, the best-selling No More Perfect Moms, No More Perfect Kids, Better Together, and No More Perfect Marriages. Jill and her husband, Mark, live in Illinois and have five children and eight grandchildren. You can find Jill online at www.jillsavage.org.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In this episode, I chat with Jill Savage of “No More Perfect Marriages.” She shared her story of infidelity in her marriage, and how God has since healed her marriage so that she and her husband, Mark, now have a beautiful... full 270 Dr. Michelle Bengtson b3f7c7a5-4918-4ed4-b759-e4d9688f4b4b 2033f84a-cf5a-4b66-9dca-b2870114541b Thu, 13 Jun 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1765 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/270-how-to-survive-marital-infidelity-faith-forgiv                                                   269 3 Strategies to Overcome Painful Trials: Standing Strong When the Enemy Strikes 269 3 Strategies to Overcome Painful Trials: Standing Strong When the Enemy Strikes Episode Summary

                                                  Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we discuss how painful trials can not only challenge us but also lead to profound spiritual healing and growth. Dr. Mel shares her personal journey of overcoming a series of devastating setbacks, including a severe injury and job loss, by employing three key strategies. Learn how these strategies help turn what the enemy intended for harm into beautiful marks of victory and testimony forming sacred scars.

                                                  Quotables from the Episode

                                                  • "I spent the fall trying to rehab it... and they said, there's no fixing this and you have to have a total knee replacement." 
                                                  • "I forgot everything I teach other people... and then coming out on the other side, I began to see the good."
                                                  • "The Lord already knows and it helps others when we are transparent about our struggles." 
                                                  • "God's ways are higher and his ways are better than ours, and I was able to see that as time went on, but not in the beginning."
                                                  • "You went from a place of striving to get it all done to just looking and saying, what can I do today? And that's two different mindsets." 
                                                  • "I put earbuds in and played worship music... it kept my mind filled with the positive, and as I listened, I began to rise up." 

                                                  Scripture References

                                                  • Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."
                                                  • Romans 8:28 - "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." Matthew 6:25-33 - Discusses not worrying about life's material needs, emphasizing trust in God's provision.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Mel Tavares:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Mel has a unique 35-year concurrent background in church ministry, writing, publishing, counseling, and education. She holds a Doctorate of Ministry in Pastoral Care and Counseling. She is an award-winning author who has written four books penned under her name, is a contributing writer to several books including the (August 2021) DaySpring release “Sweet Tea for the Grieving Soul”, contributes to several online magazines including CBN and Inspiration Ministries, has served as a ghostwriter for ministry leaders, and coached dozens of published authors. Mel passion for equipping and teaching has led her to found a local ACW Chapter, teach at Writers Conferences, as well as Bible courses.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary

                                                  Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we discuss how painful trials can not only challenge us but also lead to profound spiritual healing and growth. Dr. Mel shares her personal journey of overcoming a series of devastating setbacks, including a severe injury and job loss, by employing three key strategies. Learn how these strategies help turn what the enemy intended for harm into beautiful marks of victory and testimony forming sacred scars.

                                                  Quotables from the Episode

                                                  • "I spent the fall trying to rehab it... and they said, there's no fixing this and you have to have a total knee replacement." 
                                                  • "I forgot everything I teach other people... and then coming out on the other side, I began to see the good."
                                                  • "The Lord already knows and it helps others when we are transparent about our struggles." 
                                                  • "God's ways are higher and his ways are better than ours, and I was able to see that as time went on, but not in the beginning."
                                                  • "You went from a place of striving to get it all done to just looking and saying, what can I do today? And that's two different mindsets." 
                                                  • "I put earbuds in and played worship music... it kept my mind filled with the positive, and as I listened, I began to rise up." 

                                                  Scripture References

                                                  • Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."
                                                  • Romans 8:28 - "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." Matthew 6:25-33 - Discusses not worrying about life's material needs, emphasizing trust in God's provision.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Mel Tavares:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Mel has a unique 35-year concurrent background in church ministry, writing, publishing, counseling, and education. She holds a Doctorate of Ministry in Pastoral Care and Counseling. She is an award-winning author who has written four books penned under her name, is a contributing writer to several books including the (August 2021) DaySpring release “Sweet Tea for the Grieving Soul”, contributes to several online magazines including CBN and Inspiration Ministries, has served as a ghostwriter for ministry leaders, and coached dozens of published authors. Mel passion for equipping and teaching has led her to found a local ACW Chapter, teach at Writers Conferences, as well as Bible courses.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we discuss how painful trials can not only challenge us but also lead to profound spiritual healing and growth. Dr. Mel shares her personal journey of overcoming a series of devastating setbacks,... full 269 Dr. Michelle Bengtson c159c1a2-52c0-438b-8083-f8c456f47133 f85c8f03-f584-430f-a668-b28701146ef3 Thu, 06 Jun 2024 14:50:00 +0000 1575 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/269-3-strategies-to-overcome-painful-trials-standi                                                   268 How to Transform the Wounds of Rejection into Sacred Scars 268 How to Transform the Wounds of Rejection into Sacred Scars Episode Summary:

                                                  We discuss the principle that we all endure experiences in our lives that produce wounds, but when God heals those wounds, sacred scars result. Join me with Jessica Van Roekel as we share how to transform the wounds of rejection into sacred scars. We dissect the deep emotional and spiritual impacts of rejection, reveal how these healed wounds can be converted into powerful testimonies, and demonstrate how sharing these stories empowers and uplifts others. Learn to overcome fears, recognize the importance of scripture in healing, and discover God's transformative role in turning past pains into triumphs. This episode is a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with past hurts and seeking God’s help on their path to recovery.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • They triumphed over him by the blood of the lamb and the word of their testimony
                                                  • Personal histories don't need to define the present or determine the future
                                                  • A scar is a healed wound
                                                  • We have to feel it to heal it
                                                  • God set me free, and then I prayed a dangerous prayer, 'Lord, teach me how to walk in this freedom.'
                                                  • Rejection doesn't have to stop their life. It doesn't have to train wreck their life.
                                                  • But how about this? How about if we go through it so that we have a story of God's faithfulness on the other side of it.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Revelation 12:11 – “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony;”
                                                  • Psalm 147:3 - He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  We discuss the principle that we all endure experiences in our lives that produce wounds, but when God heals those wounds, sacred scars result. Join me with Jessica Van Roekel as we share how to transform the wounds of rejection into sacred scars. We dissect the deep emotional and spiritual impacts of rejection, reveal how these healed wounds can be converted into powerful testimonies, and demonstrate how sharing these stories empowers and uplifts others. Learn to overcome fears, recognize the importance of scripture in healing, and discover God's transformative role in turning past pains into triumphs. This episode is a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with past hurts and seeking God’s help on their path to recovery.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • They triumphed over him by the blood of the lamb and the word of their testimony
                                                  • Personal histories don't need to define the present or determine the future
                                                  • A scar is a healed wound
                                                  • We have to feel it to heal it
                                                  • God set me free, and then I prayed a dangerous prayer, 'Lord, teach me how to walk in this freedom.'
                                                  • Rejection doesn't have to stop their life. It doesn't have to train wreck their life.
                                                  • But how about this? How about if we go through it so that we have a story of God's faithfulness on the other side of it.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Revelation 12:11 – “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony;”
                                                  • Psalm 147:3 - He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: We discuss the principle that we all endure experiences in our lives that produce wounds, but when God heals those wounds, sacred scars result. Join me with Jessica Van Roekel as we share how to transform the wounds of rejection into... full 268 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f1aacb2a-704e-4d03-86ed-4b4fff7723e1 46ab0c71-2b47-44ea-9d4d-b287011471de Thu, 30 May 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1509 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/268-how-to-transform-the-wounds-of-rejection-into                                                   267 Healing Pain: The Power of Sacred Scars 267 Healing Pain: The Power of Sacred Scars Episode Summary

                                                  Join me for healing pain and the power of Sacred Scars. Discover how personal hardships and emotional wounds can lead to spiritual and emotional growth. Gain insights on accepting your scars, finding purpose in pain, and realizing that your past struggles are not wasted. Hear inspiring stories that demonstrate resilience and hope, along with practical advice on how to view your scars through a lens of thanksgiving and healing. 

                                                  Quotables from the Episode

                                                  • Trusting God's promise that your past is not wasted.
                                                  • No matter what wound you've experienced, God can and will create a beautiful sacred scar from it if you offer it up to Him.
                                                  • Once he gave me some healing and once he showed me purpose in the pain, it changed my perspective.
                                                  • If we seek Him with our whole heart, we will find Him.
                                                  • There is healing for your pain and God can take your wounds and create beautiful healing.
                                                  • God shapes your scars and shapes you in the process.

                                                  Scripture References

                                                  • Psalm 147:3: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Host:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, Breaking Anxiety’s Grip, and The Hem of His Garment. Her latest book, Sacred Scars, releases on 6-25-2024. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary

                                                  Join me for healing pain and the power of Sacred Scars. Discover how personal hardships and emotional wounds can lead to spiritual and emotional growth. Gain insights on accepting your scars, finding purpose in pain, and realizing that your past struggles are not wasted. Hear inspiring stories that demonstrate resilience and hope, along with practical advice on how to view your scars through a lens of thanksgiving and healing. 

                                                  Quotables from the Episode

                                                  • Trusting God's promise that your past is not wasted.
                                                  • No matter what wound you've experienced, God can and will create a beautiful sacred scar from it if you offer it up to Him.
                                                  • Once he gave me some healing and once he showed me purpose in the pain, it changed my perspective.
                                                  • If we seek Him with our whole heart, we will find Him.
                                                  • There is healing for your pain and God can take your wounds and create beautiful healing.
                                                  • God shapes your scars and shapes you in the process.

                                                  Scripture References

                                                  • Psalm 147:3: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Host:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, Breaking Anxiety’s Grip, and The Hem of His Garment. Her latest book, Sacred Scars, releases on 6-25-2024. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary Join me for healing pain and the power of Sacred Scars. Discover how personal hardships and emotional wounds can lead to spiritual and emotional growth. Gain insights on accepting your scars, finding purpose in pain, and realizing that... full 267 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9279b6da-49bb-450a-a586-bcae49db4010 05e49146-b294-458e-82c9-b28701147953 Thu, 23 May 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1010 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/267-healing-pain-the-power-of-sacred-scars                                                   266 How to Serve Like Jesus: Embracing Service through Pain and Grace 266 How to Serve Like Jesus: Embracing Service through Pain and Grace Episode Summary: 

                                                  In moments of pain and suffering, we often find the deepest appreciation for acts of love and care from those around us. It is during our pain when we are most in need and perhaps most receptive to when others serve like Jesus. But when the tables are turned, we may struggle to know what to do for others. Join me with Michele Howe as we explore how to embrace service through pain and grace, learning how to serve like Jesus.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Just as we are blessed, encouraged, and discipled by others, we likewise grow in grace and maturity when we use our gifts to serve others.
                                                  • The whole principle of serving like Jesus means being on the receiving end of others God-given gifts and talents, while we serve others using our own.
                                                  • God is faithful. He never calls us to a task without equipping us with everything we need to complete it.
                                                  • Serving like Jesus requires intentionality, counting others higher than ourselves, and giving without reservation or expectation.
                                                  • When we are on the receiving end of service as fellow believers obeying Jesus by using the gifts and talents given them by God, we are deeply impacted and can grow in wisdom, Bible knowledge, understanding, and application.
                                                  • When we obey the Lord's command to serve others through his grace and strength, we in turn build up and strengthen our fellow believers so that the entire body of Christ can come to maturity.
                                                  • We are called to serve--everyone of us, every day. There are no exceptions to this high calling.
                                                  • We are saved by grace and in dwelled by the Holy Spirit, who teaches us, comforts us, chastises us, and compels us to serve.
                                                  • Serving like Jesus means offering kindness and mercy to those who don't deserve it.
                                                  • Before speaking the truth in love, bathe the conversation in prayer in order to help ensure that you approach the conversation with humility, grace, and compassion. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 2:3-8 “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
                                                  • 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
                                                  • Galatians 5:13-14 “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Michele Howe:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Michele Howe is the author of many books and has published over 2500 articles and reviews on parenting, women’s issues, and the empty next. Some of her books include Empty Nest: What’s Next? Parenting Children without Losing Your Mind, and Finding Freedom and Joy in Self-Forgetfulness.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In moments of pain and suffering, we often find the deepest appreciation for acts of love and care from those around us. It is during our pain when we are most in need and perhaps most receptive to when others serve like Jesus. But when the tables are turned, we may struggle to know what to do for others. Join me with Michele Howe as we explore how to embrace service through pain and grace, learning how to serve like Jesus.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Just as we are blessed, encouraged, and discipled by others, we likewise grow in grace and maturity when we use our gifts to serve others.
                                                  • The whole principle of serving like Jesus means being on the receiving end of others God-given gifts and talents, while we serve others using our own.
                                                  • God is faithful. He never calls us to a task without equipping us with everything we need to complete it.
                                                  • Serving like Jesus requires intentionality, counting others higher than ourselves, and giving without reservation or expectation.
                                                  • When we are on the receiving end of service as fellow believers obeying Jesus by using the gifts and talents given them by God, we are deeply impacted and can grow in wisdom, Bible knowledge, understanding, and application.
                                                  • When we obey the Lord's command to serve others through his grace and strength, we in turn build up and strengthen our fellow believers so that the entire body of Christ can come to maturity.
                                                  • We are called to serve--everyone of us, every day. There are no exceptions to this high calling.
                                                  • We are saved by grace and in dwelled by the Holy Spirit, who teaches us, comforts us, chastises us, and compels us to serve.
                                                  • Serving like Jesus means offering kindness and mercy to those who don't deserve it.
                                                  • Before speaking the truth in love, bathe the conversation in prayer in order to help ensure that you approach the conversation with humility, grace, and compassion. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 2:3-8 “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
                                                  • 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
                                                  • Galatians 5:13-14 “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Michele Howe:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Michele Howe is the author of many books and has published over 2500 articles and reviews on parenting, women’s issues, and the empty next. Some of her books include Empty Nest: What’s Next? Parenting Children without Losing Your Mind, and Finding Freedom and Joy in Self-Forgetfulness.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In moments of pain and suffering, we often find the deepest appreciation for acts of love and care from those around us. It is during our pain when we are most in need and perhaps most receptive to when others serve like Jesus.... full 266 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ed953be6-25e6-4758-8286-aba4a2adcfac 7166af92-9898-4ae2-a96c-b28701147b5f Thu, 16 May 2024 10:35:00 +0000 2360 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/266-how-to-serve-like-jesus-embracing-service-thro                                                   265 How To Overcome Parent-Child Relationship Problems: Tackling the Emotional Minefield 265 How To Overcome Parent-Child Relationship Problems: Tackling the Emotional Minefield Episode Summary: 

                                                  The numbers don’t lie. 2.8 million adolescents between 12-17 had at least one major depressive episode. This is changing and it’s not all related to the pandemic. There is increase in drug use, sexual activity, addiction to phones, gaming, and social media. Today’s kids function more emotionally than they do logically. This is the reason that the information we give them, the decisions we desire for them to make and the boundaries we employ seem to bounce off their forehead. Join me with Jeff Schadt for how to overcome parent-child relationship problems and tackle the emotional minefield.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • 2.8 million adolescents between 12-17 had at least one major depressive episode.
                                                  • We need to step out of fear as parents because fear typically leads to negative reactions and poor decisions.
                                                  • Love is the best boundary that parents can instill.
                                                  • Love is the one boundary that opposes evil while producing a sense of safety that results in openness, listening, learning, growth, faith, and true fellowship.
                                                  • We need to reevaluate the externally focused outcomes-based approach to parenting that relies on external motivation to move kids in the right direction.
                                                  • Research suggests that consequences for negative behavior motivates children to lie to cover up their mistakes.
                                                  • In the Bible, the term discipline has its root in teaching and training, not punishing.
                                                  • The number one complaint about the family from kids today is that they don’t feel loved by their parents.
                                                  • Negative core beliefs begin in children by the age of three, four, or five years of age.
                                                  • Love trumps the power of temptation. If enough of us caught onto the power of love, we could see a generation raised up that would not succumb to temptation but transform the nation.
                                                  • Far too many of us, kids included, carry what I have deemed as emotional road rash in our hearts.
                                                  • Parents tend to parent from either of two extremes: avoiding conflict by trying to be their child’s friend and enable their behavior OR parenting using high control and fear through rules and consequences.
                                                  • Since kids cannot assign fault to parents, they internalize all the shortcomings and behavioral issues that are thrust upon them as being their fault, which is why they often take responsibility when their parents divorce.
                                                  • You need to focus on and celebrate the progress rather than seek perfection…our focus on behavior versus healing is at the core of the weakness in how we raise our kids.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 15:5 “Apart from me you can do nothing.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jeff Schadt:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  The numbers don’t lie. 2.8 million adolescents between 12-17 had at least one major depressive episode. This is changing and it’s not all related to the pandemic. There is increase in drug use, sexual activity, addiction to phones, gaming, and social media. Today’s kids function more emotionally than they do logically. This is the reason that the information we give them, the decisions we desire for them to make and the boundaries we employ seem to bounce off their forehead. Join me with Jeff Schadt for how to overcome parent-child relationship problems and tackle the emotional minefield.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • 2.8 million adolescents between 12-17 had at least one major depressive episode.
                                                  • We need to step out of fear as parents because fear typically leads to negative reactions and poor decisions.
                                                  • Love is the best boundary that parents can instill.
                                                  • Love is the one boundary that opposes evil while producing a sense of safety that results in openness, listening, learning, growth, faith, and true fellowship.
                                                  • We need to reevaluate the externally focused outcomes-based approach to parenting that relies on external motivation to move kids in the right direction.
                                                  • Research suggests that consequences for negative behavior motivates children to lie to cover up their mistakes.
                                                  • In the Bible, the term discipline has its root in teaching and training, not punishing.
                                                  • The number one complaint about the family from kids today is that they don’t feel loved by their parents.
                                                  • Negative core beliefs begin in children by the age of three, four, or five years of age.
                                                  • Love trumps the power of temptation. If enough of us caught onto the power of love, we could see a generation raised up that would not succumb to temptation but transform the nation.
                                                  • Far too many of us, kids included, carry what I have deemed as emotional road rash in our hearts.
                                                  • Parents tend to parent from either of two extremes: avoiding conflict by trying to be their child’s friend and enable their behavior OR parenting using high control and fear through rules and consequences.
                                                  • Since kids cannot assign fault to parents, they internalize all the shortcomings and behavioral issues that are thrust upon them as being their fault, which is why they often take responsibility when their parents divorce.
                                                  • You need to focus on and celebrate the progress rather than seek perfection…our focus on behavior versus healing is at the core of the weakness in how we raise our kids.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 15:5 “Apart from me you can do nothing.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jeff Schadt:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  The numbers don’t lie. 2.8 million adolescents between 12-17 had at least one major depressive episode. This is changing and it’s not all related to the pandemic. There is increase in drug use, sexual activity, addiction to... full 265 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 5a572561-07eb-4665-a959-6e65f27eb8e1 781bff73-66d2-4707-896c-b287011482a1 Thu, 09 May 2024 10:30:00 +0000 2399 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/265-how-to-overcome-parent-child-relationship-prob                                                   264 How To Find Hope in God’s Promises in the Midst of Depression 264 How To Find Hope in God’s Promises in the Midst of Depression Episode Summary:

                                                  Join me for finding hope in God’s promises in the midst of depression. Did you know God places spiritual limits on the influences of depression and the enemy? We’ll discuss how these boundaries can empower you to find hope and worth through your faith, even when facing the darkest moments of despair. Drawing from my personal experiences and biblical stories, such as that of Job, I’ll share how our worth and destiny are defined by God, not our circumstances or the lies of the enemy.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy, but I have come that they might have life and have it to the full.
                                                  • The enemy tries to steal our joy and kill our peace and destroy our identity. But there are limits to what the enemy can do.
                                                  • Depression doesn’t define our worth, God does. God already defined our worth when he sent his son to die on the cross for us.
                                                  • Your past doesn’t predict your future. God does. Our destiny is secure if we are a Christ follower.
                                                  • Depression doesn't separate us from God's love. Jeremiah 31:3 - I have loved you with an everlasting love.
                                                  • We must recover ourselves by recognizing that we have cooperated with the enemy, repented to God, and renounced and rejected the enemy’s lies.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 10:10: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
                                                  • John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
                                                  • John 8:36: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
                                                  • Romans 5:6: “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.”
                                                  • Jeremiah 31:3: “The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.’”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5: “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:18-19: ““Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
                                                  • 3 John 1:2: “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, and Breaking Anxiety’s Grip. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective.

                                                  A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Join me for finding hope in God’s promises in the midst of depression. Did you know God places spiritual limits on the influences of depression and the enemy? We’ll discuss how these boundaries can empower you to find hope and worth through your faith, even when facing the darkest moments of despair. Drawing from my personal experiences and biblical stories, such as that of Job, I’ll share how our worth and destiny are defined by God, not our circumstances or the lies of the enemy.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy, but I have come that they might have life and have it to the full.
                                                  • The enemy tries to steal our joy and kill our peace and destroy our identity. But there are limits to what the enemy can do.
                                                  • Depression doesn’t define our worth, God does. God already defined our worth when he sent his son to die on the cross for us.
                                                  • Your past doesn’t predict your future. God does. Our destiny is secure if we are a Christ follower.
                                                  • Depression doesn't separate us from God's love. Jeremiah 31:3 - I have loved you with an everlasting love.
                                                  • We must recover ourselves by recognizing that we have cooperated with the enemy, repented to God, and renounced and rejected the enemy’s lies.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 10:10: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
                                                  • John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
                                                  • John 8:36: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
                                                  • Romans 5:6: “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.”
                                                  • Jeremiah 31:3: “The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.’”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5: “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:18-19: ““Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
                                                  • 3 John 1:2: “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, and Breaking Anxiety’s Grip. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective.

                                                  A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Join me for finding hope in God’s promises in the midst of depression. Did you know God places spiritual limits on the influences of depression and the enemy? We’ll discuss how these boundaries can empower you to find hope and... full 264 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 3c981ff4-94d5-4ca8-b936-f6e4b2281585 a517e171-5d3d-494d-963d-b287011488a6 Thu, 02 May 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1817 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/264-how-to-find-hope-in-god-s-promises-in-the-mids                                                   263 How To Defeat Depression by Addressing the Spiritual Roots of Disease 263 How To Defeat Depression by Addressing the Spiritual Roots of Disease Episode Summary:

                                                  Nobody is immune to depression. Even a seasoned neuropsychologist treating patients with a wide range of medical health issues can fall prey to depression. Join me as we shatter myths and offer powerful insights to help defeat depression by addressing the spiritual roots of disease. #replay

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • If you were at a restaurant having dinner with some folks, if you stretch out your arms, you would be able to reach somebody who's been impacted by depression.
                                                  • If we don't treat this disorder, it truly is a deadly condition. Every year, over 45,000 people die by suicide.
                                                  • Unless we're willing to address the spiritual roots of disease, it's like putting a band-aid on an infection and hoping it'll get well.
                                                  • Anxiety is a misappropriation of our attention. It means that we are looking somewhere other than God. 
                                                  • The enemy destroys our view of ourselves, and part of the way that he does this is first by tempting us to do that which we already know is wrong.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 6:12: "We are not fighting against flesh and blood armies, no, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers of the dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places."
                                                  • John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. But I have come that they might have life and have it to the full."
                                                  • Isaiah 26:3: "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you."
                                                  • Romans 8:1: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
                                                  • John 15:11: "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete."
                                                  • Psalm 30:5: "Weeping may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning."

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, and Breaking Anxiety’s Grip. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective.

                                                  A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Nobody is immune to depression. Even a seasoned neuropsychologist treating patients with a wide range of medical health issues can fall prey to depression. Join me as we shatter myths and offer powerful insights to help defeat depression by addressing the spiritual roots of disease. #replay

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • If you were at a restaurant having dinner with some folks, if you stretch out your arms, you would be able to reach somebody who's been impacted by depression.
                                                  • If we don't treat this disorder, it truly is a deadly condition. Every year, over 45,000 people die by suicide.
                                                  • Unless we're willing to address the spiritual roots of disease, it's like putting a band-aid on an infection and hoping it'll get well.
                                                  • Anxiety is a misappropriation of our attention. It means that we are looking somewhere other than God. 
                                                  • The enemy destroys our view of ourselves, and part of the way that he does this is first by tempting us to do that which we already know is wrong.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 6:12: "We are not fighting against flesh and blood armies, no, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers of the dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places."
                                                  • John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. But I have come that they might have life and have it to the full."
                                                  • Isaiah 26:3: "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you."
                                                  • Romans 8:1: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
                                                  • John 15:11: "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete."
                                                  • Psalm 30:5: "Weeping may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning."

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, and Breaking Anxiety’s Grip. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective.

                                                  A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Nobody is immune to depression. Even a seasoned neuropsychologist treating patients with a wide range of medical health issues can fall prey to depression. Join me as we shatter myths and offer powerful insights to help defeat... full 263 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 96531042-c0b8-4255-b540-5a16217f0ac9 d1afb48d-b535-4d26-a97f-b287011498c6 Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1215 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/263-how-to-defeat-depression-by-addressing-the-spi                                                   262 How To Help a Friend Facing Cancer 262 How To Help a Friend Facing Cancer Episode Summary:

                                                  We all want to help. When we hear someone whose been given a devastating diagnosis, we want to try to help make things better. Or, at least make things less bad. But, sometimes, inadvertently, we can say and do things that cause more harm than good. Through my history with cancer and my husband's history with cancer, we've learned a few things. So in this replay of a conversation I had with Amy Connell, I'm going to share some insights that I think you'll find helpful so you can know how best to help a friend with cancer.

                                                  This episode not only sheds light on the emotional and physical challenges of cancer but also on how friends can effectively and sensitively be a source of comfort and strength during such trying times.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • Keep your questions to a minimum. (It can be exhausting answering everybody's questions.
                                                  • It's even nicer to listen to an audio text or to read a prayer because I can hold on to that and pull it out again when I'm at a loss for words
                                                  • Don't just throw scripture at them. We want to have the right thing to say, and we want to do something to take their pain away, but we don't know what that is. So we fill it in with a Bible verse. 
                                                  • Ask permission before giving advice. We want to help, but unsolicited advice can sometimes backfire.
                                                  • Consider tangible expressions of your support... something as simple as clean sheets can be deeply meaningful.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Amy Connell:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  About Amy Connell:

                                                  Amy Connell is a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach who is passionate about equipping women to find balanced, sustainable ways of taking care of their uniquely created bodies. Amy helps women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect, and that the reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do. She does this through a variety of platforms, including her Graced Health podcast, books, social media education, and one-on-one coaching.

                                                   

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, and Breaking Anxiety’s Grip. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective.

                                                  A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  We all want to help. When we hear someone whose been given a devastating diagnosis, we want to try to help make things better. Or, at least make things less bad. But, sometimes, inadvertently, we can say and do things that cause more harm than good. Through my history with cancer and my husband's history with cancer, we've learned a few things. So in this replay of a conversation I had with Amy Connell, I'm going to share some insights that I think you'll find helpful so you can know how best to help a friend with cancer.

                                                  This episode not only sheds light on the emotional and physical challenges of cancer but also on how friends can effectively and sensitively be a source of comfort and strength during such trying times.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • Keep your questions to a minimum. (It can be exhausting answering everybody's questions.
                                                  • It's even nicer to listen to an audio text or to read a prayer because I can hold on to that and pull it out again when I'm at a loss for words
                                                  • Don't just throw scripture at them. We want to have the right thing to say, and we want to do something to take their pain away, but we don't know what that is. So we fill it in with a Bible verse. 
                                                  • Ask permission before giving advice. We want to help, but unsolicited advice can sometimes backfire.
                                                  • Consider tangible expressions of your support... something as simple as clean sheets can be deeply meaningful.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Amy Connell:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  About Amy Connell:

                                                  Amy Connell is a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach who is passionate about equipping women to find balanced, sustainable ways of taking care of their uniquely created bodies. Amy helps women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect, and that the reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do. She does this through a variety of platforms, including her Graced Health podcast, books, social media education, and one-on-one coaching.

                                                   

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, and Breaking Anxiety’s Grip. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective.

                                                  A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: We all want to help. When we hear someone whose been given a devastating diagnosis, we want to try to help make things better. Or, at least make things less bad. But, sometimes, inadvertently, we can say and do things that cause more... full 262 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 90887dd0-af8e-4a31-9a5c-0a7a5ea73c58 4cd50d7d-26e9-4ce2-a6a9-b2870114a320 Thu, 18 Apr 2024 10:30:00 +0000 2620 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/262-how-to-help-a-friend-facing-cancer                                                   261 How Your CORE Strength Can Bring Freedom and Empowerment in Your Health 261 How Your CORE Strength Can Bring Freedom and Empowerment in Your Health Episode Summary:

                                                  In a world bent on touting certain diets and restrictive eating, our guest, Amy Connell, desires we learn about our core strength. After releasing her book Your Worthy Body, written for women over 40, she had moms approach her saying “I need something like this for my daughters!” 

                                                  Her hope is to be a conduit between mom and daughter to help them both foster a healthy relationship with food, exercise and their body so they can grow in their relationship with each other. She does this through her new book Your Core Strength: A Christ-Centered, Diet-Culture-Free book for young women. Today we are going to be talking about How Your CORE Strength can bring freedom and empowerment in your health.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • 91% of women report being unhappy with their bodies.
                                                  • Our C.O.R.E. strength refers to our calling, our originality and uniqueness, our relationships with others and with God, and everything that contributes to our holistic well-being in our health journey.
                                                  • Practically speaking, prioritize sleep. We can optimize and manage our overall mental and physical health when we have rested our brain and body. If you have children, model this for them.
                                                  • Spiritually speaking, I cling to 2 Corinthians 10:5: We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
                                                  • If what I’m thinking isn’t of God, then I follow the guidelines I offer in the book. Spot it, Lock it, Speak it. I have to notice the enemy’s lies, lock them away and then speak God’s truth.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:2 NIV Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. 
                                                  • Genesis 1:29 NIV I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. 
                                                  • Genesis 9:3 NIV Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Amy Connell

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Amy Connell is a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach who is passionate about equipping women to find balanced, sustainable ways of taking care of their uniquely created bodies. Amy helps women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect, and that the reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do. She does this through a variety of platforms, including her Graced Health podcast, books, social media education, and one-on-one coaching.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In a world bent on touting certain diets and restrictive eating, our guest, Amy Connell, desires we learn about our core strength. After releasing her book Your Worthy Body, written for women over 40, she had moms approach her saying “I need something like this for my daughters!” 

                                                  Her hope is to be a conduit between mom and daughter to help them both foster a healthy relationship with food, exercise and their body so they can grow in their relationship with each other. She does this through her new book Your Core Strength: A Christ-Centered, Diet-Culture-Free book for young women. Today we are going to be talking about How Your CORE Strength can bring freedom and empowerment in your health.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • 91% of women report being unhappy with their bodies.
                                                  • Our C.O.R.E. strength refers to our calling, our originality and uniqueness, our relationships with others and with God, and everything that contributes to our holistic well-being in our health journey.
                                                  • Practically speaking, prioritize sleep. We can optimize and manage our overall mental and physical health when we have rested our brain and body. If you have children, model this for them.
                                                  • Spiritually speaking, I cling to 2 Corinthians 10:5: We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
                                                  • If what I’m thinking isn’t of God, then I follow the guidelines I offer in the book. Spot it, Lock it, Speak it. I have to notice the enemy’s lies, lock them away and then speak God’s truth.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:2 NIV Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. 
                                                  • Genesis 1:29 NIV I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. 
                                                  • Genesis 9:3 NIV Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Amy Connell

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Amy Connell is a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach who is passionate about equipping women to find balanced, sustainable ways of taking care of their uniquely created bodies. Amy helps women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect, and that the reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do. She does this through a variety of platforms, including her Graced Health podcast, books, social media education, and one-on-one coaching.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In a world bent on touting certain diets and restrictive eating, our guest, Amy Connell, desires we learn about our core strength. After releasing her book Your Worthy Body, written for women over 40, she had moms approach her saying... full 261 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 3ce55feb-f896-4ca1-b7c6-2ee4622cb4af 071ecfa2-f870-4a72-b8c9-b2870114a5e0 Thu, 11 Apr 2024 10:30:00 +0000 2601 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/261-how-your-core-strength-can-bring-freedom-and-e                                                   260 Hope Amidst Hardship: Breaking the Cycle of Generational Poverty 260 Hope Amidst Hardship: Breaking the Cycle of Generational Poverty Episode Summary:

                                                  Some pro-life advocates mistakenly assume that once a pregnant woman has chosen life for her baby, the battle has been won. However, the truth is that for mothers living in poverty, especially generational poverty, the battle has only begun. These women lack resources, support, finances, and hope. While pregnancy centers succeed in leading women to choose life and providing aid through the baby's first year, impoverished mothers are then left to fight a solitary battle for the life of their child every day. Join me with Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez as we talk about hope for breaking the cycle of generational poverty.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our lifesaving efforts should not end with the saved life of the baby. We need to look at the bigger picture of the woman's life and her baby's future and seek to understand her context, the circumstances that make her abortion-vulnerable, and what she needs after she says yes to her baby's life.'
                                                  • Living in poverty does not merely mean struggling to provide basic needs due to a lack of financial stability. It is an all-encompassing condition that affects how a person feels, how they think, how they form relationships, how they function as parents, how they practice self-esteem, how they view their own future and the future of their families, and how others view them.
                                                  • We as the church have the opportunity to tell this woman that there's an option where she can choose life and her dreams as well... When we show her that we are guardians of her dreams and the shepherds of her soul, we show her that we love her, her baby, and their future. They all matter to God and us.
                                                  • Through social service referrals, meaningful relationships, and committed discipleship, we can work with families to help them build a sustainable future... Without the hands on support of committed and caring believers- something my mother and I received- women in poverty aren't able to carve a new path for their families.
                                                  • We need humility and grace to seek to understand what life looks like in this context and in the culture and communities we are serving so that we can approach them with awareness and understanding.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez:

                                                  Website / Instagram Marisol / Instagram Renew Life / Facebook / Twitter

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez the cofounder of RENEW life center, which seeks to pick up where pregnancy resource centers leave off in order to support women and help them overcome generational poverty. Born to a single mother and raised in generational poverty, Marisol has a deep experiential understanding of the women she serves. She has worked in pregnancy resource ministries for over 20 years, first as a volunteer and then as an urban center director. She is the parent of four adult children and lives with her husband in New Jersey.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Some pro-life advocates mistakenly assume that once a pregnant woman has chosen life for her baby, the battle has been won. However, the truth is that for mothers living in poverty, especially generational poverty, the battle has only begun. These women lack resources, support, finances, and hope. While pregnancy centers succeed in leading women to choose life and providing aid through the baby's first year, impoverished mothers are then left to fight a solitary battle for the life of their child every day. Join me with Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez as we talk about hope for breaking the cycle of generational poverty.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our lifesaving efforts should not end with the saved life of the baby. We need to look at the bigger picture of the woman's life and her baby's future and seek to understand her context, the circumstances that make her abortion-vulnerable, and what she needs after she says yes to her baby's life.'
                                                  • Living in poverty does not merely mean struggling to provide basic needs due to a lack of financial stability. It is an all-encompassing condition that affects how a person feels, how they think, how they form relationships, how they function as parents, how they practice self-esteem, how they view their own future and the future of their families, and how others view them.
                                                  • We as the church have the opportunity to tell this woman that there's an option where she can choose life and her dreams as well... When we show her that we are guardians of her dreams and the shepherds of her soul, we show her that we love her, her baby, and their future. They all matter to God and us.
                                                  • Through social service referrals, meaningful relationships, and committed discipleship, we can work with families to help them build a sustainable future... Without the hands on support of committed and caring believers- something my mother and I received- women in poverty aren't able to carve a new path for their families.
                                                  • We need humility and grace to seek to understand what life looks like in this context and in the culture and communities we are serving so that we can approach them with awareness and understanding.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez:

                                                  Website / Instagram Marisol / Instagram Renew Life / Facebook / Twitter

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez the cofounder of RENEW life center, which seeks to pick up where pregnancy resource centers leave off in order to support women and help them overcome generational poverty. Born to a single mother and raised in generational poverty, Marisol has a deep experiential understanding of the women she serves. She has worked in pregnancy resource ministries for over 20 years, first as a volunteer and then as an urban center director. She is the parent of four adult children and lives with her husband in New Jersey.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Some pro-life advocates mistakenly assume that once a pregnant woman has chosen life for her baby, the battle has been won. However, the truth is that for mothers living in poverty, especially generational poverty, the battle has only... full 260 Dr. Michelle Bengtson a61a4c71-9c53-4117-a307-1fbfe0972531 a8d4dc72-0b08-4685-975b-b2870114a92c Thu, 04 Apr 2024 10:30:00 +0000 2078 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/260-hope-amidst-hardship-breaking-the-cycle-of-gen                                                   259 What Is Sexual Abuse and Offering Hope for Survivors 259 What Is Sexual Abuse and Offering Hope for Survivors Episode Summary: 

                                                  Join me with Melissa Heiland as we talk about an important but sensitive topic: what is sexual abuse, and how we can offer hope for sexual abuse survivors. 

                                                  In the US, 10% of all children experience some form of sexual abuse before they turn 18. These numbers are likely low since sexual abuse is underreported. The victims are most likely to be female (75%), but these numbers are rapidly changing as boys are increasingly the targets of molesters. A whopping 90% of the children who are abused know their abuser which often points to a family member, teacher, scout leader, or coach.

                                                  With an American sexually assaulted an average of every 68 seconds not enough attention is given to the survivors. Most feel a sense of shame, confusion, and condemnation. They think, how could this have happened to me? But God still has a plan for your life despite the abuse. 

                                                  While sexual abuse within the Catholic Church has been well publicized, evangelical churches have started to draw up policies and abuse reforms the problem is not the sole dominion of it any single church or institution. Can happen anywhere, in families, in schools, and even in church organizations survivors of abuse hear a lot of messages that condemn, confuse, and wound. This should never happen but often does. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God still has a plan for your life despite the abuse.
                                                  • Your hopelessness in the present does not change God's plan for you to prosper and give you a hope for the future.
                                                  • After experiencing sexual abuse, it’s important to separate the lies we’ve believed from God’s truth.
                                                  • Your experience of sexual abuse does not determine who you are. God calls you loved, worthy, and accepted.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Isaiah 61:7 “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.”
                                                  • Romans 12:19 “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: ‘it is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Melissa Heiland:

                                                  Website

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Melissa Heiland holds a Master of Education from Central Missouri State University. She has worked in pregnancy care ministry for over 25 years and served as Executive Director and Board Member. She served as a full-time missionary with the International Mission Board and has led volunteer mission teams since 2000. She is the founder of Beautiful Feet International, a mission organization that has planted more than 70 pregnancy centers in over 20 nations. Melissa trains pregnancy center staff and volunteers throughout the U.S.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Join me with Melissa Heiland as we talk about an important but sensitive topic: what is sexual abuse, and how we can offer hope for sexual abuse survivors. 

                                                  In the US, 10% of all children experience some form of sexual abuse before they turn 18. These numbers are likely low since sexual abuse is underreported. The victims are most likely to be female (75%), but these numbers are rapidly changing as boys are increasingly the targets of molesters. A whopping 90% of the children who are abused know their abuser which often points to a family member, teacher, scout leader, or coach.

                                                  With an American sexually assaulted an average of every 68 seconds not enough attention is given to the survivors. Most feel a sense of shame, confusion, and condemnation. They think, how could this have happened to me? But God still has a plan for your life despite the abuse. 

                                                  While sexual abuse within the Catholic Church has been well publicized, evangelical churches have started to draw up policies and abuse reforms the problem is not the sole dominion of it any single church or institution. Can happen anywhere, in families, in schools, and even in church organizations survivors of abuse hear a lot of messages that condemn, confuse, and wound. This should never happen but often does. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God still has a plan for your life despite the abuse.
                                                  • Your hopelessness in the present does not change God's plan for you to prosper and give you a hope for the future.
                                                  • After experiencing sexual abuse, it’s important to separate the lies we’ve believed from God’s truth.
                                                  • Your experience of sexual abuse does not determine who you are. God calls you loved, worthy, and accepted.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Isaiah 61:7 “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.”
                                                  • Romans 12:19 “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: ‘it is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Melissa Heiland:

                                                  Website

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Melissa Heiland holds a Master of Education from Central Missouri State University. She has worked in pregnancy care ministry for over 25 years and served as Executive Director and Board Member. She served as a full-time missionary with the International Mission Board and has led volunteer mission teams since 2000. She is the founder of Beautiful Feet International, a mission organization that has planted more than 70 pregnancy centers in over 20 nations. Melissa trains pregnancy center staff and volunteers throughout the U.S.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Join me with Melissa Heiland as we talk about an important but sensitive topic: what is sexual abuse, and how we can offer hope for sexual abuse survivors.  In the US, 10% of all children experience some form of sexual... full 259 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 92214a86-d0da-452a-9254-4d6db2804b21 f8a4257d-ff12-4936-9025-b2870114abbf Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1710 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/259-what-is-sexual-abuse-and-offering-hope-for-sur                                                   258 How to Hold Onto Faith While Waiting for Healing 258 How to Hold Onto Faith While Waiting for Healing Episode Summary:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson joins David Robison of LifeToday to explore the challenging journey of maintaining faith during periods of waiting for healing. Drawing from her personal struggles and professional insights as a neuropsychologist, Dr. Bengtson shares about the emotional, physical, and spiritual pain that tests our faith. Through her new book, "The Hem of His Garment," she offers hope, encouragement, and practical advice to those navigating the complexities of pain and waiting. Join us as we discuss the importance of pressing into faith, the biblical examples of those who waited on God's timing, and how we can find strength and hope in the midst of suffering. This is a replay of a LifeToday interview.

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • "In our pain, we have a choice. We can either retreat from God and blame Him, or we can lean in and continue to enact our faith, waiting for His healing in His perfect time and way." 
                                                  • "God never withholds anything good from His children. If my physical healing today was in my best interest, I know He would do it." 
                                                  • "Walking by faith sometimes comes by crawling by faith." 
                                                  • "Getting out of bed or just breathing, sometimes, that is victory."
                                                  • "God can handle our honesty. It's our flesh speaking, but it's honest and it's real." 
                                                  • "The pain of childbirth is so great... But when you get the joy that comes out of it, it makes it all worthwhile." 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • The story of the woman with the issue of blood who touched the hem of Jesus' garment and was healed, illustrating the journey of faith and waiting for healing. [No specific verse cited, but the story is found in Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48, and Matthew 9:20-22.]

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with David Robison of LifeToday:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson joins David Robison of LifeToday to explore the challenging journey of maintaining faith during periods of waiting for healing. Drawing from her personal struggles and professional insights as a neuropsychologist, Dr. Bengtson shares about the emotional, physical, and spiritual pain that tests our faith. Through her new book, "The Hem of His Garment," she offers hope, encouragement, and practical advice to those navigating the complexities of pain and waiting. Join us as we discuss the importance of pressing into faith, the biblical examples of those who waited on God's timing, and how we can find strength and hope in the midst of suffering. This is a replay of a LifeToday interview.

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • "In our pain, we have a choice. We can either retreat from God and blame Him, or we can lean in and continue to enact our faith, waiting for His healing in His perfect time and way." 
                                                  • "God never withholds anything good from His children. If my physical healing today was in my best interest, I know He would do it." 
                                                  • "Walking by faith sometimes comes by crawling by faith." 
                                                  • "Getting out of bed or just breathing, sometimes, that is victory."
                                                  • "God can handle our honesty. It's our flesh speaking, but it's honest and it's real." 
                                                  • "The pain of childbirth is so great... But when you get the joy that comes out of it, it makes it all worthwhile." 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • The story of the woman with the issue of blood who touched the hem of Jesus' garment and was healed, illustrating the journey of faith and waiting for healing. [No specific verse cited, but the story is found in Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48, and Matthew 9:20-22.]

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with David Robison of LifeToday:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Dr. Michelle Bengtson joins David Robison of LifeToday to explore the challenging journey of maintaining faith during periods of waiting for healing. Drawing from her personal struggles and professional insights as a... full 258 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 84d9aeb3-fe54-4adc-a14b-08139472304f 642bcb75-0889-4fcc-97b5-b2870114ab97 Thu, 21 Mar 2024 10:30:00 +0000 1869 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/258-how-to-hold-onto-faith-while-waiting-for-heali                                                   257 The Truth About Anxiety in Motherhood: How to Overcome Overwhelm and Fear 257 The Truth About Anxiety in Motherhood: How to Overcome Overwhelm and Fear Episode Summary: 

                                                  All moms worry, right? Motherhood tempts many moms to worry, especially about the wellbeing of their children. Are they breathing? How can I keep them healthy? What if they don’t make friends at school? But for moms who experience anxiety, worry quickly elevates into debilitating overwhelm, fear, and doubt. This can make normal tasks of motherhood overwhelming and joy-less. Courtney Devich and I share the truth about anxiety in motherhood and how to overcome overwhelm and fear.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Many moms believe the adage, “I’m a mom, it’s my job to worry.”
                                                  • If not addressed, anxiety will dictate your decisions.
                                                  • My experience with mental health issues drew me closer to God.
                                                  • Anxiety does not mean that moms can’t experience joy in their parenting!=
                                                  • God’s going to support you and take care of you if you feel like you’re slipping into the depths of your anxiety.
                                                  • If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression as a mom, have honest conversations with your spouse about how to best support you.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 94:19 NIV When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. 
                                                  • 1 Peter 5:7 NIV Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 
                                                  • Psalm 56:3 NIV When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Courtney Devich:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Courtney Devich is a mama relying on Jesus and reheated coffee every day. Using humor, honesty, and relatability, she writes with a heart for the mom struggling with anxiety or depression. Courtney is a former human resources professional, using her leadership skills to manage kids as a stay-at-home mom. You can find her in the Starbucks line at her local Target, binge-watching TV with her husband, or chasing after a kid (or two) at her home in Michigan.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  All moms worry, right? Motherhood tempts many moms to worry, especially about the wellbeing of their children. Are they breathing? How can I keep them healthy? What if they don’t make friends at school? But for moms who experience anxiety, worry quickly elevates into debilitating overwhelm, fear, and doubt. This can make normal tasks of motherhood overwhelming and joy-less. Courtney Devich and I share the truth about anxiety in motherhood and how to overcome overwhelm and fear.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Many moms believe the adage, “I’m a mom, it’s my job to worry.”
                                                  • If not addressed, anxiety will dictate your decisions.
                                                  • My experience with mental health issues drew me closer to God.
                                                  • Anxiety does not mean that moms can’t experience joy in their parenting!=
                                                  • God’s going to support you and take care of you if you feel like you’re slipping into the depths of your anxiety.
                                                  • If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression as a mom, have honest conversations with your spouse about how to best support you.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 94:19 NIV When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. 
                                                  • 1 Peter 5:7 NIV Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 
                                                  • Psalm 56:3 NIV When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Courtney Devich:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Courtney Devich is a mama relying on Jesus and reheated coffee every day. Using humor, honesty, and relatability, she writes with a heart for the mom struggling with anxiety or depression. Courtney is a former human resources professional, using her leadership skills to manage kids as a stay-at-home mom. You can find her in the Starbucks line at her local Target, binge-watching TV with her husband, or chasing after a kid (or two) at her home in Michigan.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  All moms worry, right? Motherhood tempts many moms to worry, especially about the wellbeing of their children. Are they breathing? How can I keep them healthy? What if they don’t make friends at school? But for moms who... full 257 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 722ab781-80bb-405a-bf23-053f6271b00b 693ff11c-cdd9-43d6-8127-b2870114b4f3 Thu, 14 Mar 2024 10:30:00 +0000 2161 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/257-the-truth-about-anxiety-in-motherhood-how-to-o                                                   256 Lessons You Can Learn from Broken Friendships 256 Lessons You Can Learn from Broken Friendships Episode Summary: 

                                                  Relationship conflict can be difficult. Can good come from broken relationships? How do deal with mutual friends after a breakup? How do we get over the pain of friendships that end? And how does Jesus teach us to be a good friend? Join me with Jessica Van Roekel for Lessons You Can Learn from Broken Friendships.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • It could be safe to say we become God’s enemy when we harbor the sin of unforgiveness in our heart, which is why we must be careful not to point fingers at our ex-friend. Jesus tells us to take care of the log in our own eye before we point out someone’s splinter.
                                                  • It’s in this vulnerable moment when we hold our pain in all its throbbing mess where we discover the power of God to connect our pain with his suffering and see his glory in our lives through the healing he brings to our hurting heart.
                                                  • This truth remains: our reputation is in God’s hands, not man’s. God’s justice aligns with His character and attributes, and the beautiful things He says about us also apply to our friend. We don’t hold the market on being His most beloved child. God loves her as much as he loves us.
                                                  • When we demand God choose between the two of us, we lose sight of the overwhelming gift of reconciliation Jesus purchased for us when He died on the cross and rose three days later, conquering death and throwing open the doors to relationship with God the Father. Jesus’ death leveled the playing ground and made us equal in His sight.
                                                  • Friendship end stirs feelings of insecurity. Insecurity–can drive us to make our friends choose, to call us to question the security of other relationships, and to even behave in a way that hurts other relationships before we give them a chance to hurt us. We need our security grounded in who God says I am and his faithfulness as a friend.
                                                  • We may not have any say when a friend decides to discontinue the friendship, but we are responsible for our response. Regardless of how we are treated, we are to continue loving each other.
                                                  • Jesus identifies with all our struggles including friendship relationships.
                                                  • God can use our pain and healing to make us a friend like Jesus.
                                                  • Friendship pain can teach us what it truly means to forgive.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 5:43-44 (NIV) “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor i and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
                                                  • John 13:34-35 (NLT) reminds us “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
                                                  • 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (NIV) May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Relationship conflict can be difficult. Can good come from broken relationships? How do deal with mutual friends after a breakup? How do we get over the pain of friendships that end? And how does Jesus teach us to be a good friend? Join me with Jessica Van Roekel for Lessons You Can Learn from Broken Friendships.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • It could be safe to say we become God’s enemy when we harbor the sin of unforgiveness in our heart, which is why we must be careful not to point fingers at our ex-friend. Jesus tells us to take care of the log in our own eye before we point out someone’s splinter.
                                                  • It’s in this vulnerable moment when we hold our pain in all its throbbing mess where we discover the power of God to connect our pain with his suffering and see his glory in our lives through the healing he brings to our hurting heart.
                                                  • This truth remains: our reputation is in God’s hands, not man’s. God’s justice aligns with His character and attributes, and the beautiful things He says about us also apply to our friend. We don’t hold the market on being His most beloved child. God loves her as much as he loves us.
                                                  • When we demand God choose between the two of us, we lose sight of the overwhelming gift of reconciliation Jesus purchased for us when He died on the cross and rose three days later, conquering death and throwing open the doors to relationship with God the Father. Jesus’ death leveled the playing ground and made us equal in His sight.
                                                  • Friendship end stirs feelings of insecurity. Insecurity–can drive us to make our friends choose, to call us to question the security of other relationships, and to even behave in a way that hurts other relationships before we give them a chance to hurt us. We need our security grounded in who God says I am and his faithfulness as a friend.
                                                  • We may not have any say when a friend decides to discontinue the friendship, but we are responsible for our response. Regardless of how we are treated, we are to continue loving each other.
                                                  • Jesus identifies with all our struggles including friendship relationships.
                                                  • God can use our pain and healing to make us a friend like Jesus.
                                                  • Friendship pain can teach us what it truly means to forgive.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 5:43-44 (NIV) “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor i and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
                                                  • John 13:34-35 (NLT) reminds us “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
                                                  • 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (NIV) May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Relationship conflict can be difficult. Can good come from broken relationships? How do deal with mutual friends after a breakup? How do we get over the pain of friendships that end? And how does Jesus teach us to be a good... full Dr. Michelle Bengtson f87ab5b0-e713-40fb-bb9e-c66474df27d2 0b7d6db1-dab0-45d7-bb03-b2870114bbb9 Thu, 07 Mar 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2181 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/256-lessons-you-can-learn-from-broken-friendships                                                   255 How to Heal After a Friendship Breakup 255 How to Heal After a Friendship Breakup Episode Summary:   The contributors to a friendship breakup are varied and as individual as the parties involved. A spectrum of relationship commitments falls under the umbrella of friendship. Friendships can range from acquaintances, colleagues, familial, casual, close, or intimate. The type of friendship prior to a breakup affects the depth of the wound. Many questions exist around friendship breakups ranging from “why do friendships end?” to “what does this say about me?” and even “what do we need when friendships end?” In the last episode, Jessica Van Roekel and I talked about how to repair a friendship. But what about in situations where a friendship can't be repaired? In this episode, we talk about how to heal after a friendship breakup.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Some of the most common reasons why friendships end are: perceived offense, jealousy, feelings of inferiority, grief, major life transitions, and unresolved personal issues that come to a head.
                                                  • A friendship breakup is not always a bad thing, even when it feels bad.
                                                  • Often, the strong desire to belong creates people-pleasing tendencies and makes an “idol” of relationships. God values friendships, but if our relationship with Him isn’t our top priority, our focus on an earthly friendship, no matter how close, can usurp His position in our hearts.
                                                  • The depth of intimacy in our friendships can become misguided or one-sided. That can lead to unfulfilled expectations, selfishness, manipulation, insensitivity, a mismatch of give-and-take, or unappreciation.
                                                  • Women have a more difficult time healing from a broken friendship than men because, in general, women are more emotionally invested in friendships.
                                                  • When we’ve lost a relationship, we must give ourselves space to grieve, to fully feel the shock, anger, sadness, frustration, betrayal, and disappointment.
                                                  • To heal after a friendship breakup, we need God’s guidance in how to respond, the encouragement that He sees our pain, the hope that He would deal with our friend’s heart as well as our own, and His reminder not to let hurt and anger create bitter roots of resentment.
                                                  • Before healing can begin, we need to acknowledge our pain.
                                                  • When we no longer know who the safe people are in our lives, we need to share our pain with Jesus. He does not break confidences or judge us for our grief.
                                                  • Forgiveness begins as an act of obedience and becomes the first step we return to again and again as the pain from friendship losses resurge.
                                                  • Healing takes time—it’s not a one and done prayer or conversation.
                                                  • Remember, as much as you hurt, God hurts for you.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:18(ESV) “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
                                                  • Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:   The contributors to a friendship breakup are varied and as individual as the parties involved. A spectrum of relationship commitments falls under the umbrella of friendship. Friendships can range from acquaintances, colleagues, familial, casual, close, or intimate. The type of friendship prior to a breakup affects the depth of the wound. Many questions exist around friendship breakups ranging from “why do friendships end?” to “what does this say about me?” and even “what do we need when friendships end?” In the last episode, Jessica Van Roekel and I talked about how to repair a friendship. But what about in situations where a friendship can't be repaired? In this episode, we talk about how to heal after a friendship breakup.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Some of the most common reasons why friendships end are: perceived offense, jealousy, feelings of inferiority, grief, major life transitions, and unresolved personal issues that come to a head.
                                                  • A friendship breakup is not always a bad thing, even when it feels bad.
                                                  • Often, the strong desire to belong creates people-pleasing tendencies and makes an “idol” of relationships. God values friendships, but if our relationship with Him isn’t our top priority, our focus on an earthly friendship, no matter how close, can usurp His position in our hearts.
                                                  • The depth of intimacy in our friendships can become misguided or one-sided. That can lead to unfulfilled expectations, selfishness, manipulation, insensitivity, a mismatch of give-and-take, or unappreciation.
                                                  • Women have a more difficult time healing from a broken friendship than men because, in general, women are more emotionally invested in friendships.
                                                  • When we’ve lost a relationship, we must give ourselves space to grieve, to fully feel the shock, anger, sadness, frustration, betrayal, and disappointment.
                                                  • To heal after a friendship breakup, we need God’s guidance in how to respond, the encouragement that He sees our pain, the hope that He would deal with our friend’s heart as well as our own, and His reminder not to let hurt and anger create bitter roots of resentment.
                                                  • Before healing can begin, we need to acknowledge our pain.
                                                  • When we no longer know who the safe people are in our lives, we need to share our pain with Jesus. He does not break confidences or judge us for our grief.
                                                  • Forgiveness begins as an act of obedience and becomes the first step we return to again and again as the pain from friendship losses resurge.
                                                  • Healing takes time—it’s not a one and done prayer or conversation.
                                                  • Remember, as much as you hurt, God hurts for you.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:18(ESV) “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
                                                  • Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:   The contributors to a friendship breakup are varied and as individual as the parties involved. A spectrum of relationship commitments falls under the umbrella of friendship. Friendships can range from acquaintances, colleagues,... full 255 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9f0a1a58-26de-419b-9c71-fc6923d50074 1bbd7793-a7f6-4f08-ad5f-b2870114c85e Thu, 29 Feb 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2362 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/255-how-to-heal-after-a-friendship-breakup                                                   254 How To Repair a Friendship with Grace to Move from Hurt to Healing 254 How To Repair a Friendship with Grace to Move from Hurt to Healing Episode Summary:   What do you do when your friend walks away from your relationship without explanation or chance for reconciliation? Guilt and shame keep Christian women from talking about it. It’s embarrassing, confusing, and often heartbreaking. In this episode, Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about a common event, that few in Christian circles discuss openly. 

                                                  Misunderstandings happen and disagreements occur even in the healthiest of relationships. In a world that seems to thrive on discord, it can be tempting to run from conflict in a friendship. But conflict can bring about growth if we don’t fear or avoid it. Lack of communication, pride, fear, misunderstanding, careless words, being quick to pick up an offense lead to cracks in a friendship. These cracks can potentially lead to broken friendships. Stay tuned for how to repair a friendship with grace to move from hurt to healing.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Lack of communication, pride, fear, misunderstanding, careless words, being quick to pick up an offense lead to cracks in a friendship.
                                                  • Sometimes pursuing “why?” postpones our healing, because for some things we will never receive an answer; but “what?” can be a more productive question. What does God want to reveal about himself? What does God want to reveal within me? What does God want me to learn? What does God want me to change?
                                                  • Repairing a friendship begins with a posture of humility and self-reflection; aiming to understand rather than being right.
                                                  • Practical ways to offer grace include expressing interest in another, declaring gratitude for the positive traits and contributions of another, speaking a kind word in response to receiving a critical word, seeking to live unoffended, and assuming the best while forgiving the rest.
                                                  • We understand the pain of a broken relationship and we know the power of the healing work God does in our hearts even if a relationship can’t be healed.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
                                                  • Hebrews 12:14 “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:   What do you do when your friend walks away from your relationship without explanation or chance for reconciliation? Guilt and shame keep Christian women from talking about it. It’s embarrassing, confusing, and often heartbreaking. In this episode, Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about a common event, that few in Christian circles discuss openly. 

                                                  Misunderstandings happen and disagreements occur even in the healthiest of relationships. In a world that seems to thrive on discord, it can be tempting to run from conflict in a friendship. But conflict can bring about growth if we don’t fear or avoid it. Lack of communication, pride, fear, misunderstanding, careless words, being quick to pick up an offense lead to cracks in a friendship. These cracks can potentially lead to broken friendships. Stay tuned for how to repair a friendship with grace to move from hurt to healing.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Lack of communication, pride, fear, misunderstanding, careless words, being quick to pick up an offense lead to cracks in a friendship.
                                                  • Sometimes pursuing “why?” postpones our healing, because for some things we will never receive an answer; but “what?” can be a more productive question. What does God want to reveal about himself? What does God want to reveal within me? What does God want me to learn? What does God want me to change?
                                                  • Repairing a friendship begins with a posture of humility and self-reflection; aiming to understand rather than being right.
                                                  • Practical ways to offer grace include expressing interest in another, declaring gratitude for the positive traits and contributions of another, speaking a kind word in response to receiving a critical word, seeking to live unoffended, and assuming the best while forgiving the rest.
                                                  • We understand the pain of a broken relationship and we know the power of the healing work God does in our hearts even if a relationship can’t be healed.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
                                                  • Hebrews 12:14 “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:   What do you do when your friend walks away from your relationship without explanation or chance for reconciliation? Guilt and shame keep Christian women from talking about it. It’s embarrassing, confusing, and often... full 254 Dr. Michelle Bengtson e29cfeaf-147e-43d3-912f-d23fbfec360b f92a545f-12da-4be2-9bed-b2870114d3df Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2537 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/254-how-to-repair-a-friendship-with-grace-to-move                                                   253 How To Find Your Natural Prayer Style and Unleash Your Prayer Potential 253 How To Find Your Natural Prayer Style and Unleash Your Prayer Potential Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you ever feel uncomfortable praying in public? Do you ever envy the prayer-life or prayer style of others after you hear them pray? Do you ever feel guilty for not praying more like those you admire? What if I assured you that God is more interested in your heart and in having a relationship than he is the eloquence of your prayers? Join me with Janet McHenry to discover how your personality influences your prayer life and learn practical ways to pray so that you find your natural prayer style.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I started prayerwalking in the fall of 1998, and as I began to see answers to my prayers for the people in my little town, I started a search through God’s Word to understand more about prayer. As I read from Genesis to Revelation each year, I marked up references to prayer with a circled P. Those two practices—prayerwalking and studying prayer—led me to begin writing about prayer.
                                                  • Perhaps how we pray most naturally has something to do with our personality.
                                                  • We can shed the guilt about what we’re doing or not doing about prayer by understanding what might be our natural prayer style.
                                                  • Problem-Solvers like multi-tasking, so you might consider prayerwalking or praying as you exercise—and putting sticky note reminders around your home to pray.
                                                  • What I call “Friends of God” might find singing along to worship music or praying with your family daily brings joy into your life.
                                                  • Organized Pray-ers (also called Lamenters) prefer organized systems, so they enjoy keeping lists or writing out their prayers or creating a special prayer closet for their quiet time with God.
                                                  • Peace Makers seek prayer as a respite from the world. They are an informal sort who might need prayer books or prayer apps to jump-start their prayer time with a cuppa coffee.
                                                  • The important thing to remember is that we commit to spending time with our Father God, who has initiated the conversation with us.
                                                  • Prayer is more about access than answers.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:17 “Pray without ceasing.”
                                                  • Luke 11:9 “’Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.’”
                                                  • Matthew 6:10 “Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Janet McHenry:

                                                  Website / Quiz / Looking Up! Mini-Magazine / Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest / LinkedIn / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Janet McHenry and her rancher husband Craig live in the Sierra Valley, where they raised their four kids. She is a national speaker and the author of 27 books, including the bestselling PrayerWalk, The Complete Guide to the Prayers of Jesus, and her new release, Praying Personalities. Janet directs the prayer ministries at The Bridge Church in Reno and serves on the California leadership team for the National Day of Prayer. The leader of the hundreds-strong Bible Girls and a prayerwalker, Janet has helped others foster a hope-filled, purposeful lifestyle built on prayer and God's Word for more than two decades.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you ever feel uncomfortable praying in public? Do you ever envy the prayer-life or prayer style of others after you hear them pray? Do you ever feel guilty for not praying more like those you admire? What if I assured you that God is more interested in your heart and in having a relationship than he is the eloquence of your prayers? Join me with Janet McHenry to discover how your personality influences your prayer life and learn practical ways to pray so that you find your natural prayer style.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I started prayerwalking in the fall of 1998, and as I began to see answers to my prayers for the people in my little town, I started a search through God’s Word to understand more about prayer. As I read from Genesis to Revelation each year, I marked up references to prayer with a circled P. Those two practices—prayerwalking and studying prayer—led me to begin writing about prayer.
                                                  • Perhaps how we pray most naturally has something to do with our personality.
                                                  • We can shed the guilt about what we’re doing or not doing about prayer by understanding what might be our natural prayer style.
                                                  • Problem-Solvers like multi-tasking, so you might consider prayerwalking or praying as you exercise—and putting sticky note reminders around your home to pray.
                                                  • What I call “Friends of God” might find singing along to worship music or praying with your family daily brings joy into your life.
                                                  • Organized Pray-ers (also called Lamenters) prefer organized systems, so they enjoy keeping lists or writing out their prayers or creating a special prayer closet for their quiet time with God.
                                                  • Peace Makers seek prayer as a respite from the world. They are an informal sort who might need prayer books or prayer apps to jump-start their prayer time with a cuppa coffee.
                                                  • The important thing to remember is that we commit to spending time with our Father God, who has initiated the conversation with us.
                                                  • Prayer is more about access than answers.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:17 “Pray without ceasing.”
                                                  • Luke 11:9 “’Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.’”
                                                  • Matthew 6:10 “Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Janet McHenry:

                                                  Website / Quiz / Looking Up! Mini-Magazine / Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest / LinkedIn / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Janet McHenry and her rancher husband Craig live in the Sierra Valley, where they raised their four kids. She is a national speaker and the author of 27 books, including the bestselling PrayerWalk, The Complete Guide to the Prayers of Jesus, and her new release, Praying Personalities. Janet directs the prayer ministries at The Bridge Church in Reno and serves on the California leadership team for the National Day of Prayer. The leader of the hundreds-strong Bible Girls and a prayerwalker, Janet has helped others foster a hope-filled, purposeful lifestyle built on prayer and God's Word for more than two decades.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Do you ever feel uncomfortable praying in public? Do you ever envy the prayer-life or prayer style of others after you hear them pray? Do you ever feel guilty for not praying more like those you admire? What if I assured you... full 253 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 4d5db758-b594-4951-8998-b23f4cff65cf 904f5ba7-57e4-4095-8011-b2870114eb07 Thu, 15 Feb 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2100 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/253-how-to-find-your-natural-prayer-style-and-unle                                                   252 Depression: A Christian's Guide to Navigating the Darkness 252 Depression: A Christian's Guide to Navigating the Darkness Episode Summary:

                                                  Join me with Alicia Michelle for a candid discussion about my personal journey through depression as a Christian doctor. Not only did we focus on depression's physical, emotional and spiritual components, but we also addressed fundamental questions surrounding depression, such as its definition, the intersection of faith and mental health, barriers to self-recognition, and practical strategies for identification. You won't want to miss this episode as we offer insights on depression from personal, professional, and spiritual perspectives.

                                                   

                                                  Questions we answer in this episode:

                                                  • What is depression?
                                                  • What is the spiritual component of depression?
                                                  • Do Christians get depressed?
                                                  • Why don’t we recognize depression in ourselves?
                                                  • How do we identify depression?
                                                  • What can we do spiritually speaking to help address depression?

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                                  • Psalm 30:5 “For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Alicia Michelle:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Alicia Michelle is a certified mindset coach, speaker, Bible study author and award- winning podcast host of the top-ranked The Christian Mindset Coach Podcast. Through her coaching and courses (and by the power of the Holy Spirit), she equips Christian women with practical biblically-based tools to break free from the worry and exhaustion of perfectionism, people pleasing and performance that come from feeling “never enough”. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Join me with Alicia Michelle for a candid discussion about my personal journey through depression as a Christian doctor. Not only did we focus on depression's physical, emotional and spiritual components, but we also addressed fundamental questions surrounding depression, such as its definition, the intersection of faith and mental health, barriers to self-recognition, and practical strategies for identification. You won't want to miss this episode as we offer insights on depression from personal, professional, and spiritual perspectives.

                                                   

                                                  Questions we answer in this episode:

                                                  • What is depression?
                                                  • What is the spiritual component of depression?
                                                  • Do Christians get depressed?
                                                  • Why don’t we recognize depression in ourselves?
                                                  • How do we identify depression?
                                                  • What can we do spiritually speaking to help address depression?

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                                  • Psalm 30:5 “For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Alicia Michelle:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Alicia Michelle is a certified mindset coach, speaker, Bible study author and award- winning podcast host of the top-ranked The Christian Mindset Coach Podcast. Through her coaching and courses (and by the power of the Holy Spirit), she equips Christian women with practical biblically-based tools to break free from the worry and exhaustion of perfectionism, people pleasing and performance that come from feeling “never enough”. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Join me with Alicia Michelle for a candid discussion about my personal journey through depression as a Christian doctor. Not only did we focus on depression's physical, emotional and spiritual components, but we also addressed... full 252 Dr. Michelle Bengtson e95e4cf1-01be-46ac-b441-16275aa9abbb f71e40ee-4c2d-46ec-ab88-b2870114f95f Thu, 08 Feb 2024 11:30:00 +0000 3590 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/252-depression-a-christians-guide-to-navigating-th                                                   251 How to Find Mental Rest and Calm Your Racing Thoughts 251 How to Find Mental Rest and Calm Your Racing Thoughts Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you ever have difficulty calming your racing mind when life is stressful? Do you lay awake at night, unable to tame your thoughts so you can sleep? Do the stresses of life tempt you to fall into the trap of second-guessing yourself or others? Then you’ll be glad you tuned in to today’s episode where Alicia Michelle and I share how to find mental rest and calm your racing thoughts.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our busyness, perfectionism, and people pleasing often originates with core negative soundtracks that play in our minds from early childhood.
                                                  • Our tendency to push our bodies and our minds beyond what is reasonable, is often fueled by our desire to answer three questions: Am I enough? Am I loved? Am I worthy?
                                                  • Mental rest starts with giving ourselves permission to have space and margin in our lives.
                                                  • To achieve the most benefit from mental rest, we must consider times of daily mental rest as well as extended periods of mental rest when we pull away from all the mental demands that run our life.
                                                  • In seeking periods of rest, ask God to direct your steps. His ways are higher and better, and He knows what we most need.
                                                  • We can’t make the “rest of God” happen, but we can position ourselves to be receptive and receive his rest.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 23:2-3 He lets me rest in green meadows, he leads me beside peaceful streams, He renews my strength, He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. (NLT) 
                                                  • Isaiah 30:15-16, 18 This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: 'Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it... You said, 'No, we will get our help from Egypt. They will give us swift horses for riding into battle.' But the only witness you are going to see is the swiftness of your enemies chasing you! So the Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help. (NLT) 
                                                  • Psalm 94:19 When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer. (NLT) 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Alicia Michelle:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Alicia Michelle is a certified mindset coach, speaker, Bible study author and award- winning podcast host of the top-ranked The Christian Mindset Coach Podcast. Through her coaching and courses (and by the power of the Holy Spirit), she equips Christian women with practical biblically-based tools to break free from the worry and exhaustion of perfectionism, people pleasing and performance that come from feeling “never enough”. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you ever have difficulty calming your racing mind when life is stressful? Do you lay awake at night, unable to tame your thoughts so you can sleep? Do the stresses of life tempt you to fall into the trap of second-guessing yourself or others? Then you’ll be glad you tuned in to today’s episode where Alicia Michelle and I share how to find mental rest and calm your racing thoughts.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our busyness, perfectionism, and people pleasing often originates with core negative soundtracks that play in our minds from early childhood.
                                                  • Our tendency to push our bodies and our minds beyond what is reasonable, is often fueled by our desire to answer three questions: Am I enough? Am I loved? Am I worthy?
                                                  • Mental rest starts with giving ourselves permission to have space and margin in our lives.
                                                  • To achieve the most benefit from mental rest, we must consider times of daily mental rest as well as extended periods of mental rest when we pull away from all the mental demands that run our life.
                                                  • In seeking periods of rest, ask God to direct your steps. His ways are higher and better, and He knows what we most need.
                                                  • We can’t make the “rest of God” happen, but we can position ourselves to be receptive and receive his rest.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 23:2-3 He lets me rest in green meadows, he leads me beside peaceful streams, He renews my strength, He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. (NLT) 
                                                  • Isaiah 30:15-16, 18 This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: 'Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it... You said, 'No, we will get our help from Egypt. They will give us swift horses for riding into battle.' But the only witness you are going to see is the swiftness of your enemies chasing you! So the Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help. (NLT) 
                                                  • Psalm 94:19 When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer. (NLT) 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Alicia Michelle:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Alicia Michelle is a certified mindset coach, speaker, Bible study author and award- winning podcast host of the top-ranked The Christian Mindset Coach Podcast. Through her coaching and courses (and by the power of the Holy Spirit), she equips Christian women with practical biblically-based tools to break free from the worry and exhaustion of perfectionism, people pleasing and performance that come from feeling “never enough”. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Do you ever have difficulty calming your racing mind when life is stressful? Do you lay awake at night, unable to tame your thoughts so you can sleep? Do the stresses of life tempt you to fall into the trap of second-guessing... full 251 Dr. Michelle Bengtson fe1bd81c-ec78-430c-99da-bc801cbc2b41 c5366e06-7c7c-4048-ab44-b2870114fd61 Thu, 01 Feb 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2780 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/251-how-to-find-mental-rest-and-calm-your-racing-t                                                   250 Unmasking the Unexpected: A Guide to Coping with Unforeseen Events 250 Unmasking the Unexpected: A Guide to Coping with Unforeseen Events Episode Summary:

                                                  Life doesn't always go as planned, but that doesn't mean we can't navigate the twists and turns. Join me with Jillian Benfield for a guide to coping with unforeseen events—gaining insights into the beauty of vulnerability, the healing process, and finding strength in unexpected places. Learn how to turn unforeseen events into stepping stones for personal growth.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When unexpected events hit our lives, we realize just how fragile we really are.
                                                  • Unforeseen events are the gateway to living more vulnerable.
                                                  • For me, grief looks like good pastoral counsel, reading, digging into my faith, and figuring out what I really believed.
                                                  • Asking “why” lets us wrestle with God which is an intimate process that helps us to figure out what we really believe.
                                                  • Overcoming is a stance that means to suppress and “get over it” whereas undergoing means we admit we need help, seek help, confront the pain, and work through the healing process.
                                                  • We need to come to the truthful realization that success and worth are not attached.
                                                  • Unforeseen events provide the opportunity to become more connected to Jesus who suffered for us and with us.
                                                  • There are two primary paths to transformation: great love or great suffering.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 13:1-6 NIV “How long, O LORD?  Will You forget me forever?  How long will You hide Your face from me? How long must I wrestle in my soul, with sorrow in my heart each day? How long will my enemy dominate me? Consider me and respond, O LORD my God. Give light to my eyes, lest I sleep in death, lest my enemy say, “I have overcome him,” and my foes rejoice when I fall. But I have trusted in Your loving devotion; my heart will rejoice in Your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, for He has been good to me.
                                                  • John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jillian Benfield:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jillian Benfield is a former journalist and news anchor. She holds a broadcast journalism degree from the University of Georgia. As a freelance writer, her essays about living an unexpected life have appeared on sites such as TODAY, Good Morning America, Yahoo! News, and ABC News. Jillian regularly advocates for the full inclusion of people with disabilities in her writings, community, and as a part of the National Down Syndrome Congress's National Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition. Jillian and her husband, Andy, and their three children make their home on Florida's Space Coast.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Life doesn't always go as planned, but that doesn't mean we can't navigate the twists and turns. Join me with Jillian Benfield for a guide to coping with unforeseen events—gaining insights into the beauty of vulnerability, the healing process, and finding strength in unexpected places. Learn how to turn unforeseen events into stepping stones for personal growth.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When unexpected events hit our lives, we realize just how fragile we really are.
                                                  • Unforeseen events are the gateway to living more vulnerable.
                                                  • For me, grief looks like good pastoral counsel, reading, digging into my faith, and figuring out what I really believed.
                                                  • Asking “why” lets us wrestle with God which is an intimate process that helps us to figure out what we really believe.
                                                  • Overcoming is a stance that means to suppress and “get over it” whereas undergoing means we admit we need help, seek help, confront the pain, and work through the healing process.
                                                  • We need to come to the truthful realization that success and worth are not attached.
                                                  • Unforeseen events provide the opportunity to become more connected to Jesus who suffered for us and with us.
                                                  • There are two primary paths to transformation: great love or great suffering.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 13:1-6 NIV “How long, O LORD?  Will You forget me forever?  How long will You hide Your face from me? How long must I wrestle in my soul, with sorrow in my heart each day? How long will my enemy dominate me? Consider me and respond, O LORD my God. Give light to my eyes, lest I sleep in death, lest my enemy say, “I have overcome him,” and my foes rejoice when I fall. But I have trusted in Your loving devotion; my heart will rejoice in Your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, for He has been good to me.
                                                  • John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jillian Benfield:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jillian Benfield is a former journalist and news anchor. She holds a broadcast journalism degree from the University of Georgia. As a freelance writer, her essays about living an unexpected life have appeared on sites such as TODAY, Good Morning America, Yahoo! News, and ABC News. Jillian regularly advocates for the full inclusion of people with disabilities in her writings, community, and as a part of the National Down Syndrome Congress's National Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition. Jillian and her husband, Andy, and their three children make their home on Florida's Space Coast.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Life doesn't always go as planned, but that doesn't mean we can't navigate the twists and turns. Join me with Jillian Benfield for a guide to coping with unforeseen events—gaining insights into the beauty of vulnerability, the... full 250 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 3f440dd7-14b7-4347-a43c-3223d6cf5965 7850c921-c925-4ae0-a03b-b287011506a7 Thu, 25 Jan 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2241 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/250-unmasking-the-unexpected-a-guide-to-coping-wit                                                   249 Breaking Free from Body Image Pain! 249 Breaking Free from Body Image Pain! Episode Summary: 

                                                  Dive into a candid conversation on our podcast about the deep-rooted pain in body image issues. Join me with Heather Creekmore of Compared to Who as we share personal stories, challenges, and effective coping strategies. If you've ever felt the sting of self-inflicted shame or the hurtful words of others, this episode is a must-listen!

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • Nowhere in scripture, though, can I find a place that says the more you serve God, the less you're going to suffer.
                                                  • We all struggle with pride in some area of our life, but that mentality, that compensatory coping mechanism that I can't control my husband losing his job or my mom getting cancer, but I can control this area,  that's pride coming through that I need to be able to control something in my life.
                                                  • We are so pain averse that we just want God to take it away. Yesterday. And when he doesn't, that's when we start going down the slippery slope of believing lies, the same kind of lies that contribute to Body image issues.
                                                  • The more we think those thoughts, the more entrenched they come, the more they form our beliefs and our beliefs form our attitudes and our attitudes contribute to our actions.
                                                  • And that's where the enemy gets us because frequently we ruminate on those negative thoughts. Whereas God speaks over us positive thoughts.
                                                  • The neat thing about neuroplasticity is that we can train our brain to let the weeds grow on those ruts and form new pathways. But it takes conscious work.
                                                  • And if we don't slow down, we don't even notice the thoughts that we're having that wreak havoc. And we have between 50 and 70,000 thoughts a day.
                                                  • And when we're experiencing pain, we are more vulnerable to hearing and believing those lies, regardless of the type of pain.
                                                  • The enemy hates it when we praise God. And nothing will make him leave us alone faster than when we're praising and worshiping.
                                                  • There is a very fine line between complaining and lamenting.
                                                  • Complaint is very me focused. It is what I think I deserve and it's rooted in pride.
                                                  • God offers lament as a gift to us. Lament is really expressing our personal despair or loss.
                                                  • God can handle our emotions and he can handle our questions. And I would go so far as to say he'd rather hear all about it. Then let us walk away from him, because that's the other tendency with pain is to isolate ourselves and withdraw from God.
                                                  • What pain does is that it, it focuses us so inward. Whereas God offers the opportunity through pain for us to recognize our dependence on him.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Heather Creekmore:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram/ YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Heather Creekmore writes and speaks hope to thousands of women each week, inspiring them to stop comparing and start living. The host of the popular podcast, Compared to Who?, she has been featured on dozens of other shows and podcasts as well as on Fox News and HuffPost. She was a contestant on the hit Netflix bake fails show Nailed It. Heather and her marine-fighter-pilot turned pastor-husband, Eric, have four children and live in Austin, Texas.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Dive into a candid conversation on our podcast about the deep-rooted pain in body image issues. Join me with Heather Creekmore of Compared to Who as we share personal stories, challenges, and effective coping strategies. If you've ever felt the sting of self-inflicted shame or the hurtful words of others, this episode is a must-listen!

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • Nowhere in scripture, though, can I find a place that says the more you serve God, the less you're going to suffer.
                                                  • We all struggle with pride in some area of our life, but that mentality, that compensatory coping mechanism that I can't control my husband losing his job or my mom getting cancer, but I can control this area,  that's pride coming through that I need to be able to control something in my life.
                                                  • We are so pain averse that we just want God to take it away. Yesterday. And when he doesn't, that's when we start going down the slippery slope of believing lies, the same kind of lies that contribute to Body image issues.
                                                  • The more we think those thoughts, the more entrenched they come, the more they form our beliefs and our beliefs form our attitudes and our attitudes contribute to our actions.
                                                  • And that's where the enemy gets us because frequently we ruminate on those negative thoughts. Whereas God speaks over us positive thoughts.
                                                  • The neat thing about neuroplasticity is that we can train our brain to let the weeds grow on those ruts and form new pathways. But it takes conscious work.
                                                  • And if we don't slow down, we don't even notice the thoughts that we're having that wreak havoc. And we have between 50 and 70,000 thoughts a day.
                                                  • And when we're experiencing pain, we are more vulnerable to hearing and believing those lies, regardless of the type of pain.
                                                  • The enemy hates it when we praise God. And nothing will make him leave us alone faster than when we're praising and worshiping.
                                                  • There is a very fine line between complaining and lamenting.
                                                  • Complaint is very me focused. It is what I think I deserve and it's rooted in pride.
                                                  • God offers lament as a gift to us. Lament is really expressing our personal despair or loss.
                                                  • God can handle our emotions and he can handle our questions. And I would go so far as to say he'd rather hear all about it. Then let us walk away from him, because that's the other tendency with pain is to isolate ourselves and withdraw from God.
                                                  • What pain does is that it, it focuses us so inward. Whereas God offers the opportunity through pain for us to recognize our dependence on him.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Heather Creekmore:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram/ YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Heather Creekmore writes and speaks hope to thousands of women each week, inspiring them to stop comparing and start living. The host of the popular podcast, Compared to Who?, she has been featured on dozens of other shows and podcasts as well as on Fox News and HuffPost. She was a contestant on the hit Netflix bake fails show Nailed It. Heather and her marine-fighter-pilot turned pastor-husband, Eric, have four children and live in Austin, Texas.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Dive into a candid conversation on our podcast about the deep-rooted pain in body image issues. Join me with Heather Creekmore of Compared to Who as we share personal stories, challenges, and effective coping strategies. If... full 249 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6c185050-ec38-4a8a-8db9-09f46ae416d9 87f0a14f-654f-4aca-8e08-b287011508bf Thu, 18 Jan 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2412 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/249-breaking-free-from-body-image-pain                                                   248 Behind the Reflection: Unmasking the Causes of Body Image Issues 248 Behind the Reflection: Unmasking the Causes of Body Image Issues Episode Summary:  

                                                  Did you know according to a 2022 Good Housekeeping study, 87% of respondents have been on a diet with the purpose, at least in part, to change their weight or shape. Meanwhile, only 6% of respondents strongly agreed that they feel generally happy with their bodies, and a sobering 17% said they'd be willing to shave a year or more off of their lives in exchange for their ideal body.

                                                  Many women know that God created their bodies and called them “good” but have a hard time truly believing it. Bombarded by images of the “ideal” body, diet culture, and anti-aging marketing, many find themselves on a never-ending quest to change their bodies. More than ever, we are bombarded with intense pressure to meet culture's elusive standards of beauty. And while we know theoretically that God loves and accepts you for what's on the inside, is that really enough to free a gal from the nonstop stress of body improvement?

                                                  It's time to stop comparing, start living, and find the rest that comes when you entrust your self-image to the Savior. Today we’re going to talk about: Behind the Reflection: Unmasking the Causes of Body Image Issues.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Diets have a 95% failure rate.
                                                  • Too often we make our bodies an idol and then are left unsatisfied and frustrated.
                                                  • Joy, peace, and worth come from Jesus, not our body.=
                                                  • Too often, Christian women believe we aren’t good enough, and that we are letting God down.
                                                  • Culture now talks about “my truth” but too often that doesn’t agree with God’s truth.
                                                  • In our world’s economy, beauty is a commodity, but the true question is what are we making our heavenly treasure?
                                                  • When we compare ourselves to others, the underlying message is that “God has robbed you” of something good.
                                                  • Our fascination and concern with aging often comes from the fear of becoming irrelevant, unloved, and no longer necessary.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Timothy 4:4 “For every creation of God is good, and nothing that is received with thanksgiving should be rejected, because it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.”
                                                  • Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Heather Creekmore:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram/ YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Heather Creekmore writes and speaks hope to thousands of women each week, inspiring them to stop comparing and start living. The host of the popular podcast, Compared to Who?, she has been featured on dozens of other shows and podcasts as well as on Fox News and HuffPost. She was a contestant on the hit Netflix bake fails show Nailed It. Heather and her marine-fighter-pilot turned pastor-husband, Eric, have four children and live in Austin, Texas.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  

                                                  Did you know according to a 2022 Good Housekeeping study, 87% of respondents have been on a diet with the purpose, at least in part, to change their weight or shape. Meanwhile, only 6% of respondents strongly agreed that they feel generally happy with their bodies, and a sobering 17% said they'd be willing to shave a year or more off of their lives in exchange for their ideal body.

                                                  Many women know that God created their bodies and called them “good” but have a hard time truly believing it. Bombarded by images of the “ideal” body, diet culture, and anti-aging marketing, many find themselves on a never-ending quest to change their bodies. More than ever, we are bombarded with intense pressure to meet culture's elusive standards of beauty. And while we know theoretically that God loves and accepts you for what's on the inside, is that really enough to free a gal from the nonstop stress of body improvement?

                                                  It's time to stop comparing, start living, and find the rest that comes when you entrust your self-image to the Savior. Today we’re going to talk about: Behind the Reflection: Unmasking the Causes of Body Image Issues.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Diets have a 95% failure rate.
                                                  • Too often we make our bodies an idol and then are left unsatisfied and frustrated.
                                                  • Joy, peace, and worth come from Jesus, not our body.=
                                                  • Too often, Christian women believe we aren’t good enough, and that we are letting God down.
                                                  • Culture now talks about “my truth” but too often that doesn’t agree with God’s truth.
                                                  • In our world’s economy, beauty is a commodity, but the true question is what are we making our heavenly treasure?
                                                  • When we compare ourselves to others, the underlying message is that “God has robbed you” of something good.
                                                  • Our fascination and concern with aging often comes from the fear of becoming irrelevant, unloved, and no longer necessary.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Timothy 4:4 “For every creation of God is good, and nothing that is received with thanksgiving should be rejected, because it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.”
                                                  • Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Heather Creekmore:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram/ YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Heather Creekmore writes and speaks hope to thousands of women each week, inspiring them to stop comparing and start living. The host of the popular podcast, Compared to Who?, she has been featured on dozens of other shows and podcasts as well as on Fox News and HuffPost. She was a contestant on the hit Netflix bake fails show Nailed It. Heather and her marine-fighter-pilot turned pastor-husband, Eric, have four children and live in Austin, Texas.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:   Did you know according to a 2022 Good Housekeeping study, 87% of respondents have been on a diet with the purpose, at least in part, to change their weight or shape. Meanwhile, only 6% of respondents strongly agreed that they... full 248 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 8081db4b-b69e-4b45-9b10-e52b13793034 5f922f13-8deb-4ac9-9a17-b28701150b93 Thu, 11 Jan 2024 11:35:00 +0000 2836 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/248-behind-the-reflection-unmasking-the-causes-of                                                   247 Navigating SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder: Unveiling Hope for a Brighter Tomorrow 247 Navigating SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder: Unveiling Hope for a Brighter Tomorrow Episode Summary:

                                                  Experiencing the post-holiday blues is a common phenomenon. Once the holidays are over, we often feel deflated and can’t find our joy. Join me with Scott on this podcast replay as we talk about SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder or commonly known as the winter blues. We share tips and resources that will make a difference and help mitigate its effect.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • There is a diagnosis called SAD “Seasonal Affective Disorder” which often happens to people during the winter months when it is often dark, gloomy, and less sunlight during the day. The lack of sunlight does contribute to seasonal affective disorder which is a form of depression during the winter months.
                                                  • ALL depression is significant. But often we experience a let-down following the holidays which contributes to mild, post-holiday blues. And frequently we experience expectations that aren’t met during the holiday season that leave us feeling inadequate or unappreciated or devalued which can leave us feeling down after the holidays are over.
                                                  • To make matters worse, not everyone experiences a merry Christmas, which can make going into a new year even more difficult.
                                                  • Grief and depression are NOT the same thing, but often, those who are grieving also experience a bout of depression.
                                                  • We serve a God who is rich in mercy and grace, but so often we don’t extend the same grace and mercy to ourselves or others.
                                                  • I’m grateful for the Biblical greats who we can read about who have struggled with depression. Just like David or Elijah. David often cried “why so downcast oh my soul?” and in the next moment he was praising God.
                                                  • “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” was written to encourage others who are struggling with the blues or a more significant case of depression. It’s the kind of book I wish I had had when I was depressed.
                                                  • If you are experiencing a change in mood, a change in appetite, energy, or sleep, and have been experiencing such changes for more than a couple of weeks, you may be experiencing SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder, the blues or a more significant depression. But that is not something to be ashamed of. And you need to know you are not alone.
                                                  • There isn’t a magic bullet for depression. It’s something we have to walk through. But God walks with us and can bring us through it.
                                                  • There is no right or wrong experience of depression. Everyone’s experience is different, and it can change from time to time. Not everyone who is depressed feels down all the time…many experience depression as irritability, agitation, or anger.
                                                  • Overcoming SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder, depression or the blues is a process. You didn’t become depressed overnight and it won’t go away overnight. But small baby steps will make a difference.
                                                  • To help mitigate the effect of SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder or the post-holiday blues:
                                                    • Plan one thing each day that you enjoy. (i.e. take a bubble bath, read for 15-20 minutes) Write it in your day planner. It prioritizes self-care. If you don’t take care of yourself, you have nothing left to pour out to others. When we feel depressed, we can feel like we have nothing left to look forward to, especially after the holidays, but this can give us something small to look forward to.
                                                    • Instead of listening to the news, listen to calming music or text a friend to give yourself an emotional holiday for a few minutes. Sometimes when you are the one experiencing the blues or depression, you want others to reach out to you. It’s easy to believe the lie that no one understands or cares. But be the one to reach out to someone else. Start the dialogue. Don’t let yourself give in to the enemy of your soul who wants you to isolate. (Karl Meninger gave the advice to get up off the couch, go out their door, go across the railroad track and find someone else to help because when we invest in others it brings joy. Today we don’t even have to go across the railroad tracks…we can text, email, or share with others through social media).
                                                    • Establish a set bedtime. This allows your brain to replenish it’s naturally occurring neurotransmitters that we often take medication for. A consistent bedtime is crucial.
                                                    • Enjoy a balanced diet with an emphasis on sufficient protein. Without protein, your brain cannot think clearly or regenerate those naturally occurring neurotransmitters.
                                                    • Just 10-15 minutes of exercise can make a positive difference in our mood. Many people who are depressed don’t feel like they have any energy. But the less you do, the less energy you will have. If you start with 5 minutes of exercise a day, you will get more energy and you can extend that to 10 minutes a day, and then 15 minutes, etc. Find some form of exercise that you enjoy, that will help you continue with it even when you don’t feel like it. You might also consider exercising with a friend. That helps with accountability, as well as the social aspect which can help our mood.
                                                    • Pay attention to the thoughts you have. Our feelings are the outward manifestation of the thoughts you believe. Scripture tells us to take every thought captive. That means pay attention to your thoughts and ask if they agree with what God says. If they do not, you must replace those thoughts with the truth of God’s word.
                                                    • When you read God’s word and come across scriptures that really hit you in the heart, write them down and repeat them out loud. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Then when you need them, the Holy Spirit will remind you of those truths, but he can only remind us of those things we’ve already known.
                                                    • Consider listening to our other podcast episodes about depression.
                                                    • Consider reading Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression and the Hope Prevails Bible Study for more information and advice written from the perspective of both a doctor who has diagnosed and treated patients, as well as one who has walked through the depression journey herself.
                                                    • If you have experienced any of the signs and symptoms of depression mentioned above, for more than a couple weeks, consider consulting with your general practitioner to rule out any contributing medical condition, or to see if depression is the cause of such symptoms.
                                                    • If any and all medical conditions have been ruled out, and depression deemed to be the reason for your struggle, consider seeking out the advice and wisdom of a mental health practitioner for ongoing support.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
                                                  • Psalm 30:5 Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 “faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book HopePrevails /  Website  /  Blog  / Facebook / Facebook Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn /  Instagram  / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Experiencing the post-holiday blues is a common phenomenon. Once the holidays are over, we often feel deflated and can’t find our joy. Join me with Scott on this podcast replay as we talk about SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder or commonly known as the winter blues. We share tips and resources that will make a difference and help mitigate its effect.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • There is a diagnosis called SAD “Seasonal Affective Disorder” which often happens to people during the winter months when it is often dark, gloomy, and less sunlight during the day. The lack of sunlight does contribute to seasonal affective disorder which is a form of depression during the winter months.
                                                  • ALL depression is significant. But often we experience a let-down following the holidays which contributes to mild, post-holiday blues. And frequently we experience expectations that aren’t met during the holiday season that leave us feeling inadequate or unappreciated or devalued which can leave us feeling down after the holidays are over.
                                                  • To make matters worse, not everyone experiences a merry Christmas, which can make going into a new year even more difficult.
                                                  • Grief and depression are NOT the same thing, but often, those who are grieving also experience a bout of depression.
                                                  • We serve a God who is rich in mercy and grace, but so often we don’t extend the same grace and mercy to ourselves or others.
                                                  • I’m grateful for the Biblical greats who we can read about who have struggled with depression. Just like David or Elijah. David often cried “why so downcast oh my soul?” and in the next moment he was praising God.
                                                  • “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” was written to encourage others who are struggling with the blues or a more significant case of depression. It’s the kind of book I wish I had had when I was depressed.
                                                  • If you are experiencing a change in mood, a change in appetite, energy, or sleep, and have been experiencing such changes for more than a couple of weeks, you may be experiencing SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder, the blues or a more significant depression. But that is not something to be ashamed of. And you need to know you are not alone.
                                                  • There isn’t a magic bullet for depression. It’s something we have to walk through. But God walks with us and can bring us through it.
                                                  • There is no right or wrong experience of depression. Everyone’s experience is different, and it can change from time to time. Not everyone who is depressed feels down all the time…many experience depression as irritability, agitation, or anger.
                                                  • Overcoming SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder, depression or the blues is a process. You didn’t become depressed overnight and it won’t go away overnight. But small baby steps will make a difference.
                                                  • To help mitigate the effect of SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder or the post-holiday blues:
                                                    • Plan one thing each day that you enjoy. (i.e. take a bubble bath, read for 15-20 minutes) Write it in your day planner. It prioritizes self-care. If you don’t take care of yourself, you have nothing left to pour out to others. When we feel depressed, we can feel like we have nothing left to look forward to, especially after the holidays, but this can give us something small to look forward to.
                                                    • Instead of listening to the news, listen to calming music or text a friend to give yourself an emotional holiday for a few minutes. Sometimes when you are the one experiencing the blues or depression, you want others to reach out to you. It’s easy to believe the lie that no one understands or cares. But be the one to reach out to someone else. Start the dialogue. Don’t let yourself give in to the enemy of your soul who wants you to isolate. (Karl Meninger gave the advice to get up off the couch, go out their door, go across the railroad track and find someone else to help because when we invest in others it brings joy. Today we don’t even have to go across the railroad tracks…we can text, email, or share with others through social media).
                                                    • Establish a set bedtime. This allows your brain to replenish it’s naturally occurring neurotransmitters that we often take medication for. A consistent bedtime is crucial.
                                                    • Enjoy a balanced diet with an emphasis on sufficient protein. Without protein, your brain cannot think clearly or regenerate those naturally occurring neurotransmitters.
                                                    • Just 10-15 minutes of exercise can make a positive difference in our mood. Many people who are depressed don’t feel like they have any energy. But the less you do, the less energy you will have. If you start with 5 minutes of exercise a day, you will get more energy and you can extend that to 10 minutes a day, and then 15 minutes, etc. Find some form of exercise that you enjoy, that will help you continue with it even when you don’t feel like it. You might also consider exercising with a friend. That helps with accountability, as well as the social aspect which can help our mood.
                                                    • Pay attention to the thoughts you have. Our feelings are the outward manifestation of the thoughts you believe. Scripture tells us to take every thought captive. That means pay attention to your thoughts and ask if they agree with what God says. If they do not, you must replace those thoughts with the truth of God’s word.
                                                    • When you read God’s word and come across scriptures that really hit you in the heart, write them down and repeat them out loud. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Then when you need them, the Holy Spirit will remind you of those truths, but he can only remind us of those things we’ve already known.
                                                    • Consider listening to our other podcast episodes about depression.
                                                    • Consider reading Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression and the Hope Prevails Bible Study for more information and advice written from the perspective of both a doctor who has diagnosed and treated patients, as well as one who has walked through the depression journey herself.
                                                    • If you have experienced any of the signs and symptoms of depression mentioned above, for more than a couple weeks, consider consulting with your general practitioner to rule out any contributing medical condition, or to see if depression is the cause of such symptoms.
                                                    • If any and all medical conditions have been ruled out, and depression deemed to be the reason for your struggle, consider seeking out the advice and wisdom of a mental health practitioner for ongoing support.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
                                                  • Psalm 30:5 Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 “faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book HopePrevails /  Website  /  Blog  / Facebook / Facebook Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn /  Instagram  / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Experiencing the post-holiday blues is a common phenomenon. Once the holidays are over, we often feel deflated and can’t find our joy. Join me with Scott on this podcast replay as we talk about SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder or... full 247 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 3d58e06f-0e10-471a-8df2-cf0ab6acb231 4328ce24-5b2d-4fe5-a74c-b287011513a9 Thu, 04 Jan 2024 11:30:00 +0000 2063 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/247-navigating-sad-seasonal-affective-disorder-unv                                                   246 Resolution Revolution: Rethinking New Year’s Goals 246 Resolution Revolution: Rethinking New Year’s Goals Episode Summary:

                                                  Tired of setting New Year's resolutions that lead to disappointment? Learn why resolutions might be setting you up for failure and discover a powerful alternative that focuses on grace, self-discovery, and partnering with God for lasting change. Say goodbye to the resolution trap and embrace a transformative journey into the New Year! In this podcast replay, Scott and I discuss a hope-filled alternative to New Year’s Resolutions! You won’t want to miss it!

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • One of the problems with New Year’s resolutions is that they largely depend wholly on us. Too often we exclude God from the picture or the process.
                                                  • Resolutions short-circuit the process of discovery of what’s really important to you, or to God. Consider instead, giving yourself a concept to consider and use January to think about why that is appealing to you, and keep in mind the ultimate goal and how you want to achieve that.
                                                  • If we focus less on a specific goal, and more on the overarching theme that is driving the resolution, then we can have more grace with ourselves.
                                                  • Another problem with setting resolutions is that too often when we achieve those resolutions, we realize it’s “not all that and more.” We often find out that reaching that goal hasn’t fundamentally changed us and we still feel like we have missed out.
                                                  • Too often when people mess up and miss our resolution within days or weeks, we settle in a place of failure instead of recognizing God’s grace.
                                                  • One alternative to New Year’s resolutions is to focus on one word or theme for the word and embrace the discovery of what God wants to teach us throughout the year. Such words or themes often require us to look beyond our circumstances to see how God will work or change us in the process.
                                                  • We go into the New Year with ourselves…we haven’t fundamentally changed, and the turn of the calendar is already imprinted with who you are. So if you haven’t made the changes before, you’ll have to do more than change the calendar to make such changes. But including God in the process lets us ask “God, what is it you want to do in me, through me, and around me?” and partner with Him in that.
                                                  • Another alternative to New Year’s resolutions is to believe in, operate in, and appropriate God’s promises (i.e. worry less about pleasing others, and focus more on doing what pleases God).
                                                  • Something that we often forget in making our New Year’s resolutions is that we often forget that when Jesus died on the cross, He declared that all those things that are the focus of our resolutions “is finished.” Greed, gluttony, selfishness, procrastination, (fill in the blank________) is finished because we have inside us the same power that raised Christ from the dead. We try to do things in our own strength, but nothing is impossible with God. So if we go into the New Year, recognizing what Christ accomplished for us on the cross, and has already declared what His will is, then when we are focused on His will, He will help us make the necessary changes.
                                                  • One way to usher into the New Year is to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, as a way of remembering what Christ did for us, and how we want to change to be more like Him. And we can take this time to offer thanksgiving for all God has done in, and through, and for us this past year.
                                                  • May you experience a New Year blessed by Him.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Colossians 3:23 “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.”
                                                  • John 19:30 “When Jesus had tasted it, he said, ‘It is finished!’ Then he bowed his head and released his spirit.”
                                                  • Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:19 “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Tired of setting New Year's resolutions that lead to disappointment? Learn why resolutions might be setting you up for failure and discover a powerful alternative that focuses on grace, self-discovery, and partnering with God for lasting change. Say goodbye to the resolution trap and embrace a transformative journey into the New Year! In this podcast replay, Scott and I discuss a hope-filled alternative to New Year’s Resolutions! You won’t want to miss it!

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • One of the problems with New Year’s resolutions is that they largely depend wholly on us. Too often we exclude God from the picture or the process.
                                                  • Resolutions short-circuit the process of discovery of what’s really important to you, or to God. Consider instead, giving yourself a concept to consider and use January to think about why that is appealing to you, and keep in mind the ultimate goal and how you want to achieve that.
                                                  • If we focus less on a specific goal, and more on the overarching theme that is driving the resolution, then we can have more grace with ourselves.
                                                  • Another problem with setting resolutions is that too often when we achieve those resolutions, we realize it’s “not all that and more.” We often find out that reaching that goal hasn’t fundamentally changed us and we still feel like we have missed out.
                                                  • Too often when people mess up and miss our resolution within days or weeks, we settle in a place of failure instead of recognizing God’s grace.
                                                  • One alternative to New Year’s resolutions is to focus on one word or theme for the word and embrace the discovery of what God wants to teach us throughout the year. Such words or themes often require us to look beyond our circumstances to see how God will work or change us in the process.
                                                  • We go into the New Year with ourselves…we haven’t fundamentally changed, and the turn of the calendar is already imprinted with who you are. So if you haven’t made the changes before, you’ll have to do more than change the calendar to make such changes. But including God in the process lets us ask “God, what is it you want to do in me, through me, and around me?” and partner with Him in that.
                                                  • Another alternative to New Year’s resolutions is to believe in, operate in, and appropriate God’s promises (i.e. worry less about pleasing others, and focus more on doing what pleases God).
                                                  • Something that we often forget in making our New Year’s resolutions is that we often forget that when Jesus died on the cross, He declared that all those things that are the focus of our resolutions “is finished.” Greed, gluttony, selfishness, procrastination, (fill in the blank________) is finished because we have inside us the same power that raised Christ from the dead. We try to do things in our own strength, but nothing is impossible with God. So if we go into the New Year, recognizing what Christ accomplished for us on the cross, and has already declared what His will is, then when we are focused on His will, He will help us make the necessary changes.
                                                  • One way to usher into the New Year is to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, as a way of remembering what Christ did for us, and how we want to change to be more like Him. And we can take this time to offer thanksgiving for all God has done in, and through, and for us this past year.
                                                  • May you experience a New Year blessed by Him.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Colossians 3:23 “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.”
                                                  • John 19:30 “When Jesus had tasted it, he said, ‘It is finished!’ Then he bowed his head and released his spirit.”
                                                  • Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:19 “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Tired of setting New Year's resolutions that lead to disappointment? Learn why resolutions might be setting you up for failure and discover a powerful alternative that focuses on grace, self-discovery, and partnering with God for... full 246 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 25dde7ca-2824-4da9-964a-7bc4044952cf 94d56a32-776b-413c-89ac-b28701151a00 Thu, 28 Dec 2023 11:30:00 +0000 1683 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/246-resolution-revolution-rethinking-new-year-s-go                                                   245 From Sugar Fix to Soul Shift: The Spiritual Impact of the 40-Day Sugar Fast 245 From Sugar Fix to Soul Shift: The Spiritual Impact of the 40-Day Sugar Fast Episode Summary:

                                                  Have you ever fasted from sugar? In this podcast replay, Wendy Speake and I talk about the benefits of a sugar fast. Wendy is the author of The 40-Day Sugar Fast: Where Physical Detox Meets Spiritual Transformation. You won't want to miss the insights Wendy shares on breaking free from sugar addiction for lasting spiritual transformation. Some of the benefits may surprise you!

                                                  Mark your calendar: Wendy is hosting an online 40-day sugar fast beginning 1-2-2024.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • Unfortunately, no sugar fix can fix you.
                                                  • When we stop going from sugar high to sugar high, we turn to the Most High.
                                                  • The goal of fasting is always to lay down that which is temporary and pick up that which is eternal.
                                                  • Let every hunger pain act like church bells calling you to pray.
                                                  • Fasting from anything reminds us of what we want to hunger for.
                                                  • When we run to things to satisfy, they hold us back from His strong hold on us.
                                                  • Trust God to do what he’s going to do before he does it. Shout the victory in advance, obey, and watch what God does with your submission. Take out the temptation before tempted.
                                                  • The first step, before fasting, seek first the kingdom of God.
                                                  • He will change our health with a diet, but our life with a fast.
                                                  • Our desire is to find Christ as the only option.
                                                  • When we turn to Him to be our joy and peace, we don’t need the sugar.
                                                  • Fasting is about turning away from anything that gets between our relationship with God, and turning back to Him.
                                                  • Sometimes you need to go fast in order to slow down.
                                                  • The power of fasting is stopping and watching God deliver us.
                                                  • Fasting opens the door for the supernatural work of God.
                                                  • Keep in mind, with fasting, this is going to hurt before it feels better.
                                                  • Fasting isn’t easy—this is just the brand of your hard in this season.
                                                  • As you seek Him first, He’ll transform other areas of your life as well, bringing renewed hope.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:8-10 NIV “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him. Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing. The Lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who see the Lord lack no good thing.”
                                                  • Jonah 2:8 “Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them.”
                                                  • Matthew 6:33 “These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.”
                                                  • Joel 2:12 “That is why the Lord says, ‘Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning.’”
                                                  • Jeremiah 15:16 “Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Wendy Speake:

                                                  Website / Feast Book / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  Order  Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Wendy Speake is author and host of The 40-Day Sugar Fast, The 40-Day Social Media Fast, along with the companion resource, The 40-Day Fast Journal. Her newest book, The 40-Day Feast, invites readers to get hungry for God’s Word then equips them to taste and see how good it is. Wendy is also co-author of the popular parenting books, Triggers: Exchanging Parents’ Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses and Parenting Scripts.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Have you ever fasted from sugar? In this podcast replay, Wendy Speake and I talk about the benefits of a sugar fast. Wendy is the author of The 40-Day Sugar Fast: Where Physical Detox Meets Spiritual Transformation. You won't want to miss the insights Wendy shares on breaking free from sugar addiction for lasting spiritual transformation. Some of the benefits may surprise you!

                                                  Mark your calendar: Wendy is hosting an online 40-day sugar fast beginning 1-2-2024.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • Unfortunately, no sugar fix can fix you.
                                                  • When we stop going from sugar high to sugar high, we turn to the Most High.
                                                  • The goal of fasting is always to lay down that which is temporary and pick up that which is eternal.
                                                  • Let every hunger pain act like church bells calling you to pray.
                                                  • Fasting from anything reminds us of what we want to hunger for.
                                                  • When we run to things to satisfy, they hold us back from His strong hold on us.
                                                  • Trust God to do what he’s going to do before he does it. Shout the victory in advance, obey, and watch what God does with your submission. Take out the temptation before tempted.
                                                  • The first step, before fasting, seek first the kingdom of God.
                                                  • He will change our health with a diet, but our life with a fast.
                                                  • Our desire is to find Christ as the only option.
                                                  • When we turn to Him to be our joy and peace, we don’t need the sugar.
                                                  • Fasting is about turning away from anything that gets between our relationship with God, and turning back to Him.
                                                  • Sometimes you need to go fast in order to slow down.
                                                  • The power of fasting is stopping and watching God deliver us.
                                                  • Fasting opens the door for the supernatural work of God.
                                                  • Keep in mind, with fasting, this is going to hurt before it feels better.
                                                  • Fasting isn’t easy—this is just the brand of your hard in this season.
                                                  • As you seek Him first, He’ll transform other areas of your life as well, bringing renewed hope.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:8-10 NIV “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him. Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing. The Lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who see the Lord lack no good thing.”
                                                  • Jonah 2:8 “Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them.”
                                                  • Matthew 6:33 “These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.”
                                                  • Joel 2:12 “That is why the Lord says, ‘Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning.’”
                                                  • Jeremiah 15:16 “Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Wendy Speake:

                                                  Website / Feast Book / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  Order  Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Wendy Speake is author and host of The 40-Day Sugar Fast, The 40-Day Social Media Fast, along with the companion resource, The 40-Day Fast Journal. Her newest book, The 40-Day Feast, invites readers to get hungry for God’s Word then equips them to taste and see how good it is. Wendy is also co-author of the popular parenting books, Triggers: Exchanging Parents’ Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses and Parenting Scripts.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Have you ever fasted from sugar? In this podcast replay, Wendy Speake and I talk about the benefits of a sugar fast. Wendy is the author of The 40-Day Sugar Fast: Where Physical Detox Meets Spiritual Transformation. You won't want to... full 245 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 1f1c5187-1887-4212-8c7c-fead5dd363c2 558c3fb3-9e66-4299-93f5-b287011524eb Thu, 21 Dec 2023 11:30:00 +0000 3101 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/245-from-sugar-fix-to-soul-shift-the-spiritual-imp                                                   244 Reclaim Your Christmas: Practical Tips for a Stress-Less Holiday Season! 244 Reclaim Your Christmas: Practical Tips for a Stress-Less Holiday Season! Episode summary:

                                                  Tired of the holiday hustle? Ditch the overwhelm and rediscover the joy of the season! In this podcast episode replay, Scott and I share practical ways to reduce stress and enjoy a more relaxed Christmas.  Learn how to simplify traditions, manage expectations, and focus on what truly matters. You can enjoy a restful, relaxing holiday! Join us for how!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  So much of our stress at Christmas comes from several key areas:

                                                  • Keeping tradition for tradition sake 
                                                  • People pleasing
                                                  • Unrealistic & often unvoiced expectations of ourselves and others
                                                  • Trying to prove something to someone (or yourself)

                                                  It’s easy to talk about Christmas and refocusing on Christ at Christmas but what does that look like?

                                                  • Resting in His presence
                                                  • Spending time with The Gift (Jesus) and The Gift Giver (Our Heavenly Father)
                                                  • Letting Him take care of us
                                                  • Trading in our to-do list for rest
                                                  • Recognizing what the busyness means/truly reflects

                                                  Practical Tips for Stressing Less This Christmas:

                                                  • Let each family member choose ONE kind of cookie to be baked and let them help make them
                                                  • Let the lights on the tree, and Christmas cards received, be the tree decorations
                                                  • Let the wrapping of the gifts be the love with which they were purchased
                                                  • Make the Christmas dinner be comprised of each family member’s favorite dish
                                                  • Consider catering the Christmas meal
                                                  • Resolve to be okay with paper plates and napkins so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with the people you love

                                                  A hope-filled perspective for a less stressful Christmas:

                                                  • God doesn’t put these heavy burdens on us
                                                  • God invites us into His rest, not for Him but for our benefit
                                                  • God offers us the chance to choose His rest, but He doesn’t force us
                                                  • Fewer expectations means fewer disappointments

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 10:41-42 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.[a] Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
                                                  • Hebrews 4:1 “God’s promise of entering his rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to experience it…” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode summary:

                                                  Tired of the holiday hustle? Ditch the overwhelm and rediscover the joy of the season! In this podcast episode replay, Scott and I share practical ways to reduce stress and enjoy a more relaxed Christmas.  Learn how to simplify traditions, manage expectations, and focus on what truly matters. You can enjoy a restful, relaxing holiday! Join us for how!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  So much of our stress at Christmas comes from several key areas:

                                                  • Keeping tradition for tradition sake 
                                                  • People pleasing
                                                  • Unrealistic & often unvoiced expectations of ourselves and others
                                                  • Trying to prove something to someone (or yourself)

                                                  It’s easy to talk about Christmas and refocusing on Christ at Christmas but what does that look like?

                                                  • Resting in His presence
                                                  • Spending time with The Gift (Jesus) and The Gift Giver (Our Heavenly Father)
                                                  • Letting Him take care of us
                                                  • Trading in our to-do list for rest
                                                  • Recognizing what the busyness means/truly reflects

                                                  Practical Tips for Stressing Less This Christmas:

                                                  • Let each family member choose ONE kind of cookie to be baked and let them help make them
                                                  • Let the lights on the tree, and Christmas cards received, be the tree decorations
                                                  • Let the wrapping of the gifts be the love with which they were purchased
                                                  • Make the Christmas dinner be comprised of each family member’s favorite dish
                                                  • Consider catering the Christmas meal
                                                  • Resolve to be okay with paper plates and napkins so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with the people you love

                                                  A hope-filled perspective for a less stressful Christmas:

                                                  • God doesn’t put these heavy burdens on us
                                                  • God invites us into His rest, not for Him but for our benefit
                                                  • God offers us the chance to choose His rest, but He doesn’t force us
                                                  • Fewer expectations means fewer disappointments

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 10:41-42 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.[a] Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
                                                  • Hebrews 4:1 “God’s promise of entering his rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to experience it…” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode summary: Tired of the holiday hustle? Ditch the overwhelm and rediscover the joy of the season! In this podcast episode replay, Scott and I share practical ways to reduce stress and enjoy a more relaxed Christmas.  Learn how to simplify... full 244 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 4c812f6b-1a1e-444a-9354-20006086570e 57d73960-611b-4ba6-afb0-b287011529fb Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:30:00 +0000 2713 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/244-reclaim-your-christmas-practical-tips-for-a-st                                                   243 Holding onto Hope in Turbulent Times: Where We are Now and What to Do Going Forward 243 Holding onto Hope in Turbulent Times: Where We are Now and What to Do Going Forward Episode Summary:

                                                  Join me for a conversation with Carolyn Freeman of Impact Coaching Ministries as we talk about holding onto hope in turbulent times: where we are now and what to do going forward. How can we respond to the challenges and changes in the evolving world so that we can make a meaningful impact? We'll challenge you to embrace the world with a hope-filled perspective by grounding yourself in God's word. We'll share about the importance of prioritizing a mindset focused on victory in Jesus rather than a victim mentality. You won't want to miss this timely interview!

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • It's incredible how God knows our needs long before we do, and He already knows how He's going to meet them.
                                                  • Whatever you're going through right now, there's hope because it doesn't take God by surprise. And He already knows how He's going to get you through it.
                                                  • The Holy Spirit's going to come to remind you of all truth. The Holy Spirit cannot remind us of truth that we have not already taken responsibility to learn.
                                                  • If you are relying on “your” truth to help you survive in this world, you're being deceived.
                                                  • But if we look to God to satisfy our needs, we can never run out.
                                                  • You cannot have maximum eternal impact if you are not first spending time in God's word. 
                                                  • God has such an upside down economy, and if you want to be great, you have to become the least.
                                                  • He is nudging us all the time. The question is, is it so noisy that we're ignoring his nudges, or will we do as he's asking?

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Hosea 4:6 My people perish for lack of knowledge.
                                                  • Jermiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?
                                                  • James 4:8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Carolyn Freeman:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Podcast

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carolyn Freeman is the Founder and President of Impact Coaching Ministries. She’s a Certified Professional Life Coach, author, speaker, former nurse and counselor. Her life verse is Jeremiah 29:11. She calls it a privilege and joy to walk with others into God’s healing just as others walked with her into healing, wholeness, and a whole new purpose and passion. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Join me for a conversation with Carolyn Freeman of Impact Coaching Ministries as we talk about holding onto hope in turbulent times: where we are now and what to do going forward. How can we respond to the challenges and changes in the evolving world so that we can make a meaningful impact? We'll challenge you to embrace the world with a hope-filled perspective by grounding yourself in God's word. We'll share about the importance of prioritizing a mindset focused on victory in Jesus rather than a victim mentality. You won't want to miss this timely interview!

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • It's incredible how God knows our needs long before we do, and He already knows how He's going to meet them.
                                                  • Whatever you're going through right now, there's hope because it doesn't take God by surprise. And He already knows how He's going to get you through it.
                                                  • The Holy Spirit's going to come to remind you of all truth. The Holy Spirit cannot remind us of truth that we have not already taken responsibility to learn.
                                                  • If you are relying on “your” truth to help you survive in this world, you're being deceived.
                                                  • But if we look to God to satisfy our needs, we can never run out.
                                                  • You cannot have maximum eternal impact if you are not first spending time in God's word. 
                                                  • God has such an upside down economy, and if you want to be great, you have to become the least.
                                                  • He is nudging us all the time. The question is, is it so noisy that we're ignoring his nudges, or will we do as he's asking?

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Hosea 4:6 My people perish for lack of knowledge.
                                                  • Jermiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?
                                                  • James 4:8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Carolyn Freeman:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Podcast

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carolyn Freeman is the Founder and President of Impact Coaching Ministries. She’s a Certified Professional Life Coach, author, speaker, former nurse and counselor. Her life verse is Jeremiah 29:11. She calls it a privilege and joy to walk with others into God’s healing just as others walked with her into healing, wholeness, and a whole new purpose and passion. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Join me for a conversation with Carolyn Freeman of Impact Coaching Ministries as we talk about holding onto hope in turbulent times: where we are now and what to do going forward. How can we respond to the challenges and changes in... full 243 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 81e15f63-8680-4852-9b2a-fcec0fb51310 0613fce3-065f-4baf-9066-b287011531f0 Thu, 07 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000 2438 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/243-holding-onto-hope-in-turbulent-times-where-we                                                   242 Recognizing God Moments in Our Lives Turns an Average Day into Extraordinary 242 Recognizing God Moments in Our Lives Turns an Average Day into Extraordinary Episode Summary: 

                                                  How does God reveal himself to you during simple moments in life? God moments are real and occur all around us all the time. The ability to recognize a God moment differentiates between an average and an extraordinary day. Pastor Gale Kragt and I talk about recognizing God moments in our lives.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Learn to see all the opportunities that are around you daily and be encouraged to step out in faith.
                                                  • If we want to recognize God moments in our lives, pray and ask God to make you more sensitive to those experiences around us.
                                                  • Experiencing God moments often comes as a result of looking for the opportunity to be a blessing.
                                                  • Practice stepping out in obedience to God—it feels risky but without the obedience, we don’t see the blessing of participating in God Moments.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Acts 10:38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him. (NIV)
                                                  • Eph. 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. (ESV)
                                                  • John 14:12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. (NIV)

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Pastor Kragt:

                                                  Website / Spiritual Care Consultants Website / SCC Healing Begins Website / Facebook / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Pastor Kragt holds a doctorate and master’s degree in Christian Counseling and Psychology from the Carolina University of Theology in Stanley, North Carolina. He does private consulting and assists several churches in Hastings, Michigan. He served as a Chaplain for 18 years.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  How does God reveal himself to you during simple moments in life? God moments are real and occur all around us all the time. The ability to recognize a God moment differentiates between an average and an extraordinary day. Pastor Gale Kragt and I talk about recognizing God moments in our lives.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Learn to see all the opportunities that are around you daily and be encouraged to step out in faith.
                                                  • If we want to recognize God moments in our lives, pray and ask God to make you more sensitive to those experiences around us.
                                                  • Experiencing God moments often comes as a result of looking for the opportunity to be a blessing.
                                                  • Practice stepping out in obedience to God—it feels risky but without the obedience, we don’t see the blessing of participating in God Moments.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Acts 10:38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him. (NIV)
                                                  • Eph. 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. (ESV)
                                                  • John 14:12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. (NIV)

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Pastor Kragt:

                                                  Website / Spiritual Care Consultants Website / SCC Healing Begins Website / Facebook / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Pastor Kragt holds a doctorate and master’s degree in Christian Counseling and Psychology from the Carolina University of Theology in Stanley, North Carolina. He does private consulting and assists several churches in Hastings, Michigan. He served as a Chaplain for 18 years.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  How does God reveal himself to you during simple moments in life? God moments are real and occur all around us all the time. The ability to recognize a God moment differentiates between an average and an extraordinary day.... full 242 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 274384f1-8e40-4545-bf27-5c8ae683bf0d 232e5ca3-b939-4501-8b17-b287011534ad Thu, 30 Nov 2023 11:30:00 +0000 2439 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/242-recognizing-god-moments-in-our-lives-turns-an                                                   241 How to be Grateful: Make Time for Gratitude and Change Your World! 241 How to be Grateful: Make Time for Gratitude and Change Your World! Episode Summary: 

                                                  Some people refer to ingratitude as a disease. This gives a false impression. Marketing encourages dissatisfaction with what we have. Political parties encourage us to feel as if we aren’t getting our fair share. We are a nation drenched in entitlement and deficient in gratitude for what we do have. Many of us live as if we don’t have enough. This attitude leaves us feeling left out. According to my guest today, an attitude of gratefulness changes our perspective. The more we focus on ourselves, the less we develop an attitude of appreciation for what we do have. Today we’re going to be talking about how to be grateful.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I discovered the life-changing power of saying ‘thank you’ to God no matter what the circumstance?
                                                  • Gratitude changes everything even when it seems nothing is changing.
                                                  • We change most through suffering.
                                                  • As we grow in our knowledge of who God is through his Word, we grow more confident of his faithfulness and promises to provide for our every need.
                                                  • As I rest in God’s perfect provision for myself, I am then able to go out and meet your needs in a more robust and faith-driven way because I can “forget” about myself and seek to minister to you and others.
                                                  • What I learned about myself was I needed to keep my focus on Him…not on the news, not overly focused on politics, not on trying to control outcomes…but focus on Jesus…one day at a time. And I learned personally that the more I gave thanks…the more emotionally level I became.
                                                  • Trusting God! Choosing Gratitude! It’s making an impact on how we think and live.
                                                  • He is working to redeem and restore our losses by transforming us into the image of Christ.
                                                  • Determine to make time alone with the Lord a top priority because each of needs to have our thoughts renewed daily and in this fallen world that is becoming increasingly evil…we need it all the more.
                                                  • God’s Word is the powerful change agent that changes each of us from the inside out.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV  Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 15: 57 NIV But thanks be to God! He gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
                                                  • Colossians 3: 15 NIV Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Michele Howe:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Michele Howe is the author of more than two dozen books and has published over 2500 articles and reviews on parenting, women’s issues, and the empty next. Some of her books include Empty Nest: What’s Next?, Parenting Children without Losing Your Mind, and Finding Freedom and Joy in Self-Forgetfulness.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Some people refer to ingratitude as a disease. This gives a false impression. Marketing encourages dissatisfaction with what we have. Political parties encourage us to feel as if we aren’t getting our fair share. We are a nation drenched in entitlement and deficient in gratitude for what we do have. Many of us live as if we don’t have enough. This attitude leaves us feeling left out. According to my guest today, an attitude of gratefulness changes our perspective. The more we focus on ourselves, the less we develop an attitude of appreciation for what we do have. Today we’re going to be talking about how to be grateful.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I discovered the life-changing power of saying ‘thank you’ to God no matter what the circumstance?
                                                  • Gratitude changes everything even when it seems nothing is changing.
                                                  • We change most through suffering.
                                                  • As we grow in our knowledge of who God is through his Word, we grow more confident of his faithfulness and promises to provide for our every need.
                                                  • As I rest in God’s perfect provision for myself, I am then able to go out and meet your needs in a more robust and faith-driven way because I can “forget” about myself and seek to minister to you and others.
                                                  • What I learned about myself was I needed to keep my focus on Him…not on the news, not overly focused on politics, not on trying to control outcomes…but focus on Jesus…one day at a time. And I learned personally that the more I gave thanks…the more emotionally level I became.
                                                  • Trusting God! Choosing Gratitude! It’s making an impact on how we think and live.
                                                  • He is working to redeem and restore our losses by transforming us into the image of Christ.
                                                  • Determine to make time alone with the Lord a top priority because each of needs to have our thoughts renewed daily and in this fallen world that is becoming increasingly evil…we need it all the more.
                                                  • God’s Word is the powerful change agent that changes each of us from the inside out.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV  Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 15: 57 NIV But thanks be to God! He gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
                                                  • Colossians 3: 15 NIV Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Michele Howe:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Michele Howe is the author of more than two dozen books and has published over 2500 articles and reviews on parenting, women’s issues, and the empty next. Some of her books include Empty Nest: What’s Next?, Parenting Children without Losing Your Mind, and Finding Freedom and Joy in Self-Forgetfulness.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Some people refer to ingratitude as a disease. This gives a false impression. Marketing encourages dissatisfaction with what we have. Political parties encourage us to feel as if we aren’t getting our fair share. We are a... full 241 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 48018b7b-55e9-4a4a-b21d-828f1c3024d1 bc8b711a-9130-4603-8570-b28701153d15 Fri, 24 Nov 2023 11:30:00 +0000 1839 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/241-how-to-be-grateful-make-time-for-gratitude-and                                                   240 Making the World a Better Place with 10 Keys to Kindness 240 Making the World a Better Place with 10 Keys to Kindness Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever been treated unkindly? We live in a world that values kindness but struggles to actually be kind. Today it seems that division runs amuck and people have forgotten how to treat each other with kindness and respect, even when we disagree with them. But kindness can change a heart, change someone’s mind, and change a world. Greg Atkinson and I talk about making the world a better place with 10 keys to kindness.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We live in a world that values kindness but struggles to actually be kind.
                                                  • We have the power within us to be extraordinarily kind, to be the people of God we were meant to be, to demonstrate over-the-top kindness that goes the extra mile.
                                                  • We must learn to tap into that secret place within us where kindness, love, and peace dwell.
                                                  • Bad things happens when you’re not intentional.
                                                  • Kindness begins with forgiveness, both for yourself and others.
                                                  • How you deal with the trauma and pain in your life—including how you respond to it—will shape your life presently and in the future.
                                                  • You can become bitter or better. Kindness is the remedy, and forgiveness is the antidote.
                                                  • Kindness is contagious. Kindness unlocks kindness.
                                                  • Kindness is the prerequisite for making a difference.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:6 (NIV) “The mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” 
                                                  • Proverbs 15:1 (NIV) “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” 
                                                  • Colossians 4:6 (NIV) “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Greg Atkinson:

                                                  Website / Linktree / Twitter / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Greg Atkinson is an author, speaker, pastor, coach and consultant. He is the Founder and CEO of Worship Impressions, the First Impressions Conference,  as well as the Co-Founder of the Social Media Church Conference. He has been featured in Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, Christianity Today, and on CBS, FOX, and NBC.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever been treated unkindly? We live in a world that values kindness but struggles to actually be kind. Today it seems that division runs amuck and people have forgotten how to treat each other with kindness and respect, even when we disagree with them. But kindness can change a heart, change someone’s mind, and change a world. Greg Atkinson and I talk about making the world a better place with 10 keys to kindness.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We live in a world that values kindness but struggles to actually be kind.
                                                  • We have the power within us to be extraordinarily kind, to be the people of God we were meant to be, to demonstrate over-the-top kindness that goes the extra mile.
                                                  • We must learn to tap into that secret place within us where kindness, love, and peace dwell.
                                                  • Bad things happens when you’re not intentional.
                                                  • Kindness begins with forgiveness, both for yourself and others.
                                                  • How you deal with the trauma and pain in your life—including how you respond to it—will shape your life presently and in the future.
                                                  • You can become bitter or better. Kindness is the remedy, and forgiveness is the antidote.
                                                  • Kindness is contagious. Kindness unlocks kindness.
                                                  • Kindness is the prerequisite for making a difference.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:6 (NIV) “The mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” 
                                                  • Proverbs 15:1 (NIV) “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” 
                                                  • Colossians 4:6 (NIV) “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Greg Atkinson:

                                                  Website / Linktree / Twitter / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Greg Atkinson is an author, speaker, pastor, coach and consultant. He is the Founder and CEO of Worship Impressions, the First Impressions Conference,  as well as the Co-Founder of the Social Media Church Conference. He has been featured in Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, Christianity Today, and on CBS, FOX, and NBC.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever been treated unkindly? We live in a world that values kindness but struggles to actually be kind. Today it seems that division runs amuck and people have forgotten how to treat each other with kindness and respect,... full 240 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 74f84b4c-91fc-46ec-ad61-2b6ac11dcda5 08d2fd59-93a3-40fc-ae4e-b28701155539 Thu, 16 Nov 2023 11:30:00 +0000 2169 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/240-making-the-world-a-better-place-with-10-keys-t                                                   239 Bipolar Disorder Stigma | Tearing Down the Stigma 239 Bipolar Disorder Stigma | Tearing Down the Stigma Episode Summary: 

                                                  It’s my heart’s desire to be part of the solution with respect to tearing down stigma as it relates to mental health, especially in the church and Christian circles. Mental health issues are frequently misunderstood by people, even those diagnosed, but especially those who haven’t personally experienced it. How do we tear down the stigma surrounding mental health without education? More importantly, how can we be part of the solution rather than add to the problem? Sometimes the best teacher is experience, but I would never wish mental health issues on anyone just so they could gain deeper compassion and empathy for those who are struggling, although that did happen to me after I endured both clinical depression and anxiety. In this episode, Greg Atkinson and I talk about Bipolar Disorder Stigma.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We do not put our faith in man but in God.
                                                  • Healing and life are found in community.
                                                  • A key to healing is forgiveness.
                                                  • Stigma is perpetuated by ignorance and a lack of understanding.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:15 NLT Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Greg Atkinson:

                                                  Website / Linktree / Twitter / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Greg Atkinson is an author, speaker, pastor, coach and consultant. He is the Founder and CEO of Worship Impressions, the First Impressions Conference,  as well as the Co-Founder of the Social Media Church Conference. He has been featured in Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, Christianity Today, and on CBS, FOX, and NBC.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  It’s my heart’s desire to be part of the solution with respect to tearing down stigma as it relates to mental health, especially in the church and Christian circles. Mental health issues are frequently misunderstood by people, even those diagnosed, but especially those who haven’t personally experienced it. How do we tear down the stigma surrounding mental health without education? More importantly, how can we be part of the solution rather than add to the problem? Sometimes the best teacher is experience, but I would never wish mental health issues on anyone just so they could gain deeper compassion and empathy for those who are struggling, although that did happen to me after I endured both clinical depression and anxiety. In this episode, Greg Atkinson and I talk about Bipolar Disorder Stigma.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We do not put our faith in man but in God.
                                                  • Healing and life are found in community.
                                                  • A key to healing is forgiveness.
                                                  • Stigma is perpetuated by ignorance and a lack of understanding.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:15 NLT Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Greg Atkinson:

                                                  Website / Linktree / Twitter / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Greg Atkinson is an author, speaker, pastor, coach and consultant. He is the Founder and CEO of Worship Impressions, the First Impressions Conference,  as well as the Co-Founder of the Social Media Church Conference. He has been featured in Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, Christianity Today, and on CBS, FOX, and NBC.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  It’s my heart’s desire to be part of the solution with respect to tearing down stigma as it relates to mental health, especially in the church and Christian circles. Mental health issues are frequently misunderstood by... full 239 Dr. Michelle Bengtson aaf924c5-cf0a-4c58-9776-af0e8ee1e3d7 51e62b3b-88e9-4c89-9503-b28701155889 Thu, 09 Nov 2023 11:30:00 +0000 2931 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/239-bipolar-disorder-stigma-tearing-down-the-stigm                                                   238 The Signs of Human Trafficking and How to Prevent Human Trafficking 238 The Signs of Human Trafficking and How to Prevent Human Trafficking Episode Summary: 

                                                  Many think human trafficking is just a third world problem, but that’s just not true. I’ve come to realize that it happens right in our own neighborhoods. Many don’t know the signs of human trafficking or how to prevent human trafficking. The movie, “Sound of Freedom” has helped open the eyes of many to this very large scale problem, but there’s still so much education that is necessary. Join me with John DiGirolamo as we talk about the signs of human trafficking and how to prevent human trafficking.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Human trafficking is an issue that hides in plain sight.
                                                  • Human trafficking is one of the most underreported issues of our day, that cuts across all economic, social, racial and political boundaries. 
                                                  • 50% of those who are exploited through human trafficking are minors. Of those, less than 5% are kidnapped. While 40-45% of those are male.
                                                  • 60% of those who are exploited through human trafficking are done so by someone they know.
                                                  • Three most common goals of sexual predators 1) extort for monetary gain; 2) want to meet for a sexual encounter; 3) want to gain pictures to manipulate and use on pornography websites.
                                                  • Red flags that may indicate a minor is being groomed by a predator are change in their behavior, secretive relationships, having a second phone or alternative social media accounts, and unexplained gifts.
                                                  • The three most common human trafficking scenarios are: 1) Familial trafficking (often including sexual abuse by a family member); 2) vulnerable populations (such as those who are bullied, unsupervised, runaways or homeless population); 3) online through private chats with manipulation to gain access to an individual.
                                                  • Today’s teens are 1-2 steps ahead of their parents with respect to technology. Parents need to know about secret folders and secret photos within common apps like SnapChat that has a folder “my eyes only.”
                                                  • Social media apps are frequently where predators hang out. Parents need to control what gets downloaded on their kids’ phone.
                                                  • Kids may not be looking for trouble, but trouble is looking for them.
                                                  • By their high school graduation, 90% of teens have sent or received sexually inappropriate photos through sexting or some other method.
                                                  • It’s important that parents teach their children to memorize at least five phone numbers of people they know and trust in case they ever get in trouble and lose access to their contacts.
                                                  • Everyone needs to know the red flags and grooming signs because someone you know may be exploited.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 31:8-9 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.
                                                  • Psalm 27:1-2 The Lord is the light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The LORD is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid? When evildoers come at me to devour my flesh, these my enemies and foes themselves stumble and fall.”
                                                  • Isaiah 58:9-10 Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, Here I am. “If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, if you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with John DiGirolamo:

                                                  Website / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  John DiGirolamo is an author, speaker and anti-human trafficking advocate. It’s Not About the Sex featured stories from an advocate, law enforcement officer, survivor and a brothel madam’s tale of redemption. DiGirolamo wrote the book because he believes that human trafficking is one of the most underreported issues of our day, that cuts across all economic, social, racial and political boundaries.  He focused on stories from rural and suburban America, seeking to shine a light on and create awareness of the evils of human trafficking. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Many think human trafficking is just a third world problem, but that’s just not true. I’ve come to realize that it happens right in our own neighborhoods. Many don’t know the signs of human trafficking or how to prevent human trafficking. The movie, “Sound of Freedom” has helped open the eyes of many to this very large scale problem, but there’s still so much education that is necessary. Join me with John DiGirolamo as we talk about the signs of human trafficking and how to prevent human trafficking.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Human trafficking is an issue that hides in plain sight.
                                                  • Human trafficking is one of the most underreported issues of our day, that cuts across all economic, social, racial and political boundaries. 
                                                  • 50% of those who are exploited through human trafficking are minors. Of those, less than 5% are kidnapped. While 40-45% of those are male.
                                                  • 60% of those who are exploited through human trafficking are done so by someone they know.
                                                  • Three most common goals of sexual predators 1) extort for monetary gain; 2) want to meet for a sexual encounter; 3) want to gain pictures to manipulate and use on pornography websites.
                                                  • Red flags that may indicate a minor is being groomed by a predator are change in their behavior, secretive relationships, having a second phone or alternative social media accounts, and unexplained gifts.
                                                  • The three most common human trafficking scenarios are: 1) Familial trafficking (often including sexual abuse by a family member); 2) vulnerable populations (such as those who are bullied, unsupervised, runaways or homeless population); 3) online through private chats with manipulation to gain access to an individual.
                                                  • Today’s teens are 1-2 steps ahead of their parents with respect to technology. Parents need to know about secret folders and secret photos within common apps like SnapChat that has a folder “my eyes only.”
                                                  • Social media apps are frequently where predators hang out. Parents need to control what gets downloaded on their kids’ phone.
                                                  • Kids may not be looking for trouble, but trouble is looking for them.
                                                  • By their high school graduation, 90% of teens have sent or received sexually inappropriate photos through sexting or some other method.
                                                  • It’s important that parents teach their children to memorize at least five phone numbers of people they know and trust in case they ever get in trouble and lose access to their contacts.
                                                  • Everyone needs to know the red flags and grooming signs because someone you know may be exploited.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 31:8-9 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.
                                                  • Psalm 27:1-2 The Lord is the light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The LORD is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid? When evildoers come at me to devour my flesh, these my enemies and foes themselves stumble and fall.”
                                                  • Isaiah 58:9-10 Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, Here I am. “If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, if you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with John DiGirolamo:

                                                  Website / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  John DiGirolamo is an author, speaker and anti-human trafficking advocate. It’s Not About the Sex featured stories from an advocate, law enforcement officer, survivor and a brothel madam’s tale of redemption. DiGirolamo wrote the book because he believes that human trafficking is one of the most underreported issues of our day, that cuts across all economic, social, racial and political boundaries.  He focused on stories from rural and suburban America, seeking to shine a light on and create awareness of the evils of human trafficking. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Many think human trafficking is just a third world problem, but that’s just not true. I’ve come to realize that it happens right in our own neighborhoods. Many don’t know the signs of human trafficking or how to prevent... full 238 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ff790602-e2ef-419f-a440-43799a6bd273 a6f9c8a8-9939-4cd9-a6a4-b28701155b99 Thu, 02 Nov 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2255 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/238-the-signs-of-human-trafficking-and-how-to-prev                                                   237 How to Keep Trusting God in Difficult Times 237 How to Keep Trusting God in Difficult Times Episode Summary: 

                                                  The world has thrown a lot at us the last few years. Between the pandemic, economy, and war around the world, many are shaken, worried, or scared. But Christians don’t have to succumb to these same feelings. When the pandemic first hit, people around the world were rocked. That’s when I had to choose to reflect on what I know to be true about Him. These truths change everything for believers. Join me with Kathy Howard for how to keep trusting God in difficult times.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God is all-powerful and in control. Nothing surprises Him and nothing has entered their lives that He did not allow.
                                                  • God sees you. God cares about every detail of your lives. God is working even if you don’t see it. And in the meantime, God is always present with you.
                                                  • Spend even just 5 minutes brainstorming the implications of one truth about God. For instance, if God is all-powerful, what does that mean for your life? For your family? For the world?
                                                  • The author of the Bible is the only author who sits with us when we read his book!
                                                  • To keep trusting God in difficult times, we have to know God. We get to know him by being in his word.
                                                  • The Bible is not primarily about us—it’s about God, and understanding who He is.
                                                  • Difficulties remind us of our need for God.
                                                  • Fiery trials refine our faith.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 1:1-3 ESV Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.
                                                  • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.  
                                                  • Jeremiah 32:17 NIV Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you. 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Kathy Howard:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kathy Howard is a treasure hunter who searches for the creamiest chocolate, richest coffee, and cherished stories of faith. She also digs deep into Scripture, mining God’s eternal truths. Kathy has a Masters in Christian Education and has taught the Bible for more than 30 years in a wide variety of venues. Kathy is the award-winning author of 12 books, including “Heirloom” and the “meaty” devotional series “Deep Rooted.” Kathy and her husband, who live in north Texas, have three married children, six grandchildren, and one accidental dog. Find free discipleship resources at www.KathyHoward.org. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  The world has thrown a lot at us the last few years. Between the pandemic, economy, and war around the world, many are shaken, worried, or scared. But Christians don’t have to succumb to these same feelings. When the pandemic first hit, people around the world were rocked. That’s when I had to choose to reflect on what I know to be true about Him. These truths change everything for believers. Join me with Kathy Howard for how to keep trusting God in difficult times.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God is all-powerful and in control. Nothing surprises Him and nothing has entered their lives that He did not allow.
                                                  • God sees you. God cares about every detail of your lives. God is working even if you don’t see it. And in the meantime, God is always present with you.
                                                  • Spend even just 5 minutes brainstorming the implications of one truth about God. For instance, if God is all-powerful, what does that mean for your life? For your family? For the world?
                                                  • The author of the Bible is the only author who sits with us when we read his book!
                                                  • To keep trusting God in difficult times, we have to know God. We get to know him by being in his word.
                                                  • The Bible is not primarily about us—it’s about God, and understanding who He is.
                                                  • Difficulties remind us of our need for God.
                                                  • Fiery trials refine our faith.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 1:1-3 ESV Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.
                                                  • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.  
                                                  • Jeremiah 32:17 NIV Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you. 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Kathy Howard:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kathy Howard is a treasure hunter who searches for the creamiest chocolate, richest coffee, and cherished stories of faith. She also digs deep into Scripture, mining God’s eternal truths. Kathy has a Masters in Christian Education and has taught the Bible for more than 30 years in a wide variety of venues. Kathy is the award-winning author of 12 books, including “Heirloom” and the “meaty” devotional series “Deep Rooted.” Kathy and her husband, who live in north Texas, have three married children, six grandchildren, and one accidental dog. Find free discipleship resources at www.KathyHoward.org. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  The world has thrown a lot at us the last few years. Between the pandemic, economy, and war around the world, many are shaken, worried, or scared. But Christians don’t have to succumb to these same feelings. When the pandemic... full 237 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 0cd460f0-595f-43e2-8df5-671c65270001 a7974c9f-fb75-49e0-9739-b28701157610 Thu, 26 Oct 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2358 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/237-how-to-keep-trusting-god-in-difficult-times                                                   236 Is Doubting God a Sin? 236 Is Doubting God a Sin? Episode Summary:   Disappointment bruises the bravest of souls. The nagging ache of uncertainty causes us to grow weary and afraid to hope. Doubt entices us to wonder if God is good when life is not. Yet, our hard questions can become opportunities for Jesus to show us who He is. But disappointments don’t have to define us and doubt doesn’t have to paralyze us. Join me with Angela Donadio as we talk about examples of doubt in the Bible and “is doubting God a sin?”

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Disappointments don’t have to define us and doubt doesn’t have to paralyze us.
                                                  • At the root of doubt is unplaced expectations.
                                                  • In doubting God, we attach an “unless” to our faith. Instead, we need to say, “regardless…”
                                                  • Too often, we equate our circumstances with God’s justice. We cannot equate the injustices of life with the love of God.
                                                  • The enemy loves to isolate us when we’re struggling. But if we’re struggling with doubt, we need to move toward God.
                                                  • Our doubt is not a sin, but we can choose whether we allow it to pull us away from God or move us toward him.
                                                  • Fear, isolation, confusion, insecurity, comparison, and disappointment are barriers to us moving forward.
                                                  • God transforms our pain into purpose.
                                                  • It’s time to stop allowing our doubts to define, derail, and deconstruct our foundations of faith.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 14:5-7 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know[b] my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” 
                                                  • John 20:28-29 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”  Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” 
                                                  • John 20:26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Angela Donadio:

                                                  Website / Facebook / YouTube / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:   Disappointment bruises the bravest of souls. The nagging ache of uncertainty causes us to grow weary and afraid to hope. Doubt entices us to wonder if God is good when life is not. Yet, our hard questions can become opportunities for Jesus to show us who He is. But disappointments don’t have to define us and doubt doesn’t have to paralyze us. Join me with Angela Donadio as we talk about examples of doubt in the Bible and “is doubting God a sin?”

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Disappointments don’t have to define us and doubt doesn’t have to paralyze us.
                                                  • At the root of doubt is unplaced expectations.
                                                  • In doubting God, we attach an “unless” to our faith. Instead, we need to say, “regardless…”
                                                  • Too often, we equate our circumstances with God’s justice. We cannot equate the injustices of life with the love of God.
                                                  • The enemy loves to isolate us when we’re struggling. But if we’re struggling with doubt, we need to move toward God.
                                                  • Our doubt is not a sin, but we can choose whether we allow it to pull us away from God or move us toward him.
                                                  • Fear, isolation, confusion, insecurity, comparison, and disappointment are barriers to us moving forward.
                                                  • God transforms our pain into purpose.
                                                  • It’s time to stop allowing our doubts to define, derail, and deconstruct our foundations of faith.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 14:5-7 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know[b] my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” 
                                                  • John 20:28-29 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”  Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” 
                                                  • John 20:26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Angela Donadio:

                                                  Website / Facebook / YouTube / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:   Disappointment bruises the bravest of souls. The nagging ache of uncertainty causes us to grow weary and afraid to hope. Doubt entices us to wonder if God is good when life is not. Yet, our hard questions can become... full 236 Dr. Michelle Bengtson c1254cf8-5969-4736-ad77-67cd7e544ecf f434f849-7e74-45e8-b803-b28701157725 Thu, 19 Oct 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2703 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/236-is-doubting-god-a-sin                                                   235 How We Lose Our Joy and How To Find Joy in Life Again 235 How We Lose Our Joy and How To Find Joy in Life Again Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever lost your joy? When the struggles of this world drain us dry and wring us out, our desert mentality becomes fertile ground for the enemy’s lies to grow. We place our trust in what we see and feel instead of in the God we know and love. 

                                                  The enemy may threaten to steal our joy—but the truth is, he can’t crack the code. God has infused us with his joy, his spirit, and his love; we are filled with his joy that cannot be emptied out. Today we are going to be talking about how we lose our joy and how to find joy in life again.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our joy can be constant regardless of circumstances and difficult seasons in our lives. 
                                                  • Jesus gave us His joy, and His promises are true.
                                                  • The existence of our joy is not dependent on our feelings, circumstances, or lies the enemy whispers in our ears.
                                                  • Joy is a supernatural gift from God—it’s a fruit of the Spirit and it is ours to freely receive through Christ.
                                                  • Idols in our lives threaten our joy but we may not recognize them.
                                                  • When we put things first in our lives, instead of putting God first, they become idols.
                                                  • Although it may seem at times our joy is lost, our joy cannot be stolen. When we are in Christ, we have His joy in us.
                                                  • Surrender is turning over control and the outcome to God. This leads to peace.
                                                  • To walk in joy, we have to first remember the source of joy.
                                                  • Intentionally seek God throughout the day, and write down at least 3 joyful thoughts or observances (for example, breathing fresh air, remembering who we are in Christ, the joy of the Lord is our strength)
                                                  • Jesus gave me joy so it’s full and overflowing.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 15:11 (ESV) “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” 
                                                  • Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)  “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 
                                                  • Psalm 16:11 (ESV)  “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Doris Swift:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Doris Swift is an author, speaker, founder of Fierce Calling Ministries, and host of the award-winning Fierce Calling podcast. In ministry for over thirty years, she is passionate about equipping women to dig deeper into God's word, take action where their passion, compassion, and conviction intersect, and walk boldly in their calling and purpose. Her new Bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You, a six-week Bible study rooted in John 15, is available at dorisswift.com.

                                                  She currently resides in Central Florida with her husband and best friend, Brian, is mom to an amazing son and daughter-in-love, and daughter and son-in-love, and is Gammy to six awesome grandkids. She loves Jesus with all her heart and deeply desires others to know and love him too.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever lost your joy? When the struggles of this world drain us dry and wring us out, our desert mentality becomes fertile ground for the enemy’s lies to grow. We place our trust in what we see and feel instead of in the God we know and love. 

                                                  The enemy may threaten to steal our joy—but the truth is, he can’t crack the code. God has infused us with his joy, his spirit, and his love; we are filled with his joy that cannot be emptied out. Today we are going to be talking about how we lose our joy and how to find joy in life again.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our joy can be constant regardless of circumstances and difficult seasons in our lives. 
                                                  • Jesus gave us His joy, and His promises are true.
                                                  • The existence of our joy is not dependent on our feelings, circumstances, or lies the enemy whispers in our ears.
                                                  • Joy is a supernatural gift from God—it’s a fruit of the Spirit and it is ours to freely receive through Christ.
                                                  • Idols in our lives threaten our joy but we may not recognize them.
                                                  • When we put things first in our lives, instead of putting God first, they become idols.
                                                  • Although it may seem at times our joy is lost, our joy cannot be stolen. When we are in Christ, we have His joy in us.
                                                  • Surrender is turning over control and the outcome to God. This leads to peace.
                                                  • To walk in joy, we have to first remember the source of joy.
                                                  • Intentionally seek God throughout the day, and write down at least 3 joyful thoughts or observances (for example, breathing fresh air, remembering who we are in Christ, the joy of the Lord is our strength)
                                                  • Jesus gave me joy so it’s full and overflowing.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 15:11 (ESV) “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” 
                                                  • Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)  “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 
                                                  • Psalm 16:11 (ESV)  “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Doris Swift:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Doris Swift is an author, speaker, founder of Fierce Calling Ministries, and host of the award-winning Fierce Calling podcast. In ministry for over thirty years, she is passionate about equipping women to dig deeper into God's word, take action where their passion, compassion, and conviction intersect, and walk boldly in their calling and purpose. Her new Bible study, Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You, a six-week Bible study rooted in John 15, is available at dorisswift.com.

                                                  She currently resides in Central Florida with her husband and best friend, Brian, is mom to an amazing son and daughter-in-love, and daughter and son-in-love, and is Gammy to six awesome grandkids. She loves Jesus with all her heart and deeply desires others to know and love him too.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever lost your joy? When the struggles of this world drain us dry and wring us out, our desert mentality becomes fertile ground for the enemy’s lies to grow. We place our trust in what we see and feel instead of in... full 235 Dr. Michelle Bengtson edce0819-eec1-417a-a2c0-57f33835d697 0695566d-c0fe-43fb-8743-b28701157f46 Thu, 12 Oct 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2477 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/235-how-we-lose-our-joy-and-how-to-find-joy-in-lif                                                   234 How Building Meaningful Connections Can Combat the Effects of Loneliness 234 How Building Meaningful Connections Can Combat the Effects of Loneliness Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you felt the pang of loneliness? Do you find yourself longing for deeper connections, for meaningful friendship? People are designed to be in community with one another, yet so many of us suffer from loneliness and isolation. Feelings of disconnect are more common than you may have realized and can have devastating consequences. My colleague, Dr. Gregory Jantz, and I want to help you with that. In this episode, we talk about how building meaningful connections can combat the effects of loneliness.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Pre-pandemic studies revealed that over 61% of the population admitted to feeling lonely.
                                                  • The majority of people can’t name one close friend.
                                                  • Everything on social media is instant, and social media says we’re more connected when in reality, the opposite is true.
                                                  • Those who are lonely tend to experience a foreshortened future with no hope.
                                                  • Loneliness is really disconnection and longing for relationships.
                                                  • Isolation and loneliness are serious problems with real and often devastating consequences.
                                                  • Humans are social creatures in need of connection with others.
                                                  • Lack of strong relationships increases premature death by 50%.
                                                  • When we need people the most, we tend to withdraw.
                                                  • Real connection means connecting with real people. It requires an investment of time, emotions, and trust.
                                                  • There is a high cost to loneliness including decreased immune system, physical ailments, decreased mood, increased anxiety, decreased self-esteem, and increased panic.
                                                  • A universal critical need is the need to feel understood.
                                                  • Hope comes with a plan.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Genesis 2:18 “It is not good for the man to be alone.”
                                                  • Proverbs 27:9 “The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.”
                                                  • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Gregory Jantz:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Gregg Jantz is a psychologist, a licensed mental health counselor, and the host of a national radio program. He is recognized as a leading authority on family relationships, and brings a message of hope and healing to audiences through seminars, conferences, and media. He is the founder of The Center—A Place of Hope.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you felt the pang of loneliness? Do you find yourself longing for deeper connections, for meaningful friendship? People are designed to be in community with one another, yet so many of us suffer from loneliness and isolation. Feelings of disconnect are more common than you may have realized and can have devastating consequences. My colleague, Dr. Gregory Jantz, and I want to help you with that. In this episode, we talk about how building meaningful connections can combat the effects of loneliness.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Pre-pandemic studies revealed that over 61% of the population admitted to feeling lonely.
                                                  • The majority of people can’t name one close friend.
                                                  • Everything on social media is instant, and social media says we’re more connected when in reality, the opposite is true.
                                                  • Those who are lonely tend to experience a foreshortened future with no hope.
                                                  • Loneliness is really disconnection and longing for relationships.
                                                  • Isolation and loneliness are serious problems with real and often devastating consequences.
                                                  • Humans are social creatures in need of connection with others.
                                                  • Lack of strong relationships increases premature death by 50%.
                                                  • When we need people the most, we tend to withdraw.
                                                  • Real connection means connecting with real people. It requires an investment of time, emotions, and trust.
                                                  • There is a high cost to loneliness including decreased immune system, physical ailments, decreased mood, increased anxiety, decreased self-esteem, and increased panic.
                                                  • A universal critical need is the need to feel understood.
                                                  • Hope comes with a plan.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Genesis 2:18 “It is not good for the man to be alone.”
                                                  • Proverbs 27:9 “The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.”
                                                  • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Gregory Jantz:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Gregg Jantz is a psychologist, a licensed mental health counselor, and the host of a national radio program. He is recognized as a leading authority on family relationships, and brings a message of hope and healing to audiences through seminars, conferences, and media. He is the founder of The Center—A Place of Hope.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you felt the pang of loneliness? Do you find yourself longing for deeper connections, for meaningful friendship? People are designed to be in community with one another, yet so many of us suffer from loneliness and... full 234 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 8814913c-0eb4-4178-a46b-f42bf9ee7073 f2af95fb-a50f-4294-bb9b-b28701157f41 Thu, 05 Oct 2023 10:30:00 +0000 1922 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/234-how-building-meaningful-connections-can-combat                                                   233 How Do I Stop Comparing Myself to Others and Learn to Live Me-Free? 233 How Do I Stop Comparing Myself to Others and Learn to Live Me-Free? Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you constantly compare yourself with others? On social media, in your neighborhood, at church, or in the school drop-off lane, do you push yourself to prove that you measure up . . . and then feel ashamed when you don’t? Measuring yourself against others isn’t healthy. And it isn’t God’s plan. In fact, the way of Jesus is completely upside down from this measure-up world. He invites us to follow him and be restored to freedom, confidence, and joy. Join me with Shannon Popkin as we address how to stop comparing yourself to others.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The constant effort to prove that I measure up (or try to hide when I don’t), does not lead to a life of freedom and joy. Here’s what does: learning to live me-free.
                                                  • At its root, comparison places value on our differences.
                                                  • Comparison is really a pride issue—it keeps us focused on ourselves.
                                                  • When we compare ourselves to others, we focus on how we measure up (or don’t) like lines on a measuring glass. But Jesus points out the spout—that place where we pour out on others.
                                                  • Comparison 1) distracts me from my purpose; 2) depletes my productivity, and 3) destroys our potential.
                                                  • When we fall prey to comparison, we need to ask ourselves “Is this something Jesus would say to me?”
                                                  • Comparison is a tactic of the enemy, whether we are comparing our appearance, our status, our sin, or even our ministry for Jesus to others’.
                                                  • Humility is a key to combatting comparison.
                                                  • Comparison is often bred because we don’t desire to be “less than” others, but in God’s economy those who are the least, are considered the greatest.
                                                  • There is NO exclusivity in the kingdom of God.
                                                  • Healthy comparison includes those times we are inspired and learn from others, and are then encouraged to be and do what I am uniquely called to do.
                                                  • Comparison divides us and causes us to back away, when God is calling us to move toward him!
                                                  • When tempted to compare yourself to others, ask yourself “who am I listening to?” Scripture says “my sheep know my voice,” so be sure you are listening for God’s voice.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 2:5-7 ESV Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,[a] 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,[b] 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant
                                                  • James 3:14-15 ESV But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. 15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
                                                  • Matthew 20:26-27 ESV But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,[c] 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave,[d] 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Shannon Popkin:

                                                  Website / Podcast / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  From the platform, page, and podcast mic, Shannon Popkin invites women to drink deeply of God’s story, and live like it’s true. Shannon’s books include Comparison Girl, and Control Girl, and she hosts the “Live Like It’s True” podcast. Shannon has been featured on FamilyLife Today, Revive Our Hearts, and Proverbs 31.

                                                  Shannon is happy to be sharing life with Ken, who makes her laugh every day. Together, they have the joy of watching their three young-adult kids become the amazing people God created them to be. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you constantly compare yourself with others? On social media, in your neighborhood, at church, or in the school drop-off lane, do you push yourself to prove that you measure up . . . and then feel ashamed when you don’t? Measuring yourself against others isn’t healthy. And it isn’t God’s plan. In fact, the way of Jesus is completely upside down from this measure-up world. He invites us to follow him and be restored to freedom, confidence, and joy. Join me with Shannon Popkin as we address how to stop comparing yourself to others.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The constant effort to prove that I measure up (or try to hide when I don’t), does not lead to a life of freedom and joy. Here’s what does: learning to live me-free.
                                                  • At its root, comparison places value on our differences.
                                                  • Comparison is really a pride issue—it keeps us focused on ourselves.
                                                  • When we compare ourselves to others, we focus on how we measure up (or don’t) like lines on a measuring glass. But Jesus points out the spout—that place where we pour out on others.
                                                  • Comparison 1) distracts me from my purpose; 2) depletes my productivity, and 3) destroys our potential.
                                                  • When we fall prey to comparison, we need to ask ourselves “Is this something Jesus would say to me?”
                                                  • Comparison is a tactic of the enemy, whether we are comparing our appearance, our status, our sin, or even our ministry for Jesus to others’.
                                                  • Humility is a key to combatting comparison.
                                                  • Comparison is often bred because we don’t desire to be “less than” others, but in God’s economy those who are the least, are considered the greatest.
                                                  • There is NO exclusivity in the kingdom of God.
                                                  • Healthy comparison includes those times we are inspired and learn from others, and are then encouraged to be and do what I am uniquely called to do.
                                                  • Comparison divides us and causes us to back away, when God is calling us to move toward him!
                                                  • When tempted to compare yourself to others, ask yourself “who am I listening to?” Scripture says “my sheep know my voice,” so be sure you are listening for God’s voice.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 2:5-7 ESV Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,[a] 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,[b] 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant
                                                  • James 3:14-15 ESV But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. 15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
                                                  • Matthew 20:26-27 ESV But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,[c] 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave,[d] 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Shannon Popkin:

                                                  Website / Podcast / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  From the platform, page, and podcast mic, Shannon Popkin invites women to drink deeply of God’s story, and live like it’s true. Shannon’s books include Comparison Girl, and Control Girl, and she hosts the “Live Like It’s True” podcast. Shannon has been featured on FamilyLife Today, Revive Our Hearts, and Proverbs 31.

                                                  Shannon is happy to be sharing life with Ken, who makes her laugh every day. Together, they have the joy of watching their three young-adult kids become the amazing people God created them to be. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Do you constantly compare yourself with others? On social media, in your neighborhood, at church, or in the school drop-off lane, do you push yourself to prove that you measure up . . . and then feel ashamed when you don’t?... full 233 Dr. Michelle Bengtson eefa0fe2-4191-4868-9b65-1213fe87a533 8bee17da-b203-455b-b339-b287011599f1 Thu, 28 Sep 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2768 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/233-how-do-i-stop-comparing-myself-to-others-and-l                                                   232 What Holds You Back 232 What Holds You Back Episode Summary: 

                                                  This world is demanding, especially when we shoulder the burdens of our family, friends, and work—as well as the heaviness of world events. So we often feel overwhelmed, stuck, afraid, and believe we are never enough. If we aren’t careful, we can build walls that hinder us from thriving in who God created us to be.

                                                  In this episode, we discuss what is holding you back? I’m excited to talk to Krissy Nelson who shares from her own story and will help us identify some of the most common walls that hold us back. She draws from biblical stories and truth to give us spiritual and practical tools to bring those walls down, rediscover a vibrant life of joy and move forward from weary survival to daily revival through Jesus.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Questioning our identity in Christ is an attack from the enemy. He aims to bog us down in defeat, insecurity, perfectionism and shame so we cannot thrive in who God says we are.
                                                  • We are His revived, beautiful, vibrant children. We are full of life and hope and called to live joy-in-Jesus lives.
                                                  • We build walls around us that actually hold us back; walls like insecurity, fear of failure, doing too much.
                                                  • Insecurity allows us to see God move in our life.
                                                  • We need an encounter with our King Jesus in which our hearts are revived all over again and the walls boxing us in crumble to the ground.
                                                  • Faith is key to moving past what holds you back.
                                                  • You are valuable and are not alone in your struggle. Talking to Jesus and exposing the lies you’re fighting to your community and family—even starting with one person—starts a new pattern of freedom, community, and connection.
                                                  • Once we shatter the lies that hold us back, we have to keep from rebuilding them.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Krissy Nelson

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Krissy Nelson carries a passion to release life and hope into your heart so you can walk in all that you were created for. A popular author and TV show host, she regularly ministers at women’s conferences and outreaches. Her TV show, Created for the Impossible, airs on multiple television networks worldwide. Krissy is passionate about empowering, equipping, training, and activating women worldwide to find God’s purpose for their lives and to pursue it with passion, wisdom, and hope. She is based out of a quaint little town off the Mobile Bay in Southern Alabama with her husband, Donovan, and their two children.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  This world is demanding, especially when we shoulder the burdens of our family, friends, and work—as well as the heaviness of world events. So we often feel overwhelmed, stuck, afraid, and believe we are never enough. If we aren’t careful, we can build walls that hinder us from thriving in who God created us to be.

                                                  In this episode, we discuss what is holding you back? I’m excited to talk to Krissy Nelson who shares from her own story and will help us identify some of the most common walls that hold us back. She draws from biblical stories and truth to give us spiritual and practical tools to bring those walls down, rediscover a vibrant life of joy and move forward from weary survival to daily revival through Jesus.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Questioning our identity in Christ is an attack from the enemy. He aims to bog us down in defeat, insecurity, perfectionism and shame so we cannot thrive in who God says we are.
                                                  • We are His revived, beautiful, vibrant children. We are full of life and hope and called to live joy-in-Jesus lives.
                                                  • We build walls around us that actually hold us back; walls like insecurity, fear of failure, doing too much.
                                                  • Insecurity allows us to see God move in our life.
                                                  • We need an encounter with our King Jesus in which our hearts are revived all over again and the walls boxing us in crumble to the ground.
                                                  • Faith is key to moving past what holds you back.
                                                  • You are valuable and are not alone in your struggle. Talking to Jesus and exposing the lies you’re fighting to your community and family—even starting with one person—starts a new pattern of freedom, community, and connection.
                                                  • Once we shatter the lies that hold us back, we have to keep from rebuilding them.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Krissy Nelson

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Krissy Nelson carries a passion to release life and hope into your heart so you can walk in all that you were created for. A popular author and TV show host, she regularly ministers at women’s conferences and outreaches. Her TV show, Created for the Impossible, airs on multiple television networks worldwide. Krissy is passionate about empowering, equipping, training, and activating women worldwide to find God’s purpose for their lives and to pursue it with passion, wisdom, and hope. She is based out of a quaint little town off the Mobile Bay in Southern Alabama with her husband, Donovan, and their two children.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  This world is demanding, especially when we shoulder the burdens of our family, friends, and work—as well as the heaviness of world events. So we often feel overwhelmed, stuck, afraid, and believe we are never enough. If we... full 232 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 601668fc-2b54-4f92-9f11-21eb4212c508 012ced25-a9b5-41e1-82a0-b28701159ac2 Thu, 21 Sep 2023 10:30:00 +0000 1821 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/232-what-holds-you-back                                                   231 How to Cope with Loss 231 How to Cope with Loss Episode Summary:

                                                  Grief and loss are hard. When we suffer loss, we enter the realm of “used to be.” We used to be married. Used to be employed. Used to be pregnant, secure, healthy, sober, or thin. We used to be a son or daughter, a brother or a sister, a mother or father, a wife or a husband. And in that used-to-be space there is deep emptiness, loneliness, and sorrow. It’s a place they dwell for a while. But it’s not a place we are meant to remain. Maybe you “used to be” something—but there is a future waiting when you “will be” once more. Join me on Thursday’s podcast with Chuck and Ashley Elliott as we talk about how to cope with loss.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • "He [God] has given us His Word, and we can hold on to what it says, even when our emotions or our reality screams that God is absent. " 
                                                  • "We cannot completely control our world, but we can change our behavior. It’s amazing how much our behavior positively or negatively affects everything around us, especially our perception of the world." 
                                                  • “Where I am in my story is only temporary.”
                                                  • “In God’s silence, I grew in seeing God’s faithfulness.”
                                                  • “Faith is holding on when you want to give up.”
                                                  • “Grief lies to us and tells us that we are alone, that we need to isolate, and even that God is disappointed in us.”
                                                  • “Spiritual Dissonance is when you believe God is good, but then when something bad happens we wonder if he is good.
                                                  • “Anger is a common response in grief, because grief feels like your power has been stripped away, and anger makes us feel strong and powerful again.”
                                                  • “Underneath anger are often fear, loneliness, despair, and jealousy.”
                                                  • "Sometimes it feels easier to change our beliefs about God rather than do the emotional, spiritual, and physical work necessary to explore the dissonance." 
                                                  • "Grieving people need connection, especially to Jesus. And Jesus stood in our place and is now allowing us to stand in His place, representing Him to those who are hurting." 
                                                  • "Give yourself permission to grieve, even at work." 
                                                  • “We can thrive after loss, building mental stability. It’s normal to feel abnormal after loss! It’s what we do next that determines whether or not we leave a legacy!”
                                                  • “A relationship with God is more fulfilling than anything we lost.”

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 84:6 (NLT) says, “When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs.”
                                                  • Psalm 84:6 (NLT) says, “When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Chuck and Ashley Elliott:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Chuck and Ashley Elliott are authors of the book I Used to be ____ and spend much of their time equipping people to build spiritual and relational success. Chuck, as a pastor, and Ashley, as a counselor, have devoted their lives to help people fight negativity and leave a legacy. They earned master’s degrees in counseling, education, and organizational leadership. Chuck and Ashley live in Indiana with their three sons and enjoy spending time outside as a family. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Grief and loss are hard. When we suffer loss, we enter the realm of “used to be.” We used to be married. Used to be employed. Used to be pregnant, secure, healthy, sober, or thin. We used to be a son or daughter, a brother or a sister, a mother or father, a wife or a husband. And in that used-to-be space there is deep emptiness, loneliness, and sorrow. It’s a place they dwell for a while. But it’s not a place we are meant to remain. Maybe you “used to be” something—but there is a future waiting when you “will be” once more. Join me on Thursday’s podcast with Chuck and Ashley Elliott as we talk about how to cope with loss.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • "He [God] has given us His Word, and we can hold on to what it says, even when our emotions or our reality screams that God is absent. " 
                                                  • "We cannot completely control our world, but we can change our behavior. It’s amazing how much our behavior positively or negatively affects everything around us, especially our perception of the world." 
                                                  • “Where I am in my story is only temporary.”
                                                  • “In God’s silence, I grew in seeing God’s faithfulness.”
                                                  • “Faith is holding on when you want to give up.”
                                                  • “Grief lies to us and tells us that we are alone, that we need to isolate, and even that God is disappointed in us.”
                                                  • “Spiritual Dissonance is when you believe God is good, but then when something bad happens we wonder if he is good.
                                                  • “Anger is a common response in grief, because grief feels like your power has been stripped away, and anger makes us feel strong and powerful again.”
                                                  • “Underneath anger are often fear, loneliness, despair, and jealousy.”
                                                  • "Sometimes it feels easier to change our beliefs about God rather than do the emotional, spiritual, and physical work necessary to explore the dissonance." 
                                                  • "Grieving people need connection, especially to Jesus. And Jesus stood in our place and is now allowing us to stand in His place, representing Him to those who are hurting." 
                                                  • "Give yourself permission to grieve, even at work." 
                                                  • “We can thrive after loss, building mental stability. It’s normal to feel abnormal after loss! It’s what we do next that determines whether or not we leave a legacy!”
                                                  • “A relationship with God is more fulfilling than anything we lost.”

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 84:6 (NLT) says, “When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs.”
                                                  • Psalm 84:6 (NLT) says, “When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Chuck and Ashley Elliott:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Chuck and Ashley Elliott are authors of the book I Used to be ____ and spend much of their time equipping people to build spiritual and relational success. Chuck, as a pastor, and Ashley, as a counselor, have devoted their lives to help people fight negativity and leave a legacy. They earned master’s degrees in counseling, education, and organizational leadership. Chuck and Ashley live in Indiana with their three sons and enjoy spending time outside as a family. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Grief and loss are hard. When we suffer loss, we enter the realm of “used to be.” We used to be married. Used to be employed. Used to be pregnant, secure, healthy, sober, or thin. We used to be a son or daughter, a brother or a... full 231 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 11edc434-54af-41dd-83b0-ae06d0eb6163 82888eab-c03a-4ac9-b808-b28701159ffe Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2433 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/231-how-to-cope-with-loss                                                   230 How To Recover from Grief and Embrace Life 230 How To Recover from Grief and Embrace Life Episode Summary:

                                                  In the past month or so, we’ve been focused on conversations around the types of pain that I wrote about in The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms. No conversation regarding the pain we experience in this life is complete without a discussion about grief and loss. Susan Duke and I talk about recovery from grief. Susan shares how she learned to grieve forward by taking small, practical steps to face and process her grief, while refusing to allow loss to keep her from embracing life. God does heal and restore. There is life and purpose beyond loss.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Grieving forward gives us the permission to continue living life while grieving.
                                                  • In grief, you never get to the point in grief that you fully arrive, but you move forward.
                                                  • You can grieve and embrace life simultaneously.
                                                  • You don’t ever truly get over grief—you get through it with God’s help.
                                                  • We are not human beings living in a spiritual world, we are spiritual beings living in a human world.
                                                  • Love is the invisible bridge between heaven and earth.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
                                                  • Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Susan Duke:

                                                  Instagram / Facebook / Facebook Group

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  When Susan Duke’s teenage son was tragically killed, she found herself staggering through the painfully dark and unfamiliar valley of grief. As she faced the most profound challenge of her life, there were moments Susan questioned everything she’d ever believed—even her faith.    Through enormous struggle and determination, Susan eventually found the pathway out of the “valley of the shadow” of grief.  By GRIEVING FORWARD —taking small, practical steps to face and process her grief, and by refusing to allow loss to keep her from embracing life—Susan experienced God’s healing and restoration. As a survivor of unspeakable grief, her life is the evidence that there is life and purpose beyond loss.    In this deeply personal and compassionate guide, Susan candidly shares the insights she’s learned on her journey toward healing.  “It’s hard to see God’s perspective when your heart has been plowed by pain,” she writes. “But broken fields are where seeds of hope grow best.” Though she still copes with loss, Susan also lives with incredible joy. To all who grieve desperately, she assures: Hope is alive. Healing will triumph. Here’s how.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In the past month or so, we’ve been focused on conversations around the types of pain that I wrote about in The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms. No conversation regarding the pain we experience in this life is complete without a discussion about grief and loss. Susan Duke and I talk about recovery from grief. Susan shares how she learned to grieve forward by taking small, practical steps to face and process her grief, while refusing to allow loss to keep her from embracing life. God does heal and restore. There is life and purpose beyond loss.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Grieving forward gives us the permission to continue living life while grieving.
                                                  • In grief, you never get to the point in grief that you fully arrive, but you move forward.
                                                  • You can grieve and embrace life simultaneously.
                                                  • You don’t ever truly get over grief—you get through it with God’s help.
                                                  • We are not human beings living in a spiritual world, we are spiritual beings living in a human world.
                                                  • Love is the invisible bridge between heaven and earth.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
                                                  • Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Susan Duke:

                                                  Instagram / Facebook / Facebook Group

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  When Susan Duke’s teenage son was tragically killed, she found herself staggering through the painfully dark and unfamiliar valley of grief. As she faced the most profound challenge of her life, there were moments Susan questioned everything she’d ever believed—even her faith.    Through enormous struggle and determination, Susan eventually found the pathway out of the “valley of the shadow” of grief.  By GRIEVING FORWARD —taking small, practical steps to face and process her grief, and by refusing to allow loss to keep her from embracing life—Susan experienced God’s healing and restoration. As a survivor of unspeakable grief, her life is the evidence that there is life and purpose beyond loss.    In this deeply personal and compassionate guide, Susan candidly shares the insights she’s learned on her journey toward healing.  “It’s hard to see God’s perspective when your heart has been plowed by pain,” she writes. “But broken fields are where seeds of hope grow best.” Though she still copes with loss, Susan also lives with incredible joy. To all who grieve desperately, she assures: Hope is alive. Healing will triumph. Here’s how.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In the past month or so, we’ve been focused on conversations around the types of pain that I wrote about in The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms. No conversation regarding the pain we experience in this... full 230 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 43ac0a52-967a-4965-ada8-5ac121648043 c105d711-545d-4b07-8681-b2870115b809 Thu, 07 Sep 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2786 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/230-how-to-recover-from-grief-and-embrace-life                                                   229 When Someone Hurts You Emotionally 229 When Someone Hurts You Emotionally Episode Summary: 

                                                  Everyone knows the sting of physical pain whether it’s a broken arm, a toothache, or a torn ligament. Recently we’ve discussed physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual pain. Perhaps less discussed is Secondary Pain: pain that comes from the words or actions of others, that makes us feel worse when we are already experiencing one of the other types of pain. Join me with my husband, Scott Bengtson, for a discussion on what to do when someone hurts you emotionally.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Secondary pain is that painful experience caused by the words or actions of others, either intentional or unintentional, that worsens the pain we already fight.
                                                  • Frequently secondary pain comes in the form of blame or criticism, even if well-intentioned.
                                                  • People often mean well and are well-intentioned and don’t realize how what they say or do will be received by the pain sufferer.
                                                  • Secondary pain often results from comments that minimize or shame the pain sufferer such as, “This too shall end,” “Others have it worse than you,” or “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”
                                                  • These suggestions that are offered as a panacea for our pain or as a glib dismissal are received in a way that makes the pain sufferer feel inept, incompetent, and guilty.
                                                  • Any consideration of secondary pain must include those instances where others say or do nothing, even if their heart is to avoid saying or doing the wrong thing, because that makes the one enduring pain feel unseen, unloved, and uncared for.
                                                  • We choose whether or not to pick up an offense.
                                                  • Especially since we’re talking about being hurt when we are already dealing with pain, forgiveness is crucial in order to avoid complicating our pain.
                                                  • Assume the best, but forgive nonetheless.
                                                  • God reminds us in Romans 12 to never avenge ourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, because vengeance is his.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:17-18 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
                                                  • Matthew 5:44 “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”
                                                  • Romans 12:21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Scott Bengtson earned his electrical engineering degree from Georgia Tech University. He spent the better part of his career in telecommunications.

                                                  He has been married to his wife, Michelle for more than 30 years, and together they have two children.

                                                  He is a 3-time cancer survivor and gives God all the glory. In his spare time, Scott leads a men’s Bible study.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Everyone knows the sting of physical pain whether it’s a broken arm, a toothache, or a torn ligament. Recently we’ve discussed physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual pain. Perhaps less discussed is Secondary Pain: pain that comes from the words or actions of others, that makes us feel worse when we are already experiencing one of the other types of pain. Join me with my husband, Scott Bengtson, for a discussion on what to do when someone hurts you emotionally.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Secondary pain is that painful experience caused by the words or actions of others, either intentional or unintentional, that worsens the pain we already fight.
                                                  • Frequently secondary pain comes in the form of blame or criticism, even if well-intentioned.
                                                  • People often mean well and are well-intentioned and don’t realize how what they say or do will be received by the pain sufferer.
                                                  • Secondary pain often results from comments that minimize or shame the pain sufferer such as, “This too shall end,” “Others have it worse than you,” or “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”
                                                  • These suggestions that are offered as a panacea for our pain or as a glib dismissal are received in a way that makes the pain sufferer feel inept, incompetent, and guilty.
                                                  • Any consideration of secondary pain must include those instances where others say or do nothing, even if their heart is to avoid saying or doing the wrong thing, because that makes the one enduring pain feel unseen, unloved, and uncared for.
                                                  • We choose whether or not to pick up an offense.
                                                  • Especially since we’re talking about being hurt when we are already dealing with pain, forgiveness is crucial in order to avoid complicating our pain.
                                                  • Assume the best, but forgive nonetheless.
                                                  • God reminds us in Romans 12 to never avenge ourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, because vengeance is his.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:17-18 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
                                                  • Matthew 5:44 “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”
                                                  • Romans 12:21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Scott Bengtson earned his electrical engineering degree from Georgia Tech University. He spent the better part of his career in telecommunications.

                                                  He has been married to his wife, Michelle for more than 30 years, and together they have two children.

                                                  He is a 3-time cancer survivor and gives God all the glory. In his spare time, Scott leads a men’s Bible study.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Everyone knows the sting of physical pain whether it’s a broken arm, a toothache, or a torn ligament. Recently we’ve discussed physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual pain. Perhaps less discussed is Secondary Pain:... full 229 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 76077707-7a4e-44de-9791-24bfc9d96e51 59196fe8-3e9e-44b5-a6cd-b2870115baa0 Thu, 31 Aug 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2469 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/229-when-someone-hurts-you-emotionally                                                   228 When God is Silent: Healing Spiritual Pain 228 When God is Silent: Healing Spiritual Pain Episode Summary: 

                                                  Spiritual pain can be an emotionally distressing experience, however, it is often overlooked. Sometimes our belief systems and connection to God can be disrupted, causing anguish, and leaving us feeling abandoned or punished. Join me on the podcast with Aliene Thompson as we discuss what to do when God is silent and how to heal spiritual pain.

                                                  Most people can identify with physical pain. We’ve all been there…a broken leg, a cracked tooth, sunburn. But there are other less discussed types of pain that cause just as much or more damage in people’s lives. In my book The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms, I discuss physical pain, emotional pain, relational pain, spiritual pain, grief and loss, and even secondary pain caused by the words or actions of others that makes any of the other kinds of pain worse. Spiritual pain is discussed much less frequently than the other types of pain, but is important to discuss.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Spiritual pain is discussed much less frequently than the other types of pain, but is important to discuss.
                                                  • Spiritual pain is considered a disruption in one’s belief system or their sense of relationship to God.
                                                  • Spiritual pain, discomfort, or angst may accompany those times in our life when we feel like God has abandoned us, turned his back on us, punished us, or simply allowed instances into our life for which we see no redeeming quality.
                                                  • These perspectives cause us to feel uncomfortably distanced from God and distressed by that sense of distance.
                                                  • It is possible that someone may experience one of those other types first and then also spiritual pain, which is considered compounded pain.
                                                  • We live very ego-centric lives; it’s all about us. We want answers yesterday.
                                                  • We are very pain averse. When pain becomes our focus, it becomes very loud and distracting…making it harder to focus on God, so he seems silent.
                                                  • Maybe God uses these times of spiritual pain to teach us how dependent we are on him.
                                                  • God can handle our blame, questions, and emotions.
                                                  • In Scripture, when God says to “Be still and know I am God,” we tend to look at being still as being quiet. But the Hebrew meaning of that has a connotation of surrendering to God and recognizing that He is in control even when we can’t see what he’s doing.
                                                  • Scripture says to “draw near to me, and I will draw near to you.” God is a gentleman. He won’t force himself on us. But if God seems silent, and you want to heal spiritual pain, you get to take the first step.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 28:1 (A Psalm of David) “To You, O Lord, I call; My rock, do not be deaf to me, For if You are silent to me, I will become like those who go down to the pit.”
                                                  • Psalm 83:1 (A Psalm of Asaph) “O God, do not remain quiet; Do not be silent and, O God, do not be still.”
                                                  • Psalm 109:1 (Psalm of David) “O God of my praise, Do not be silent!”
                                                  • Isaiah 64:12 “Will You restrain Yourself at these things, O Lord? Will You keep silent and afflict us beyond measure?”
                                                  • Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Aliene Thompson:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Aliene Thompson, is the founder of Treasured Ministries and the creator of the Nourish Bible Study Method and the author of the Nourish Bible Study Series. Aliene describes herself as a biblical soul strategist, which means that she helps women transform their lives by changing their approach to Bible study and by educating them on how timeless biblical truths heal soul hurts. She is passionate about helping women uncover how timeless biblical truths heal soul hurts. Aliene is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a bachelor of arts degree in communication studies.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Spiritual pain can be an emotionally distressing experience, however, it is often overlooked. Sometimes our belief systems and connection to God can be disrupted, causing anguish, and leaving us feeling abandoned or punished. Join me on the podcast with Aliene Thompson as we discuss what to do when God is silent and how to heal spiritual pain.

                                                  Most people can identify with physical pain. We’ve all been there…a broken leg, a cracked tooth, sunburn. But there are other less discussed types of pain that cause just as much or more damage in people’s lives. In my book The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms, I discuss physical pain, emotional pain, relational pain, spiritual pain, grief and loss, and even secondary pain caused by the words or actions of others that makes any of the other kinds of pain worse. Spiritual pain is discussed much less frequently than the other types of pain, but is important to discuss.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Spiritual pain is discussed much less frequently than the other types of pain, but is important to discuss.
                                                  • Spiritual pain is considered a disruption in one’s belief system or their sense of relationship to God.
                                                  • Spiritual pain, discomfort, or angst may accompany those times in our life when we feel like God has abandoned us, turned his back on us, punished us, or simply allowed instances into our life for which we see no redeeming quality.
                                                  • These perspectives cause us to feel uncomfortably distanced from God and distressed by that sense of distance.
                                                  • It is possible that someone may experience one of those other types first and then also spiritual pain, which is considered compounded pain.
                                                  • We live very ego-centric lives; it’s all about us. We want answers yesterday.
                                                  • We are very pain averse. When pain becomes our focus, it becomes very loud and distracting…making it harder to focus on God, so he seems silent.
                                                  • Maybe God uses these times of spiritual pain to teach us how dependent we are on him.
                                                  • God can handle our blame, questions, and emotions.
                                                  • In Scripture, when God says to “Be still and know I am God,” we tend to look at being still as being quiet. But the Hebrew meaning of that has a connotation of surrendering to God and recognizing that He is in control even when we can’t see what he’s doing.
                                                  • Scripture says to “draw near to me, and I will draw near to you.” God is a gentleman. He won’t force himself on us. But if God seems silent, and you want to heal spiritual pain, you get to take the first step.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 28:1 (A Psalm of David) “To You, O Lord, I call; My rock, do not be deaf to me, For if You are silent to me, I will become like those who go down to the pit.”
                                                  • Psalm 83:1 (A Psalm of Asaph) “O God, do not remain quiet; Do not be silent and, O God, do not be still.”
                                                  • Psalm 109:1 (Psalm of David) “O God of my praise, Do not be silent!”
                                                  • Isaiah 64:12 “Will You restrain Yourself at these things, O Lord? Will You keep silent and afflict us beyond measure?”
                                                  • Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Aliene Thompson:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Aliene Thompson, is the founder of Treasured Ministries and the creator of the Nourish Bible Study Method and the author of the Nourish Bible Study Series. Aliene describes herself as a biblical soul strategist, which means that she helps women transform their lives by changing their approach to Bible study and by educating them on how timeless biblical truths heal soul hurts. She is passionate about helping women uncover how timeless biblical truths heal soul hurts. Aliene is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a bachelor of arts degree in communication studies.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Spiritual pain can be an emotionally distressing experience, however, it is often overlooked. Sometimes our belief systems and connection to God can be disrupted, causing anguish, and leaving us feeling abandoned or punished.... full 228 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ba600039-1110-412d-a247-a5c567b03958 61425bd7-c2d5-43b1-a6eb-b2870115bbd9 Thu, 24 Aug 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2435 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/228-when-god-is-silent-healing-spiritual-pain                                                   227 Relationship Pain: Finding Hope & Healing for Wounded Hearts 227 Relationship Pain: Finding Hope & Healing for Wounded Hearts Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever experienced relational pain? Those interpersonal relationships that cause you pain and heartache? Maybe even rejection or betrayal? Most of us have experienced relationships that cause us pain, but it’s not something that is talked about very much. How do we deal with it? What happens in the fallout? How do we move on? Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about relationship pain and the hope that’s available.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We are all familiar with the concept of pain. And when someone breaks a leg or has surgery, people can relate and feel a sense of compassion because of physical pain. But one area that causes great pain, but that we rarely talk about but need to is relationship pain! 
                                                  • Relationship pain is so personal, and we often don’t understand why it happened, what we did to contribute to it, or why the other party isn’t open to resolving it.
                                                  • Some of the ways we experience relationship pain is through another’s criticism, judgment, betrayal, rejection, or severing a relationship.
                                                  • Some of the typical reactions to relationship pain are being offended, feeling defeated, anger, fear, defensiveness, retaliation, grief, despair, mourning.
                                                  • Relationship pain is different than some of the other types of pain because even though it may still hurt, sometimes we are called to shake the dust off our feet and move on if reconciliation isn’t possible.
                                                  • If you are dealing with relationship pain, remember three things: God knows your heart. He will be your defender. Remember that you are already accepted by God.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 5:11 But let all who take refuge in You be glad, Let them ever sing for joy; And may You shelter them, That those who love Your name may exult in You.
                                                  • Psalm 23:5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.
                                                  • Hebrews 13:6 “So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?’”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever experienced relational pain? Those interpersonal relationships that cause you pain and heartache? Maybe even rejection or betrayal? Most of us have experienced relationships that cause us pain, but it’s not something that is talked about very much. How do we deal with it? What happens in the fallout? How do we move on? Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about relationship pain and the hope that’s available.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We are all familiar with the concept of pain. And when someone breaks a leg or has surgery, people can relate and feel a sense of compassion because of physical pain. But one area that causes great pain, but that we rarely talk about but need to is relationship pain! 
                                                  • Relationship pain is so personal, and we often don’t understand why it happened, what we did to contribute to it, or why the other party isn’t open to resolving it.
                                                  • Some of the ways we experience relationship pain is through another’s criticism, judgment, betrayal, rejection, or severing a relationship.
                                                  • Some of the typical reactions to relationship pain are being offended, feeling defeated, anger, fear, defensiveness, retaliation, grief, despair, mourning.
                                                  • Relationship pain is different than some of the other types of pain because even though it may still hurt, sometimes we are called to shake the dust off our feet and move on if reconciliation isn’t possible.
                                                  • If you are dealing with relationship pain, remember three things: God knows your heart. He will be your defender. Remember that you are already accepted by God.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 5:11 But let all who take refuge in You be glad, Let them ever sing for joy; And may You shelter them, That those who love Your name may exult in You.
                                                  • Psalm 23:5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.
                                                  • Hebrews 13:6 “So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?’”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever experienced relational pain? Those interpersonal relationships that cause you pain and heartache? Maybe even rejection or betrayal? Most of us have experienced relationships that cause us pain, but it’s not... full 227 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 1778a69b-c95f-4afa-9fe9-77d4da4aaa77 b6ed6169-7bb7-4aa7-9d25-b2870115bd60 Thu, 17 Aug 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2960 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/227-relationship-pain-finding-hope-healing-for-wou                                                   226 Emotional Pain: What is it and What do we do about it? 226 Emotional Pain: What is it and What do we do about it? Episode Summary:

                                                  Most people can identify with physical pain. We've all been there… a broken arm, a skinned knee, a sunburn. But there are other less discussed types of pain that cause just as much and sometimes even more damage in people's lives. Most people don't talk about emotional pain. It's too embarrassing. It's too hurtful. But this is something we need to have an open conversation about if we really want to find hope, help, and healing. Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we talk about emotional pain. What is it and what do we do about it?

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Emotional pain is discomfort or mental anquish caused by a negative, nonphysical origin but that continues to replay in our mind, resulting in mental or emotional distress.
                                                  • Emotional pain is the angst that is experienced with the myriad of negative emotions that cause us to question or downplay our value, worth, or identity.
                                                  • Prolonged emotional pain often precipitates discouragement, depression, anxiety, or despair and frequently leads to self-medicating behaviors such as drinking, reliance on drugs, overspending, and even workaholism.
                                                  • The lack of resolution of negative feelings can result in chronic emotional pain that continues to play out in other circumstances or areas of life.
                                                  • We have a choice about how to respond to the emotional pain we feel, even when it is the result of injustice or deep betrayal.
                                                  • God use painful emotional experiences to grow us in our walk with Him,

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 43:5 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
                                                  • Psalm 103:2-5 “Praise the Lord, my soul, ad forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Mel Tavares

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Mel Tavares spent her earlier career working in education, rehabilitation, and counseling. She holds a doctorate of ministry and is also a mental health coach. She has spent over three decades encouraging, counseling, and equipping others to thrive in life.  Her heartbeat is to equip people with a balanced approach to physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health through writing, speaking at events, and guesting on podcasts. Her latest book is “21 Days to Improved Mental Well-Being” and she is the perfect guest to join the conversation today as we discuss emotional pain.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Most people can identify with physical pain. We've all been there… a broken arm, a skinned knee, a sunburn. But there are other less discussed types of pain that cause just as much and sometimes even more damage in people's lives. Most people don't talk about emotional pain. It's too embarrassing. It's too hurtful. But this is something we need to have an open conversation about if we really want to find hope, help, and healing. Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we talk about emotional pain. What is it and what do we do about it?

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Emotional pain is discomfort or mental anquish caused by a negative, nonphysical origin but that continues to replay in our mind, resulting in mental or emotional distress.
                                                  • Emotional pain is the angst that is experienced with the myriad of negative emotions that cause us to question or downplay our value, worth, or identity.
                                                  • Prolonged emotional pain often precipitates discouragement, depression, anxiety, or despair and frequently leads to self-medicating behaviors such as drinking, reliance on drugs, overspending, and even workaholism.
                                                  • The lack of resolution of negative feelings can result in chronic emotional pain that continues to play out in other circumstances or areas of life.
                                                  • We have a choice about how to respond to the emotional pain we feel, even when it is the result of injustice or deep betrayal.
                                                  • God use painful emotional experiences to grow us in our walk with Him,

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 43:5 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
                                                  • Psalm 103:2-5 “Praise the Lord, my soul, ad forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Mel Tavares

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Mel Tavares spent her earlier career working in education, rehabilitation, and counseling. She holds a doctorate of ministry and is also a mental health coach. She has spent over three decades encouraging, counseling, and equipping others to thrive in life.  Her heartbeat is to equip people with a balanced approach to physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health through writing, speaking at events, and guesting on podcasts. Her latest book is “21 Days to Improved Mental Well-Being” and she is the perfect guest to join the conversation today as we discuss emotional pain.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Most people can identify with physical pain. We've all been there… a broken arm, a skinned knee, a sunburn. But there are other less discussed types of pain that cause just as much and sometimes even more damage in people's lives.... full 226 Dr. Michelle Bengtson b262f48b-8312-408a-b4b9-66b25c186d22 cdf488a2-aed3-4960-bc38-b2870115d5fa Thu, 10 Aug 2023 10:30:00 +0000 3311 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/226-emotional-pain-what-is-it-and-what-do-we-do-ab                                                   225 Dealing with Chronic Pain: Do's and Don'ts (Part 2) 225 Dealing with Chronic Pain: Do's and Don'ts (Part 2) Episode Summary:

                                                  In part 2 of our discussion on what to do when chronic pain becomes too much, Laurie Davies and I cover a practical list of actionable do’s and don’ts when dealing with chronic pain. This helpful guide includes examples of the coping mechanisms we use on a daily basis. If you’re struggling with chronic pain, don’t give up! Join us for this hope-filled episode.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables:

                                                  • “Out of the deepest waters and the hottest fires have come the deepest things I know about God.” Elisabeth Elliot
                                                  • Pain brings us closer to knowing fully. It is a hard gift.

                                                   

                                                  • Some of the Do’s and Don’ts we discussed:
                                                    • Don’ts:
                                                      • Don’t live in regret
                                                      • Don’t make big decisions when in pain
                                                      • Don’t isolate
                                                      • Don’t socialize with negative people
                                                      • Don’t overshare details
                                                      • Don’t give up
                                                      • Don’t let pain become a runaway train
                                                      • Don’t listen to the enemy’s lies
                                                    • Do’s:
                                                      • Do live one moment at a time
                                                      • Do extend yourself grace
                                                      • Do ask God for a source of prayer
                                                      • Do engage in self-care
                                                      • Do seek others to serve
                                                      • Do praise God anyway

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 12:6-7 “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs on your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
                                                  • Psalm 56:3 “When I am afraid, I will trust in you” OR “When I am afraid I put my trust in you.”
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 13:12 “For now we see in a mirror dimly but then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part, then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”
                                                  • Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Laurie Davies:

                                                  Website / Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laurie Davies is a fellow writer and speaker in the Phoenix area where she also serves as a lay counselor and an area ministry lead. When it's not triple digits, then she's usually out with her husband hiking in the mountains.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In part 2 of our discussion on what to do when chronic pain becomes too much, Laurie Davies and I cover a practical list of actionable do’s and don’ts when dealing with chronic pain. This helpful guide includes examples of the coping mechanisms we use on a daily basis. If you’re struggling with chronic pain, don’t give up! Join us for this hope-filled episode.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables:

                                                  • “Out of the deepest waters and the hottest fires have come the deepest things I know about God.” Elisabeth Elliot
                                                  • Pain brings us closer to knowing fully. It is a hard gift.

                                                   

                                                  • Some of the Do’s and Don’ts we discussed:
                                                    • Don’ts:
                                                      • Don’t live in regret
                                                      • Don’t make big decisions when in pain
                                                      • Don’t isolate
                                                      • Don’t socialize with negative people
                                                      • Don’t overshare details
                                                      • Don’t give up
                                                      • Don’t let pain become a runaway train
                                                      • Don’t listen to the enemy’s lies
                                                    • Do’s:
                                                      • Do live one moment at a time
                                                      • Do extend yourself grace
                                                      • Do ask God for a source of prayer
                                                      • Do engage in self-care
                                                      • Do seek others to serve
                                                      • Do praise God anyway

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 12:6-7 “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs on your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
                                                  • Psalm 56:3 “When I am afraid, I will trust in you” OR “When I am afraid I put my trust in you.”
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 13:12 “For now we see in a mirror dimly but then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part, then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”
                                                  • Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Laurie Davies:

                                                  Website / Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laurie Davies is a fellow writer and speaker in the Phoenix area where she also serves as a lay counselor and an area ministry lead. When it's not triple digits, then she's usually out with her husband hiking in the mountains.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In part 2 of our discussion on what to do when chronic pain becomes too much, Laurie Davies and I cover a practical list of actionable do’s and don’ts when dealing with chronic pain. This helpful guide includes examples of the... full 225 Dr. Michelle Bengtson cc5325ba-69b2-4301-a03a-3487894401d3 4a5788f5-d1c1-4375-a0b4-b2870115dbdc Thu, 03 Aug 2023 10:30:00 +0000 1991 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/225-dealing-with-chronic-pain-dos-and-donts-part-2                                                   224 When Chronic Pain Becomes Too Much Part 1 224 When Chronic Pain Becomes Too Much Part 1 Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever found yourself in a place where pain was all you could focus on? Do you ever question God’s plan while dealing with physical suffering? Do you ever get to the point where you just want the pain to end and you don’t know what to do? In part 1 of our conversation, Laurie Davies and I talk about when chronic pain becomes too much to bear. 

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Pain is a great clarifier.
                                                  • In sharing our pain, we let people know that they aren’t alone in their suffering.
                                                  • When chronic pain becomes too much, we ask hard questions: “God, do you see me? Will you help?” “Why doesn’t your grace feel enough for me?” “God, do you care?” “Will it always be this way? Can I live like this?”
                                                  • Our mindset impacts our pain because what we focus on grows.
                                                  • We always tend to think of pain in a negative sense. But there are positives to pain.
                                                  • Pain often reveals our dependence on God.
                                                  • Pain refocuses on the present.
                                                  • Despite the pain, praise God anyway. This is beautiful to God.
                                                  • “Out of the deepest waters and the hottest fires have come the deepest things I know about God.” Elisabeth Elliot
                                                  • If you’re in chronic pain, you are catching a glimpse of a side of Jesus that not everyone experiences—the suffering servant side of Jesus.
                                                  • Pain brings us closer to knowing fully. It is a hard gift.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 12:6-7 “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs on your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
                                                  • Psalm 56:3 “When I am afraid, I will trust in you” OR “When I am afraid I put my trust in you.”
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 13:12 “For now we see in a mirror dimly but then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part, then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”
                                                  • Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Laurie Davies:

                                                  Website / Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laurie Davies is a fellow writer and speaker in the Phoenix area where she also serves as a lay counselor and an area ministry lead. When it's not triple digits, then she's usually out with her husband hiking in the mountains.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever found yourself in a place where pain was all you could focus on? Do you ever question God’s plan while dealing with physical suffering? Do you ever get to the point where you just want the pain to end and you don’t know what to do? In part 1 of our conversation, Laurie Davies and I talk about when chronic pain becomes too much to bear. 

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Pain is a great clarifier.
                                                  • In sharing our pain, we let people know that they aren’t alone in their suffering.
                                                  • When chronic pain becomes too much, we ask hard questions: “God, do you see me? Will you help?” “Why doesn’t your grace feel enough for me?” “God, do you care?” “Will it always be this way? Can I live like this?”
                                                  • Our mindset impacts our pain because what we focus on grows.
                                                  • We always tend to think of pain in a negative sense. But there are positives to pain.
                                                  • Pain often reveals our dependence on God.
                                                  • Pain refocuses on the present.
                                                  • Despite the pain, praise God anyway. This is beautiful to God.
                                                  • “Out of the deepest waters and the hottest fires have come the deepest things I know about God.” Elisabeth Elliot
                                                  • If you’re in chronic pain, you are catching a glimpse of a side of Jesus that not everyone experiences—the suffering servant side of Jesus.
                                                  • Pain brings us closer to knowing fully. It is a hard gift.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 12:6-7 “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs on your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
                                                  • Psalm 56:3 “When I am afraid, I will trust in you” OR “When I am afraid I put my trust in you.”
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 13:12 “For now we see in a mirror dimly but then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part, then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”
                                                  • Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Laurie Davies:

                                                  Website / Facebook Group / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laurie Davies is a fellow writer and speaker in the Phoenix area where she also serves as a lay counselor and an area ministry lead. When it's not triple digits, then she's usually out with her husband hiking in the mountains.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever found yourself in a place where pain was all you could focus on? Do you ever question God’s plan while dealing with physical suffering? Do you ever get to the point where you just want the pain to end and you... full 224 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9cefc119-f9ce-4bd7-8e41-3f4155403f56 1339cfee-05f4-4665-a416-b2870115e140 Thu, 27 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1816 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/224-when-chronic-pain-becomes-too-much-part-1                                                   223 How to Meditate on the Word of God | Benefits of Meditation 223 How to Meditate on the Word of God | Benefits of Meditation Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever felt burned out from your ministry or calling? Are you a faith-filled believer of Jesus, and yet your spiritual walk has felt void of excitement? Do you approach your daily quiet time as a task to check off rather than a fresh encounter with a friend?  We’re going to be talking about all of this in today’s episode. Join me with Jodie Niznik for how to meditate on the word of God and the benefits of meditation.

                                                  Quotables from the episode: I was leading a very busy life working “for” God and ignoring good boundaries and limits on my time and energy. This led me to a crisis point where I nearly left the ministry.

                                                  Lectio Divina (Latin for sacred reading) is a slow reading of the Word where we invite the Spirit to help us notice what he wants us to notice and then have a conversation with him about whatever he shows us.

                                                  Meditation is something we need to reclaim because it was God’s idea in the first place!

                                                  God is a good God even when things don’t feel “good.”

                                                  God knows exactly who he created you to be and exactly what you are going through. He has also created us to live full and abundant lives.

                                                  If we are willing to create space for God in our lives, He will meet us there. No matter what you are going through right now, God wants to accompany you through it.  

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Psalm 1:1-3, NIV Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. 

                                                  Ephesians 2:10, NIV  For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. 

                                                  Psalm 62: 1-2, NIV Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jodie Niznik:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jodie Niznik has served in various roles in vocational ministry for more than twelve years, including Pastor to Women. Her calling and passion is to equip people to create space for God in their lives and take another step in their journey with Jesus. She does this through writing, teaching, and her Scripture meditation podcast, So Much More: Creating Space for God. Jodie has been married to Tim for over twenty-five years. They have two adult daughters, Taylor and Billie, and a very poorly trained Yorkie-poo. Jodie loves a great adventure, especially in the mountains, and so frequently laments that the Lord has called them to live in hot and flat Dallas. However, she does love the community around her, so this seems to make up for the lack of cool mountain air. She also loves a great cup of coffee, is a pencil snob, and during the pandemic discovered she had a green thumb. You will frequently find her in her office drinking said coffee, staring in awe at her growing plants, or journaling prayers with one of her favorite pencils. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever felt burned out from your ministry or calling? Are you a faith-filled believer of Jesus, and yet your spiritual walk has felt void of excitement? Do you approach your daily quiet time as a task to check off rather than a fresh encounter with a friend?  We’re going to be talking about all of this in today’s episode. Join me with Jodie Niznik for how to meditate on the word of God and the benefits of meditation.

                                                  Quotables from the episode: I was leading a very busy life working “for” God and ignoring good boundaries and limits on my time and energy. This led me to a crisis point where I nearly left the ministry.

                                                  Lectio Divina (Latin for sacred reading) is a slow reading of the Word where we invite the Spirit to help us notice what he wants us to notice and then have a conversation with him about whatever he shows us.

                                                  Meditation is something we need to reclaim because it was God’s idea in the first place!

                                                  God is a good God even when things don’t feel “good.”

                                                  God knows exactly who he created you to be and exactly what you are going through. He has also created us to live full and abundant lives.

                                                  If we are willing to create space for God in our lives, He will meet us there. No matter what you are going through right now, God wants to accompany you through it.  

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Psalm 1:1-3, NIV Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. 

                                                  Ephesians 2:10, NIV  For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. 

                                                  Psalm 62: 1-2, NIV Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Jodie Niznik:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jodie Niznik has served in various roles in vocational ministry for more than twelve years, including Pastor to Women. Her calling and passion is to equip people to create space for God in their lives and take another step in their journey with Jesus. She does this through writing, teaching, and her Scripture meditation podcast, So Much More: Creating Space for God. Jodie has been married to Tim for over twenty-five years. They have two adult daughters, Taylor and Billie, and a very poorly trained Yorkie-poo. Jodie loves a great adventure, especially in the mountains, and so frequently laments that the Lord has called them to live in hot and flat Dallas. However, she does love the community around her, so this seems to make up for the lack of cool mountain air. She also loves a great cup of coffee, is a pencil snob, and during the pandemic discovered she had a green thumb. You will frequently find her in her office drinking said coffee, staring in awe at her growing plants, or journaling prayers with one of her favorite pencils. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever felt burned out from your ministry or calling? Are you a faith-filled believer of Jesus, and yet your spiritual walk has felt void of excitement? Do you approach your daily quiet time as a task to check off rather... full 223 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 1a059010-045b-4d71-b7ab-7875fc3740ff 3e7aae08-bc73-4af0-987c-b2870115e6bf Thu, 20 Jul 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2232 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/223-how-to-meditate-on-the-word-of-god-benefits-of                                                   222 God's Calling On Your Life: Walking In Outrageous Obedience 222 God's Calling On Your Life: Walking In Outrageous Obedience Episode Summary:

                                                  Do you ever wonder about God’s calling on your life? What does the Bible say about God’s calling on your life? What does it mean when God is calling you? In this episode, I talk with Rachelle Starr. At the age of 23, she God called her to share the hope of Jesus to women in the adult entertainment industry.  This led her to love people through their pain and her pain as she walked out God's calling on her life in outrageous obedience. You won’t want to miss this episode!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • One of the best things my parents did for me was to teach me who Jesus was and what he did for me.
                                                  • Learning about God’s calling on your life begins praying for purpose and the people God wants you to reach. Ask God and invite him in to speak to you about your calling.
                                                  • In pursuing your God-given calling, consider prayer and fasting as well as silence and solitude to hear God’s voice and receive his direction.
                                                  • Pray and ask God to give you eyes to see  who God wants you to minister to.
                                                  • Fear, inadequacy, and doubt freeze us from living out our call.
                                                  • Outrageous obedience is about living out the great commission.
                                                  • When you come up against darkness, you become grateful for the salvation Jesus died for you to have.
                                                  • Stepping out in faith and doing something that the world says is crazy can be extremely hard and scary.  But it’s important to remember that if God calls us to something, He also equips us. 
                                                  • Outrageous obedience to God is rooted in a relationship with Him.  Sometimes we over-complicate things.  If you are daily soaking in the Word and spending time with your Heavenly Father, He will guide your steps. 
                                                  • It is God’s faithfulness (and not our own!) that fuels our calling.
                                                  • The best thing you can do is just take it one step at a time.  Before I did anything, I simply prayed.
                                                  • Because our faithful God goes with you, you can be a light where it’s dark.
                                                  • You ARE good enough. When God calls you, he also equips you.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV) The Great Commission: “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 
                                                  • Isaiah 61:1-3 (ESV) The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.
                                                  • 1 John 4:19 (ESV) “We love because he first loved us.”
                                                  • Matthew 28:18-20 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
                                                  • Matthew 17:20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
                                                  • Esther 4:14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Rachelle Starr:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram Scarlet Hope / Instagram Rachelle

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Rachelle Starr founded Scarlet Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to sharing the hope of Jesus with women in the adult entertainment industry. Rachelle also leads a gospel-centered career development program where women can receive employment and job skills while discovering their God-given gifts and talents. Rachelle and her husband, Josh, have two boys and reside in Louisville, Kentucky. Learn more at scarlethope.org and by following @rachellestarr.co on Instagram.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Do you ever wonder about God’s calling on your life? What does the Bible say about God’s calling on your life? What does it mean when God is calling you? In this episode, I talk with Rachelle Starr. At the age of 23, she God called her to share the hope of Jesus to women in the adult entertainment industry.  This led her to love people through their pain and her pain as she walked out God's calling on her life in outrageous obedience. You won’t want to miss this episode!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • One of the best things my parents did for me was to teach me who Jesus was and what he did for me.
                                                  • Learning about God’s calling on your life begins praying for purpose and the people God wants you to reach. Ask God and invite him in to speak to you about your calling.
                                                  • In pursuing your God-given calling, consider prayer and fasting as well as silence and solitude to hear God’s voice and receive his direction.
                                                  • Pray and ask God to give you eyes to see  who God wants you to minister to.
                                                  • Fear, inadequacy, and doubt freeze us from living out our call.
                                                  • Outrageous obedience is about living out the great commission.
                                                  • When you come up against darkness, you become grateful for the salvation Jesus died for you to have.
                                                  • Stepping out in faith and doing something that the world says is crazy can be extremely hard and scary.  But it’s important to remember that if God calls us to something, He also equips us. 
                                                  • Outrageous obedience to God is rooted in a relationship with Him.  Sometimes we over-complicate things.  If you are daily soaking in the Word and spending time with your Heavenly Father, He will guide your steps. 
                                                  • It is God’s faithfulness (and not our own!) that fuels our calling.
                                                  • The best thing you can do is just take it one step at a time.  Before I did anything, I simply prayed.
                                                  • Because our faithful God goes with you, you can be a light where it’s dark.
                                                  • You ARE good enough. When God calls you, he also equips you.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV) The Great Commission: “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 
                                                  • Isaiah 61:1-3 (ESV) The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.
                                                  • 1 John 4:19 (ESV) “We love because he first loved us.”
                                                  • Matthew 28:18-20 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
                                                  • Matthew 17:20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
                                                  • Esther 4:14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Rachelle Starr:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram Scarlet Hope / Instagram Rachelle

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Rachelle Starr founded Scarlet Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to sharing the hope of Jesus with women in the adult entertainment industry. Rachelle also leads a gospel-centered career development program where women can receive employment and job skills while discovering their God-given gifts and talents. Rachelle and her husband, Josh, have two boys and reside in Louisville, Kentucky. Learn more at scarlethope.org and by following @rachellestarr.co on Instagram.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Do you ever wonder about God’s calling on your life? What does the Bible say about God’s calling on your life? What does it mean when God is calling you? In this episode, I talk with Rachelle Starr. At the age of 23, she God... full 222 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 242dc332-8697-4e33-92a2-09451fcd9c17 e17dda62-c890-42c8-8675-b2870115ee88 Thu, 13 Jul 2023 10:30:00 +0000 1731 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/222-gods-calling-on-your-life-walking-in-outrageou                                                   221 Laughter is the Best Medicine Even in a Health Crisis! 221 Laughter is the Best Medicine Even in a Health Crisis! Episode Summary: 

                                                  We’ve all heard that laughter is the best medicine, but why? When is the best time to laugh? What if I told you that laughter is the best medicine at any time, but even in a health crisis! My guest, Cherie Nettles, is going to help us unpack that a bit.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Doctors give diagnoses but only God can give prognoses!
                                                  • Scripture tells us that laughter is healing!
                                                  • To incorporate more laughter into your life, read funny cards, watch funny tv shows, and plan laughter into your day.
                                                  • The joy of the Lord is my strength and we have the power to choose joy.
                                                  • I live like God is telling the Truth and His joy is my strength.
                                                  • If God can keep the earth spinning without us falling off, he is big enough to handle any crisis that comes our way.
                                                  • God is the only one who faithfully cares for us through the good, bad, and ugly times of life.
                                                  • Ask God to bring more joy and laughter into your life!
                                                  • Begin to take your thoughts captive – 2 Corinthians 10:5, step one is to admit the thoughts are there and that the joy of the Lord is missing in your life. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 17:22 NIV “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”
                                                  • Genesis 21:6 NIV “Sarah said, ‘God. Has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.’”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians  12:9 NIV “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly. About my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                                  • Nehemiah 8:10b NIV “…for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Cherie Nettles:

                                                  Website / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Cherie Nettles believes that all girls in the South arrive in the magnolia lined states in 3 ways; they are safely, sweetly and full of Sass and Cherie likes to place her emphasis on the SASS. Cherie is a Christian comedienne, Bible teacher, motivational speaker, Humorous story teller and writer. Cherie loves all audiences but must admit she really loves her audiences in Hawaii.  Cherie lives in West Columbia, SC with her husband, Mike, their precious little boy, Clarence, at 2 year old , Yorkie Poo. Cherie and Mike also have 2 grown children that have flown the nest.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  We’ve all heard that laughter is the best medicine, but why? When is the best time to laugh? What if I told you that laughter is the best medicine at any time, but even in a health crisis! My guest, Cherie Nettles, is going to help us unpack that a bit.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Doctors give diagnoses but only God can give prognoses!
                                                  • Scripture tells us that laughter is healing!
                                                  • To incorporate more laughter into your life, read funny cards, watch funny tv shows, and plan laughter into your day.
                                                  • The joy of the Lord is my strength and we have the power to choose joy.
                                                  • I live like God is telling the Truth and His joy is my strength.
                                                  • If God can keep the earth spinning without us falling off, he is big enough to handle any crisis that comes our way.
                                                  • God is the only one who faithfully cares for us through the good, bad, and ugly times of life.
                                                  • Ask God to bring more joy and laughter into your life!
                                                  • Begin to take your thoughts captive – 2 Corinthians 10:5, step one is to admit the thoughts are there and that the joy of the Lord is missing in your life. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 17:22 NIV “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”
                                                  • Genesis 21:6 NIV “Sarah said, ‘God. Has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.’”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians  12:9 NIV “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly. About my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
                                                  • Nehemiah 8:10b NIV “…for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Cherie Nettles:

                                                  Website / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Cherie Nettles believes that all girls in the South arrive in the magnolia lined states in 3 ways; they are safely, sweetly and full of Sass and Cherie likes to place her emphasis on the SASS. Cherie is a Christian comedienne, Bible teacher, motivational speaker, Humorous story teller and writer. Cherie loves all audiences but must admit she really loves her audiences in Hawaii.  Cherie lives in West Columbia, SC with her husband, Mike, their precious little boy, Clarence, at 2 year old , Yorkie Poo. Cherie and Mike also have 2 grown children that have flown the nest.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  We’ve all heard that laughter is the best medicine, but why? When is the best time to laugh? What if I told you that laughter is the best medicine at any time, but even in a health crisis! My guest, Cherie Nettles, is going to... full 221 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 74f296ca-810f-465f-b63e-aafecea3f4b9 a743f8ad-02b7-4934-82e8-b287011609cd Thu, 06 Jul 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2314 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/221-laughter-is-the-best-medicine-even-in-a-health                                                   220 Embrace the Benefits of Waiting Upon the Lord 220 Embrace the Benefits of Waiting Upon the Lord Episode Summary:

                                                  Your past doesn’t define you. Your present doesn’t define you. But who you choose to trust does define your future. We all experience a “meanwhile” in life. Those interminable and challenging moments when God is strategically laboring behind the scenes, yet we find ourselves questioning. Waiting on God to rescue, to answer our prayers, to work in the lives of our loved ones. But God never asks us to do anything that won’t benefit us. Today we’re going to be talking about how to embrace the benefits of waiting upon the Lord.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • A “meanwhile” in our lives is that time period between the onset of crisis and the time when we can see God’s visible intervention.
                                                  • We are strengthened and our faith is refined in the waiting rooms of life.
                                                  • You get to decide how you will wait in the waiting rooms of life—will you wait on God and his answers, or will you seek things and places that never satisfy?
                                                  • “If it’s not good, God isn’t done.” Elizabeth Elliott
                                                  • Nobody wants to go through painful times in life, but our pain is a platform God can use to reach others.
                                                  • The Bible is not so much for inspiration as it is for transformation.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Isaiah 40:31 NIV “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
                                                  • Lamentations 3:25 “The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the person who seeks Him.”
                                                  • Psalm 130:5 “I wait for the Lord, my soul does wait, And in His word do I hope.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Carol McLeod:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouVersion: Significant Women Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carol McLeod is a best-selling author and speaker who encourages and empowers women with passionate and practical biblical messages mixed with her own special brand of hope and humor. Her commitment to reach women "by any means available" has resulted in a thriving social media presence, 2 top podcasts, an inspiring television program, and even her own mobile app. Carol's 15th book, Meanwhile: Meeting God in the Wait, examines the life of Joseph of the Old Testament and what it means to truly wait well. Her best-selling book, Rooms of a Mother's Heart, won the 2022 Director's Choice Award from the Blue Ridge Writers Conference. In 2021, Carol was honored to receive Oral Roberts University's prestigious “Alumna of the Year” award for distinguished service to God.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Your past doesn’t define you. Your present doesn’t define you. But who you choose to trust does define your future. We all experience a “meanwhile” in life. Those interminable and challenging moments when God is strategically laboring behind the scenes, yet we find ourselves questioning. Waiting on God to rescue, to answer our prayers, to work in the lives of our loved ones. But God never asks us to do anything that won’t benefit us. Today we’re going to be talking about how to embrace the benefits of waiting upon the Lord.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • A “meanwhile” in our lives is that time period between the onset of crisis and the time when we can see God’s visible intervention.
                                                  • We are strengthened and our faith is refined in the waiting rooms of life.
                                                  • You get to decide how you will wait in the waiting rooms of life—will you wait on God and his answers, or will you seek things and places that never satisfy?
                                                  • “If it’s not good, God isn’t done.” Elizabeth Elliott
                                                  • Nobody wants to go through painful times in life, but our pain is a platform God can use to reach others.
                                                  • The Bible is not so much for inspiration as it is for transformation.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Isaiah 40:31 NIV “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
                                                  • Lamentations 3:25 “The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the person who seeks Him.”
                                                  • Psalm 130:5 “I wait for the Lord, my soul does wait, And in His word do I hope.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Carol McLeod:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouVersion: Significant Women Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Carol McLeod is a best-selling author and speaker who encourages and empowers women with passionate and practical biblical messages mixed with her own special brand of hope and humor. Her commitment to reach women "by any means available" has resulted in a thriving social media presence, 2 top podcasts, an inspiring television program, and even her own mobile app. Carol's 15th book, Meanwhile: Meeting God in the Wait, examines the life of Joseph of the Old Testament and what it means to truly wait well. Her best-selling book, Rooms of a Mother's Heart, won the 2022 Director's Choice Award from the Blue Ridge Writers Conference. In 2021, Carol was honored to receive Oral Roberts University's prestigious “Alumna of the Year” award for distinguished service to God.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Your past doesn’t define you. Your present doesn’t define you. But who you choose to trust does define your future. We all experience a “meanwhile” in life. Those interminable and challenging moments when God is strategically... full 220 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 45f26879-60a4-4f4c-ba1f-829a863f53ac 2a7756d7-b6e1-4def-bf2f-b28701160e36 Thu, 29 Jun 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2312 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/220-embrace-the-benefits-of-waiting-upon-the-lord                                                   219 Christians & Mental Health: Addressing the Stigma that Surrounds Mental Health in Christians 219 Christians & Mental Health: Addressing the Stigma that Surrounds Mental Health in Christians Episode Summary: 

                                                  There are others like you…you are not alone! In this episode, my guest and I talk about Christians and mental health, as well as the stigma around mental illness for Christians. In my own practice, I’ve worked with thousands of patients who endured mental health issues, yet, I’ve seen some of the greatest shaming come from other Christians. Join me with Paul Gaumer as we talk about Christians and mental health and what we can do to break down the walls of stigma.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Looking back, God was with me throughout my life. It is by his grace that I made it through my experience with bipolar disorder.
                                                  • When we keep things in secret in the darkness, it holds power over us, but when we begin to share authentically, it no longer holds is power.
                                                  • In sharing the pain associated with mental health issues, start the discussion with the one person who would bail you out of jail and not judge you.
                                                  • If you don’t have a friend or family member you can vulnerably share with, seek out the help of a mental health professional.
                                                  • Jesus is our hope. He will walk with us through our mental health journey.
                                                  • There are others out there like you—you are not alone.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; Do not be discouraged; for the Lord, your God, will be with you wherever you go.”
                                                  • Colossians 3:12-14 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any. Of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Paul Gaumer:

                                                  Website / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Being a.Christian and living with a mental illness is a confusing, frustrating, and emotionally draining daily journey that asks the question, why me Lord? When the demons have a stronghold on your life, God can seem so far away. Paul Gaumer lives with these challenges each day and brings insight into how he continues to focus on God while living with the daily. Struggles of Bipolar Disorder. Paul has written a book, A Walk With the Light in the Shadows, that details his daily journey with the Lord while living with the effects of bipolar disorder.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  There are others like you…you are not alone! In this episode, my guest and I talk about Christians and mental health, as well as the stigma around mental illness for Christians. In my own practice, I’ve worked with thousands of patients who endured mental health issues, yet, I’ve seen some of the greatest shaming come from other Christians. Join me with Paul Gaumer as we talk about Christians and mental health and what we can do to break down the walls of stigma.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Looking back, God was with me throughout my life. It is by his grace that I made it through my experience with bipolar disorder.
                                                  • When we keep things in secret in the darkness, it holds power over us, but when we begin to share authentically, it no longer holds is power.
                                                  • In sharing the pain associated with mental health issues, start the discussion with the one person who would bail you out of jail and not judge you.
                                                  • If you don’t have a friend or family member you can vulnerably share with, seek out the help of a mental health professional.
                                                  • Jesus is our hope. He will walk with us through our mental health journey.
                                                  • There are others out there like you—you are not alone.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; Do not be discouraged; for the Lord, your God, will be with you wherever you go.”
                                                  • Colossians 3:12-14 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any. Of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Paul Gaumer:

                                                  Website / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Being a.Christian and living with a mental illness is a confusing, frustrating, and emotionally draining daily journey that asks the question, why me Lord? When the demons have a stronghold on your life, God can seem so far away. Paul Gaumer lives with these challenges each day and brings insight into how he continues to focus on God while living with the daily. Struggles of Bipolar Disorder. Paul has written a book, A Walk With the Light in the Shadows, that details his daily journey with the Lord while living with the effects of bipolar disorder.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  There are others like you…you are not alone! In this episode, my guest and I talk about Christians and mental health, as well as the stigma around mental illness for Christians. In my own practice, I’ve worked with thousands... full 219 Dr. Michelle Bengtson b494bbab-0699-478b-ae50-f247e4fb3397 4908373b-fb12-476e-b4aa-b287011616b8 Thu, 22 Jun 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2486 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/219-christians-mental-health-addressing-the-stigma                                                   218 Hope for Ending Human Trafficking 218 Hope for Ending Human Trafficking Episode Summary: 

                                                  Human trafficking is a much bigger issue than most people realize. Today we’re going to be talking with an expert who can shed some light on this global epidemic and provide us some hope for better understanding human trafficking, how we can help, and what needs to be done for ending human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

                                                  Today’s guest is currently a North American Cloud Strategist with a background in Broadcast Journalism and Coding and Development. She is also an advocate for the complete eradication of Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation in South Carolina and across the globe. As a Constitutional Republic Preservationist she believes We the People are the solution and through Christ we can do all things. Together we can return our Nation to God, and He can heal our land. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Through many trials and tribulations, I have made many mistakes but have learned from each of them. I now view challenges as an opportunity to overcome and bring glory to God.
                                                  • We often see a misconception in society around Human Trafficking. In order to efficiently combat this atrocity we need to inform, educate, and shift the mindset associated with this issue. We also need to focus on loving one another better, setting one another up for success from the beginning by laying a firm foundation of Faith. This alone will help to combat Human Trafficking.
                                                  • Awareness is where we start the fight against human trafficking.
                                                  • There are four main types of human sex trafficking: peer trafficking, familial trafficking, gang trafficking, and survival trafficking.
                                                  • The United States is the #1 buyer of trafficking victims with over a $90 billion annual revenue stream.
                                                  • Trafficking starts at a point of vulnerability and works to get the victim’s trust, and then start grooming them.
                                                  • If there is a bidirectional interaction there is an opportunity for trafficking.
                                                  • Trafficking is most prominent in coastal and border areas, and in hubs that connect major cities, but it happens in every city.
                                                  • 4 Major Myths about Trafficking: 1) it doesn’t happen to men; 2) all traffickers are men; 3) trafficking only happens in far off lands; 4) trafficking only starts in parking lots.
                                                  • There are millions of individuals who have experienced Human Trafficking and the most important message we can give to these victims is that “You Are NOT Alone”.
                                                  • Their experiences do not define them but instead give them an opportunity to become victors. Sometimes, we must travel through the darkness in order to recognize the Light.
                                                  • Start loving yourself. Every day that we wake up, we are given yet another opportunity to be a better version of ourselves.
                                                  • It is so important that we love ourselves and that we take the time to say to ourselves, no matter what we’ve been through, no matter what mistakes we’ve made, that was yesterday.
                                                  • Mindset is everything. If we constantly degrade ourselves by negative self thoughts, we limit our view of what we can be. However, if we begin to view each day as a gift, an opportunity, then we can start to imagine ourselves being great. Then it will be so. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 1:4-5 In him was life and that life was the Light of all mankind. The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it. NIV
                                                  • Isaiah 42: 6-7 I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand, I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the nations, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. NIV
                                                  • Acts 13:46-47 Then Paul and Barnabus answered them boldly, “It was necessary to speak the word of God to you first. But since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. For this is what the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have made you a Light for the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” NIV

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dakota Fitzgerald is a Constitutional Republic Preservationist and advocate for the complete eradication of Human Trafficking. She has a background in Survival Training, Women’s Self Defense, Broadcast Journalism, Coding and Development and is currently a North American Cloud Strategist for a prominent IT company. Her mission is to bring together unique skills and perspectives to grow awareness and address the fastest growing global crime - Human Trafficking. She works within her local community to shine light on this issue, provide inspiration and hope to others and to be a voice for the voiceless. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Human trafficking is a much bigger issue than most people realize. Today we’re going to be talking with an expert who can shed some light on this global epidemic and provide us some hope for better understanding human trafficking, how we can help, and what needs to be done for ending human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

                                                  Today’s guest is currently a North American Cloud Strategist with a background in Broadcast Journalism and Coding and Development. She is also an advocate for the complete eradication of Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation in South Carolina and across the globe. As a Constitutional Republic Preservationist she believes We the People are the solution and through Christ we can do all things. Together we can return our Nation to God, and He can heal our land. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Through many trials and tribulations, I have made many mistakes but have learned from each of them. I now view challenges as an opportunity to overcome and bring glory to God.
                                                  • We often see a misconception in society around Human Trafficking. In order to efficiently combat this atrocity we need to inform, educate, and shift the mindset associated with this issue. We also need to focus on loving one another better, setting one another up for success from the beginning by laying a firm foundation of Faith. This alone will help to combat Human Trafficking.
                                                  • Awareness is where we start the fight against human trafficking.
                                                  • There are four main types of human sex trafficking: peer trafficking, familial trafficking, gang trafficking, and survival trafficking.
                                                  • The United States is the #1 buyer of trafficking victims with over a $90 billion annual revenue stream.
                                                  • Trafficking starts at a point of vulnerability and works to get the victim’s trust, and then start grooming them.
                                                  • If there is a bidirectional interaction there is an opportunity for trafficking.
                                                  • Trafficking is most prominent in coastal and border areas, and in hubs that connect major cities, but it happens in every city.
                                                  • 4 Major Myths about Trafficking: 1) it doesn’t happen to men; 2) all traffickers are men; 3) trafficking only happens in far off lands; 4) trafficking only starts in parking lots.
                                                  • There are millions of individuals who have experienced Human Trafficking and the most important message we can give to these victims is that “You Are NOT Alone”.
                                                  • Their experiences do not define them but instead give them an opportunity to become victors. Sometimes, we must travel through the darkness in order to recognize the Light.
                                                  • Start loving yourself. Every day that we wake up, we are given yet another opportunity to be a better version of ourselves.
                                                  • It is so important that we love ourselves and that we take the time to say to ourselves, no matter what we’ve been through, no matter what mistakes we’ve made, that was yesterday.
                                                  • Mindset is everything. If we constantly degrade ourselves by negative self thoughts, we limit our view of what we can be. However, if we begin to view each day as a gift, an opportunity, then we can start to imagine ourselves being great. Then it will be so. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 1:4-5 In him was life and that life was the Light of all mankind. The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it. NIV
                                                  • Isaiah 42: 6-7 I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand, I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the nations, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. NIV
                                                  • Acts 13:46-47 Then Paul and Barnabus answered them boldly, “It was necessary to speak the word of God to you first. But since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. For this is what the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have made you a Light for the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” NIV

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dakota Fitzgerald is a Constitutional Republic Preservationist and advocate for the complete eradication of Human Trafficking. She has a background in Survival Training, Women’s Self Defense, Broadcast Journalism, Coding and Development and is currently a North American Cloud Strategist for a prominent IT company. Her mission is to bring together unique skills and perspectives to grow awareness and address the fastest growing global crime - Human Trafficking. She works within her local community to shine light on this issue, provide inspiration and hope to others and to be a voice for the voiceless. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Human trafficking is a much bigger issue than most people realize. Today we’re going to be talking with an expert who can shed some light on this global epidemic and provide us some hope for better understanding human... full 218 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ba6b3313-74ad-4671-95ff-85fbbf86605e ca16343a-e2b7-4a22-8442-b28701161b44 Thu, 15 Jun 2023 10:30:00 +0000 3304 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/218-hope-for-ending-human-trafficking                                                   217 How to be Mentally Healthy 217 How to be Mentally Healthy Episode Summary: 

                                                  Statistics from Lifeway Research reveal that 49% of pastors admit they rarely or never speak to their congregation about mental illness. And 35% of Americans say mental illness could be overcome with Bible study and prayer alone, revealing perhaps a stigma attached to therapy, meditation, and/or medical treatment needed for the one in five Americans who suffer from mental illness. Join me with Stacey McDonald as we talk about how to be mentally healthy.

                                                  My guest’s lived experience shaped her to empower others to have open and honest conversations regarding mental health and hope for the 65% of churchgoing family members who desire for their church to talk openly about mental health conditions.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  Having a father with schizophrenia, as well as my own personal battle with depression, mental health awareness is more than my lived experience—it is my call and passion.

                                                  Mental health is how effectively you are able to live in your own skin emotionally, psychologically, and socially…it is the one driving force in your life that affects every critical area.

                                                  When something goes wrong with the body, we do not normally question our salvation. Unfortunately, when something goes wrong with the mind, we often question our faith!

                                                  Mental health and the gospel have never been mutually exclusive. “Gospel” simply means good news! There is good news among the sleepless nights, intrusive thoughts, broken relationships, and broken hearts.

                                                  Mental health is your ability to understand and process information and experiences, while emotional health is your ability to manage and express feelings related to those experiences and information.

                                                  Younger generations have focused exclusively on how they feel rather than on critical information or objective faith. God wants us to focus on His goodness in our lives, show gratitude even in the midst of our struggles, and trust Him that He cares for us unconditionally.

                                                  There is hope and help to be found in the timeless and precious Word of God. Our Bible never leaves us in the dark concerning good news for our souls, our bodies, and our mental health. God loves us without restraint or conditions. 

                                                  God loves us well. He loves us when we are sick. And he does not abandon us based on the category, source, condition, or consequences of our sickness. Quite the contrary, God is near to the brokenhearted. 

                                                  It is okay not to be okay, but it’s not okay to ignore the tools and strategies that nourish mental health. 

                                                  If you do not build your mental health, the big bad wolf of trouble, sickness, change, loss, heartache, and betrayal will blow and your whole house may come crashing down. These winds will blow regardless of your religious affiliation, skin color, socio-economic status, and pedigree, but they do not have to destroy you. 

                                                  From sleepless nights to anxiety filled days, from the pain of hurt to the shame of mistakes, the heart must heal. The mind must find peace.

                                                  God reveals the key to happiness: He inspires His people to be grateful!

                                                  Because you are cut emotionally does not mean you have to settle for an emotional infection. Prevention is better than searching for a cure.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Proverbs 6:4 Don’t put it off; do it now!

                                                  Proverbs 14:30 A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body 

                                                  Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Stacey McDonald:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn / YouTube / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Stacey McDonald is an evangelist, practicing school psychologist, author, public speaker, and former lead pastor of ten years. She has trained ministers for leadership, equipping them for ministerial success in and out of the pulpit and provided biblical counseling to families, couples, and youth resulting in healthy minds and healthy homes. She provides mental health workshops and seminars for businesses, schools and places of worship and hosts weekly live streamed mental health empowerment sessions on leading social media platforms.  

                                                  The infinite potential born from pain is nothing short of miraculous, and to be a midwife to such encouraged her writing of The Gospel of Mental Health: From Mental Hell to Mental Wellness with an accompanying journal and workbook. You can learn more about Stacey at www.TheGospelOfMentalHealth.org. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Statistics from Lifeway Research reveal that 49% of pastors admit they rarely or never speak to their congregation about mental illness. And 35% of Americans say mental illness could be overcome with Bible study and prayer alone, revealing perhaps a stigma attached to therapy, meditation, and/or medical treatment needed for the one in five Americans who suffer from mental illness. Join me with Stacey McDonald as we talk about how to be mentally healthy.

                                                  My guest’s lived experience shaped her to empower others to have open and honest conversations regarding mental health and hope for the 65% of churchgoing family members who desire for their church to talk openly about mental health conditions.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  Having a father with schizophrenia, as well as my own personal battle with depression, mental health awareness is more than my lived experience—it is my call and passion.

                                                  Mental health is how effectively you are able to live in your own skin emotionally, psychologically, and socially…it is the one driving force in your life that affects every critical area.

                                                  When something goes wrong with the body, we do not normally question our salvation. Unfortunately, when something goes wrong with the mind, we often question our faith!

                                                  Mental health and the gospel have never been mutually exclusive. “Gospel” simply means good news! There is good news among the sleepless nights, intrusive thoughts, broken relationships, and broken hearts.

                                                  Mental health is your ability to understand and process information and experiences, while emotional health is your ability to manage and express feelings related to those experiences and information.

                                                  Younger generations have focused exclusively on how they feel rather than on critical information or objective faith. God wants us to focus on His goodness in our lives, show gratitude even in the midst of our struggles, and trust Him that He cares for us unconditionally.

                                                  There is hope and help to be found in the timeless and precious Word of God. Our Bible never leaves us in the dark concerning good news for our souls, our bodies, and our mental health. God loves us without restraint or conditions. 

                                                  God loves us well. He loves us when we are sick. And he does not abandon us based on the category, source, condition, or consequences of our sickness. Quite the contrary, God is near to the brokenhearted. 

                                                  It is okay not to be okay, but it’s not okay to ignore the tools and strategies that nourish mental health. 

                                                  If you do not build your mental health, the big bad wolf of trouble, sickness, change, loss, heartache, and betrayal will blow and your whole house may come crashing down. These winds will blow regardless of your religious affiliation, skin color, socio-economic status, and pedigree, but they do not have to destroy you. 

                                                  From sleepless nights to anxiety filled days, from the pain of hurt to the shame of mistakes, the heart must heal. The mind must find peace.

                                                  God reveals the key to happiness: He inspires His people to be grateful!

                                                  Because you are cut emotionally does not mean you have to settle for an emotional infection. Prevention is better than searching for a cure.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Proverbs 6:4 Don’t put it off; do it now!

                                                  Proverbs 14:30 A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body 

                                                  Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Stacey McDonald:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn / YouTube / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Stacey McDonald is an evangelist, practicing school psychologist, author, public speaker, and former lead pastor of ten years. She has trained ministers for leadership, equipping them for ministerial success in and out of the pulpit and provided biblical counseling to families, couples, and youth resulting in healthy minds and healthy homes. She provides mental health workshops and seminars for businesses, schools and places of worship and hosts weekly live streamed mental health empowerment sessions on leading social media platforms.  

                                                  The infinite potential born from pain is nothing short of miraculous, and to be a midwife to such encouraged her writing of The Gospel of Mental Health: From Mental Hell to Mental Wellness with an accompanying journal and workbook. You can learn more about Stacey at www.TheGospelOfMentalHealth.org. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Statistics from Lifeway Research reveal that 49% of pastors admit they rarely or never speak to their congregation about mental illness. And 35% of Americans say mental illness could be overcome with Bible study and prayer... full 217 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 69584f13-3134-47a1-8c26-6457c4344601 03982d28-6684-41c7-8025-b287011621cd Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2547 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/217-how-to-be-mentally-healthy                                                   216 How a Positive Mindset Helps You Thrive as You Age 216 How a Positive Mindset Helps You Thrive as You Age Episode Summary: 

                                                  Unlock the secrets to thriving as you age. Join me with my guest, Brigitte Cutshall, a beacon of hope and resilience, who defied the odds and found the secret to thriving in the face of cancer and a rare brain tumor. We’ll explore the keys to maintaining a positive outlook, finding purpose, and embracing every day as a precious gift. A focus on hope is powerful!

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Hope helped me focus on what was important in life – my health and my family.
                                                  • Hope provided motivation to find the best solutions to overcome two major health crises.
                                                  • Remember to be in the moment and appreciate what you have.
                                                  • Start journaling, basically write your thoughts down. Doesn’t have to be publicly shared. This will help you review your thoughts and patterns.
                                                  • In order to thrive while aging, we have to focus on the good and the positive rather than the negative in our lives.
                                                  • Your body craves proper nutrition and regular physical exercise to heal.
                                                  • Being around others, you learn more about yourself.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Mark 9:23 ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”
                                                  • Psalm 71:14 As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.
                                                  • Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Brigitte Cutshall:

                                                  Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Brigitte Cutshall is the founder of Gemini Media, host of Real Things Living Podcast, a Health Advocate and focuses on delivering the best solutions to her clients. She’s an accomplished business development professional in the communications, publishing, and print management industry.

                                                  One of her goals is to inspire (and remind) others to embrace life now by focusing on what’s important to you. Everybody is dealing with something, and having the right perspective helps you deal with those challenges. Brigitte’s happened to be cancer and a rare brain tumor.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Unlock the secrets to thriving as you age. Join me with my guest, Brigitte Cutshall, a beacon of hope and resilience, who defied the odds and found the secret to thriving in the face of cancer and a rare brain tumor. We’ll explore the keys to maintaining a positive outlook, finding purpose, and embracing every day as a precious gift. A focus on hope is powerful!

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Hope helped me focus on what was important in life – my health and my family.
                                                  • Hope provided motivation to find the best solutions to overcome two major health crises.
                                                  • Remember to be in the moment and appreciate what you have.
                                                  • Start journaling, basically write your thoughts down. Doesn’t have to be publicly shared. This will help you review your thoughts and patterns.
                                                  • In order to thrive while aging, we have to focus on the good and the positive rather than the negative in our lives.
                                                  • Your body craves proper nutrition and regular physical exercise to heal.
                                                  • Being around others, you learn more about yourself.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Mark 9:23 ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”
                                                  • Psalm 71:14 As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.
                                                  • Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Brigitte Cutshall:

                                                  Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Brigitte Cutshall is the founder of Gemini Media, host of Real Things Living Podcast, a Health Advocate and focuses on delivering the best solutions to her clients. She’s an accomplished business development professional in the communications, publishing, and print management industry.

                                                  One of her goals is to inspire (and remind) others to embrace life now by focusing on what’s important to you. Everybody is dealing with something, and having the right perspective helps you deal with those challenges. Brigitte’s happened to be cancer and a rare brain tumor.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Unlock the secrets to thriving as you age. Join me with my guest, Brigitte Cutshall, a beacon of hope and resilience, who defied the odds and found the secret to thriving in the face of cancer and a rare brain tumor. We’ll... full 216 Dr. Michelle Bengtson b72dcf5e-5c06-4291-b08a-5a30b270cdf6 b5f9c46b-68a6-461c-be11-b287011628f7 Thu, 01 Jun 2023 10:30:00 +0000 1880 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/216-how-a-positive-mindset-helps-you-thrive-as-you                                                   215 Thriving in Marriage Spouse in the House 215 Thriving in Marriage Spouse in the House Episode Summary: 

                                                  Are you experiencing the empty nest stage of life or finding yourself constantly in close quarters with your spouse? If the 24/7 togetherness feels overwhelming, then this episode is for you! Join us as we delve into the secrets of thriving in marriage with a spouse in the house. Our special guest is Cynthia Ruchti, coauthor of the insightful book "Spouse in the House: Rearranging Our Attitudes to Make Room for Each Other." As fellow hope enthusiasts, I knew she would be the perfect guest on the program. Stay tuned for an inspiring and transformative conversation as we talk about How To Thrive in Marriage with a Spouse in the House.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • As much as people talk about preparing financially for retirement, and as heavily we emphasis pre-marital counseling, who was talking about preparing relationally for retirement or other life-events and seasons when a husband and wife experience more togetherness than normal.
                                                  • It is an adjustment to share the same space 24/7, work around each other’s routines, communicate expectations, and divide the chores.
                                                  • Not since the Industrial Revolution transformed American life from what had been largely agricultural and family-run businesses has there been such a seismic shift back to two spouses at home.
                                                  • “Any home, large or small, can feel like too tight quarters unless we learn how to relate to, appreciate, and work around each other’s personalities and preferences when a health need, job layoff, retirement, temporary circumstance, or new working arrangement results in both spouses in the house for long stretches of time.
                                                  • “A husband and wife can rub each other the wrong way, find there’s not enough oxygen in the house for both of them, and trip over each other’s physical and emotional ‘stuff.’ But there’s hope for every hurdle, and a joy possibility for every relationship jolt.”
                                                  • It helps to remember that our husband is our brother in Christ, so how the Bible says to treat our brothers and sisters in Christ is how we are to treat our spouse.
                                                  • No human can satisfy you like Jesus, and no human will not satisfy you. But Jesus is your rock.
                                                  • Decide to pre-forgive your spouse of anything they do to you in the future.
                                                  • The best way to handle the spouse in the house is to begin and end the day with them and Jesus.
                                                  • There’s no coasting in marriage. If we stop paddling, we don’t just stay still. We’re carried off to dangerous places or end up where we never intended to go.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 2:2 NIV—“Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.”
                                                  • Philippians 2:3 NIV—“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interest but each of you to the interests of the others.”
                                                  • Philippians 2:4. NIV—“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus…”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Cynthia Ruchti:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Cynthia Ruchti tells stories hemmed-in-hope through novels, nonfiction, and speaking events for women or writers. Since 2010, she’s released 37 books. Cynthia is a senior literary agent with Books and Such Literary Management. She and her husband live in the heart of Wisconsin, not far from their three kids and six grandkids. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Are you experiencing the empty nest stage of life or finding yourself constantly in close quarters with your spouse? If the 24/7 togetherness feels overwhelming, then this episode is for you! Join us as we delve into the secrets of thriving in marriage with a spouse in the house. Our special guest is Cynthia Ruchti, coauthor of the insightful book "Spouse in the House: Rearranging Our Attitudes to Make Room for Each Other." As fellow hope enthusiasts, I knew she would be the perfect guest on the program. Stay tuned for an inspiring and transformative conversation as we talk about How To Thrive in Marriage with a Spouse in the House.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • As much as people talk about preparing financially for retirement, and as heavily we emphasis pre-marital counseling, who was talking about preparing relationally for retirement or other life-events and seasons when a husband and wife experience more togetherness than normal.
                                                  • It is an adjustment to share the same space 24/7, work around each other’s routines, communicate expectations, and divide the chores.
                                                  • Not since the Industrial Revolution transformed American life from what had been largely agricultural and family-run businesses has there been such a seismic shift back to two spouses at home.
                                                  • “Any home, large or small, can feel like too tight quarters unless we learn how to relate to, appreciate, and work around each other’s personalities and preferences when a health need, job layoff, retirement, temporary circumstance, or new working arrangement results in both spouses in the house for long stretches of time.
                                                  • “A husband and wife can rub each other the wrong way, find there’s not enough oxygen in the house for both of them, and trip over each other’s physical and emotional ‘stuff.’ But there’s hope for every hurdle, and a joy possibility for every relationship jolt.”
                                                  • It helps to remember that our husband is our brother in Christ, so how the Bible says to treat our brothers and sisters in Christ is how we are to treat our spouse.
                                                  • No human can satisfy you like Jesus, and no human will not satisfy you. But Jesus is your rock.
                                                  • Decide to pre-forgive your spouse of anything they do to you in the future.
                                                  • The best way to handle the spouse in the house is to begin and end the day with them and Jesus.
                                                  • There’s no coasting in marriage. If we stop paddling, we don’t just stay still. We’re carried off to dangerous places or end up where we never intended to go.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 2:2 NIV—“Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.”
                                                  • Philippians 2:3 NIV—“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interest but each of you to the interests of the others.”
                                                  • Philippians 2:4. NIV—“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus…”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Cynthia Ruchti:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Cynthia Ruchti tells stories hemmed-in-hope through novels, nonfiction, and speaking events for women or writers. Since 2010, she’s released 37 books. Cynthia is a senior literary agent with Books and Such Literary Management. She and her husband live in the heart of Wisconsin, not far from their three kids and six grandkids. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Are you experiencing the empty nest stage of life or finding yourself constantly in close quarters with your spouse? If the 24/7 togetherness feels overwhelming, then this episode is for you! Join us as we delve into the secrets... full 215 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 73306b04-1612-4826-8fdd-c6dfa421a471 fc07640e-d23b-437f-a377-b28701162a06 Thu, 25 May 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2588 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/215-thriving-in-marriage-spouse-in-the-house                                                   214 How to Receive God’s Redeeming Grace 214 How to Receive God’s Redeeming Grace Episode Summary: 

                                                  We are perpetually insecure people. We struggle with self-esteem, recognize our fallenness, and find that in spite of our sinfulness, God chooses to use us…if we let Him. God often steps into our lives and gives us an opportunity to be part of His story. No matter who you are or what your story is, God’s effective grace can resurrect your life and point to Jesus. Join me with my guest, Tamar Miller, for how to receive God’s redeeming grace and live a life that glorifies him.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I found myself questioning the goodness and grace of God while begging Him to change my circumstances.
                                                  • There’s nothing you can do to earn God’s grace—it’s a gift to be received.
                                                  • Perseverance is key in any spiritual battle.
                                                  • No matter who or what you are, God can redeem your life.
                                                  • God’s redemptive grace and the timelessness of His goodness because of Jesus’ finished work on the cross and promise of eternal salvation.
                                                  • No matter who they are or what their story is, God’s effective grace has the power to impact and redeem their lives and point their stories to Christ and His gospel message, just like every story of the Bible does, similar to biblical women.
                                                  • The gospel message of Christ continues to change lives with the power to restore, reconcile, rescue, redeem, and resurrect, when all seems lost with no hope, because of God’s faithfulness to His Word and promises in Christ and displayed in His steadfast love, transformative grace, and magnificent mercy towards undeserving sinners.
                                                  • I try to remain honest, transparent, compassionate, but intentional to encourage them to cling to Christ and remain in a study of His Word every day.
                                                  • God’s ways do not always match our preferences, His purposeful and redemptive plan is for the sake of His glory and our ultimate good, even when all looks bleak.
                                                  • Read and study God’s Word and be intentional exploring one book of the Bible at a time. Ask questions, talk about it with other Christian friends, consider what you are learning about God, and then determine how the message of God’s Word might have you respond to your circumstances or relationships.
                                                  • God can choose any person He desires as a grace recipient to display His mercy and love in accordance with His plan of salvation.
                                                  • We are not promised tomorrow so today is the day to receive God’s grace.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Corinthians 15:9-11 (HCSB): “For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by God’s grace I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not ineffective. However, I worked more than any of them, yet not I, but God’s grace that was with me. Therefore, whether it is I or they, so we proclaim and so you have believed.”
                                                  • Romans 15:4 (ESV): “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”
                                                  • 1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace…in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tamar Miller:

                                                  Website

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tamar is a pastor’s wife of 25 years to a loving and patient husband, and mom of two wonderfully made teenage sons, one who lives with special needs. She considers marriage and motherhood her primary ministries from the Lord and is grateful for God’s redemptive grace shown to her within these roles.

                                                  Her desire is to glorify her heavenly Father, faithfully follow Jesus her Savior, and consistently study God’s Word. To help with that, she is thankful for and committed to her local church in SW Florida, where she’s been a member for the past 20 years. Over the past 18 years, she has served in Women’s Ministry as a Bible teacher, ministry leader, and guest speaker at women’s events. Currently, she also serves part-time on staff at a K-12 Christian school and enjoys volunteering in their campus library. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  We are perpetually insecure people. We struggle with self-esteem, recognize our fallenness, and find that in spite of our sinfulness, God chooses to use us…if we let Him. God often steps into our lives and gives us an opportunity to be part of His story. No matter who you are or what your story is, God’s effective grace can resurrect your life and point to Jesus. Join me with my guest, Tamar Miller, for how to receive God’s redeeming grace and live a life that glorifies him.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I found myself questioning the goodness and grace of God while begging Him to change my circumstances.
                                                  • There’s nothing you can do to earn God’s grace—it’s a gift to be received.
                                                  • Perseverance is key in any spiritual battle.
                                                  • No matter who or what you are, God can redeem your life.
                                                  • God’s redemptive grace and the timelessness of His goodness because of Jesus’ finished work on the cross and promise of eternal salvation.
                                                  • No matter who they are or what their story is, God’s effective grace has the power to impact and redeem their lives and point their stories to Christ and His gospel message, just like every story of the Bible does, similar to biblical women.
                                                  • The gospel message of Christ continues to change lives with the power to restore, reconcile, rescue, redeem, and resurrect, when all seems lost with no hope, because of God’s faithfulness to His Word and promises in Christ and displayed in His steadfast love, transformative grace, and magnificent mercy towards undeserving sinners.
                                                  • I try to remain honest, transparent, compassionate, but intentional to encourage them to cling to Christ and remain in a study of His Word every day.
                                                  • God’s ways do not always match our preferences, His purposeful and redemptive plan is for the sake of His glory and our ultimate good, even when all looks bleak.
                                                  • Read and study God’s Word and be intentional exploring one book of the Bible at a time. Ask questions, talk about it with other Christian friends, consider what you are learning about God, and then determine how the message of God’s Word might have you respond to your circumstances or relationships.
                                                  • God can choose any person He desires as a grace recipient to display His mercy and love in accordance with His plan of salvation.
                                                  • We are not promised tomorrow so today is the day to receive God’s grace.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Corinthians 15:9-11 (HCSB): “For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by God’s grace I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not ineffective. However, I worked more than any of them, yet not I, but God’s grace that was with me. Therefore, whether it is I or they, so we proclaim and so you have believed.”
                                                  • Romans 15:4 (ESV): “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”
                                                  • 1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace…in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tamar Miller:

                                                  Website

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tamar is a pastor’s wife of 25 years to a loving and patient husband, and mom of two wonderfully made teenage sons, one who lives with special needs. She considers marriage and motherhood her primary ministries from the Lord and is grateful for God’s redemptive grace shown to her within these roles.

                                                  Her desire is to glorify her heavenly Father, faithfully follow Jesus her Savior, and consistently study God’s Word. To help with that, she is thankful for and committed to her local church in SW Florida, where she’s been a member for the past 20 years. Over the past 18 years, she has served in Women’s Ministry as a Bible teacher, ministry leader, and guest speaker at women’s events. Currently, she also serves part-time on staff at a K-12 Christian school and enjoys volunteering in their campus library. 

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  We are perpetually insecure people. We struggle with self-esteem, recognize our fallenness, and find that in spite of our sinfulness, God chooses to use us…if we let Him. God often steps into our lives and gives us an... full 214 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6df19a3f-4880-40c5-8b1f-efba3cb54720 fbf8790d-deac-408c-9d11-b287011652b5 Thu, 18 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2333 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/214-how-to-receive-god-s-redeeming-grace                                                   213 Adult Children: How To Parent When They Choose a Different Path 213 Adult Children: How To Parent When They Choose a Different Path Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you have grown up or adult children? Have you felt that parenting adult children offers different opportunities and challenges than parenting young children? What about the challenges of parenting wayward adult children or parenting adult children even when they choose a different path than you would have chosen for them? Join me with my guest, Mary DeMuth, for an encouraging episode on Parenting Adult Children Even When They Choose a Different Path.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Part of the reason parenting adult children is so hard is because we haven’t been given good examples of parenting adult children.
                                                  • Make your conversations with your adult children rooted in curiosity to find a common ground without compromising your theology.
                                                  • When our adult children choose a different path than we would choose for them, we can either blame God or run to God.
                                                  • Shared grief with other parents who understand lessens our grief.
                                                  • God is a perfect parent who had the first rebellious adult children.
                                                  • God understands. He has empathy. He had adult wayward kids, too.
                                                  • I often go back to the book’s structure which is based on 1 Corinthians 13 where Paul unpacks what love is. Studying that has helped me truly connect with and love my adult kids.
                                                  • The enemy has victory when we have wayward children, so we have to determine that he will not have victory over us as well.
                                                  • You can still love your adult child but have a different opinion.
                                                  • Remember, someone else’s choices are not your fault.
                                                  • Prayer is a relationship and oxygen for our lives.
                                                  • If you’re struggling with a wayward adult kid, talk it through with a safe person.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 NLT Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Mary DeMuth:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Twitter / Facebook / Pinterest / Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Mary DeMuth is an international speaker, a podcaster, and the author of over forty books, fiction and nonfiction, including The Day I Met Jesus. Through God’s healing, Mary has overcome a difficult past to become an authentic example of what it means to live a brand-new story. She loves to help others “re-story” their lives through the books she writes. Mary lives in Texas with her husband of 30 years and is Mom to three adult children.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you have grown up or adult children? Have you felt that parenting adult children offers different opportunities and challenges than parenting young children? What about the challenges of parenting wayward adult children or parenting adult children even when they choose a different path than you would have chosen for them? Join me with my guest, Mary DeMuth, for an encouraging episode on Parenting Adult Children Even When They Choose a Different Path.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Part of the reason parenting adult children is so hard is because we haven’t been given good examples of parenting adult children.
                                                  • Make your conversations with your adult children rooted in curiosity to find a common ground without compromising your theology.
                                                  • When our adult children choose a different path than we would choose for them, we can either blame God or run to God.
                                                  • Shared grief with other parents who understand lessens our grief.
                                                  • God is a perfect parent who had the first rebellious adult children.
                                                  • God understands. He has empathy. He had adult wayward kids, too.
                                                  • I often go back to the book’s structure which is based on 1 Corinthians 13 where Paul unpacks what love is. Studying that has helped me truly connect with and love my adult kids.
                                                  • The enemy has victory when we have wayward children, so we have to determine that he will not have victory over us as well.
                                                  • You can still love your adult child but have a different opinion.
                                                  • Remember, someone else’s choices are not your fault.
                                                  • Prayer is a relationship and oxygen for our lives.
                                                  • If you’re struggling with a wayward adult kid, talk it through with a safe person.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 NLT Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Mary DeMuth:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Twitter / Facebook / Pinterest / Podcast

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Mary DeMuth is an international speaker, a podcaster, and the author of over forty books, fiction and nonfiction, including The Day I Met Jesus. Through God’s healing, Mary has overcome a difficult past to become an authentic example of what it means to live a brand-new story. She loves to help others “re-story” their lives through the books she writes. Mary lives in Texas with her husband of 30 years and is Mom to three adult children.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Do you have grown up or adult children? Have you felt that parenting adult children offers different opportunities and challenges than parenting young children? What about the challenges of parenting wayward adult children or... full 213 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 4484439f-f8d4-4368-9965-4f24a5473ed1 3e84d5ba-21ab-4923-83f8-b2870116352a Thu, 11 May 2023 10:30:00 +0000 1829 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/213-adult-children-how-to-parent-when-they-choose                                                   212 Christian Women Porn Addiction & Sexual Sin 212 Christian Women Porn Addiction & Sexual Sin Episode Summary: 

                                                  Lust is a man’s problem, right? Wrong. When we see lust as an exclusively male issue, it leaves Christian women with nowhere to turn when they struggle with the same things. A 2016 Barna study found 20 percent of Christian women use porn regularly. These women suffer silently and often feel alone with nowhere to turn. There are numerous resources for men struggling, but not women. Today’s guest, Jessica Harris, made it her mission to break the silence, banish the shame, and bring women’s struggles into the light of God’s grace and forgiveness. Jessica and I talk about how Christian women can overcome porn addiction and sexual shame. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • With the advent of the internet came pornography accessibility to women.
                                                  • At the core of pornography addiction is loneliness, pressure to go further into other sexual exploits and harm.
                                                  • Often, those who struggle with porn addiction are searching for comfort, for belonging, and even the desire to disappear. Their worth, value, and identity become wrapped up and all about sex.
                                                  • Pornography divorces sex and intimacy.
                                                  • God has grace for women who struggle with pornography and/or sexual shame.
                                                  • Women who struggle with pornography can have a vibrant, abundant, and full life and future.
                                                  • We are image bearers of God, so our worth comes from Christ. He loves us and bought us with a price.
                                                  • The 3 signposts of shame are: 1) warning sign: during which there is an absorption with self; 2) Flight from exposure: we isolate from others to minimize the same; 3) Violence: we lash out and protect what we try to hide.
                                                  • Shame isolates; whereas God welcomes us into holiness.
                                                  • What hope do we have if we believe that the Giver of freedom wants nothing to do with us?
                                                  • The message Christian women need isn’t “stop watching porn” or “porn is bad and contributes to human trafficking” etc. Instead, what they need is a reminder of God’s grace and to know that shame is trying to keep them from the one relationship they need in order to experience true life-giving freedom.
                                                  • Grace is something we need every single day. Every single one of us. It doesn’t matter our backstory, shame is always looking for a way to separate us from God, isolate us, and drive us back into the comforts we once knew (sin).
                                                  • There is grace and freedom to be found by drawing nearer to God not hiding from Him.
                                                  • When you are in the thick of a pornography addiction, or even in the beginning of trying to break free, it can feel like a battle you will never win. It can feel like you are going to spend the rest of your life actively fighting this, and I would want them to know that is not the case.
                                                  • Christ offers us freedom and abundant life and science itself has even proven that our minds and bodies can heal. So while the ideal picture of freedom might seem impossible right now, it’s not impossible. Nothing is impossible with God.
                                                  • Shame, by its nature, isolates. It drives us into darkness and into secrecy and we lie to ourselves when we try to convince ourselves we can find freedom on our own. Part of freedom is found in community.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 4:13-14 ESV “Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
                                                  • John 10:10 HCSB “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
                                                  • John 15:4 ESV “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Harris:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Harris is a writer and international speaker who talks openly and honestly about pornography addiction among Christian women in order to facilitate healing. She is recognized as a leading voice on the topic of female porn use and addiction in the church.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Lust is a man’s problem, right? Wrong. When we see lust as an exclusively male issue, it leaves Christian women with nowhere to turn when they struggle with the same things. A 2016 Barna study found 20 percent of Christian women use porn regularly. These women suffer silently and often feel alone with nowhere to turn. There are numerous resources for men struggling, but not women. Today’s guest, Jessica Harris, made it her mission to break the silence, banish the shame, and bring women’s struggles into the light of God’s grace and forgiveness. Jessica and I talk about how Christian women can overcome porn addiction and sexual shame. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • With the advent of the internet came pornography accessibility to women.
                                                  • At the core of pornography addiction is loneliness, pressure to go further into other sexual exploits and harm.
                                                  • Often, those who struggle with porn addiction are searching for comfort, for belonging, and even the desire to disappear. Their worth, value, and identity become wrapped up and all about sex.
                                                  • Pornography divorces sex and intimacy.
                                                  • God has grace for women who struggle with pornography and/or sexual shame.
                                                  • Women who struggle with pornography can have a vibrant, abundant, and full life and future.
                                                  • We are image bearers of God, so our worth comes from Christ. He loves us and bought us with a price.
                                                  • The 3 signposts of shame are: 1) warning sign: during which there is an absorption with self; 2) Flight from exposure: we isolate from others to minimize the same; 3) Violence: we lash out and protect what we try to hide.
                                                  • Shame isolates; whereas God welcomes us into holiness.
                                                  • What hope do we have if we believe that the Giver of freedom wants nothing to do with us?
                                                  • The message Christian women need isn’t “stop watching porn” or “porn is bad and contributes to human trafficking” etc. Instead, what they need is a reminder of God’s grace and to know that shame is trying to keep them from the one relationship they need in order to experience true life-giving freedom.
                                                  • Grace is something we need every single day. Every single one of us. It doesn’t matter our backstory, shame is always looking for a way to separate us from God, isolate us, and drive us back into the comforts we once knew (sin).
                                                  • There is grace and freedom to be found by drawing nearer to God not hiding from Him.
                                                  • When you are in the thick of a pornography addiction, or even in the beginning of trying to break free, it can feel like a battle you will never win. It can feel like you are going to spend the rest of your life actively fighting this, and I would want them to know that is not the case.
                                                  • Christ offers us freedom and abundant life and science itself has even proven that our minds and bodies can heal. So while the ideal picture of freedom might seem impossible right now, it’s not impossible. Nothing is impossible with God.
                                                  • Shame, by its nature, isolates. It drives us into darkness and into secrecy and we lie to ourselves when we try to convince ourselves we can find freedom on our own. Part of freedom is found in community.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 4:13-14 ESV “Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
                                                  • John 10:10 HCSB “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
                                                  • John 15:4 ESV “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Harris:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica Harris is a writer and international speaker who talks openly and honestly about pornography addiction among Christian women in order to facilitate healing. She is recognized as a leading voice on the topic of female porn use and addiction in the church.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Lust is a man’s problem, right? Wrong. When we see lust as an exclusively male issue, it leaves Christian women with nowhere to turn when they struggle with the same things. A 2016 Barna study found 20 percent of Christian... full 212 Dr. Michelle Bengtson cdde7d01-8514-4e6b-8d92-4ad88febf9d5 302ec0d1-7df6-4a48-91e7-b287011637d1 Thu, 04 May 2023 10:30:00 +0000 3305 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/212-christian-women-porn-addiction-sexual-sin                                                   211 How to Change Your Thinking and Change Your Life 211 How to Change Your Thinking and Change Your Life Episode Summary: 

                                                  Our thought life determines our whole life. The enemy wants us to feel defeated, rejected, and defenseless. But Jesus offers a truth that sets us free and when seized in a mind, has the power to transform us to a whole new way of living. The mind of Christ can change everything if you let it. The size of your God far outweighs any issues in your mind. Join me with Kelly Balarie for how to change your thinking and change your life.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I believed I was how I thought or how I felt. I had to learn to rule over my emotions with the Word of God.
                                                  • We need to mind our mind.
                                                  • Not taking thoughts captive leaves us dry and parched.
                                                  • Shame comes against us, but Jesus offers grace and mercy. Jesus rejected the shame so we can also with the mind of Christ.
                                                  • Conviction leads to restoration through repentance.
                                                  • Mercy covers our mistakes. God’s grace equips, empowers, and enables us, and God then does the impossible work through us.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kelly Balarie:

                                                  Website / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kelly Balarie is the author of Fear Fighting, Battle Ready, and Rest Now. When speaking at women's conferences around the nation, Kelly delights in joining hands with women as they go through life's ups and downs. To see marriages restored, hope recovered, and prayers of faith lifted up to a God on the move are some of her greatest joys. Beyond this, Kelly has led spiritual growth Bible study groups and has been seen on TODAY, The 700 Club, Crosswalk.com, iBelieve.com, and (in)courage. Her work has also been featured by Relevant and Today's Christian Woman. She lives with her husband and two kiddos on the East Coast.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Our thought life determines our whole life. The enemy wants us to feel defeated, rejected, and defenseless. But Jesus offers a truth that sets us free and when seized in a mind, has the power to transform us to a whole new way of living. The mind of Christ can change everything if you let it. The size of your God far outweighs any issues in your mind. Join me with Kelly Balarie for how to change your thinking and change your life.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I believed I was how I thought or how I felt. I had to learn to rule over my emotions with the Word of God.
                                                  • We need to mind our mind.
                                                  • Not taking thoughts captive leaves us dry and parched.
                                                  • Shame comes against us, but Jesus offers grace and mercy. Jesus rejected the shame so we can also with the mind of Christ.
                                                  • Conviction leads to restoration through repentance.
                                                  • Mercy covers our mistakes. God’s grace equips, empowers, and enables us, and God then does the impossible work through us.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kelly Balarie:

                                                  Website / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kelly Balarie is the author of Fear Fighting, Battle Ready, and Rest Now. When speaking at women's conferences around the nation, Kelly delights in joining hands with women as they go through life's ups and downs. To see marriages restored, hope recovered, and prayers of faith lifted up to a God on the move are some of her greatest joys. Beyond this, Kelly has led spiritual growth Bible study groups and has been seen on TODAY, The 700 Club, Crosswalk.com, iBelieve.com, and (in)courage. Her work has also been featured by Relevant and Today's Christian Woman. She lives with her husband and two kiddos on the East Coast.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Our thought life determines our whole life. The enemy wants us to feel defeated, rejected, and defenseless. But Jesus offers a truth that sets us free and when seized in a mind, has the power to transform us to a whole new way... full 211 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9cb8ed3b-d775-4cf8-87de-3188eb88b442 41679925-52e5-4b0e-9730-b28701163c86 Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2577 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/211-how-to-change-your-thinking-and-change-your-li                                                   210 Living Purposefully: Paying Attention to the Right Things 210 Living Purposefully: Paying Attention to the Right Things Episode Summary: 

                                                  Every TV show, YouTube channel, podcast, social media platform, News broadcast, social media influencer—all strategically want one thing: your attention. In today’s world of endless hurry and distraction, we have difficulty focusing on what's important, and spend most of our days seeing and hearing without truly paying attention.

                                                  Our lives are full of meaning—yet we miss the giant revelations, ideas, and truths right in front of us because we weren't actually looking for them. We must fight to pay attention period to the right things period to things of worth and meaning period to changing the way we see our day so that we can truly see it for the gift it is. Paul Angone and I talk about living purposefully in a busy chaotic world that’s clamoring for our attention.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  In today’s world of endless hurry and distraction, we have difficulty focusing on what's important, and spend most of our days seeing and hearing without truly paying attention. 

                                                  Our lives are full of meaning—yet we miss the giant revelations, ideas, and truths right in front of us because we weren't actually looking for them.

                                                  We must fight to pay attention period to the right things period to things of worth and meaning period to changing the way we see our day so that we can truly see it for the gift it is.

                                                  To intentionally pay attention: turn off notifications, push past the boredom and awkwardness, set limits and be disciplined, ask yourself WHY you are giving your attention to whatever is distracting you.

                                                  All love starts with paying proper attention to someone.

                                                  Networking is really relationship-ing—building relationship with others.

                                                  Attention is a currency that we pay to others.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Paul Angone: 

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Paul Angone is one of the nation's most trusted and sought after voices to young professionals, people going through change and transitions, and those looking to live more intentional lives. The best selling author of 101 Secrets for Your Twenties, and 25 Lies Twentysomethings Need to Stop Believing, Paul is a dynamic keynote speaker at universities, corporations, and churches nationwide. 

                                                  Paul is an organizational consultant with a master’s degree in organizational leadership, a keynote speaker, and a millennial influencer who specializes in helping companies attract, retain, develop, and harness the best strings of the millennial and Gen Z generations. He lives just outside Denver Co with his wife Naomi, and their four children.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Every TV show, YouTube channel, podcast, social media platform, News broadcast, social media influencer—all strategically want one thing: your attention. In today’s world of endless hurry and distraction, we have difficulty focusing on what's important, and spend most of our days seeing and hearing without truly paying attention.

                                                  Our lives are full of meaning—yet we miss the giant revelations, ideas, and truths right in front of us because we weren't actually looking for them. We must fight to pay attention period to the right things period to things of worth and meaning period to changing the way we see our day so that we can truly see it for the gift it is. Paul Angone and I talk about living purposefully in a busy chaotic world that’s clamoring for our attention.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  In today’s world of endless hurry and distraction, we have difficulty focusing on what's important, and spend most of our days seeing and hearing without truly paying attention. 

                                                  Our lives are full of meaning—yet we miss the giant revelations, ideas, and truths right in front of us because we weren't actually looking for them.

                                                  We must fight to pay attention period to the right things period to things of worth and meaning period to changing the way we see our day so that we can truly see it for the gift it is.

                                                  To intentionally pay attention: turn off notifications, push past the boredom and awkwardness, set limits and be disciplined, ask yourself WHY you are giving your attention to whatever is distracting you.

                                                  All love starts with paying proper attention to someone.

                                                  Networking is really relationship-ing—building relationship with others.

                                                  Attention is a currency that we pay to others.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Paul Angone: 

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Paul Angone is one of the nation's most trusted and sought after voices to young professionals, people going through change and transitions, and those looking to live more intentional lives. The best selling author of 101 Secrets for Your Twenties, and 25 Lies Twentysomethings Need to Stop Believing, Paul is a dynamic keynote speaker at universities, corporations, and churches nationwide. 

                                                  Paul is an organizational consultant with a master’s degree in organizational leadership, a keynote speaker, and a millennial influencer who specializes in helping companies attract, retain, develop, and harness the best strings of the millennial and Gen Z generations. He lives just outside Denver Co with his wife Naomi, and their four children.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Every TV show, YouTube channel, podcast, social media platform, News broadcast, social media influencer—all strategically want one thing: your attention. In today’s world of endless hurry and distraction, we have difficulty... full 210 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 4e88f23e-4c5a-4bc8-bc1f-43a10088b3aa 7947e03a-edeb-45d4-a5c9-b287011662bf Thu, 20 Apr 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2104 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/210-living-purposefully-paying-attention-to-the-ri                                                   209 How To Trust in the Lord with all your Heart, Relinquish Control and Put your Hope in God 209 How To Trust in the Lord with all your Heart, Relinquish Control and Put your Hope in God Episode Summary:

                                                  Bad things happen. People wound us. Friends let us down. Trust issues with people can become trust issues with God. Scripture tells us to trust the Lord with all our heart. But how do we do that? My guest, Joanna Weaver, invites you to trust in the Lord with all your heart. Relinquishing control and putting your hope in a forever-faithful Father--that's the beautiful secret of unshakeable faith.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Trusting God is the key to a victorious Christian life
                                                  • As you let go in surrender, God will enable you to hold on in faith so that you’re no longer dominated by fear and doubt.
                                                  • As we embrace trust, we embrace God—and it leaves us forever changed.
                                                  • We must learn to believe in God’s love, goodness, and power despite the difficulties we face.
                                                  • We must stop chasing blessings and embrace contentment.
                                                  • Pray God-sized prayers so that He can be revealed in God-sized answers.
                                                  • In a very real sense, trust is God’s love language. Nothing brings Him more joy than when we put our hope and trust fully in Him.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Joanna Weaver:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Joanna Weaver is the author of Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, which has sold over a million copies. Other books include Having a Mary Spirit, Lazarus Awakening, and a devotional, At the Feet of Jesus. Her books and companion DVD Bible studies have been used by hundreds of churches as well as home groups and individuals. Joanna loves being a pastor’s wife and mother of three. The Weavers reside in the beautiful “Big Sky” state of Montana.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Bad things happen. People wound us. Friends let us down. Trust issues with people can become trust issues with God. Scripture tells us to trust the Lord with all our heart. But how do we do that? My guest, Joanna Weaver, invites you to trust in the Lord with all your heart. Relinquishing control and putting your hope in a forever-faithful Father--that's the beautiful secret of unshakeable faith.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Trusting God is the key to a victorious Christian life
                                                  • As you let go in surrender, God will enable you to hold on in faith so that you’re no longer dominated by fear and doubt.
                                                  • As we embrace trust, we embrace God—and it leaves us forever changed.
                                                  • We must learn to believe in God’s love, goodness, and power despite the difficulties we face.
                                                  • We must stop chasing blessings and embrace contentment.
                                                  • Pray God-sized prayers so that He can be revealed in God-sized answers.
                                                  • In a very real sense, trust is God’s love language. Nothing brings Him more joy than when we put our hope and trust fully in Him.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. 

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Joanna Weaver:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Joanna Weaver is the author of Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, which has sold over a million copies. Other books include Having a Mary Spirit, Lazarus Awakening, and a devotional, At the Feet of Jesus. Her books and companion DVD Bible studies have been used by hundreds of churches as well as home groups and individuals. Joanna loves being a pastor’s wife and mother of three. The Weavers reside in the beautiful “Big Sky” state of Montana.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Bad things happen. People wound us. Friends let us down. Trust issues with people can become trust issues with God. Scripture tells us to trust the Lord with all our heart. But how do we do that? My guest, Joanna Weaver, invites you... full 209 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f506f486-3e2c-4414-9686-11b8b2dca46f 26b88bc1-2caf-43e1-a0ee-b28701166229 Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2876 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/209-how-to-trust-in-the-lord-with-all-your-heart-r                                                   208 How To Stop Thinking Negative Thoughts 208 How To Stop Thinking Negative Thoughts Episode Summary:

                                                  Do you ever find yourself falling into a trap of thinking negative thoughts? Have you ever wondered how to control your negative thoughts? It is possible, and that’s what my guest, Tracy Taris, and I talk about in this episode: how to stop negative thoughts. 

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our negative thinking usually comes as a result of our life experiences, beliefs, and messages we come into agreement with.
                                                  • Healing comes in layers.
                                                  • When we find it hard to hear from God, we need to assess what is God competing with? Are we quieting distractions to hear from him?
                                                  • Any thought not of God has to obey the name of Jesus.
                                                  • Negative thinking reflects some pain point that needs to be dealt with.
                                                  • We have a tendency to perseverate on negative thoughts, but instead, we can choose to perseverate on positive thoughts consistent with Philippians 4:8.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” (ESV)
                                                  • Mark 9:23 Jesus said to him, “What do you mean ‘if’? If you are able to believe, all things are possible to the believer.” (TPT)
                                                  • John 4:42 They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (NIV)

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tracy Taris:

                                                  Website / Instagram Tracy / Instagram Healing the Mind and Spirit / Twitter / Facebook / YouTube / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tracy Taris is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. She is president and owner of Healing The Mind & Spirit, Inc. where she leads a team of counselors. Her group practice is located in Santa Clarita, California where psychotherapy services are provided in person and via telehealth in the form of couples, family, individual, adolescent and child therapy as well as coaching services that cover a variety of topics from creative blocks, nutritional problems, and women’s issues. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Do you ever find yourself falling into a trap of thinking negative thoughts? Have you ever wondered how to control your negative thoughts? It is possible, and that’s what my guest, Tracy Taris, and I talk about in this episode: how to stop negative thoughts. 

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our negative thinking usually comes as a result of our life experiences, beliefs, and messages we come into agreement with.
                                                  • Healing comes in layers.
                                                  • When we find it hard to hear from God, we need to assess what is God competing with? Are we quieting distractions to hear from him?
                                                  • Any thought not of God has to obey the name of Jesus.
                                                  • Negative thinking reflects some pain point that needs to be dealt with.
                                                  • We have a tendency to perseverate on negative thoughts, but instead, we can choose to perseverate on positive thoughts consistent with Philippians 4:8.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” (ESV)
                                                  • Mark 9:23 Jesus said to him, “What do you mean ‘if’? If you are able to believe, all things are possible to the believer.” (TPT)
                                                  • John 4:42 They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (NIV)

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tracy Taris:

                                                  Website / Instagram Tracy / Instagram Healing the Mind and Spirit / Twitter / Facebook / YouTube / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tracy Taris is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. She is president and owner of Healing The Mind & Spirit, Inc. where she leads a team of counselors. Her group practice is located in Santa Clarita, California where psychotherapy services are provided in person and via telehealth in the form of couples, family, individual, adolescent and child therapy as well as coaching services that cover a variety of topics from creative blocks, nutritional problems, and women’s issues. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Do you ever find yourself falling into a trap of thinking negative thoughts? Have you ever wondered how to control your negative thoughts? It is possible, and that’s what my guest, Tracy Taris, and I talk about in this episode: how... full 208 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f2e37177-1359-4b6b-9f80-7cc25a42214d d9586387-372c-4db4-a5b8-b28701166347 Thu, 06 Apr 2023 10:30:00 +0000 1984 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/208-how-to-stop-thinking-negative-thoughts                                                   207 How To Pray when Battling Cancer 207 How To Pray when Battling Cancer Episode Summary:

                                                  Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with cancer? Are you wondering how to pray for yourself or a loved one battling cancer? Then stick around, and consider sharing this episode with someone in the battle because today we’re going to be talking about How to pray when battling cancer. My husband and I, as well as today’s guest, Niki Hardy, have all been through this, and we’ve had many friends and loved ones on the cancer journey. Even if you haven’t been given a cancer diagnosis, you know someone who has so I hope today’s episode will encourage you.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full, so go live it.
                                                  • I lost my mum and sister to cancer and was then diagnosed. I was determined to survive until that was all I was doing. Eventually, I learned how to thrive, not just survive, and uncover the full life God had for me right in the midst of the pain.
                                                  • Trusting God isn’t something that happens the moment we meet Jesus (so you can stop beating yourself up for not having faith made of steel). It’s a choice we make on the daily.
                                                  • Trusting God isn’t the silver bullet to a world without worry but it is the key to fighting back and moving forward.
                                                  • To help increase our trust in God, we can check out God’s credentials: is He who He says He is, has He done what He said He would do, and am I who He says I am?
                                                  • Don’t go through the cancer journey alone—ask God for help.
                                                  • Choose to hold on and let go: hold onto God and his faithfulness, and let go of the illusion of control to embrace God’s plan.
                                                  • Create a bank of evidence of God’s faithfulness to bolster your ability to trust God: when and where and how has God proved himself faithful to you in the past? Remember those times.
                                                  • The best way to help others on their cancer journeys is through the ministry of presence: don’t try to do or say the perfect thing, just be imperfectly present flaws and all.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (NIV)
                                                  • Compared with John 16:33  “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (NIV)
                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Niki Hardy:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Niki Hardy is an author, speaker, podcast host and cancer Thriver. As the author of Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart, One Minute Prayers for Women with Cancer, and host of the Trusting God Through Cancer Summit and Chemo Chair Prayers podcast, her goal is to help you discover life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full, then go live it. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with cancer? Are you wondering how to pray for yourself or a loved one battling cancer? Then stick around, and consider sharing this episode with someone in the battle because today we’re going to be talking about How to pray when battling cancer. My husband and I, as well as today’s guest, Niki Hardy, have all been through this, and we’ve had many friends and loved ones on the cancer journey. Even if you haven’t been given a cancer diagnosis, you know someone who has so I hope today’s episode will encourage you.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full, so go live it.
                                                  • I lost my mum and sister to cancer and was then diagnosed. I was determined to survive until that was all I was doing. Eventually, I learned how to thrive, not just survive, and uncover the full life God had for me right in the midst of the pain.
                                                  • Trusting God isn’t something that happens the moment we meet Jesus (so you can stop beating yourself up for not having faith made of steel). It’s a choice we make on the daily.
                                                  • Trusting God isn’t the silver bullet to a world without worry but it is the key to fighting back and moving forward.
                                                  • To help increase our trust in God, we can check out God’s credentials: is He who He says He is, has He done what He said He would do, and am I who He says I am?
                                                  • Don’t go through the cancer journey alone—ask God for help.
                                                  • Choose to hold on and let go: hold onto God and his faithfulness, and let go of the illusion of control to embrace God’s plan.
                                                  • Create a bank of evidence of God’s faithfulness to bolster your ability to trust God: when and where and how has God proved himself faithful to you in the past? Remember those times.
                                                  • The best way to help others on their cancer journeys is through the ministry of presence: don’t try to do or say the perfect thing, just be imperfectly present flaws and all.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (NIV)
                                                  • Compared with John 16:33  “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (NIV)
                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Niki Hardy:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Niki Hardy is an author, speaker, podcast host and cancer Thriver. As the author of Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart, One Minute Prayers for Women with Cancer, and host of the Trusting God Through Cancer Summit and Chemo Chair Prayers podcast, her goal is to help you discover life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full, then go live it. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with cancer? Are you wondering how to pray for yourself or a loved one battling cancer? Then stick around, and consider sharing this episode with someone in the battle because today we’re... full 207 Dr. Michelle Bengtson a42616d5-2cca-4e8d-9fe5-c024c24c192c c1fe7919-8b0c-4307-9c55-b28701167b91 Thu, 30 Mar 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2619 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/207-how-to-pray-when-battling-cancer                                                   206 How To Exchange Father Wounds for God’s Perfect Love 206 How To Exchange Father Wounds for God’s Perfect Love Episode Summary:

                                                  Father wounds result when a person’s father is physically absent, emotionally abusive or distant, negative or overly critical character, which can have long-term consequences for an individual. The world is full of women who have been hurt, neglected, rejected, or abandoned by their father. They may feel like every aspect of their life is affected by that broken trust. Even their relationship with God can feel tenuous, but there is hope. Today we’re going to be talking about how to exchange father wounds for God’s perfect love.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Father wounds result when a person’s father is physically absent, emotionally abusive or distant, negative or overly critical character, which can have long-term consequences for an individual.
                                                  • Father wounds are essentially any painful impact by the actions of a father.
                                                  • Father wounds can result from absence, neglect, shaming, a critical nature, comparison to others, and more.
                                                  • There are multiple different types of wounds that can be sustained as a result of a father’s behavior or lack thereof. Some of those wounds include trust wounds, affirmation wounds, value wounds, love wounds, and beauty wounds.
                                                  • The first step of healing father wounds comes in acknowledging the wound and resulting pain. The second step is seeking Godly support. The third step is grieving what wasn’t. The fourth step is praying for God to meet you.
                                                  • In order to heal father wounds, we need to come to a place of surrendering our will and our way to God’s and letting go of our expectation for the outcome.
                                                  • You cannot change people, only God can. We have to accept them as they are and decide if we can handle them like that if they never change before deciding if we will remain in relationship.
                                                  • Even though our earthly fathers may not be, our Heavenly Father is affirming, accessible, and patient.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
                                                  • 1 John 3:1 “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”
                                                  • 1 Chronicles 5:20 NLT "They cried out to God during the battle, and he answered their prayer because they trusted in him. So the Hagrites and all their allies were defeated."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kia Stephens:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kia Stephens is the founder of Entrusted Women, which she created to equip Christian women communicators of color. She is the author of the new book Overcoming Father Wounds: Exchanging Your Pain for God’s Perfect Love..

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Father wounds result when a person’s father is physically absent, emotionally abusive or distant, negative or overly critical character, which can have long-term consequences for an individual. The world is full of women who have been hurt, neglected, rejected, or abandoned by their father. They may feel like every aspect of their life is affected by that broken trust. Even their relationship with God can feel tenuous, but there is hope. Today we’re going to be talking about how to exchange father wounds for God’s perfect love.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Father wounds result when a person’s father is physically absent, emotionally abusive or distant, negative or overly critical character, which can have long-term consequences for an individual.
                                                  • Father wounds are essentially any painful impact by the actions of a father.
                                                  • Father wounds can result from absence, neglect, shaming, a critical nature, comparison to others, and more.
                                                  • There are multiple different types of wounds that can be sustained as a result of a father’s behavior or lack thereof. Some of those wounds include trust wounds, affirmation wounds, value wounds, love wounds, and beauty wounds.
                                                  • The first step of healing father wounds comes in acknowledging the wound and resulting pain. The second step is seeking Godly support. The third step is grieving what wasn’t. The fourth step is praying for God to meet you.
                                                  • In order to heal father wounds, we need to come to a place of surrendering our will and our way to God’s and letting go of our expectation for the outcome.
                                                  • You cannot change people, only God can. We have to accept them as they are and decide if we can handle them like that if they never change before deciding if we will remain in relationship.
                                                  • Even though our earthly fathers may not be, our Heavenly Father is affirming, accessible, and patient.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
                                                  • 1 John 3:1 “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”
                                                  • 1 Chronicles 5:20 NLT "They cried out to God during the battle, and he answered their prayer because they trusted in him. So the Hagrites and all their allies were defeated."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kia Stephens:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kia Stephens is the founder of Entrusted Women, which she created to equip Christian women communicators of color. She is the author of the new book Overcoming Father Wounds: Exchanging Your Pain for God’s Perfect Love..

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Father wounds result when a person’s father is physically absent, emotionally abusive or distant, negative or overly critical character, which can have long-term consequences for an individual. The world is full of women who have... full 206 Dr. Michelle Bengtson e79968c3-de3e-4f69-93f0-a9ab1dffee8b 750c0e48-a7cb-4c2c-836d-b287011681af Thu, 23 Mar 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2352 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/206-how-to-exchange-father-wounds-for-god-s-perfec                                                   205 How To Win Back a Prodigal Child 205 How To Win Back a Prodigal Child Episode Summary: 

                                                  We’ve all heard the term “prodigal child,” and there’s even a popular show called “Prodigal son.” But what exactly constitutes a prodigal child? And perhaps even more important than semantics, how do we win back a prodigal child, teen, or young adult? In this episode, I talk with Laine Lawson Craft about a battle plan to win back a prodigal child, teen, or young adult.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  In simple terms, a prodigal child is challenged and gets off track despite being raised under the wisdom of God.

                                                  Don’t give up “in the meantime” when your prodigal child may be mean while you are waiting for God to change their heart and their ways. You may be disappointed, discouraged, and at times hopeless, but don’t give up.

                                                  Father God was the first prodigal father when Adam and Eve went their own way despite what God warned them against. He understands our feelings toward our prodigal because he had them too.

                                                  We partner with the Father of all to parent our children! We don’t parent alone.

                                                  Love is the currency of heaven.

                                                  God has a great plan for your child and He is the true parent of your child. He formed them into your womb and has plans for them and we can partner with God and trust Him that He will bring them home!

                                                  Realize today that you are NOT in war with your defiant child you are in war with the darkness and evil of the world! 

                                                  Once we realize we are not fighting against our child but fighting with Satan, then we can begin to pray and implement spiritual applications to usher in the victory and hope!

                                                  God will always hear our cry in the battle and will answer us because we trust Him!

                                                  It is God’s battle if it looks too big that’s ok nothing is too big for God! If you aren’t praying for your child, who is??

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  2 chronicles 20:15 ESV ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's.

                                                  Psalm 78:2-4 "I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old, things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.

                                                  1 Chronicles 5:20 NLT "They cried out to God during the battle, and he answered their prayer because they trusted in him. So the Hagrites and all their allies were defeated."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Laine Lawson Craft:

                                                  Linktree / Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laine Lawson Craft (www.lainelawsoncraft.com) is an award-winning author, popular media host, and in-demand speaker. The founder and publisher of WHOAwomen magazine (2010-2018), she regularly hosts online challenges and masterclasses as well as Facebook Live events that reach thousands. Her Warfare Parenting podcast encourages parents of adult children. Laine and her husband, Steve, have three children and live in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  We’ve all heard the term “prodigal child,” and there’s even a popular show called “Prodigal son.” But what exactly constitutes a prodigal child? And perhaps even more important than semantics, how do we win back a prodigal child, teen, or young adult? In this episode, I talk with Laine Lawson Craft about a battle plan to win back a prodigal child, teen, or young adult.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  In simple terms, a prodigal child is challenged and gets off track despite being raised under the wisdom of God.

                                                  Don’t give up “in the meantime” when your prodigal child may be mean while you are waiting for God to change their heart and their ways. You may be disappointed, discouraged, and at times hopeless, but don’t give up.

                                                  Father God was the first prodigal father when Adam and Eve went their own way despite what God warned them against. He understands our feelings toward our prodigal because he had them too.

                                                  We partner with the Father of all to parent our children! We don’t parent alone.

                                                  Love is the currency of heaven.

                                                  God has a great plan for your child and He is the true parent of your child. He formed them into your womb and has plans for them and we can partner with God and trust Him that He will bring them home!

                                                  Realize today that you are NOT in war with your defiant child you are in war with the darkness and evil of the world! 

                                                  Once we realize we are not fighting against our child but fighting with Satan, then we can begin to pray and implement spiritual applications to usher in the victory and hope!

                                                  God will always hear our cry in the battle and will answer us because we trust Him!

                                                  It is God’s battle if it looks too big that’s ok nothing is too big for God! If you aren’t praying for your child, who is??

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  2 chronicles 20:15 ESV ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's.

                                                  Psalm 78:2-4 "I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old, things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.

                                                  1 Chronicles 5:20 NLT "They cried out to God during the battle, and he answered their prayer because they trusted in him. So the Hagrites and all their allies were defeated."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Laine Lawson Craft:

                                                  Linktree / Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laine Lawson Craft (www.lainelawsoncraft.com) is an award-winning author, popular media host, and in-demand speaker. The founder and publisher of WHOAwomen magazine (2010-2018), she regularly hosts online challenges and masterclasses as well as Facebook Live events that reach thousands. Her Warfare Parenting podcast encourages parents of adult children. Laine and her husband, Steve, have three children and live in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  We’ve all heard the term “prodigal child,” and there’s even a popular show called “Prodigal son.” But what exactly constitutes a prodigal child? And perhaps even more important than semantics, how do we win back a... full 205 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 323bcb44-f019-4c53-b135-a110538a62eb 94206202-f7cf-4a63-ae05-b2870116844d Thu, 16 Mar 2023 10:30:00 +0000 2368 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/205-how-to-win-back-a-prodigal-child                                                   204 Hope When Life Takes an Unexpected Detour that Leads to a Hard Place 204 Hope When Life Takes an Unexpected Detour that Leads to a Hard Place Episode Summary: 

                                                  Life has a way of altering our course through unexpected detours. But how do you find hope when life takes an unexpected detour that leads to a hard place? How do you continue putting one foot in front of another? Join me with Grace Fox on the podcast.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • My circumstances made for a perfect storm, and fear could have overwhelmed me were it not for God helping me focus on the truth of His faithfulness.
                                                  • God is faithful no matter what. He doesn’t promise that life will be easy, but He promises to be with us at all times.
                                                  • There are no coincidences when God is in our lives.
                                                  • Crisis or detour places can be some of the places of the richest growth.
                                                  • Detours into unexpected places keep us looking to God to see us through.
                                                  • We may not be able to prevent fearful thoughts, but it’s what we do with the fearful thoughts that matter most.
                                                  • We must choose to embrace joy over fear.
                                                  • We have no promises for what our future holds, but we are promised who holds our future!
                                                  • Having a God-perspective keeps our eyes focused on the One who goes with us into the hard places.
                                                  • It’s helpful to reframe our lives' detours into hard places in terms of learning what God wants us to learn in those hard places.
                                                  • Put into practice Philippians 4:6-7 –- commit all their anxieties and fears to the Lord with thanksgiving for all He has already done. (Giving thanks is vital to experiencing the peace of God that’s promised in this passage).
                                                  • Spiritual treasures hidden in dark places are too precious to miss. Stay alert.
                                                  • *Praise is our best defense when the unexpected catches us off guard. Darkness descends and wind screams around us but remembering and declaring that God rules over every detail fills us with calm.
                                                  • The darker our circumstances, the more important it is to practice gratitude!

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7 NLT “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Romans 8:26-27 NLT “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.27 And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers[a] in harmony with God’s own will.”
                                                  • Psalm 23:1 NLT “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Grace Fox:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Grace Fox is a career missionary and, together with my husband, co-direct International Messengers Canada, a sending agency with about 300 staff in 31 countries.  Her passion is to connect the dots between faith and real life by helping others learn to love, understand, and apply God's Word. She and her husband, Gene, live on a sailboat in British Columbia.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Life has a way of altering our course through unexpected detours. But how do you find hope when life takes an unexpected detour that leads to a hard place? How do you continue putting one foot in front of another? Join me with Grace Fox on the podcast.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • My circumstances made for a perfect storm, and fear could have overwhelmed me were it not for God helping me focus on the truth of His faithfulness.
                                                  • God is faithful no matter what. He doesn’t promise that life will be easy, but He promises to be with us at all times.
                                                  • There are no coincidences when God is in our lives.
                                                  • Crisis or detour places can be some of the places of the richest growth.
                                                  • Detours into unexpected places keep us looking to God to see us through.
                                                  • We may not be able to prevent fearful thoughts, but it’s what we do with the fearful thoughts that matter most.
                                                  • We must choose to embrace joy over fear.
                                                  • We have no promises for what our future holds, but we are promised who holds our future!
                                                  • Having a God-perspective keeps our eyes focused on the One who goes with us into the hard places.
                                                  • It’s helpful to reframe our lives' detours into hard places in terms of learning what God wants us to learn in those hard places.
                                                  • Put into practice Philippians 4:6-7 –- commit all their anxieties and fears to the Lord with thanksgiving for all He has already done. (Giving thanks is vital to experiencing the peace of God that’s promised in this passage).
                                                  • Spiritual treasures hidden in dark places are too precious to miss. Stay alert.
                                                  • *Praise is our best defense when the unexpected catches us off guard. Darkness descends and wind screams around us but remembering and declaring that God rules over every detail fills us with calm.
                                                  • The darker our circumstances, the more important it is to practice gratitude!

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7 NLT “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Romans 8:26-27 NLT “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.27 And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers[a] in harmony with God’s own will.”
                                                  • Psalm 23:1 NLT “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Grace Fox:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Grace Fox is a career missionary and, together with my husband, co-direct International Messengers Canada, a sending agency with about 300 staff in 31 countries.  Her passion is to connect the dots between faith and real life by helping others learn to love, understand, and apply God's Word. She and her husband, Gene, live on a sailboat in British Columbia.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Life has a way of altering our course through unexpected detours. But how do you find hope when life takes an unexpected detour that leads to a hard place? How do you continue putting one foot in front of another? Join me with... full 204 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 923ddec0-7125-465b-85f4-f4e80df8d9af e57171aa-9f43-4d39-b327-b2870116a0a3 Thu, 09 Mar 2023 11:30:00 +0000 2404 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/204-hope-when-life-takes-an-unexpected-detour-that                                                   203 Lifes Rock Bottom Experiences 203 Lifes Rock Bottom Experiences Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever hit rock bottom in your life? Perhaps received a life-threatening diagnosis? Or lost the one person who kept your feet on solid ground? How do you carry joy and sorrow in the same breath? How do we handle the rock bottom experiences in life? Today we’re going to be talking about how to handle life’s rock-bottom experiences. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Home is where we are together, but God’s word is a home that can’t be taken from us.
                                                  • We can’t live off old manna.
                                                  • Rock bottom is that place where we feel out of faith, and yet we discover that God is faithful.
                                                  • When we endure trauma, it’s like a bear that is no longer chasing you, but it feels like it is.
                                                  • God’s not afraid of our questions.
                                                  • One-third of the Psalms are lament, which is getting honest with God about what’s hard, and opening the door to let the comforter come in.
                                                  • Grieving is an internal process, where mourning is a public display of loss.
                                                  • Mourning entails risk because we open our lives to others who may or may not handle our pain well.
                                                  • Prayer positions us in a place where God can bring healing.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 27:46, CEV “Then about that time Jesus shouted, ‘Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?’ which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you deserted me?’”
                                                  • Isaiah 60:20, ESV “Your sun shall no more go down, nor your moon withdraw itself; for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended.”
                                                  • Isaiah 54:10, NIV “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Danita Jenae:

                                                  Website / Instagram Danita / Instagram CompanionInSorrow / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Danita Jenae is a young mom and recent military widow learning to carry both joy and sorrow in the same breath. As an author, speaker, poet, and artist, she walks alongside the broken-hearted, offering practical and creative ways to lead a Spirit-led life at danitajenae.com and @CompanionInSorrow. To help you find your way in sorrow, Danita invites you to grab your free copy of her Find Your Footing Grief Guide at WhenMountainsCrumble.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever hit rock bottom in your life? Perhaps received a life-threatening diagnosis? Or lost the one person who kept your feet on solid ground? How do you carry joy and sorrow in the same breath? How do we handle the rock bottom experiences in life? Today we’re going to be talking about how to handle life’s rock-bottom experiences. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Home is where we are together, but God’s word is a home that can’t be taken from us.
                                                  • We can’t live off old manna.
                                                  • Rock bottom is that place where we feel out of faith, and yet we discover that God is faithful.
                                                  • When we endure trauma, it’s like a bear that is no longer chasing you, but it feels like it is.
                                                  • God’s not afraid of our questions.
                                                  • One-third of the Psalms are lament, which is getting honest with God about what’s hard, and opening the door to let the comforter come in.
                                                  • Grieving is an internal process, where mourning is a public display of loss.
                                                  • Mourning entails risk because we open our lives to others who may or may not handle our pain well.
                                                  • Prayer positions us in a place where God can bring healing.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Matthew 27:46, CEV “Then about that time Jesus shouted, ‘Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?’ which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you deserted me?’”
                                                  • Isaiah 60:20, ESV “Your sun shall no more go down, nor your moon withdraw itself; for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended.”
                                                  • Isaiah 54:10, NIV “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Danita Jenae:

                                                  Website / Instagram Danita / Instagram CompanionInSorrow / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Danita Jenae is a young mom and recent military widow learning to carry both joy and sorrow in the same breath. As an author, speaker, poet, and artist, she walks alongside the broken-hearted, offering practical and creative ways to lead a Spirit-led life at danitajenae.com and @CompanionInSorrow. To help you find your way in sorrow, Danita invites you to grab your free copy of her Find Your Footing Grief Guide at WhenMountainsCrumble.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever hit rock bottom in your life? Perhaps received a life-threatening diagnosis? Or lost the one person who kept your feet on solid ground? How do you carry joy and sorrow in the same breath? How do we handle the rock... full 203 Dr. Michelle Bengtson e5bd93cb-ab15-4668-8f8b-4f186aa6b76c b1093bdb-6d65-48ee-8ab3-b2870116a8fe Thu, 02 Mar 2023 11:30:00 +0000 1945 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/203-lifes-rock-bottom-experiences                                                   202 How To Find Freedom from Spiritual Abuse 202 How To Find Freedom from Spiritual Abuse Episode Summary: 

                                                  If you have ever been a victim of spiritual abuse or you know someone who has, you're in the right place. I talk with my guest, Jill Monaco, about how to find freedom from spiritual abuse. What is it and how can you find freedom so you can heal?

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • One incident of spiritual abuse made me desensitized to it so it happened again and again.
                                                  • Spiritual abuse uses a relationship, the Bible, or spiritual authority to manipulate and control people.
                                                  • A relationship can start off Biblically based then become manipulated over time.
                                                  • One example of spiritual abuse is when someone in authority makes themselves look better at your expense.
                                                  • Spiritual abusers don’t allow themselves to be held accountable but you have to be.
                                                  • Listen to your discernment given to you by the Holy Spirit—if something feels off, consider that it is.
                                                  • Abuse is using authority or the Bible to manipulate people into doing things.
                                                  • Jesus took me out of ministry so I could heal from spiritual abuse.
                                                  • The healing process from spiritual abuse looks different for everyone.
                                                  • To begin the process of healing from spiritual abuse, first forgive your abuser, and second, focus on being in God’s presence.
                                                  • You have one heart. If you harden it towards others, you also harden it toward God.
                                                  • Despite a history of spiritual abuse, keep hoping for the next thing.
                                                  • Remember, God is greater than the greatest enemy in your life.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 3:20 NIV “Now to him who is able to do immeasurable more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”
                                                  • Isaiah 61:1-4 NIV “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 3:17 NIV “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
                                                  • John 8:36 “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jill Monaco:

                                                  1:1 Freedom Coaching / Overcoming Audio Series / Freedom Challenge / Podcast / Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jill Monaco is the founder and CEO of Jill Monaco Ministries, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that has a passion to encourage people to pursue the presence of God and find freedom in Christ. 

                                                  She is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) life coach with the International Coach Federation and a Certified Master Christian Life Coach (CMCLC) and Mentorship Coach with the International Christian Coach Institute. Jill has developed Freedom Coaching®, a model that blends hearing God, prayer, and coaching tools. 

                                                  Her first book, The Freedom Coach Model® went to #1 on the Amazon bestseller list. One of her greatest joys is consulting coaches as they establish and grow their business through her program Freedom Business Coaching. 

                                                  As a Bible teacher, podcaster, and speaker, Jill is known for captivating audiences with her high-energy, humorous approach to life’s serious issues. Her faith-filled and transparent stories encourage listeners to become all that God has created them to be. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  If you have ever been a victim of spiritual abuse or you know someone who has, you're in the right place. I talk with my guest, Jill Monaco, about how to find freedom from spiritual abuse. What is it and how can you find freedom so you can heal?

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • One incident of spiritual abuse made me desensitized to it so it happened again and again.
                                                  • Spiritual abuse uses a relationship, the Bible, or spiritual authority to manipulate and control people.
                                                  • A relationship can start off Biblically based then become manipulated over time.
                                                  • One example of spiritual abuse is when someone in authority makes themselves look better at your expense.
                                                  • Spiritual abusers don’t allow themselves to be held accountable but you have to be.
                                                  • Listen to your discernment given to you by the Holy Spirit—if something feels off, consider that it is.
                                                  • Abuse is using authority or the Bible to manipulate people into doing things.
                                                  • Jesus took me out of ministry so I could heal from spiritual abuse.
                                                  • The healing process from spiritual abuse looks different for everyone.
                                                  • To begin the process of healing from spiritual abuse, first forgive your abuser, and second, focus on being in God’s presence.
                                                  • You have one heart. If you harden it towards others, you also harden it toward God.
                                                  • Despite a history of spiritual abuse, keep hoping for the next thing.
                                                  • Remember, God is greater than the greatest enemy in your life.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 3:20 NIV “Now to him who is able to do immeasurable more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”
                                                  • Isaiah 61:1-4 NIV “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 3:17 NIV “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
                                                  • John 8:36 “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jill Monaco:

                                                  1:1 Freedom Coaching / Overcoming Audio Series / Freedom Challenge / Podcast / Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jill Monaco is the founder and CEO of Jill Monaco Ministries, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that has a passion to encourage people to pursue the presence of God and find freedom in Christ. 

                                                  She is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) life coach with the International Coach Federation and a Certified Master Christian Life Coach (CMCLC) and Mentorship Coach with the International Christian Coach Institute. Jill has developed Freedom Coaching®, a model that blends hearing God, prayer, and coaching tools. 

                                                  Her first book, The Freedom Coach Model® went to #1 on the Amazon bestseller list. One of her greatest joys is consulting coaches as they establish and grow their business through her program Freedom Business Coaching. 

                                                  As a Bible teacher, podcaster, and speaker, Jill is known for captivating audiences with her high-energy, humorous approach to life’s serious issues. Her faith-filled and transparent stories encourage listeners to become all that God has created them to be. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  If you have ever been a victim of spiritual abuse or you know someone who has, you're in the right place. I talk with my guest, Jill Monaco, about how to find freedom from spiritual abuse. What is it and how can you find freedom... full 202 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 3dc7978e-367b-416c-8a99-fe8f79726266 186341ff-a856-4813-b6a6-b2870116ae9c Thu, 23 Feb 2023 11:30:00 +0000 2149 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/202-how-to-find-freedom-from-spiritual-abuse                                                   201 How To Live a Single Life without Feeling Lonely 201 How To Live a Single Life without Feeling Lonely Episode Summary: 

                                                  A God-designed life doesn’t start when you say “I do” or when you get engaged or even when you meet “the one.” It’s been happening as long as you’ve been alive—even if you’re still single and wish you weren’t. Hannah Schermerhorn knows what it is like. She was months away from getting married when her wedding was called off. She feared being single again, but in the following years, God taught her many hard lessons that transformed her bitterness into authentic joy. Today we’re going to talk about how to live a single life without feeling lonely.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • A person’s identity is not that they are single but that they are loved by God. That means that God has a plan for them and is allowing them to be single right now for a reason. That means God is always with them and they are never alone.
                                                  • A lifetime is a long time to be married to the wrong person.
                                                  • We often believe the enemy’s lies about our seasons of singleness, but lies usually come out of the fears we have.
                                                  • Baggage is anything you carry around with you from your past that negatively impacts your present or your future.
                                                  • In your singleness, take comfort that God is currently working not only in you, but is also preparing your mate for marriage.
                                                  • Your “season” of singleness is going to be a tiny piece of your existence in comparison to an eternity of happiness with God.
                                                  • Singleness and non-singleness are equal according to God! Marriage is not an achievement that makes one more qualified as a human being; it is simply a different and equally important life path.
                                                  • God sees you in your heartache and pain. In your triggers and anxiety. You do not need to hold on to them alone.  God is with you and will help you as you take those first steps to unpack the baggage you have been carrying with you.
                                                  • We can acknowledge that the difficult feelings are there, but it is our choice whether we let them overtake our lives or give them to God and let Him fill us with joy and confidence.
                                                  • The world doesn’t expect singles to be happy, so when Christian singles can enjoy their life as is, it is a great evangelism tool!

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.    
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 7:8 Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do.
                                                  • Jeremiah 31:3 I have loved you with an everlasting love.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Hannah Schermerhorn:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Hannah Schermerhorn is an author and speaker who lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with her cat, Fritz. Her recent book, A Single Life to Live, is written to encourage and uplift singleness. It comes out February 14, 2023. Learn more at www.hannahschermerhorn.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  A God-designed life doesn’t start when you say “I do” or when you get engaged or even when you meet “the one.” It’s been happening as long as you’ve been alive—even if you’re still single and wish you weren’t. Hannah Schermerhorn knows what it is like. She was months away from getting married when her wedding was called off. She feared being single again, but in the following years, God taught her many hard lessons that transformed her bitterness into authentic joy. Today we’re going to talk about how to live a single life without feeling lonely.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • A person’s identity is not that they are single but that they are loved by God. That means that God has a plan for them and is allowing them to be single right now for a reason. That means God is always with them and they are never alone.
                                                  • A lifetime is a long time to be married to the wrong person.
                                                  • We often believe the enemy’s lies about our seasons of singleness, but lies usually come out of the fears we have.
                                                  • Baggage is anything you carry around with you from your past that negatively impacts your present or your future.
                                                  • In your singleness, take comfort that God is currently working not only in you, but is also preparing your mate for marriage.
                                                  • Your “season” of singleness is going to be a tiny piece of your existence in comparison to an eternity of happiness with God.
                                                  • Singleness and non-singleness are equal according to God! Marriage is not an achievement that makes one more qualified as a human being; it is simply a different and equally important life path.
                                                  • God sees you in your heartache and pain. In your triggers and anxiety. You do not need to hold on to them alone.  God is with you and will help you as you take those first steps to unpack the baggage you have been carrying with you.
                                                  • We can acknowledge that the difficult feelings are there, but it is our choice whether we let them overtake our lives or give them to God and let Him fill us with joy and confidence.
                                                  • The world doesn’t expect singles to be happy, so when Christian singles can enjoy their life as is, it is a great evangelism tool!

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.    
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 7:8 Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do.
                                                  • Jeremiah 31:3 I have loved you with an everlasting love.

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Hannah Schermerhorn:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Hannah Schermerhorn is an author and speaker who lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with her cat, Fritz. Her recent book, A Single Life to Live, is written to encourage and uplift singleness. It comes out February 14, 2023. Learn more at www.hannahschermerhorn.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  A God-designed life doesn’t start when you say “I do” or when you get engaged or even when you meet “the one.” It’s been happening as long as you’ve been alive—even if you’re still single and wish you... full 201 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 5ab89a7b-e335-41ad-b158-96e310508f02 a646da37-54a4-46cc-944e-b2870116bfdf Thu, 16 Feb 2023 11:30:00 +0000 2502 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/201-how-to-live-a-single-life-without-feeling-lone                                                   200 Disordered Eating 200 Disordered Eating Episode Summary: 

                                                  Are you tired of dieting? Feeling weak and tired? Are you tired of the dieting yo-yo of losing weight only to gain it back again and more? What do you do when you hate dieting? Today we’re talking about help for disordered eating. My guest has been there, understands, and offers hope, help, and healing for the diet-weary soul.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Disordered eating comes from an unhealthy relationship with food.
                                                  • Disordered eating isn’t as much about the food as it is about what we think about food.
                                                  • You can be free from disordered eating, shame, a negative body image and an unhealthy relationship with food NOW.
                                                  • God is not a God of chaos, but of order.
                                                  • When people struggle with disordered eating, they tend to have black and white thinking especially as it relates to food.
                                                  • You can cultivate a healthy relationship with your body today and not wait for the thinner one you will have in the future.
                                                  • Dieting works from the outside in while God’s healing operates from the inside out.
                                                  • We will have no peace when we give the shamer access to our mind and our soul.
                                                  • Being free has nothing to do with a number on the scale and most of us need to be free enough to treat our body well before we focus on losing weight.
                                                  • Women struggle with these issues no matter what they weigh. It has nothing to do with numbers, it is all about how we think. God heals us from the inside out!
                                                  • Become familiar with their own story, process it with the Lord and maybe a counselor, and then begin to combat shame with the Word of God.
                                                  • Shame is insidious and colors everything we think and perceive.
                                                  • You are already loved as you are, regardless of what the scale says.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Be very careful about what you think, because your thoughts run your life (Proverbs 4:23 NCV).
                                                  • For they have treated the brokenness of the daughter of My people superficially, Saying, ‘Peace, peace,’ when there is no peace (Jeremiah 8:11)
                                                  • God does not view things the way people do. People look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7b NET)

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Laura Acuna:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laura Acuña is a speaker, author, podcast host and coach. A graduate of Liberty University, she earned a degree in Christian Counseling and a minor in Biblical Studies. Married to Pat, the two are the parents of three sons, and one daughter-in-love. They became first-time grandparents to Evelyn Grace (finally a girl!) in July 2021. Laura challenges her sisters to grow up to become spiritually and emotionally mature. Her new book Still Becoming: Hope, Help and Healing for the Diet-Weary Soul released in December, 2022.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Are you tired of dieting? Feeling weak and tired? Are you tired of the dieting yo-yo of losing weight only to gain it back again and more? What do you do when you hate dieting? Today we’re talking about help for disordered eating. My guest has been there, understands, and offers hope, help, and healing for the diet-weary soul.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Disordered eating comes from an unhealthy relationship with food.
                                                  • Disordered eating isn’t as much about the food as it is about what we think about food.
                                                  • You can be free from disordered eating, shame, a negative body image and an unhealthy relationship with food NOW.
                                                  • God is not a God of chaos, but of order.
                                                  • When people struggle with disordered eating, they tend to have black and white thinking especially as it relates to food.
                                                  • You can cultivate a healthy relationship with your body today and not wait for the thinner one you will have in the future.
                                                  • Dieting works from the outside in while God’s healing operates from the inside out.
                                                  • We will have no peace when we give the shamer access to our mind and our soul.
                                                  • Being free has nothing to do with a number on the scale and most of us need to be free enough to treat our body well before we focus on losing weight.
                                                  • Women struggle with these issues no matter what they weigh. It has nothing to do with numbers, it is all about how we think. God heals us from the inside out!
                                                  • Become familiar with their own story, process it with the Lord and maybe a counselor, and then begin to combat shame with the Word of God.
                                                  • Shame is insidious and colors everything we think and perceive.
                                                  • You are already loved as you are, regardless of what the scale says.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Be very careful about what you think, because your thoughts run your life (Proverbs 4:23 NCV).
                                                  • For they have treated the brokenness of the daughter of My people superficially, Saying, ‘Peace, peace,’ when there is no peace (Jeremiah 8:11)
                                                  • God does not view things the way people do. People look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7b NET)

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Laura Acuna:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Laura Acuña is a speaker, author, podcast host and coach. A graduate of Liberty University, she earned a degree in Christian Counseling and a minor in Biblical Studies. Married to Pat, the two are the parents of three sons, and one daughter-in-love. They became first-time grandparents to Evelyn Grace (finally a girl!) in July 2021. Laura challenges her sisters to grow up to become spiritually and emotionally mature. Her new book Still Becoming: Hope, Help and Healing for the Diet-Weary Soul released in December, 2022.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Are you tired of dieting? Feeling weak and tired? Are you tired of the dieting yo-yo of losing weight only to gain it back again and more? What do you do when you hate dieting? Today we’re talking about help for disordered... full 200 Dr. Michelle Bengtson b50426a7-6274-4c3a-a9e7-44aa19b0fe74 259595bf-b695-48fe-aa6a-b2870116cd90 Thu, 09 Feb 2023 11:00:00 +0000 2193 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/200-disordered-eating                                                   199 How To Cope with Rejection 199 How To Cope with Rejection Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever felt the sting of rejection with that sense of betrayal and disappointment that breaks your heart? Did you know there’s a positive side to rejection that we can use as an opportunity and a tool to cope with rejection? Jessica Van Roekel is back to share about 4 lenses that you can use to reframe and cope with rejection. We talk about what rejection is, how to know when we’ve experienced it, and learn how God uses rejection to redirect, refine, and restore us.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Rejection in its simplest form means “no” or a turning away from.
                                                  • Rejection can fee like betrayal, disappointment, with no expected escape.
                                                  • There are 4 different lenses through which we can positively view rejection: 1) Humble Awe, 2) Mutual Delight, 3) Trustful Dependence, and 4) Aligned Surrender
                                                  • The ground is level at the foot of the cross.
                                                  • God uses rejection to redirect us, refine us, and restore us.
                                                  • Brokenness is sometimes the way to healing.
                                                  • God takes the charred places in our life and makes it beautiful again.
                                                  • When we experience rejection, we need to S.T.O.P.
                                                    • S-Shift our focus
                                                    • T-Trust God is faithful and true
                                                    • O-Observe ourselves, our thoughts, others, and God’s word
                                                    • P-Proceed by faith into forgiveness
                                                  • In the positive, we can reject bitterness, resentment, and revenge to be more mature.
                                                  • To help our children with their fears of rejection, we need to create a culture where its okay to fail in your own home. And remind your kids who they are in Christ, made on purpose for a purpose.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Deuteronomy 7:6 NIV “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
                                                  • 1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever felt the sting of rejection with that sense of betrayal and disappointment that breaks your heart? Did you know there’s a positive side to rejection that we can use as an opportunity and a tool to cope with rejection? Jessica Van Roekel is back to share about 4 lenses that you can use to reframe and cope with rejection. We talk about what rejection is, how to know when we’ve experienced it, and learn how God uses rejection to redirect, refine, and restore us.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Rejection in its simplest form means “no” or a turning away from.
                                                  • Rejection can fee like betrayal, disappointment, with no expected escape.
                                                  • There are 4 different lenses through which we can positively view rejection: 1) Humble Awe, 2) Mutual Delight, 3) Trustful Dependence, and 4) Aligned Surrender
                                                  • The ground is level at the foot of the cross.
                                                  • God uses rejection to redirect us, refine us, and restore us.
                                                  • Brokenness is sometimes the way to healing.
                                                  • God takes the charred places in our life and makes it beautiful again.
                                                  • When we experience rejection, we need to S.T.O.P.
                                                    • S-Shift our focus
                                                    • T-Trust God is faithful and true
                                                    • O-Observe ourselves, our thoughts, others, and God’s word
                                                    • P-Proceed by faith into forgiveness
                                                  • In the positive, we can reject bitterness, resentment, and revenge to be more mature.
                                                  • To help our children with their fears of rejection, we need to create a culture where its okay to fail in your own home. And remind your kids who they are in Christ, made on purpose for a purpose.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Deuteronomy 7:6 NIV “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
                                                  • 1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever felt the sting of rejection with that sense of betrayal and disappointment that breaks your heart? Did you know there’s a positive side to rejection that we can use as an opportunity and a tool to cope with... full 199 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ca36abbd-cf1a-4ccf-9bf3-958c4e49d892 90485dfb-e408-4676-b3e7-b2870116d089 Thu, 02 Feb 2023 11:00:00 +0000 2748 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/199-how-to-cope-with-rejection                                                   198 How to Overcome Rejection 198 How to Overcome Rejection Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever struggled with rejection? Rejection shows up every day in the world and it’s up to us to change the way we respond to it and address it. Join me as I talk with Jessica Van Roekel about how to overcome rejection.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I believe wholeheartedly that we experience struggles so that God can use us to help others.
                                                  • Rejection is a thread that runs through our personal lives and all throughout society.
                                                  • Perfectionism is a shield against joy.
                                                  • There are four types of rejection: Perceived, Actual, Unintentional, Intentional
                                                  • We allow others’ opinions too much room in our lives.
                                                  • I’ve discovered that rejection shows up every day in the world and it’s up to us to change the way we respond to it and address it.
                                                  • By welcoming his grace into their lives, others can know hope, joy, peace, forgiveness, and transformation.
                                                  • In order to break the cycle of rejection, we have to break it from the inside out.
                                                  • I discovered rejection is a tool God gives us to use in our Christian growth so that I can put off the thought patterns and behaviors that don’t honor him.
                                                  • Rejection proofing is not the goal, having the right perspective about rejection is.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Deuteronomy 7:6 NIV “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
                                                  • 1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever struggled with rejection? Rejection shows up every day in the world and it’s up to us to change the way we respond to it and address it. Join me as I talk with Jessica Van Roekel about how to overcome rejection.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I believe wholeheartedly that we experience struggles so that God can use us to help others.
                                                  • Rejection is a thread that runs through our personal lives and all throughout society.
                                                  • Perfectionism is a shield against joy.
                                                  • There are four types of rejection: Perceived, Actual, Unintentional, Intentional
                                                  • We allow others’ opinions too much room in our lives.
                                                  • I’ve discovered that rejection shows up every day in the world and it’s up to us to change the way we respond to it and address it.
                                                  • By welcoming his grace into their lives, others can know hope, joy, peace, forgiveness, and transformation.
                                                  • In order to break the cycle of rejection, we have to break it from the inside out.
                                                  • I discovered rejection is a tool God gives us to use in our Christian growth so that I can put off the thought patterns and behaviors that don’t honor him.
                                                  • Rejection proofing is not the goal, having the right perspective about rejection is.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Deuteronomy 7:6 NIV “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
                                                  • 1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jessica Van Roekel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jessica is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever struggled with rejection? Rejection shows up every day in the world and it’s up to us to change the way we respond to it and address it. Join me as I talk with Jessica Van Roekel about how to overcome rejection.... full 198 Dr. Michelle Bengtson d697bf21-1272-4440-a4e9-da69aa56e9f5 ba77a7a0-7681-48d5-91e0-b2870116d4d4 Thu, 26 Jan 2023 11:00:00 +0000 2272 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/198-how-to-overcome-rejection                                                   How To Spot the Narcissist in Your Life How To Spot the Narcissist in Your Life Episode Summary: 

                                                  It seems in recent years, people have become more familiar with the terms narcissist or narcissism, especially as a component of abusive situations. While there is a lot of information out there, not all of it is accurate, so I wanted to share my perspective as a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist. We’re changing things up just a bit this week. My friend, Aliene Thompson, founder of Treasured Ministries, and I were recently talking about narcissism, and I asked her if she would join me on the program to help guide the conversation while I share insight from a clinical perspective. So, in today’s episode we’ll be discussing How to Spot the Narcissist in Your Life!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a clinical disorder. Such individuals have inflated self-importance, arrogance, pride, vanity, lack of empathy & lack of self-awareness.
                                                  • A narcissist is someone who loves themselves most of all. They believe they are the center of the universe and no one else matters. They worship themselves.
                                                  • One in three women are the target of domestic abuse. That accounts for 1.6 million American women between the ages of 16-74.
                                                  • In a narcissistic relationship, the abused begins to question themselves, experiences guilt, shame, loss of self-esteem.
                                                  • If you're in a relationship with a narcissist, you may find yourself feeling devalued, invisible, and even worthless. People with narcissism often have a sense of entitlement and require constant validation and approval.
                                                  • While it’s true that most diagnosed narcissists are men, it’s important to remember that narcissism is a personality disorder that can affect anyone, regardless of gender.
                                                  • Gaslighting is a real phenomenon, and it's a form of emotional abuse. This is when they try to make you question your own reality and memory.
                                                  • Narcissistic personality disorder is a serious mental illness that can be extremely destructive to both the narcissist and those around them.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • James 1:19-20 “. . . let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
                                                  • 1 Cor. 13:4-8a "Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;  bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Host:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson lives to break the grip of anxiety and fear, foster regeneration, and renew life in her readers and listeners. She frequently speaks from John 10:10 “The thief only comes to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full.”

                                                  From her own personal experience and professional expertise as a clinical Neuropsychologist, she unpacks these words, recognizing in her life and others’ the brokenness that attends life, but also the concrete steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places of life.

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  It seems in recent years, people have become more familiar with the terms narcissist or narcissism, especially as a component of abusive situations. While there is a lot of information out there, not all of it is accurate, so I wanted to share my perspective as a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist. We’re changing things up just a bit this week. My friend, Aliene Thompson, founder of Treasured Ministries, and I were recently talking about narcissism, and I asked her if she would join me on the program to help guide the conversation while I share insight from a clinical perspective. So, in today’s episode we’ll be discussing How to Spot the Narcissist in Your Life!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a clinical disorder. Such individuals have inflated self-importance, arrogance, pride, vanity, lack of empathy & lack of self-awareness.
                                                  • A narcissist is someone who loves themselves most of all. They believe they are the center of the universe and no one else matters. They worship themselves.
                                                  • One in three women are the target of domestic abuse. That accounts for 1.6 million American women between the ages of 16-74.
                                                  • In a narcissistic relationship, the abused begins to question themselves, experiences guilt, shame, loss of self-esteem.
                                                  • If you're in a relationship with a narcissist, you may find yourself feeling devalued, invisible, and even worthless. People with narcissism often have a sense of entitlement and require constant validation and approval.
                                                  • While it’s true that most diagnosed narcissists are men, it’s important to remember that narcissism is a personality disorder that can affect anyone, regardless of gender.
                                                  • Gaslighting is a real phenomenon, and it's a form of emotional abuse. This is when they try to make you question your own reality and memory.
                                                  • Narcissistic personality disorder is a serious mental illness that can be extremely destructive to both the narcissist and those around them.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • James 1:19-20 “. . . let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
                                                  • 1 Cor. 13:4-8a "Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;  bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Host:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson lives to break the grip of anxiety and fear, foster regeneration, and renew life in her readers and listeners. She frequently speaks from John 10:10 “The thief only comes to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full.”

                                                  From her own personal experience and professional expertise as a clinical Neuropsychologist, she unpacks these words, recognizing in her life and others’ the brokenness that attends life, but also the concrete steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places of life.

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  It seems in recent years, people have become more familiar with the terms narcissist or narcissism, especially as a component of abusive situations. While there is a lot of information out there, not all of it is accurate, so I... full 197 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 14189568-3be8-4375-b93b-af7c0dbd719b 4de905cd-69d7-457c-baa7-b2870116e8fc Thu, 19 Jan 2023 10:50:00 +0000 3176 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/197-how-to-spot-the-narcissist-in-your-life                                                   196 How to Overcome Time Anxiety and Reimagine Productivity 196 How to Overcome Time Anxiety and Reimagine Productivity Episode Summary:

                                                  Have you ever imagined a life without hurry, relentless work, multitasking, or scarcity? In a world that tells us to do more, accomplish more, and be more, what is that doing to us and is that consistent with what God says? 

                                                  Time management is an industry that capitalizes on time anxiety. We are told that we must be more productive, and we buy countless books and listen to innumerable podcasts—all telling us how to do just that. But time anxiety is not solved by doing more and doing it faster. We must recover a Christian vision of time and take up habits that allow us to inhabit the time God has given us. Join me with Jen Pollock Michel as we talk about Time Anxiety: How you can overcome it to reimagine productivity.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I tried to “crack” the code of pandemic time anxiety. That’s when I realized I had much more to learn about time-faith.
                                                  • Time anxiety is related to time scarcity, death, and mortality. But the time we have is never long enough.
                                                  • Productivity tells us how fast we get things done but not why we do things for.
                                                  • Peace comes when we are rightly oriented to God.
                                                  • God has enough time!
                                                  • Time pressure is usually self-imposed.
                                                  • Time management focuses on the self but often ignores our community or God.
                                                  • Living life well is a slow and steady process.
                                                  • The ideal isn’t productivity but fruitfulness in the character of God.
                                                  • We can gain “more time” by reducing and eliminating distraction.
                                                  • You cannot manage your time but you can manage your attention.
                                                  • Remove the word “productive” from your self-assessment!
                                                  • Time is never a constraint for God.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 90:12 “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
                                                  • Matthew 6:27 “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”
                                                  • James 4:13-15 “Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jen Pollock Michel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jen Pollock Michel is an award-winning author and speaker. Her fifth book, In Good Time: Reimagining Productivity, Resisting Hurry, and Practicing Peace, releases in December 2022. You can follow Jen on Twitter and Instagram @jenpmichel and subscribe to her Monday letters at jenpollockmichel.com. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Have you ever imagined a life without hurry, relentless work, multitasking, or scarcity? In a world that tells us to do more, accomplish more, and be more, what is that doing to us and is that consistent with what God says? 

                                                  Time management is an industry that capitalizes on time anxiety. We are told that we must be more productive, and we buy countless books and listen to innumerable podcasts—all telling us how to do just that. But time anxiety is not solved by doing more and doing it faster. We must recover a Christian vision of time and take up habits that allow us to inhabit the time God has given us. Join me with Jen Pollock Michel as we talk about Time Anxiety: How you can overcome it to reimagine productivity.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I tried to “crack” the code of pandemic time anxiety. That’s when I realized I had much more to learn about time-faith.
                                                  • Time anxiety is related to time scarcity, death, and mortality. But the time we have is never long enough.
                                                  • Productivity tells us how fast we get things done but not why we do things for.
                                                  • Peace comes when we are rightly oriented to God.
                                                  • God has enough time!
                                                  • Time pressure is usually self-imposed.
                                                  • Time management focuses on the self but often ignores our community or God.
                                                  • Living life well is a slow and steady process.
                                                  • The ideal isn’t productivity but fruitfulness in the character of God.
                                                  • We can gain “more time” by reducing and eliminating distraction.
                                                  • You cannot manage your time but you can manage your attention.
                                                  • Remove the word “productive” from your self-assessment!
                                                  • Time is never a constraint for God.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 90:12 “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
                                                  • Matthew 6:27 “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”
                                                  • James 4:13-15 “Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jen Pollock Michel:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jen Pollock Michel is an award-winning author and speaker. Her fifth book, In Good Time: Reimagining Productivity, Resisting Hurry, and Practicing Peace, releases in December 2022. You can follow Jen on Twitter and Instagram @jenpmichel and subscribe to her Monday letters at jenpollockmichel.com. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Have you ever imagined a life without hurry, relentless work, multitasking, or scarcity? In a world that tells us to do more, accomplish more, and be more, what is that doing to us and is that consistent with what God says?  Time... full 196 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 5963511f-7db4-4d91-9999-e639f5f6751c 5a6aec65-c177-4663-ac83-b2870116f894 Thu, 12 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1803 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/196-how-to-overcome-time-anxiety-and-reimagine-pro                                                   195 How to Love God's Word with Wendy Speake 195 How to Love God's Word with Wendy Speake Episode Summary: 

                                                  Most Bible-believers are not Bible-readers. Many Christians believe that the Bible is the Word of God, but never actually read it. Or they may read bits and pieces, one verse or passage at a time but struggle to apply it to their lives. There are so many reasons why this is true, but it is possible to start today. Even if a person has never read a complete chapter for themselves, God’s Word is readable and do-able. Join me with Wendy Speake for how to love God’s word.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Most Bible-believers are not Bible-readers. There are so many reasons why this is true, but it is possible to start today.
                                                  • Even if a person has never read a complete chapter for themselves, God’s Word is readable and do-able.
                                                  • Culture offers up quick fixes that leave us unsatisfied and still hungry for fulfillment. God’s word fills us up, but creates a thirst for more of Him.
                                                  • Don’t mistake reading God’s Word for Studying God’s Word. They are not the same.
                                                  • As you begin your quiet time each day, do you come hungry to hear from the Lord?
                                                  • God is not confusing or far off — He is near and abiding. And His Word is living and active… and applicable too!
                                                  • Most of us spend our days shoving food and other fillers into the hurts and holes of our lives. But nothing works to make us whole (or holy) other than our Bibles.
                                                  • Pinpointing what it is we are turning to, in lieu of turning to God in the pages of His Word, can help us to lay that thing down for a short season and turn instead to the only thing that can satisfy and sanctify us!
                                                  • Pinpointing and laying down all of the false-fillers is a lot like laying down false-idols. And once the throne is vacant it is a JOY to invite the rightful King to take His place.
                                                  • I’ve also become aware that all the scrolling and eating and movie watching and shopping can all fall under the umbrella of consuming… ingesting… gobbling… eating. And I know that the more I ingest things that won’t ever satisfy the less I turn to God’s Word — the only thing that can!
                                                  • I want to hunger and thirst for God and His righteousness and His Word more than anything else! First and foremost every day! But the other stuff gets in the way.
                                                  • No book has ever been written, nor ever will be, that holds the power to sway a human heart toward the Word of God more than the Bible itself.
                                                  • Pinpoint what it is you turn to when you are worn out or overwhelmed, then lay it down and pick up your Bible. In Matthew 11:28 Jesus extended this invitation, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
                                                  • When we stop pushing all the stuff into our lives and bring Him back into the center of our lives… he gives us His rest and His joy and a very real sense of His loving nearness!
                                                  • “We are not powerless to change when we hold a Bible in our hands, for that Bible holds the power to change us.”
                                                  • The book will come to an end, but the Word of God never ends. It is the only thing able to satisfy hungry hearts.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. 
                                                  • Psalm 119:103 How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
                                                  • Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Wendy Speake:

                                                  Website / Feast Book / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  Order  Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Wendy Speake is author and host of The 40-Day Sugar Fast, The 40-Day Social Media Fast, along with the companion resource, The 40-Day Fast Journal. Her newest book, The 40-Day Feast, invites readers to get hungry for God’s Word then equips them to taste and see how good it is. Wendy is also co-author of the popular parenting books, Triggers: Exchanging Parents’ Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses and Parenting Scripts. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Most Bible-believers are not Bible-readers. Many Christians believe that the Bible is the Word of God, but never actually read it. Or they may read bits and pieces, one verse or passage at a time but struggle to apply it to their lives. There are so many reasons why this is true, but it is possible to start today. Even if a person has never read a complete chapter for themselves, God’s Word is readable and do-able. Join me with Wendy Speake for how to love God’s word.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Most Bible-believers are not Bible-readers. There are so many reasons why this is true, but it is possible to start today.
                                                  • Even if a person has never read a complete chapter for themselves, God’s Word is readable and do-able.
                                                  • Culture offers up quick fixes that leave us unsatisfied and still hungry for fulfillment. God’s word fills us up, but creates a thirst for more of Him.
                                                  • Don’t mistake reading God’s Word for Studying God’s Word. They are not the same.
                                                  • As you begin your quiet time each day, do you come hungry to hear from the Lord?
                                                  • God is not confusing or far off — He is near and abiding. And His Word is living and active… and applicable too!
                                                  • Most of us spend our days shoving food and other fillers into the hurts and holes of our lives. But nothing works to make us whole (or holy) other than our Bibles.
                                                  • Pinpointing what it is we are turning to, in lieu of turning to God in the pages of His Word, can help us to lay that thing down for a short season and turn instead to the only thing that can satisfy and sanctify us!
                                                  • Pinpointing and laying down all of the false-fillers is a lot like laying down false-idols. And once the throne is vacant it is a JOY to invite the rightful King to take His place.
                                                  • I’ve also become aware that all the scrolling and eating and movie watching and shopping can all fall under the umbrella of consuming… ingesting… gobbling… eating. And I know that the more I ingest things that won’t ever satisfy the less I turn to God’s Word — the only thing that can!
                                                  • I want to hunger and thirst for God and His righteousness and His Word more than anything else! First and foremost every day! But the other stuff gets in the way.
                                                  • No book has ever been written, nor ever will be, that holds the power to sway a human heart toward the Word of God more than the Bible itself.
                                                  • Pinpoint what it is you turn to when you are worn out or overwhelmed, then lay it down and pick up your Bible. In Matthew 11:28 Jesus extended this invitation, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
                                                  • When we stop pushing all the stuff into our lives and bring Him back into the center of our lives… he gives us His rest and His joy and a very real sense of His loving nearness!
                                                  • “We are not powerless to change when we hold a Bible in our hands, for that Bible holds the power to change us.”
                                                  • The book will come to an end, but the Word of God never ends. It is the only thing able to satisfy hungry hearts.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 34:8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. 
                                                  • Psalm 119:103 How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
                                                  • Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Wendy Speake:

                                                  Website / Feast Book / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  Order  Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Wendy Speake is author and host of The 40-Day Sugar Fast, The 40-Day Social Media Fast, along with the companion resource, The 40-Day Fast Journal. Her newest book, The 40-Day Feast, invites readers to get hungry for God’s Word then equips them to taste and see how good it is. Wendy is also co-author of the popular parenting books, Triggers: Exchanging Parents’ Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses and Parenting Scripts. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Most Bible-believers are not Bible-readers. Many Christians believe that the Bible is the Word of God, but never actually read it. Or they may read bits and pieces, one verse or passage at a time but struggle to apply it to... full 195 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 7ceeef80-1dda-472f-9575-667174e86fc1 5aae6370-a0c8-4903-8d62-b2870117010e Thu, 05 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2420 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/195-how-to-love-gods-word-with-wendy-speake                                                   194 Ideas for How to Start Your New Year Off Right 194 Ideas for How to Start Your New Year Off Right Episode Summary: 

                                                  It’s the time of year when we assess what we’ve accomplished over the past year, and begin to think about goals and changes for the new year. Some people make New Year’s resolutions. Others create vision boards. Pam Farrel and I share two ideas for how to start your new year off right!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The acronym for FOCUS is Follow One Course Until Successful.
                                                  • Whereas new year’s resolutions are usually me-focused, when we choose a word of the year, or a word of focus, we remain God-focused throughout the year.
                                                  • In choosing your word of the year: 1. Look back; 2. Look ahead; 3. Look to God and His word; 4. Look around; and 5. Look for helps and tools
                                                  • As you choose your word of the year, ask the clarifying question, “What will help me become more like this ____ a year from now?”
                                                  • Our mindsets significantly impact how our days and years go. Let’s set up next year for success with the FREE 7-Day Today is Going to be a Good Day Challenge!
                                                  • If the new year is a difficult time for you, or you face the winter blues following the holidays, let me encourage you at the FREE Help for When You're Feeling Blue Webinar!
                                                  • If you or someone you know struggles with the blues, or a more significant case of depression, consider participating in the Online Hope Prevails Bible Study so we can support you! 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Isaiah 43:19 For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.
                                                  • Ephesians 4:21-24 Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him,  throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception.  Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.  Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Pam Farrel:

                                                  Website / Discovering the Bible Series / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order  Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Pam Farrel is an international speaker, author of 57 books including bestselling "Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti" translated into over 15 languages. Her newest creative bible study, co-authored with Jean E Jones and Karla Dornacher, is Discovering Good News In John: A Creative Bible Devotional Study Experience,  an Amazon #1 bestseller. 

                                                  Pam and her husband, Bill, together run Love-Wise, and Proverbs 19:8 ministries to equip, enrich and encourage people in their most vital relationships. Pam's favorite role is being Mom to 3 sons, 3 daughter-in-love’s and Nana to her 5 grands and two new grand babies soon to arrive. Pam and Bill make their home on a live aboard boat docked in Southern California so she also loves biking, a beach walk, kayaking or a paddleboard adventure.  

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  It’s the time of year when we assess what we’ve accomplished over the past year, and begin to think about goals and changes for the new year. Some people make New Year’s resolutions. Others create vision boards. Pam Farrel and I share two ideas for how to start your new year off right!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The acronym for FOCUS is Follow One Course Until Successful.
                                                  • Whereas new year’s resolutions are usually me-focused, when we choose a word of the year, or a word of focus, we remain God-focused throughout the year.
                                                  • In choosing your word of the year: 1. Look back; 2. Look ahead; 3. Look to God and His word; 4. Look around; and 5. Look for helps and tools
                                                  • As you choose your word of the year, ask the clarifying question, “What will help me become more like this ____ a year from now?”
                                                  • Our mindsets significantly impact how our days and years go. Let’s set up next year for success with the FREE 7-Day Today is Going to be a Good Day Challenge!
                                                  • If the new year is a difficult time for you, or you face the winter blues following the holidays, let me encourage you at the FREE Help for When You're Feeling Blue Webinar!
                                                  • If you or someone you know struggles with the blues, or a more significant case of depression, consider participating in the Online Hope Prevails Bible Study so we can support you! 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Isaiah 43:19 For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.
                                                  • Ephesians 4:21-24 Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him,  throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception.  Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.  Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Pam Farrel:

                                                  Website / Discovering the Bible Series / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order  Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Pam Farrel is an international speaker, author of 57 books including bestselling "Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti" translated into over 15 languages. Her newest creative bible study, co-authored with Jean E Jones and Karla Dornacher, is Discovering Good News In John: A Creative Bible Devotional Study Experience,  an Amazon #1 bestseller. 

                                                  Pam and her husband, Bill, together run Love-Wise, and Proverbs 19:8 ministries to equip, enrich and encourage people in their most vital relationships. Pam's favorite role is being Mom to 3 sons, 3 daughter-in-love’s and Nana to her 5 grands and two new grand babies soon to arrive. Pam and Bill make their home on a live aboard boat docked in Southern California so she also loves biking, a beach walk, kayaking or a paddleboard adventure.  

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  It’s the time of year when we assess what we’ve accomplished over the past year, and begin to think about goals and changes for the new year. Some people make New Year’s resolutions. Others create vision boards. Pam Farrel... full 194 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f8dbdb9c-f619-406e-bfce-39a9317f6fb3 76a86b73-f2b6-4e9e-8f23-b28701170af8 Thu, 29 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2429 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/194-ideas-for-how-to-start-your-new-year-off-right                                                   193 Christmas Hope 193 Christmas Hope Episode Summary: 

                                                  Every year at this time, we enter into the holiday hustle and bustle, and All. The. Things. The tree, the shopping, the decorating, the wrapping, the baking, the parties…I’m so grateful to a perfect God for the gift of Christmas Hope. Without the birth of Jesus, we would have NO HOPE. In this episode, we talk about Christmas Hope. I’m going to share my grown-up Christmas list, pray a blessing, and offer 3 valuable resources to start your new year off well.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  Without the birth of Jesus, we would have NO HOPE.

                                                  Over the recent years, I’ve found that what I truly desire for Christmas can’t be wrapped and placed under a tree.

                                                  This year, what I wanted more than anything for Christmas was peace for my family and peace for my heart. That calm assurance that comes from being content where you are, with who you are, and who you are with.

                                                  I remembered the simplicity of the very first Christmas that didn’t meet anyone’s expectations except God’s. Jesus came in a manger without a party or fanfare. No one expected this to be the entry of a king.

                                                  This Christmas and throughout the entire year, all I want is a little more of Jesus for myself and others, and to deepen our love for Him.

                                                  What a joy to know there is a safe place to come and share our inner most desires and our deepest needs. And as we thank God for the answers, He promises peace to guard our hearts and minds.

                                                  May you experience all the blessings of God as you pursue Him with your whole heart, mind, and soul.

                                                  Out of my love and gratitude for you, I want to offer you three resources to look forward to in the new year:

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT): “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. TELL GOD what you need, and thank him for all he has done. THEN you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (emphasis mine)

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Host:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Every year at this time, we enter into the holiday hustle and bustle, and All. The. Things. The tree, the shopping, the decorating, the wrapping, the baking, the parties…I’m so grateful to a perfect God for the gift of Christmas Hope. Without the birth of Jesus, we would have NO HOPE. In this episode, we talk about Christmas Hope. I’m going to share my grown-up Christmas list, pray a blessing, and offer 3 valuable resources to start your new year off well.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  Without the birth of Jesus, we would have NO HOPE.

                                                  Over the recent years, I’ve found that what I truly desire for Christmas can’t be wrapped and placed under a tree.

                                                  This year, what I wanted more than anything for Christmas was peace for my family and peace for my heart. That calm assurance that comes from being content where you are, with who you are, and who you are with.

                                                  I remembered the simplicity of the very first Christmas that didn’t meet anyone’s expectations except God’s. Jesus came in a manger without a party or fanfare. No one expected this to be the entry of a king.

                                                  This Christmas and throughout the entire year, all I want is a little more of Jesus for myself and others, and to deepen our love for Him.

                                                  What a joy to know there is a safe place to come and share our inner most desires and our deepest needs. And as we thank God for the answers, He promises peace to guard our hearts and minds.

                                                  May you experience all the blessings of God as you pursue Him with your whole heart, mind, and soul.

                                                  Out of my love and gratitude for you, I want to offer you three resources to look forward to in the new year:

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT): “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. TELL GOD what you need, and thank him for all he has done. THEN you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (emphasis mine)

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Host:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Every year at this time, we enter into the holiday hustle and bustle, and All. The. Things. The tree, the shopping, the decorating, the wrapping, the baking, the parties…I’m so grateful to a perfect God for the gift of... full 193 Dr. Michelle Bengtson d60ba8f3-5a3d-4ef8-881a-7629c67ae734 96f3b5b7-bc4d-456a-90e8-b28701170ba5 Thu, 22 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 1255 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/193-christmas-hope                                                   192 Partnering with God in the Nitty, Gritty Details of Business and Life 192 Partnering with God in the Nitty, Gritty Details of Business and Life Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever thought about the fact that God doesn’t need us to accomplish things in this world, but that he offers the opportunity for us to partner with him? Have you ever pondered what partnering with God means, or how to go about it? In this episode, I chat with Kim Avery about partnering with God in the nitty, gritty details of business and life.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I took a long, hard and honest look at my business and my client’s businesses and had to ask myself these questions: if our business partner is the Almighty, all-knowing, all-providing God why don’t our businesses look any different than the businesses of those who don’t know God?
                                                  • More than that, we don’t we look any different than entrepreneurs who don’t know God? We are just as hurried, worried, and stressed as they are.
                                                  • We try to do things for God, but the invitation is to have God with us. That’s a totally different game when we make God our CEO.
                                                  • I’m so thankful to be learning that God really does care about all the details of my life and that He is available and waiting to help me with it.
                                                  • As Christ-centered entrepreneurs, God wants us to be bold, humble, joyful, peace-filled, so that what overflows out of us onto others will be consistent with His character.
                                                  • Partnering with God in prayer doesn’t have to be complicated, fancy, or heroic. Instead it can be BRIEF:
                                                  • Business-Related: Abandoning our default mindset of if it’s going to be, it’s up to me, we invite God into our daily work, seeking his supernatural presence, purposes, and power.
                                                  • Relevant: Exchanging our typical global requests, “Bless this business, Lord,” for our granular reality, such as “Help me to be humble and self-forgetful in today’s meeting with Bob,” we ask God to work in and through every specific attitude, activity, and engagement of each particular day.
                                                  • Inside out: Shifting our prayer focus from a results-only orientation, we pray in cooperation with the way God most likes to work—from the inside out:
                                                    • In us
                                                    • In our relationship with him
                                                    • In our relationships with others
                                                    • In our relationship with our business
                                                    • The results our work has in the world

                                                   

                                                  • Expectant: Acknowledging that God is always at work, even when things are not what we’d hoped, each day we watch for his moment-by-moment movement, trust his promises, and celebrate his answers.
                                                  • Frequent: No longer compartmentalizing our relationship with him to discrete times of the day, we practice the presence of God throughout each day, ceaselessly interacting with him as we partner with him to change the world.
                                                  • We all have a head knowledge that God is for me, but we need to take God’s grand principles into our small, granular reality.
                                                  • The failure rate in small business is so high because we need to shift our focus to what God is doing in us rather than because of us.
                                                  • Failure comes when our contribution outpaces our character.
                                                  • We live in a largely unchurched world, so as entrepreneurs, God gives us the opportunity to reach those who might not otherwise be reached because they don’t set foot in a church.
                                                  • When we are not trusting God with every aspect of our business, and instead default to worry and hurry, we are essentially being a functional atheist, because we are believing God will not provide.
                                                  • Start super small with very specific requests that you know God also wants for you, then walk expectantly through your day watching for how He is at work. It’s a treasure hunt and a grand adventure.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Jeremiah 33:3 NASB ‘Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.’
                                                  • Isaiah 28:16 ESV “Whoever believes shall not be in haste.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 9:8 NASB "And God is able to make all grace overflow to you, so that, always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed;"

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kim Avery:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest: 

                                                  After leaving her career as a counselor to become a Professional Life Coach, Kim also became an accidental entrepreneur. Coaching was in its infancy then, so it took her years of trial and error and training to create a path to success.

                                                  Since that time, she’s made it her goal to help other Christian coaches and entrepreneurs shorten and streamline the business building process. 

                                                  Kim is now a successful business coach, Vice-President of Marketing at the Professional Christian Coaching Institute, co-host of the Professional Christian Coaching Today podcast, author of The Prayer Powered Entrepreneur: 31 Days to Building Your Business with Less Stress and More Joy. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever thought about the fact that God doesn’t need us to accomplish things in this world, but that he offers the opportunity for us to partner with him? Have you ever pondered what partnering with God means, or how to go about it? In this episode, I chat with Kim Avery about partnering with God in the nitty, gritty details of business and life.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I took a long, hard and honest look at my business and my client’s businesses and had to ask myself these questions: if our business partner is the Almighty, all-knowing, all-providing God why don’t our businesses look any different than the businesses of those who don’t know God?
                                                  • More than that, we don’t we look any different than entrepreneurs who don’t know God? We are just as hurried, worried, and stressed as they are.
                                                  • We try to do things for God, but the invitation is to have God with us. That’s a totally different game when we make God our CEO.
                                                  • I’m so thankful to be learning that God really does care about all the details of my life and that He is available and waiting to help me with it.
                                                  • As Christ-centered entrepreneurs, God wants us to be bold, humble, joyful, peace-filled, so that what overflows out of us onto others will be consistent with His character.
                                                  • Partnering with God in prayer doesn’t have to be complicated, fancy, or heroic. Instead it can be BRIEF:
                                                  • Business-Related: Abandoning our default mindset of if it’s going to be, it’s up to me, we invite God into our daily work, seeking his supernatural presence, purposes, and power.
                                                  • Relevant: Exchanging our typical global requests, “Bless this business, Lord,” for our granular reality, such as “Help me to be humble and self-forgetful in today’s meeting with Bob,” we ask God to work in and through every specific attitude, activity, and engagement of each particular day.
                                                  • Inside out: Shifting our prayer focus from a results-only orientation, we pray in cooperation with the way God most likes to work—from the inside out:
                                                    • In us
                                                    • In our relationship with him
                                                    • In our relationships with others
                                                    • In our relationship with our business
                                                    • The results our work has in the world

                                                   

                                                  • Expectant: Acknowledging that God is always at work, even when things are not what we’d hoped, each day we watch for his moment-by-moment movement, trust his promises, and celebrate his answers.
                                                  • Frequent: No longer compartmentalizing our relationship with him to discrete times of the day, we practice the presence of God throughout each day, ceaselessly interacting with him as we partner with him to change the world.
                                                  • We all have a head knowledge that God is for me, but we need to take God’s grand principles into our small, granular reality.
                                                  • The failure rate in small business is so high because we need to shift our focus to what God is doing in us rather than because of us.
                                                  • Failure comes when our contribution outpaces our character.
                                                  • We live in a largely unchurched world, so as entrepreneurs, God gives us the opportunity to reach those who might not otherwise be reached because they don’t set foot in a church.
                                                  • When we are not trusting God with every aspect of our business, and instead default to worry and hurry, we are essentially being a functional atheist, because we are believing God will not provide.
                                                  • Start super small with very specific requests that you know God also wants for you, then walk expectantly through your day watching for how He is at work. It’s a treasure hunt and a grand adventure.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Jeremiah 33:3 NASB ‘Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.’
                                                  • Isaiah 28:16 ESV “Whoever believes shall not be in haste.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 9:8 NASB "And God is able to make all grace overflow to you, so that, always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed;"

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kim Avery:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest: 

                                                  After leaving her career as a counselor to become a Professional Life Coach, Kim also became an accidental entrepreneur. Coaching was in its infancy then, so it took her years of trial and error and training to create a path to success.

                                                  Since that time, she’s made it her goal to help other Christian coaches and entrepreneurs shorten and streamline the business building process. 

                                                  Kim is now a successful business coach, Vice-President of Marketing at the Professional Christian Coaching Institute, co-host of the Professional Christian Coaching Today podcast, author of The Prayer Powered Entrepreneur: 31 Days to Building Your Business with Less Stress and More Joy. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever thought about the fact that God doesn’t need us to accomplish things in this world, but that he offers the opportunity for us to partner with him? Have you ever pondered what partnering with God means, or how to... full 192 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ebc484e3-5be4-4a01-bc17-2b7d393d57fb c97adfa5-45d9-46b0-91f2-b28701170d03 Thu, 15 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2315 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/192-partnering-with-god-in-the-nitty-gritty-detail                                                   191 How to Experience Revival in our Hearts 191 How to Experience Revival in our Hearts Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you long to feel a closer connection to God? To discern His voice, experience His peace, and live in His joy? Erica Wiggenhorn and I talk about how to experience God’s faithfulness when surrounded by uncertainty, how to reignite our hope instead of losing heart, and how to realize the call of God, reawakening our purpose when we experience revival in our own hearts.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Revival is a personal heart cry before God, asking Him to meet us in our desperation and brokenness.
                                                  • We tend to doubt our beliefs and believe our doubts because of distraction, and as a result, God feels far away.
                                                  • Doubt can be the doorway to intimacy with God.
                                                  • Revival brings us to God who can do anything and is always doing the best for us.
                                                  • The enemy’s desire is to cause us to doubt God’s character.
                                                  • There is no intimacy without first an investment of time.
                                                  • Faith is always intermeshed with fear.
                                                  • What we see as punishment, like God saying no to a request, may actually be God’s protection for us.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ezekiel 11:19-20 “I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from then their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God.”
                                                  • Ezekiel 20:42 “Then. You will know that I am the Lord, when I bring. You into the land of Israel, the land I had sworn with uplifted hand to give to your ancestors.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Erica Wiggenhorn:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Erica Wiggenhorn is an award-winning author and the founder of Every Life Ministries, bringing you the truths of Scripture to transform your life. By digging deeply into God’s Word, Every Life Ministries encourages you to discover your unique purpose, accept God’s promises, and live by His power. She loves to bring God's Word to anyone who’ll listen, whether it’s a large women’s conference, a church women’s retreat, her own kitchen table, or across your computer screen with her teaching series or YouTube Channel. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you long to feel a closer connection to God? To discern His voice, experience His peace, and live in His joy? Erica Wiggenhorn and I talk about how to experience God’s faithfulness when surrounded by uncertainty, how to reignite our hope instead of losing heart, and how to realize the call of God, reawakening our purpose when we experience revival in our own hearts.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Revival is a personal heart cry before God, asking Him to meet us in our desperation and brokenness.
                                                  • We tend to doubt our beliefs and believe our doubts because of distraction, and as a result, God feels far away.
                                                  • Doubt can be the doorway to intimacy with God.
                                                  • Revival brings us to God who can do anything and is always doing the best for us.
                                                  • The enemy’s desire is to cause us to doubt God’s character.
                                                  • There is no intimacy without first an investment of time.
                                                  • Faith is always intermeshed with fear.
                                                  • What we see as punishment, like God saying no to a request, may actually be God’s protection for us.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ezekiel 11:19-20 “I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from then their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God.”
                                                  • Ezekiel 20:42 “Then. You will know that I am the Lord, when I bring. You into the land of Israel, the land I had sworn with uplifted hand to give to your ancestors.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Erica Wiggenhorn:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / YouTube

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Erica Wiggenhorn is an award-winning author and the founder of Every Life Ministries, bringing you the truths of Scripture to transform your life. By digging deeply into God’s Word, Every Life Ministries encourages you to discover your unique purpose, accept God’s promises, and live by His power. She loves to bring God's Word to anyone who’ll listen, whether it’s a large women’s conference, a church women’s retreat, her own kitchen table, or across your computer screen with her teaching series or YouTube Channel. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Do you long to feel a closer connection to God? To discern His voice, experience His peace, and live in His joy? Erica Wiggenhorn and I talk about how to experience God’s faithfulness when surrounded by uncertainty, how to... full 191 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9e7eaabd-2284-4e25-92f4-3799db8cfad2 98e8c710-60ee-4bc8-b04e-b2870117115a Thu, 08 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2427 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/191-how-to-experience-revival-in-our-hearts                                                   190 How to Enjoy Creative Bible Study 190 How to Enjoy Creative Bible Study Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you ever get in a rut with your Bible study? Have you ever wondered “how can I make my Bible study more creative?” Or perhaps, “what’s the most effective way to study the Bible for me?” You won’t want to miss this week’s episode. My friend Pam Farrel and I will talk about how to make our Bible study time more creative! By the time the podcast is over, you’ll want to grab a copy of one of her Bible studies so you can start reaping the benefits!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Creative Bible study helped me memorize scripture better.
                                                  • You can’t think of your problems while you’re in the midst of being creative.
                                                  • Creative Bible study slowed me down to help me pause to ponder God’s word.
                                                  • The most effective way to study the Bible is whatever method gets you engaged and consistent.
                                                  • Hope is waiting expectantly for God to show up and show off for your good and for His glory.
                                                  • The good news is the gospel of Jesus Christ.
                                                  • Good=beautiful, best, bountiful, and blessed

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
                                                  • “…I [Jesus] came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]” John 10:10 AMP 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Pam Farrel:

                                                  Website / Discovering the Bible Series / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Pam Farrel is an international speaker, author of 57 books including bestselling "Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti" translated into over 15 languages. Her newest creative bible study, co-authored with Jean E Jones and Karla Dornacher, is Discovering Good News In John: A Creative Bible Devotional Study Experience,  an Amazon #1 bestseller. 

                                                  Pam and her husband, Bill, together run Love-Wise, and Proverbs 19:8 ministries to equip, enrich and encourage people in their most vital relationships. Pam's favorite role is being Mom to 3 sons, 3 daughter-in-love’s and Nana to her 5 grands and two new grand babies soon to arrive. Pam and Bill make their home on a live aboard boat docked in Southern California so she also loves biking, a beach walk, kayaking or a paddleboard adventure.  

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Do you ever get in a rut with your Bible study? Have you ever wondered “how can I make my Bible study more creative?” Or perhaps, “what’s the most effective way to study the Bible for me?” You won’t want to miss this week’s episode. My friend Pam Farrel and I will talk about how to make our Bible study time more creative! By the time the podcast is over, you’ll want to grab a copy of one of her Bible studies so you can start reaping the benefits!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Creative Bible study helped me memorize scripture better.
                                                  • You can’t think of your problems while you’re in the midst of being creative.
                                                  • Creative Bible study slowed me down to help me pause to ponder God’s word.
                                                  • The most effective way to study the Bible is whatever method gets you engaged and consistent.
                                                  • Hope is waiting expectantly for God to show up and show off for your good and for His glory.
                                                  • The good news is the gospel of Jesus Christ.
                                                  • Good=beautiful, best, bountiful, and blessed

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
                                                  • “…I [Jesus] came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]” John 10:10 AMP 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Pam Farrel:

                                                  Website / Discovering the Bible Series / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Pam Farrel is an international speaker, author of 57 books including bestselling "Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti" translated into over 15 languages. Her newest creative bible study, co-authored with Jean E Jones and Karla Dornacher, is Discovering Good News In John: A Creative Bible Devotional Study Experience,  an Amazon #1 bestseller. 

                                                  Pam and her husband, Bill, together run Love-Wise, and Proverbs 19:8 ministries to equip, enrich and encourage people in their most vital relationships. Pam's favorite role is being Mom to 3 sons, 3 daughter-in-love’s and Nana to her 5 grands and two new grand babies soon to arrive. Pam and Bill make their home on a live aboard boat docked in Southern California so she also loves biking, a beach walk, kayaking or a paddleboard adventure.  

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Do you ever get in a rut with your Bible study? Have you ever wondered “how can I make my Bible study more creative?” Or perhaps, “what’s the most effective way to study the Bible for me?” You won’t want to miss this... full 190 Dr. Michelle Bengtson bb4879a0-3f03-4bb3-bbff-1ee61fb58cc9 8f63d3c6-88de-4516-81f2-b2870117153b Thu, 01 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2203 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/190-how-to-enjoy-creative-bible-study                                                   189 How To Get Organized and Simplify Your Christmas Holidays 189 How To Get Organized and Simplify Your Christmas Holidays Episode Summary: 

                                                  We're approaching that time of the year again where the stress and overwhelm of the holiday season can take our emphasis off the reason for the season. We're sharing a replay of a popular podcast episode with Marcia Ramsland, the Holiday Pro. She shares how we can get organized and simplify our Christmas holidays. And the good news is, we can start now!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Getting organized is something that can be learned and will save you time, give you focus, and mental clarity.
                                                  • It’s always too early to start preparing until it’s too late to begin! So start your holiday preparations now.
                                                  • Part of what makes our holidays stressful is the fact that we already fill our days 24x7, then have to add more to our schedules for the holidays.
                                                  • Simplifying our holidays and our lives starts with decreasing our expectations.
                                                  • The problem with the poverty in the world is not God’s provision but our distribution. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 13:4 “The sluggish crave and have nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.”
                                                  • Proverbs 14:1 “A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.”
                                                  • Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Marcia Ramsland:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Marcia Ramsland is well known as The Leading Online Organizing Coach, a Business Productivity Expert, and author of the Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay that Way book series, which has sold over 100,000 copies. Marcia is a nationally recognized media guest appearing in Woman’s Day and Real Simple magazines, the Wall Street Journal, and Martha Stewart radio. Marcia believes anyone can become more organized – even you – with the Motivation, Momentum, and Mastery which she provides in her Online Courses and Fast Track Coaching! 

                                                  For more information or a free consultation visit her website www.organizingpro.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  We're approaching that time of the year again where the stress and overwhelm of the holiday season can take our emphasis off the reason for the season. We're sharing a replay of a popular podcast episode with Marcia Ramsland, the Holiday Pro. She shares how we can get organized and simplify our Christmas holidays. And the good news is, we can start now!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Getting organized is something that can be learned and will save you time, give you focus, and mental clarity.
                                                  • It’s always too early to start preparing until it’s too late to begin! So start your holiday preparations now.
                                                  • Part of what makes our holidays stressful is the fact that we already fill our days 24x7, then have to add more to our schedules for the holidays.
                                                  • Simplifying our holidays and our lives starts with decreasing our expectations.
                                                  • The problem with the poverty in the world is not God’s provision but our distribution. 

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 13:4 “The sluggish crave and have nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.”
                                                  • Proverbs 14:1 “A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.”
                                                  • Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Marcia Ramsland:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Marcia Ramsland is well known as The Leading Online Organizing Coach, a Business Productivity Expert, and author of the Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay that Way book series, which has sold over 100,000 copies. Marcia is a nationally recognized media guest appearing in Woman’s Day and Real Simple magazines, the Wall Street Journal, and Martha Stewart radio. Marcia believes anyone can become more organized – even you – with the Motivation, Momentum, and Mastery which she provides in her Online Courses and Fast Track Coaching! 

                                                  For more information or a free consultation visit her website www.organizingpro.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  We're approaching that time of the year again where the stress and overwhelm of the holiday season can take our emphasis off the reason for the season. We're sharing a replay of a popular podcast episode with Marcia Ramsland,... full Dr. Michelle Bengtson c9dce9c9-fb78-437e-bc2a-b48160ca0bc5 db0a68a0-715b-4dca-97c4-b28701173191 Thu, 24 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2627 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/189-how-to-get-organized-and-simplify-your-christm                                                   188 How To Have a Simple Christmas and Reconnect with the Real Reason We Celebrate 188 How To Have a Simple Christmas and Reconnect with the Real Reason We Celebrate Episode Summary: 

                                                  Christmas time can be so stressful. Would you like to experience calm in the midst of the holiday chaos? What if I told you that you could enjoy a more simple Christmas and, in doing so, reconnect with the real reason we celebrate the holiday? Join me with Tama Fortner as we talk about how to have a Simple Christmas.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • “Simple Christmas” is the book I wish someone had written for me when my children were little, before I had all these life experiences under my belt. So many things about “how Christmas is supposed to be” just didn’t work for my family. I want to give moms permission to chart their own course, while also providing some thoughts to draw them closer to God and His Son. 
                                                  • It’s important to learn to be more thoughtful and intentional about what we allow into our life and our family time, especially at the holidays. Just because we’ve always done this or everybody does that, doesn’t mean it’s right for us this year.
                                                  • As you launch into this holiday season and start filling up calendars and to-do lists, ask yourself three questions: Does it make me smile? Does it make my loved ones smile? (Because aren’t those the things that makes us mamas smile?) And, most importantly, does it make God smile? When you filter everything through these three questions, the things that really matter quickly rise to the top. 
                                                  • If a holiday tradition is no longer working for your family, kick it to the curb!
                                                  • The need to keep up with what everyone else is doing is overwhelming. Give yourself permission to simplify, to let some things go to savor the most important things this holiday.
                                                  • Recognize that as a child or daughter of God, you are loved regardless of what you do, how perfectly wrapped the gifts are, or how beautiful the holiday table is.
                                                  • When you reach yours or others’ expectations for yourself, the bar moves, the level increases, and you’re under more stress to continually be doing even more.
                                                  • Always start with reading the Bible! That is where God talks to us, where His will, His way, and His peace are found. Quiet time can be hard to carve out for moms, so I suggest that quiet time doesn’t have to look “perfect”—with a cozy chair, coffee, Bible, and an hour of uninterrupted silence.
                                                  • Sometimes quiet time is a state of mind that we carry with us into the chaos. And sometimes it has to be snatched up in a moment here and there. So keep a Bible with you always. I love an actual paper Bible, but apps on the phone are so convenient to soak up a verse waiting in carpool or whenever you have a moment. 
                                                  • When we start our day off in the word, and allow Him to set our intentions, we will get done what HE deems important for the day, and we will feel more at peace.
                                                  • Jesus’s ministry was centered around interruptions. When we allow ourself to be interrupted and look for the possibility in those interruptions, we will find the people in need and what they need, so that we’re accomplishing God’s to-do list for the day.
                                                  • Let other moms be good at what they are good at without the need to compare yourself to them. You’ll shine in the areas that you are good at.
                                                  • Consider what it is that you want at the end of the holiday season, and then your to-do list will begin to reflect what you ultimately desire.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 2:19 (NIV) — Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
                                                  • Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV) — You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
                                                  • Luke 1:47–48 (NIV) — My spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.
                                                  • Acts 17:28 (NIV) -- For in him we live and move and have our being.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tama Fortner:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tama is an ECPA award-winning author with more than forty titles to her credit. She is the writer behind the bestselling Indescribable for Kids series with Louie Giglio, as well as a number of books in the Jesus Calling children’s line, including the wildly successful Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids, which has sold more than 1,000,000 copies to date. Tama has collaborated with such well-known authors as Max Lucado, Rebekah Lyons, and Emily Ley to create inspirational books for all ages. 

                                                  Tama has been working as a freelance writer, ghostwriter, and editor for more than twenty-five years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from University of the Cumberlands and a master’s degree from Appalachian State University. Tama and her husband have two children who are growing up much too fast for their mama’s liking. They live on the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee, where they enjoy sampling new restaurants, watching old movies, and eating lots of popcorn with far too much butter and salt.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Christmas time can be so stressful. Would you like to experience calm in the midst of the holiday chaos? What if I told you that you could enjoy a more simple Christmas and, in doing so, reconnect with the real reason we celebrate the holiday? Join me with Tama Fortner as we talk about how to have a Simple Christmas.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • “Simple Christmas” is the book I wish someone had written for me when my children were little, before I had all these life experiences under my belt. So many things about “how Christmas is supposed to be” just didn’t work for my family. I want to give moms permission to chart their own course, while also providing some thoughts to draw them closer to God and His Son. 
                                                  • It’s important to learn to be more thoughtful and intentional about what we allow into our life and our family time, especially at the holidays. Just because we’ve always done this or everybody does that, doesn’t mean it’s right for us this year.
                                                  • As you launch into this holiday season and start filling up calendars and to-do lists, ask yourself three questions: Does it make me smile? Does it make my loved ones smile? (Because aren’t those the things that makes us mamas smile?) And, most importantly, does it make God smile? When you filter everything through these three questions, the things that really matter quickly rise to the top. 
                                                  • If a holiday tradition is no longer working for your family, kick it to the curb!
                                                  • The need to keep up with what everyone else is doing is overwhelming. Give yourself permission to simplify, to let some things go to savor the most important things this holiday.
                                                  • Recognize that as a child or daughter of God, you are loved regardless of what you do, how perfectly wrapped the gifts are, or how beautiful the holiday table is.
                                                  • When you reach yours or others’ expectations for yourself, the bar moves, the level increases, and you’re under more stress to continually be doing even more.
                                                  • Always start with reading the Bible! That is where God talks to us, where His will, His way, and His peace are found. Quiet time can be hard to carve out for moms, so I suggest that quiet time doesn’t have to look “perfect”—with a cozy chair, coffee, Bible, and an hour of uninterrupted silence.
                                                  • Sometimes quiet time is a state of mind that we carry with us into the chaos. And sometimes it has to be snatched up in a moment here and there. So keep a Bible with you always. I love an actual paper Bible, but apps on the phone are so convenient to soak up a verse waiting in carpool or whenever you have a moment. 
                                                  • When we start our day off in the word, and allow Him to set our intentions, we will get done what HE deems important for the day, and we will feel more at peace.
                                                  • Jesus’s ministry was centered around interruptions. When we allow ourself to be interrupted and look for the possibility in those interruptions, we will find the people in need and what they need, so that we’re accomplishing God’s to-do list for the day.
                                                  • Let other moms be good at what they are good at without the need to compare yourself to them. You’ll shine in the areas that you are good at.
                                                  • Consider what it is that you want at the end of the holiday season, and then your to-do list will begin to reflect what you ultimately desire.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Luke 2:19 (NIV) — Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
                                                  • Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV) — You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
                                                  • Luke 1:47–48 (NIV) — My spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.
                                                  • Acts 17:28 (NIV) -- For in him we live and move and have our being.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tama Fortner:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tama is an ECPA award-winning author with more than forty titles to her credit. She is the writer behind the bestselling Indescribable for Kids series with Louie Giglio, as well as a number of books in the Jesus Calling children’s line, including the wildly successful Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids, which has sold more than 1,000,000 copies to date. Tama has collaborated with such well-known authors as Max Lucado, Rebekah Lyons, and Emily Ley to create inspirational books for all ages. 

                                                  Tama has been working as a freelance writer, ghostwriter, and editor for more than twenty-five years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from University of the Cumberlands and a master’s degree from Appalachian State University. Tama and her husband have two children who are growing up much too fast for their mama’s liking. They live on the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee, where they enjoy sampling new restaurants, watching old movies, and eating lots of popcorn with far too much butter and salt.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Christmas time can be so stressful. Would you like to experience calm in the midst of the holiday chaos? What if I told you that you could enjoy a more simple Christmas and, in doing so, reconnect with the real reason we... full 188 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 8522f644-1c06-4729-b24b-227fe99504c4 e9306ff4-3644-4d88-86a1-b2870117395d Thu, 17 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 1689 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/188-how-to-have-a-simple-christmas-and-reconnect-w                                                   187 How to Rest Effectively to Refill and Refuel when Life is Busy 187 How to Rest Effectively to Refill and Refuel when Life is Busy Episode Summary:

                                                  Life is busy. There always seems to be more to do than time to do it. We often miss the special moments because we rush through life. Resting allows us to savor those moments. If you struggle to rest effectively so that you can refill and refuel, this episode is for you! Marci Siether shares the art of how to rest effectively.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We often miss the special moments because we rush through life. Resting allows us to savor those moments.
                                                  • Resting is often about pacing and prioritizing…like the difference between sprinting versus running a marathon—those runners don’t start off at the same pace. We need to pace ourselves, with moments of rest so we can make it through the things that must be done.
                                                  • If we don’t take time to come to a full rest and refuel, we end up “bleeding out” on ourselves and those around us.
                                                  • Too often we reserve rest and relaxation for vacation because we feel guilty for resting. But God offers us rest as a gift.
                                                  • We need to give ourselves buffer in our lives to create margin, which reduces our stress when things don’t go as planned.
                                                  • We need rest, we deserve rest, and we will be more productive for taking time to rest.
                                                  • Rest is something God set as an example for us from the beginning. It isn’t something that we HAVE to do..it is something that refills and refuels us. When we don’t fully rest..it is like the lesson of the bell ringer.. that knows an unsilenced bell allows the sound to “bleed’.
                                                  • Don’t wait. Put it on the calendar. Take time and MAKE time to set apart a moment to rest. Rest and peace are often interchangeable. In a world so desperate for peace..set the pace in your own heart, with your own family. Whether it is at the cabin on a lake or on the back porch with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. Take time to rest in the Lord today.
                                                  • Peace and patience go hand in hand.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 62:1-2 NIV “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.”  
                                                  • Matthew 11:28-29 NIV “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give your rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
                                                  • John 14:27 NIV “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”  

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Marci Seither:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Marci Seither’s writing career began after her humor article was published in a small-town newspaper over twenty years ago. Since then, she has authored two books and hundreds of articles for local papers as well as Guideposts, Focus on the Family, and Clubhouse Magazine. Her biggest joy, besides being married to John for 37 years and raising six kiddos is spending time with her grandkids in the kitchen.

                                                    Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Life is busy. There always seems to be more to do than time to do it. We often miss the special moments because we rush through life. Resting allows us to savor those moments. If you struggle to rest effectively so that you can refill and refuel, this episode is for you! Marci Siether shares the art of how to rest effectively.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We often miss the special moments because we rush through life. Resting allows us to savor those moments.
                                                  • Resting is often about pacing and prioritizing…like the difference between sprinting versus running a marathon—those runners don’t start off at the same pace. We need to pace ourselves, with moments of rest so we can make it through the things that must be done.
                                                  • If we don’t take time to come to a full rest and refuel, we end up “bleeding out” on ourselves and those around us.
                                                  • Too often we reserve rest and relaxation for vacation because we feel guilty for resting. But God offers us rest as a gift.
                                                  • We need to give ourselves buffer in our lives to create margin, which reduces our stress when things don’t go as planned.
                                                  • We need rest, we deserve rest, and we will be more productive for taking time to rest.
                                                  • Rest is something God set as an example for us from the beginning. It isn’t something that we HAVE to do..it is something that refills and refuels us. When we don’t fully rest..it is like the lesson of the bell ringer.. that knows an unsilenced bell allows the sound to “bleed’.
                                                  • Don’t wait. Put it on the calendar. Take time and MAKE time to set apart a moment to rest. Rest and peace are often interchangeable. In a world so desperate for peace..set the pace in your own heart, with your own family. Whether it is at the cabin on a lake or on the back porch with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. Take time to rest in the Lord today.
                                                  • Peace and patience go hand in hand.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 62:1-2 NIV “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.”  
                                                  • Matthew 11:28-29 NIV “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give your rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
                                                  • John 14:27 NIV “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”  

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Marci Seither:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Marci Seither’s writing career began after her humor article was published in a small-town newspaper over twenty years ago. Since then, she has authored two books and hundreds of articles for local papers as well as Guideposts, Focus on the Family, and Clubhouse Magazine. Her biggest joy, besides being married to John for 37 years and raising six kiddos is spending time with her grandkids in the kitchen.

                                                    Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Life is busy. There always seems to be more to do than time to do it. We often miss the special moments because we rush through life. Resting allows us to savor those moments. If you struggle to rest effectively so that you can refill... full 187 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 0e66ed3b-1a2c-4740-b5e3-0442c75d2417 5e269f4e-cdaa-4796-a21f-b28701173d0e Thu, 10 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2229 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/187-how-to-rest-effectively-to-refill-and-refuel-w                                                   186 Learning to Trust God with Our Decisions 186 Learning to Trust God with Our Decisions Episode Summary: 

                                                  Kristine Brown and I talk about learning to trust God, especially in our decisions. Making decisions is a process, and it can seem overwhelming at times. Kristine shares what she learned in order to move from decision fatigue to trusting God with her decisions.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • So often we trust God with the big things in life, when it’s the little things that seem so hard to trust Him with.
                                                  • When my pastor said, “You know God’s got this, right?” I realized I wasn’t so sure I did. That’s when I realized something needed to change.
                                                  • I wanted to go from saying I trusted God to actively living it out in my life.
                                                  • In order to fully trust God, we have to trade our “what ifs?” for “living as if!”
                                                  • I came to the place where I prayed, “Lord, show me what you want me to learn through the hard stuff.”
                                                  • We struggle to trust God because we want the assurance that everything will be okay.
                                                  • We must make our decisions in good faith to trust that the Holy Spirit is guiding us.
                                                  • The best thing we can do as we learn to trust God more with our decisions is to make a daily commitment to release control to God.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” 
                                                  • Psalm 73:24 ESV “You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory.” 
                                                  • Hebrews 10:23 ESV “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kristine Brown:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kristine Brown is a ministry wife, mom, stepmom, and Mimi. A former chronic worrier, Kristine loves connecting women today with women of the Bible and sharing lessons learned through her website, freelance writing, and speaking to women’s groups. Any given day you can find her texting her young adult kids, taking a walk through her neighborhood, or ordering another new book to read. To connect with Kristine, visit kristinebrown.net.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Kristine Brown and I talk about learning to trust God, especially in our decisions. Making decisions is a process, and it can seem overwhelming at times. Kristine shares what she learned in order to move from decision fatigue to trusting God with her decisions.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • So often we trust God with the big things in life, when it’s the little things that seem so hard to trust Him with.
                                                  • When my pastor said, “You know God’s got this, right?” I realized I wasn’t so sure I did. That’s when I realized something needed to change.
                                                  • I wanted to go from saying I trusted God to actively living it out in my life.
                                                  • In order to fully trust God, we have to trade our “what ifs?” for “living as if!”
                                                  • I came to the place where I prayed, “Lord, show me what you want me to learn through the hard stuff.”
                                                  • We struggle to trust God because we want the assurance that everything will be okay.
                                                  • We must make our decisions in good faith to trust that the Holy Spirit is guiding us.
                                                  • The best thing we can do as we learn to trust God more with our decisions is to make a daily commitment to release control to God.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” 
                                                  • Psalm 73:24 ESV “You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory.” 
                                                  • Hebrews 10:23 ESV “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kristine Brown:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kristine Brown is a ministry wife, mom, stepmom, and Mimi. A former chronic worrier, Kristine loves connecting women today with women of the Bible and sharing lessons learned through her website, freelance writing, and speaking to women’s groups. Any given day you can find her texting her young adult kids, taking a walk through her neighborhood, or ordering another new book to read. To connect with Kristine, visit kristinebrown.net.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Kristine Brown and I talk about learning to trust God, especially in our decisions. Making decisions is a process, and it can seem overwhelming at times. Kristine shares what she learned in order to move from decision fatigue to... full 186 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 737b93eb-f5f3-4df6-80f8-d4a119541af4 d52985be-c0f5-436a-ade5-b28701175506 Thu, 03 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000 2034 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/186-learning-to-trust-god-with-our-decisions                                                   185 Raise children to have a strong foundation in Jesus 185 Raise children to have a strong foundation in Jesus Episode Summary: 

                                                  Lee Ann Mancini and I talk about raising children to have a strong foundation in Jesus. It’s her passion to equip parents with valuable resources so they can raise their children to have a strong foundation in Jesus—the only foundation that will last. This is such an important topic given the world we live in and the influences our children are under. We talk about how to help kids with bullying, why forgiveness is important, why kids are walking away from their faith and more.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I see how children are walking away from their faith – first priority is the salvation of our children and the preservation of Christianity.
                                                  • Kids are leaving home and being influence by a humanistic perspective from their professors and peers.
                                                  • The enemy of our soul and our children’s souls likes to attack at the foundation. We need to give our children spiritual meat, not mild.
                                                  • If our children don’t have a solid foundation in Jesus by the age of 10, they are significantly more likely to walk away from their faith.
                                                  • I believe His will for me is to equip all who are raising the next generation to have a strong foundation in Jesus that will last a lifetime.
                                                  • Don’t look at the world and have despair – With God’s help, we can overcome. God’s word tells us the whole narrative, and we only need to walk in faith and spiritual sight.
                                                  • Your kids will reflect the mirror of your character.
                                                  • Our children are our future. We need to rely on the Holy Spirit for their transformation and do all we can to teach them the ways of the Lord.
                                                  • One of the most important things we can teach our children is how to forgive each other.
                                                  • Play is the highest form of science and education for our children.
                                                  • Make today the day that you decide what is most important for raising our children to have a strong foundation in Jesus. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Deuteronomy 6:4-9 NIV: Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 5Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
                                                  • Psalm 78:5-6 NIV: He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children.
                                                  • Psalm 51:6 NIV: Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Lee Ann Mancini:

                                                  Raising Christian Kids Facebook / Facebook Group / Instagram / Podcast / Website Sea Kids Facebook / Instagram

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lee Ann hosts the award-winning Raising Christian Kids podcast, which can be found on all major platforms, including CounterCultureMom.com, Pray.com, and Edifi.app. Raising Christian Kids is a five to ten-minute podcast that equips and empowers parents, grandparents, teachers, and all who are raising the next generation to have a strong foundation in Jesus. Lee Ann also has an informative webinar presentation that highlights her research and biblical knowledge in this area. “It is first about the salvation of the children and then about the preservation of Christianity.” There is truth to the adage, “The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world!”

                                                  Lee Ann is an award-winning Christian children’s author and Executive Producer of the new animation series Sea Kids, which can be seen on Trinity Broadcasting Network, Pure Flix, Right Now Media, and SeaKidsTv.com.   Lee Ann Mancini received a B.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies from Regent University, a Master’s degree in Theological Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (Trinity International University), and two Master’s degrees from Knox Theological Seminary in Biblical and Theological Studies and Christian and Classical Studies.

                                                  She is a professor at South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary teaching Apologetics, Romans, Ministerial Ethics, Prison Epistles, and The Bride of Christ. She holds a board position with South Florida Bible College & Theological. She also holds a board position with the Alexandrian Forum, under the tutelage of Dr. Warren Gage Th.M., J.D., Ph.D., an organization seeking to bring a greater understanding of the Bible by hosting annual Typology Conferences in South Florida dedicated to the theme of Christ as the center of scripture.

                                                  Her God-given mission and desire are to serve all who are raising the next generation of Christians by preparing the soil to be rich from the womb to age three in which to plant the seeds that grow deep roots from ages four to ten.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Lee Ann Mancini and I talk about raising children to have a strong foundation in Jesus. It’s her passion to equip parents with valuable resources so they can raise their children to have a strong foundation in Jesus—the only foundation that will last. This is such an important topic given the world we live in and the influences our children are under. We talk about how to help kids with bullying, why forgiveness is important, why kids are walking away from their faith and more.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I see how children are walking away from their faith – first priority is the salvation of our children and the preservation of Christianity.
                                                  • Kids are leaving home and being influence by a humanistic perspective from their professors and peers.
                                                  • The enemy of our soul and our children’s souls likes to attack at the foundation. We need to give our children spiritual meat, not mild.
                                                  • If our children don’t have a solid foundation in Jesus by the age of 10, they are significantly more likely to walk away from their faith.
                                                  • I believe His will for me is to equip all who are raising the next generation to have a strong foundation in Jesus that will last a lifetime.
                                                  • Don’t look at the world and have despair – With God’s help, we can overcome. God’s word tells us the whole narrative, and we only need to walk in faith and spiritual sight.
                                                  • Your kids will reflect the mirror of your character.
                                                  • Our children are our future. We need to rely on the Holy Spirit for their transformation and do all we can to teach them the ways of the Lord.
                                                  • One of the most important things we can teach our children is how to forgive each other.
                                                  • Play is the highest form of science and education for our children.
                                                  • Make today the day that you decide what is most important for raising our children to have a strong foundation in Jesus. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Deuteronomy 6:4-9 NIV: Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 5Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
                                                  • Psalm 78:5-6 NIV: He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children.
                                                  • Psalm 51:6 NIV: Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Lee Ann Mancini:

                                                  Raising Christian Kids Facebook / Facebook Group / Instagram / Podcast / Website Sea Kids Facebook / Instagram

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lee Ann hosts the award-winning Raising Christian Kids podcast, which can be found on all major platforms, including CounterCultureMom.com, Pray.com, and Edifi.app. Raising Christian Kids is a five to ten-minute podcast that equips and empowers parents, grandparents, teachers, and all who are raising the next generation to have a strong foundation in Jesus. Lee Ann also has an informative webinar presentation that highlights her research and biblical knowledge in this area. “It is first about the salvation of the children and then about the preservation of Christianity.” There is truth to the adage, “The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world!”

                                                  Lee Ann is an award-winning Christian children’s author and Executive Producer of the new animation series Sea Kids, which can be seen on Trinity Broadcasting Network, Pure Flix, Right Now Media, and SeaKidsTv.com.   Lee Ann Mancini received a B.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies from Regent University, a Master’s degree in Theological Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (Trinity International University), and two Master’s degrees from Knox Theological Seminary in Biblical and Theological Studies and Christian and Classical Studies.

                                                  She is a professor at South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary teaching Apologetics, Romans, Ministerial Ethics, Prison Epistles, and The Bride of Christ. She holds a board position with South Florida Bible College & Theological. She also holds a board position with the Alexandrian Forum, under the tutelage of Dr. Warren Gage Th.M., J.D., Ph.D., an organization seeking to bring a greater understanding of the Bible by hosting annual Typology Conferences in South Florida dedicated to the theme of Christ as the center of scripture.

                                                  Her God-given mission and desire are to serve all who are raising the next generation of Christians by preparing the soil to be rich from the womb to age three in which to plant the seeds that grow deep roots from ages four to ten.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Lee Ann Mancini and I talk about raising children to have a strong foundation in Jesus. It’s her passion to equip parents with valuable resources so they can raise their children to have a strong foundation in Jesus—the only... full 185 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 28e69e5d-e521-4a45-93c3-5b4557077068 f668db03-5286-4a64-80ca-b28701176232 Thu, 27 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000 2076 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/185-raise-children-to-have-a-strong-foundation-in                                                   184 How To Forgive Someone Who Hurt You Emotionally and Isn’t Sorry 184 How To Forgive Someone Who Hurt You Emotionally and Isn’t Sorry Episode Summary: 

                                                  How do you forgive someone who hurt you emotionally? How do you forgive someone who traumatized you? How do you forgive someone who isn’t sorry? Our guest, Mark Sowersby, shares a gripping testimony of forgiveness, God’s grace, and overcoming in the midst of life’s hurts, pains, and abuses. Join us as we talk about how to forgive someone who has hurt you and isn’t sorry.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I was an abused victim but I learned that was not my identity. My identity was a child of God.
                                                  • I came to realize, I’m not a victim—I’m victorious because I made it through.
                                                  • The first casualty of trauma is the loss of trust.
                                                  • When you ask God hard questions, you get hard answers, but you get the right answers for you.
                                                  • If you start by moving a pebble, then a stone, then a hill, eventually with faith you will move mountains.
                                                  • God became bigger than my mountain of pain, abuse, and trauma.
                                                  • Forgiveness comes through Jesus.
                                                  • Forgiveness does not mean reconciliation.
                                                  • Trusting God is where forgiveness begins.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Psalm 10:14 NIV “But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.” 

                                                  Acts 10:34 KJV “Then Peter opened his mouth and said, ‘Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.’” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Mark Sowersby:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram /YouTube

                                                  Connect with Dr. Michelle Bengtson for more hope:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Pastor.  Husband.  Father.  Reverend Mark Sowersby has been married to his wonderful wife Jennifer for 18 years and is the father of four children.  Mark has been an ordained minister with Assembly of God for over 25 years and is currently the Pastor of Calvary Community Church in Dudley, MA.  Pastor Mark holds a BA in theology from Zion Bible College/Northpoint Bible College.  

                                                  In 2019 Pastor Mark went through a time of great healing.  He began speaking about the experiences of his past and God’s grace and the transformational work of forgiveness in his life.  He now speaks about his story through his ministry, Forgiving The Nightmare.  

                                                  When he isn’t serving his congregation and his community through ministry, teaching, and support, you can find him on all the trails and lakes in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Upstate New York, spending time with his family.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  How do you forgive someone who hurt you emotionally? How do you forgive someone who traumatized you? How do you forgive someone who isn’t sorry? Our guest, Mark Sowersby, shares a gripping testimony of forgiveness, God’s grace, and overcoming in the midst of life’s hurts, pains, and abuses. Join us as we talk about how to forgive someone who has hurt you and isn’t sorry.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I was an abused victim but I learned that was not my identity. My identity was a child of God.
                                                  • I came to realize, I’m not a victim—I’m victorious because I made it through.
                                                  • The first casualty of trauma is the loss of trust.
                                                  • When you ask God hard questions, you get hard answers, but you get the right answers for you.
                                                  • If you start by moving a pebble, then a stone, then a hill, eventually with faith you will move mountains.
                                                  • God became bigger than my mountain of pain, abuse, and trauma.
                                                  • Forgiveness comes through Jesus.
                                                  • Forgiveness does not mean reconciliation.
                                                  • Trusting God is where forgiveness begins.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Psalm 10:14 NIV “But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.” 

                                                  Acts 10:34 KJV “Then Peter opened his mouth and said, ‘Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.’” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Mark Sowersby:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram /YouTube

                                                  Connect with Dr. Michelle Bengtson for more hope:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Pastor.  Husband.  Father.  Reverend Mark Sowersby has been married to his wonderful wife Jennifer for 18 years and is the father of four children.  Mark has been an ordained minister with Assembly of God for over 25 years and is currently the Pastor of Calvary Community Church in Dudley, MA.  Pastor Mark holds a BA in theology from Zion Bible College/Northpoint Bible College.  

                                                  In 2019 Pastor Mark went through a time of great healing.  He began speaking about the experiences of his past and God’s grace and the transformational work of forgiveness in his life.  He now speaks about his story through his ministry, Forgiving The Nightmare.  

                                                  When he isn’t serving his congregation and his community through ministry, teaching, and support, you can find him on all the trails and lakes in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Upstate New York, spending time with his family.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  How do you forgive someone who hurt you emotionally? How do you forgive someone who traumatized you? How do you forgive someone who isn’t sorry? Our guest, Mark Sowersby, shares a gripping testimony of forgiveness, God’s... full 184 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6d0d6fae-a884-4532-92fe-7d512621230d 46446720-fa9d-4927-a3e4-b287011761af Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:50:00 +0000 2227 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/184-how-to-forgive-someone-who-hurt-you-emotionall                                                   183 How To Heal from Sexual Trauma and Violence 183 How To Heal from Sexual Trauma and Violence Episode Summary: 

                                                  Latest statistics indicate that about 20% of Americans have experienced attempted or completed rape. That is over 430,000 American victims each year, 1 rape every 73 seconds. Yet only 5 out of 1,000 rapists go to jail. What has led to tolerance of sexual violence and trauma? Why is this the most underreported and under-prosecuted crime in this nation? Why are so few perpetrators held accountable? What can we do to end sexual violence, compassionately meet the needs of victims and show perpetrators that we take this crime seriously? Our guest, Lisa Saruga, is going to share how to heal from sexual trauma and violence.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Not everyone who is the victim of sexual assault is a survivor. This title is used to empower victims, but some victims carry a burden of trying to live up to that title. Do the hard work of surviving.
                                                  • God doesn’t forget our experiences. He wants to heal us, but we have to be open to the work that healing entails. God didn’t purpose for you to be abused, but he can use all things for his purpose.
                                                  • I have learned to trust God, his timing, and his faithfulness. He showed me in a powerful way that when we are working to chip away at walls that stand in the way of healing, we have no idea what kind of powerful work he is doing on the other side of that wall.
                                                  • Often justice doesn’t look like we think it should, but God is just!
                                                  • Only 2.5% of all rapists go to jail.
                                                  • Sadly, in our justice system, if there is no conviction of a perpetrator, there is no protection of the victim.
                                                  • While God does not purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use our trauma for his purposes if we let him. Sometimes he is up to great things when we don’t even sense that he remembers our trauma.
                                                  • I encourage victims to find a support network and talk about the experience. Hiding it away on a back shelf in our brain does not work forever.
                                                  • If you’ve been the victim of sexual assault, you first have to decide what is right for you. Some people want to report the assault, but others don’t because of the resulting blaming and shaming. But definitely seek a support system to walk you through the healing process. Know that it takes hard work to be a survivor.
                                                  • We all experience bad things in our life. We can heal from trauma with appropriate help, but tragedy results when we don’t heal from the trauma.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:28 (NLT) And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 1:4 (NLT) He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
                                                  • Psalm 27:13 (NLT) Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Lisa Saruga:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Shop

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lisa is a licensed professional counselor, keynote speaker, author, and legal and ethical specialist. She specializes in therapy for victims of sexual violence. Her own story resulted in the reopening of her thirty-five-year cold case, when someone finally reported the identity of the man who wore a ski mask when he assaulted Lisa as a freshman in college. The man was never arrested because of archaic laws and loopholes that protect perpetrators over victims. Lisa regularly meets with legislators to advocate for laws to protect victims of sexual violence. She believes that, although God doesn’t purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use every event in our lives for his purposes.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Latest statistics indicate that about 20% of Americans have experienced attempted or completed rape. That is over 430,000 American victims each year, 1 rape every 73 seconds. Yet only 5 out of 1,000 rapists go to jail. What has led to tolerance of sexual violence and trauma? Why is this the most underreported and under-prosecuted crime in this nation? Why are so few perpetrators held accountable? What can we do to end sexual violence, compassionately meet the needs of victims and show perpetrators that we take this crime seriously? Our guest, Lisa Saruga, is going to share how to heal from sexual trauma and violence.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Not everyone who is the victim of sexual assault is a survivor. This title is used to empower victims, but some victims carry a burden of trying to live up to that title. Do the hard work of surviving.
                                                  • God doesn’t forget our experiences. He wants to heal us, but we have to be open to the work that healing entails. God didn’t purpose for you to be abused, but he can use all things for his purpose.
                                                  • I have learned to trust God, his timing, and his faithfulness. He showed me in a powerful way that when we are working to chip away at walls that stand in the way of healing, we have no idea what kind of powerful work he is doing on the other side of that wall.
                                                  • Often justice doesn’t look like we think it should, but God is just!
                                                  • Only 2.5% of all rapists go to jail.
                                                  • Sadly, in our justice system, if there is no conviction of a perpetrator, there is no protection of the victim.
                                                  • While God does not purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use our trauma for his purposes if we let him. Sometimes he is up to great things when we don’t even sense that he remembers our trauma.
                                                  • I encourage victims to find a support network and talk about the experience. Hiding it away on a back shelf in our brain does not work forever.
                                                  • If you’ve been the victim of sexual assault, you first have to decide what is right for you. Some people want to report the assault, but others don’t because of the resulting blaming and shaming. But definitely seek a support system to walk you through the healing process. Know that it takes hard work to be a survivor.
                                                  • We all experience bad things in our life. We can heal from trauma with appropriate help, but tragedy results when we don’t heal from the trauma.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:28 (NLT) And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 1:4 (NLT) He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
                                                  • Psalm 27:13 (NLT) Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Lisa Saruga:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Shop

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lisa is a licensed professional counselor, keynote speaker, author, and legal and ethical specialist. She specializes in therapy for victims of sexual violence. Her own story resulted in the reopening of her thirty-five-year cold case, when someone finally reported the identity of the man who wore a ski mask when he assaulted Lisa as a freshman in college. The man was never arrested because of archaic laws and loopholes that protect perpetrators over victims. Lisa regularly meets with legislators to advocate for laws to protect victims of sexual violence. She believes that, although God doesn’t purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use every event in our lives for his purposes.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Latest statistics indicate that about 20% of Americans have experienced attempted or completed rape. That is over 430,000 American victims each year, 1 rape every 73 seconds. Yet only 5 out of 1,000 rapists go to jail. What has... full 183 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 30bbf1a8-56c4-40e7-96d1-35c606b3cdd1 ddb9b5bd-af74-4994-9709-b28701176f18 Thu, 13 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000 2355 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/183-how-to-heal-from-sexual-trauma-and-violence                                                   182 Domestic Abuse in a Christian marriage 182 Domestic Abuse in a Christian marriage Episode Summary:

                                                  Domestic abuse is the most misunderstood yet silenced epidemic of our time in our churches and in society. The numbers are mind-boggling. 35% of women at some point in their lives experience stalking, rape, and/or physical abuse, and nearly half experience coercive control and/or emotional and verbal abuse. Those numbers are astounding. And they are no different in the church. We all know someone whose life has been turned upside down by domestic abuse. Charlene Quint and I talk about recognizing, removing, and recovering from domestic abuse in a “Christian” marriage.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • In its simplest form, abuse is any behavior that is used to gain and maintain power over another.
                                                  • Domestic abusers tend to have a lack of empathy, a grandiose sense of self, pride, and a lack of remorse.
                                                  • Cheap grace is grace that is extended without true repentance.
                                                  • The #1 reason people stay in an abusive relationship is fear regarding a lack of financial resources.
                                                  • Every relationship with an abuser will end badly.
                                                  • If you’ve been in an abusive relationship, be gentle with yourself, heal, restore, and live intentionally.
                                                  • If God has removed someone from your life, you don’t need them. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Timothy 3:2-5 NLT “For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!”
                                                  • Genesis 50:20 NLT “You intended to harm be, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Charlene Quint:

                                                  Facebook Author / Facebook Personal / Website

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Charlene Quint is a family law attorney in the Chicago area who focuses her practice on helping women overcome domestic abuse. She wrote "Overcoming the Narcissist, Sociopath, Psychopath, and Other Domestic Abusers: The Comprehensive Handbook to Recognize, Remove and Recover from Abuse" to help victims of domestic abuse become the fearless victors that God designed them to be. She is the founder of AbuseCare.org, a nondenominational faith-based organization designed to provide hope and healing to women in their journey from victim to victorious and to educate and equip churches in caring for victims of domestic abuse. Quint is co-chair of the Partnership for a Safer Lake County, a network of organizations combating all forms of abuse. She is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional, an advocate for victims of abuse, a facilitator of multiple support groups, and a domestic abuse survivor. She speaks publicly to raise awareness of domestic abuse and provides training for churches on how to address abuse in the church.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Domestic abuse is the most misunderstood yet silenced epidemic of our time in our churches and in society. The numbers are mind-boggling. 35% of women at some point in their lives experience stalking, rape, and/or physical abuse, and nearly half experience coercive control and/or emotional and verbal abuse. Those numbers are astounding. And they are no different in the church. We all know someone whose life has been turned upside down by domestic abuse. Charlene Quint and I talk about recognizing, removing, and recovering from domestic abuse in a “Christian” marriage.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • In its simplest form, abuse is any behavior that is used to gain and maintain power over another.
                                                  • Domestic abusers tend to have a lack of empathy, a grandiose sense of self, pride, and a lack of remorse.
                                                  • Cheap grace is grace that is extended without true repentance.
                                                  • The #1 reason people stay in an abusive relationship is fear regarding a lack of financial resources.
                                                  • Every relationship with an abuser will end badly.
                                                  • If you’ve been in an abusive relationship, be gentle with yourself, heal, restore, and live intentionally.
                                                  • If God has removed someone from your life, you don’t need them. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Timothy 3:2-5 NLT “For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!”
                                                  • Genesis 50:20 NLT “You intended to harm be, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Charlene Quint:

                                                  Facebook Author / Facebook Personal / Website

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Charlene Quint is a family law attorney in the Chicago area who focuses her practice on helping women overcome domestic abuse. She wrote "Overcoming the Narcissist, Sociopath, Psychopath, and Other Domestic Abusers: The Comprehensive Handbook to Recognize, Remove and Recover from Abuse" to help victims of domestic abuse become the fearless victors that God designed them to be. She is the founder of AbuseCare.org, a nondenominational faith-based organization designed to provide hope and healing to women in their journey from victim to victorious and to educate and equip churches in caring for victims of domestic abuse. Quint is co-chair of the Partnership for a Safer Lake County, a network of organizations combating all forms of abuse. She is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional, an advocate for victims of abuse, a facilitator of multiple support groups, and a domestic abuse survivor. She speaks publicly to raise awareness of domestic abuse and provides training for churches on how to address abuse in the church.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Domestic abuse is the most misunderstood yet silenced epidemic of our time in our churches and in society. The numbers are mind-boggling. 35% of women at some point in their lives experience stalking, rape, and/or physical abuse, and... full 182 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9bc27be6-4238-44a9-9132-50232a0eaec0 239d1871-2da0-434c-94c0-b28701177472 Thu, 06 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000 3286 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/182-domestic-abuse-in-a-christian-marriage                                                   181 How To Identify Toxic Friendships 181 How To Identify Toxic Friendships Episode summary:

                                                  If we’ve lived long enough, many of us have gone through difficult friendships. Sometimes, we’ve endured friendships where we’re just not appreciated as much as we give out and others seem to die way too early. Some of those relationships can be some of the most painful experiences that we go through. Join me for this replay of an author interview with Mary DeMuth about her book, 7 Deadly Friendships.

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • There can be redemption in a relationship that’s hard.
                                                  • No one should demand that you forgive on their timetable.
                                                  • If someone is really angry at me, I have prayed a lot, Lord, deliver them from their bitterness and give them the power to forgive me.
                                                  • Forgiveness doesn’t mean reconciliation.
                                                  • I believe that life is, life really is boiled down to our relationships.
                                                  • If someone is bringing you down and it’s affecting your relationship with God and your relationship with others, it’s important to recognize that for the sake of your own soul.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Mary DeMuth:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / PrayEveryDay Podcast 

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Mary DeMuth is an international speaker and podcaster, and she’s the novelist and nonfiction author of more than 40 books, translated into five languages. She loves to help people re-story their lives. She lives in Texas with her husband of 29 years and is the mom to three adult children. Find out more at marydemuth.com, or be prayed for on her daily prayer podcast prayeveryday.show. For sexual abuse resources, visit wetoo.org.

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode summary:

                                                  If we’ve lived long enough, many of us have gone through difficult friendships. Sometimes, we’ve endured friendships where we’re just not appreciated as much as we give out and others seem to die way too early. Some of those relationships can be some of the most painful experiences that we go through. Join me for this replay of an author interview with Mary DeMuth about her book, 7 Deadly Friendships.

                                                  Quotables from the Episode:

                                                  • There can be redemption in a relationship that’s hard.
                                                  • No one should demand that you forgive on their timetable.
                                                  • If someone is really angry at me, I have prayed a lot, Lord, deliver them from their bitterness and give them the power to forgive me.
                                                  • Forgiveness doesn’t mean reconciliation.
                                                  • I believe that life is, life really is boiled down to our relationships.
                                                  • If someone is bringing you down and it’s affecting your relationship with God and your relationship with others, it’s important to recognize that for the sake of your own soul.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Mary DeMuth:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / PrayEveryDay Podcast 

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Mary DeMuth is an international speaker and podcaster, and she’s the novelist and nonfiction author of more than 40 books, translated into five languages. She loves to help people re-story their lives. She lives in Texas with her husband of 29 years and is the mom to three adult children. Find out more at marydemuth.com, or be prayed for on her daily prayer podcast prayeveryday.show. For sexual abuse resources, visit wetoo.org.

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode summary: If we’ve lived long enough, many of us have gone through difficult friendships. Sometimes, we’ve endured friendships where we’re just not appreciated as much as we give out and others seem to die way too early. Some of those... full 181 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 2199b48b-73d2-4222-8c2b-ce7bbcbc2c55 37c4e561-6157-4410-856a-b28701177901 Thu, 29 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000 1924 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/181-how-to-identify-toxic-friendships                                                   180 How We Can Be Transformed and Not Conformed to the World 180 How We Can Be Transformed and Not Conformed to the World Episode Summary:

                                                  Missy Eversole and I talk about how we can be transformed and not conformed to the world. What does conformity to the world mean? How can we avoid being conformed to the world? If you’re a people pleaser, you won’t want to miss her story.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The older I get, the more I realize that all I really need is Jesus. I don’t need to be “Pinterest perfect.” I just need Jesus.\
                                                  • No matter how spiritually dry you are, Jesus is waiting for you with open arms, ready to quench that thirst with the Living Water that He provides.
                                                  • It’s not sustainable to think we can live in a Pinterest-perfect life.
                                                  • Conforming means we are blending in with the world when we are called to be salt and light.
                                                  • When we begin the transformation process, we see small results right away.
                                                  • If you have time to scroll on social media, we have time to read the Bible.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:2 ESV “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Missy Eversole:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Missy Eversole is a wife, mom of two sons, an author, and a speaker. She and her husband, Craig, have been married for twenty-one years and live in Morton, Illinois. Missy shares her love for digging deep into God’s Word as a contributing writer for Proverbs 31 Online Bible Studies. She is the author of Transformed, Not Conformed: Embracing a Life-Changing Approach to Spiritual Habits and writes about her faith and family on her blog, MissyEversole.com. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Missy Eversole and I talk about how we can be transformed and not conformed to the world. What does conformity to the world mean? How can we avoid being conformed to the world? If you’re a people pleaser, you won’t want to miss her story.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The older I get, the more I realize that all I really need is Jesus. I don’t need to be “Pinterest perfect.” I just need Jesus.\
                                                  • No matter how spiritually dry you are, Jesus is waiting for you with open arms, ready to quench that thirst with the Living Water that He provides.
                                                  • It’s not sustainable to think we can live in a Pinterest-perfect life.
                                                  • Conforming means we are blending in with the world when we are called to be salt and light.
                                                  • When we begin the transformation process, we see small results right away.
                                                  • If you have time to scroll on social media, we have time to read the Bible.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 12:2 ESV “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Missy Eversole:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Missy Eversole is a wife, mom of two sons, an author, and a speaker. She and her husband, Craig, have been married for twenty-one years and live in Morton, Illinois. Missy shares her love for digging deep into God’s Word as a contributing writer for Proverbs 31 Online Bible Studies. She is the author of Transformed, Not Conformed: Embracing a Life-Changing Approach to Spiritual Habits and writes about her faith and family on her blog, MissyEversole.com. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Missy Eversole and I talk about how we can be transformed and not conformed to the world. What does conformity to the world mean? How can we avoid being conformed to the world? If you’re a people pleaser, you won’t want to miss... full 180 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 86e7e2a1-0e43-42af-9f99-e825d1ae1a93 b71db549-9467-4ac1-b9f5-b287011784e5 Thu, 22 Sep 2022 09:00:03 +0000 1721 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/180-how-we-can-be-transformed-and-not-conformed-to                                                   179 Importance of Sharing Your Story to Encourage Others 179 Importance of Sharing Your Story to Encourage Others Episode Summary:

                                                  In this episode, my guest, Meg Glesener, and I talk about the importance of sharing our stories. Meg lived a hard life of childhood abuse, alcoholism, berating, and abandonment, yet through her trials, she learned the value of our individual stories. Sharing your story is powerful! Join us for encouragement that comes from an extraordinary story of faith.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God has taught me that we don’t have to prove ourselves loveable to Him. He loves us regardless.
                                                  • It’s not time to share our story with others until we are no longer reliving the pain of it.
                                                  • Sharing our story with others, whether one or many, is planting seeds of courage in them to do the same. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ps. 147:3 ESV "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
                                                  • Rom. 11:4 ESV "But what was the divine response to him? I have kept for myself seven thousand people who have not bent the knee to Baal.” (Elijah felt sooooo alone in his pain and struggle. But he wasn't. And we aren't either.)
                                                  • John 14:3 ESV "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Meg Glesener:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Letters From Home Podcast Apple / Letters From Home Podcast Google

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Meg Glesener is the host and producer of the Letters From Home Podcast, where she publishes every other week for your encouragement, "Everyday Extraordinary Faith Stories". Her podcast can be found on Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher and all of the places podcasts live, including most social media platforms. She and her husband Mike, and their youngest 3 kids live and serve in Seattle, Washington. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In this episode, my guest, Meg Glesener, and I talk about the importance of sharing our stories. Meg lived a hard life of childhood abuse, alcoholism, berating, and abandonment, yet through her trials, she learned the value of our individual stories. Sharing your story is powerful! Join us for encouragement that comes from an extraordinary story of faith.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • God has taught me that we don’t have to prove ourselves loveable to Him. He loves us regardless.
                                                  • It’s not time to share our story with others until we are no longer reliving the pain of it.
                                                  • Sharing our story with others, whether one or many, is planting seeds of courage in them to do the same. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ps. 147:3 ESV "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
                                                  • Rom. 11:4 ESV "But what was the divine response to him? I have kept for myself seven thousand people who have not bent the knee to Baal.” (Elijah felt sooooo alone in his pain and struggle. But he wasn't. And we aren't either.)
                                                  • John 14:3 ESV "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Meg Glesener:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Letters From Home Podcast Apple / Letters From Home Podcast Google

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Meg Glesener is the host and producer of the Letters From Home Podcast, where she publishes every other week for your encouragement, "Everyday Extraordinary Faith Stories". Her podcast can be found on Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher and all of the places podcasts live, including most social media platforms. She and her husband Mike, and their youngest 3 kids live and serve in Seattle, Washington. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In this episode, my guest, Meg Glesener, and I talk about the importance of sharing our stories. Meg lived a hard life of childhood abuse, alcoholism, berating, and abandonment, yet through her trials, she learned the value of our... full 179 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f27370c8-f3d8-4434-845a-0cf363aaaaf9 3069cc27-593d-42e4-bdef-b28701179711 Thu, 15 Sep 2022 09:00:51 +0000 1695 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/179-importance-of-sharing-your-story-to-encourage                                                   178 How To Navigate Life Transitions Triumphantly 178 How To Navigate Life Transitions Triumphantly Episode Summary:

                                                  How do you navigate major life transitions? Life doesn’t always go the way you planned. How do you find hope when pain and heartache enter your story? If you are struggling with an unexpected and unwanted transition in your life, today is the episode for you. Page Geske shares how to navigate life transitions triumphantly. There is hope for the journey.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our physical scars can point people to Jesus if we allow them to.
                                                  • When navigating a difficult transition, you have to choose to press into God and trust Him regardless of the outcome.
                                                  • Instead of asking “Why me?” It’s more productive to ask “Why not me?”
                                                  • God gives a test and develops a testimony to those who will testify about what God has done.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not  depend on your own understanding,  seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.”
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 6:19 NLT “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit; who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself.”
                                                  • John 14:26 NIV “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Page Geske:

                                                  Email / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Page Geske’s professional career involved being a former campus pastor with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. She also worked in the healthcare industry, and as a sales professional within the advertising industry. Her professional life has been as important as the adversities in defining her. She experienced a severe automobile accident with many subsequent surgeries and rehabilitation, and the loss of a marriage at a time when she needed support most. Yet despite it all, Page has intentionally pursued living out loud according to God’s original design.  

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  How do you navigate major life transitions? Life doesn’t always go the way you planned. How do you find hope when pain and heartache enter your story? If you are struggling with an unexpected and unwanted transition in your life, today is the episode for you. Page Geske shares how to navigate life transitions triumphantly. There is hope for the journey.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Our physical scars can point people to Jesus if we allow them to.
                                                  • When navigating a difficult transition, you have to choose to press into God and trust Him regardless of the outcome.
                                                  • Instead of asking “Why me?” It’s more productive to ask “Why not me?”
                                                  • God gives a test and develops a testimony to those who will testify about what God has done.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not  depend on your own understanding,  seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.”
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 6:19 NLT “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit; who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself.”
                                                  • John 14:26 NIV “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Page Geske:

                                                  Email / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Page Geske’s professional career involved being a former campus pastor with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. She also worked in the healthcare industry, and as a sales professional within the advertising industry. Her professional life has been as important as the adversities in defining her. She experienced a severe automobile accident with many subsequent surgeries and rehabilitation, and the loss of a marriage at a time when she needed support most. Yet despite it all, Page has intentionally pursued living out loud according to God’s original design.  

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: How do you navigate major life transitions? Life doesn’t always go the way you planned. How do you find hope when pain and heartache enter your story? If you are struggling with an unexpected and unwanted transition in your life,... full 178 Dr. Michelle Bengtson db33898f-39ed-43ab-9bf5-e2dcc5c3d2bd 5efa38d8-b97f-4be4-a62b-b287011797a8 Thu, 08 Sep 2022 09:00:06 +0000 1675 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/178-how-to-navigate-life-transitions-triumphantly                                                   177 How To Look at Pain as a Gift 177 How To Look at Pain as a Gift Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever thought about how to look at pain as a gift? Is it possible? In this episode, I talk with Tera Bradham DeNeui, a swimmer who had her sights on the Olympics until injury and chronic pain entered her life, changing the path God had for her. If you suffer with chronic pain, you won’t want to miss her hope filled message.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When you can’t hold on anymore, you have to trust that God is still holding on to you.
                                                  • Lord, complicate my life with a holy complication.
                                                  • My discipline with swimming led to my discipline in spending time with God in my daily quiet time.
                                                  • We are socialized to believe questioning God indicates a lack of faith. But in reality, asking God questions shows our trust and faith in God.
                                                  • If you find God in your suffering, and prove Him to be faithful, you will likely never walk away from Him.
                                                  • Your pain has a tendency to close you in and decreases your vision.
                                                  • Because we cannot turn off our pain, it forces us to look to God.
                                                  • Freedom is being able to live outside our circumstances and know that our pain doesn’t define us.
                                                  • God’s heart in suffering holds us in our suffering and redeems it.
                                                  • Because Jesus suffered, He understands our suffering.
                                                  • God heals people in the way that brings Him the most glory.
                                                  • While we may long for God to heal us physically, the ultimate healing is in our hearts. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Jeremiah 33:6-9 (Tera's life promise) “Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security. I will bring Judah and Israel back from captivity and I will rebuild them as they were before. I will cleanse them from all the sin they have committed against me and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against me. Then this city will bring me renown, joy, praise, and honor before all nations on earth that hear of all the good things I do for it; and they will be in awe and will tremble at the abundant peace and prosperity I provide for it.”
                                                  • Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV) “Heal me and I will be healed. Save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 6:3-10 (NIV) “We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry may not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance, in troubles hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights, and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, good report and bad report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many people rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.”
                                                  • Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV) “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tera Bradham DeNeui:

                                                  Tera Website / Heal Website / The Heal Podcast / Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tera Bradham DeNeui is an author, speaker, and podcast host. She loves to talk to animals like they're humans, curl up with a great book in an equally great blanket, and help others see God's faithfulness amidst their suffering. Her journey has led her across the world to deliver messages of empowerment and purpose. Tera writes and leads the Heal Ministry from her home in Vancouver, Washington.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever thought about how to look at pain as a gift? Is it possible? In this episode, I talk with Tera Bradham DeNeui, a swimmer who had her sights on the Olympics until injury and chronic pain entered her life, changing the path God had for her. If you suffer with chronic pain, you won’t want to miss her hope filled message.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When you can’t hold on anymore, you have to trust that God is still holding on to you.
                                                  • Lord, complicate my life with a holy complication.
                                                  • My discipline with swimming led to my discipline in spending time with God in my daily quiet time.
                                                  • We are socialized to believe questioning God indicates a lack of faith. But in reality, asking God questions shows our trust and faith in God.
                                                  • If you find God in your suffering, and prove Him to be faithful, you will likely never walk away from Him.
                                                  • Your pain has a tendency to close you in and decreases your vision.
                                                  • Because we cannot turn off our pain, it forces us to look to God.
                                                  • Freedom is being able to live outside our circumstances and know that our pain doesn’t define us.
                                                  • God’s heart in suffering holds us in our suffering and redeems it.
                                                  • Because Jesus suffered, He understands our suffering.
                                                  • God heals people in the way that brings Him the most glory.
                                                  • While we may long for God to heal us physically, the ultimate healing is in our hearts. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Jeremiah 33:6-9 (Tera's life promise) “Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security. I will bring Judah and Israel back from captivity and I will rebuild them as they were before. I will cleanse them from all the sin they have committed against me and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against me. Then this city will bring me renown, joy, praise, and honor before all nations on earth that hear of all the good things I do for it; and they will be in awe and will tremble at the abundant peace and prosperity I provide for it.”
                                                  • Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV) “Heal me and I will be healed. Save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 6:3-10 (NIV) “We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry may not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance, in troubles hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights, and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, good report and bad report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many people rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.”
                                                  • Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV) “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tera Bradham DeNeui:

                                                  Tera Website / Heal Website / The Heal Podcast / Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tera Bradham DeNeui is an author, speaker, and podcast host. She loves to talk to animals like they're humans, curl up with a great book in an equally great blanket, and help others see God's faithfulness amidst their suffering. Her journey has led her across the world to deliver messages of empowerment and purpose. Tera writes and leads the Heal Ministry from her home in Vancouver, Washington.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever thought about how to look at pain as a gift? Is it possible? In this episode, I talk with Tera Bradham DeNeui, a swimmer who had her sights on the Olympics until injury and chronic pain entered her life, changing... full 177 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 1d36f431-ae4d-4856-bed9-7d82e15f360c c2b0370a-2e6d-435d-aa5c-b28701179e6a Thu, 01 Sep 2022 09:00:28 +0000 2524 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/177-how-to-look-at-pain-as-a-gift                                                   176 How To Keep Your Heart Happy in the Midst of Chaos 176 How To Keep Your Heart Happy in the Midst of Chaos Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have your circumstances ever stolen your joy? Have you ever wanted to maintain a happy heart despite chaotic circumstances? Author and speaker, Tricia Goyer has a message for all the overworked, underappreciated moms: now is the time to tend your soul. We talk about how to have a happy heart in the midst of chaos. 

                                                  The key is to stay centered on God’s love during chaotic circumstances.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • “When we make small, positive changes to cultivate a heart that's happy in the Lord everything changes.”
                                                  • Happiness can also be translated blessed. It’s not happy – I’m going to Cancun, or happy – I lost 10 lbs. It is that deep blessed settledness that comes from walking in God’s ways.
                                                  • Happiness comes from walking out what the Lord is asking us to do.
                                                  • Getting our heart happy is walking out the happiness that only God can provide.
                                                  • By resting in the joyous comfort and love of God, true transformation can be found. 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tricia Goyer:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of many, and wife to John. Somewhere amid the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales that delight and entertain readers, and nonfiction titles that offer encouragement and hope. A USA-Today bestselling author, Tricia has published seventy-five books to date and more than 500 articles. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award finalist. Tricia is a member of the blogging team at TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites. In addition to her roles as wife, mom, and author, Tricia volunteers in her community and mentors teen moms. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have your circumstances ever stolen your joy? Have you ever wanted to maintain a happy heart despite chaotic circumstances? Author and speaker, Tricia Goyer has a message for all the overworked, underappreciated moms: now is the time to tend your soul. We talk about how to have a happy heart in the midst of chaos. 

                                                  The key is to stay centered on God’s love during chaotic circumstances.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • “When we make small, positive changes to cultivate a heart that's happy in the Lord everything changes.”
                                                  • Happiness can also be translated blessed. It’s not happy – I’m going to Cancun, or happy – I lost 10 lbs. It is that deep blessed settledness that comes from walking in God’s ways.
                                                  • Happiness comes from walking out what the Lord is asking us to do.
                                                  • Getting our heart happy is walking out the happiness that only God can provide.
                                                  • By resting in the joyous comfort and love of God, true transformation can be found. 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Tricia Goyer:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of many, and wife to John. Somewhere amid the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales that delight and entertain readers, and nonfiction titles that offer encouragement and hope. A USA-Today bestselling author, Tricia has published seventy-five books to date and more than 500 articles. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award finalist. Tricia is a member of the blogging team at TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites. In addition to her roles as wife, mom, and author, Tricia volunteers in her community and mentors teen moms. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have your circumstances ever stolen your joy? Have you ever wanted to maintain a happy heart despite chaotic circumstances? Author and speaker, Tricia Goyer has a message for all the overworked, underappreciated moms: now is the... full 176 Dr. Michelle Bengtson c929f300-0deb-4014-a598-a657c7cd0b02 3af6e16a-342a-4c6a-9c73-b2870117a302 Thu, 25 Aug 2022 09:00:45 +0000 2544 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/176-how-to-keep-your-heart-happy-in-the-midst-of-c                                                   175 Reinvent Yourself after Empty Nest 175 Reinvent Yourself after Empty Nest Episode Summary:

                                                  So often as parents we focus on raising our children but give little attention to preparing for life when they are no longer in our home.   Today we’re going to be talking about reinventing yourself after the empty nest. Jill Savage is here to give us hope from her own experience.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Empty nesting is like experiencing grief upon grief…nothing prepares you for the tsunami of emotions.
                                                  • Think of the empty nest as your encore season.
                                                  • If we don’t let go of what was, we can’t hold on to the new.
                                                  • You’ll always be a mother or father, but you are no longer parenting them.
                                                  • Our expectations are preconceived resentments. The higher our expectations, the greater the risk of discontentment.
                                                  • It’s time to keep our opinions to ourselves and join the “keep it shut club” and pray it, don’t say it.
                                                  • When we let go of opinions, we become a safe place to be around.
                                                  • Your kids’ new life is not a rejection of you, it’s a reflection of their growth and independence, learning how to navigate adulthood.
                                                  • Sometimes we’ve made our kids’ successes/choices an idol in our heart.
                                                  • Worry is a worship of our circumstances.
                                                  • Motherhood is a ministry of availability.
                                                  • “What do you have for me, Lord? Help me to see that more than less.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jill Savage:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Tiktok / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jill Savage is an author and speaker who is passionate about relationships. She has been called one of today’s most exciting female speakers.  Her honest, engaging communication is strengthened by her ability to make her audience laugh while they learn.

                                                  Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books including Empty Nest, Full Life, Real Moms ... Real Jesus, the best-selling No More Perfect Moms, No More Perfect Kids, Better Together, and No More Perfect Marriages. Jill and her husband, Mark, live in Illinois and have five children and eight grandchildren. You can find Jill online at www.jillsavage.org.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  So often as parents we focus on raising our children but give little attention to preparing for life when they are no longer in our home.   Today we’re going to be talking about reinventing yourself after the empty nest. Jill Savage is here to give us hope from her own experience.

                                                   

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Empty nesting is like experiencing grief upon grief…nothing prepares you for the tsunami of emotions.
                                                  • Think of the empty nest as your encore season.
                                                  • If we don’t let go of what was, we can’t hold on to the new.
                                                  • You’ll always be a mother or father, but you are no longer parenting them.
                                                  • Our expectations are preconceived resentments. The higher our expectations, the greater the risk of discontentment.
                                                  • It’s time to keep our opinions to ourselves and join the “keep it shut club” and pray it, don’t say it.
                                                  • When we let go of opinions, we become a safe place to be around.
                                                  • Your kids’ new life is not a rejection of you, it’s a reflection of their growth and independence, learning how to navigate adulthood.
                                                  • Sometimes we’ve made our kids’ successes/choices an idol in our heart.
                                                  • Worry is a worship of our circumstances.
                                                  • Motherhood is a ministry of availability.
                                                  • “What do you have for me, Lord? Help me to see that more than less.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jill Savage:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Tiktok / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jill Savage is an author and speaker who is passionate about relationships. She has been called one of today’s most exciting female speakers.  Her honest, engaging communication is strengthened by her ability to make her audience laugh while they learn.

                                                  Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books including Empty Nest, Full Life, Real Moms ... Real Jesus, the best-selling No More Perfect Moms, No More Perfect Kids, Better Together, and No More Perfect Marriages. Jill and her husband, Mark, live in Illinois and have five children and eight grandchildren. You can find Jill online at www.jillsavage.org.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: So often as parents we focus on raising our children but give little attention to preparing for life when they are no longer in our home.   Today we’re going to be talking about reinventing yourself after the empty nest. Jill... full 175 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 425b278d-6807-463e-b26a-892c66144774 71265c14-d9f6-466b-ae90-b2870117a4b4 Thu, 18 Aug 2022 09:00:04 +0000 2494 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/175-reinvent-yourself-after-empty-nest                                                   174 How to Break Free from Regrets that Hold You Back 174 How to Break Free from Regrets that Hold You Back Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever wondered how to break free from regrets that hold you back? I talk with Rhonda Stoppe (a.k.a. the “No Regrets Woman”) about how God’s word gives us hope to break free from the regrets that often hold men and women back from living the abundant life Christ came to give. You won’t want to miss the personal anecdotes and Scripture she shares to help us in our pursuit to live a life without regret.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Regret keeps us stuck.
                                                  • Regret leads to shame and blame, neither of which are productive.
                                                  • Shaming drives us to sin more.
                                                  • Knowing truth keeps us from being stuck in shame.
                                                  • The providence of God is in the moments of our lives.
                                                  • When we fail, Jesus meets us in the place of our failures.
                                                  • When God forgives, He forgives to the utmost!
                                                  • What you feed your flesh, it craves.
                                                  • What you’ve done is not who you are—you are a new creation.
                                                  • I am more knit together with those whom I study God’s word with than anyone else in my life.
                                                  • God is bigger than your regret!! 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 3:13b-14 ESV “But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Psalm 139:23-24 ESV “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts. And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Rhonda Stoppe:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Rhonda Stoppe is the NO REGRETS WOMAN. With more than 30 years’ experience helping women build no regrets lives. “I could have listened to Rhonda talk all night, “ is what audiences say about Rhonda’s enthusiastic, humorous, transparent teaching, and zeal as an evangelist.   She’s committed to fulfill the Titus 2:4 commission by mentoring, teaching and writing books that are inspiring, grounded in Scripture and easy to read––like you're visiting with a friend over coffee.   Rhonda is the author of 6 books and appears on numerous radio programs including: Focus on the Family, Family Life Today and Dr. James Dobson’s FamilyTalk, & hosts The No Regrets Hour. She’s an evangelist and speaker at women’s events, College Women’s Chapel, Pastor’s Wives Conferences, MOPs and Homeschool Conventions. Sharing the gospel at her NoRegretsWoman Conference is her sweet spot. Rhonda is a regular contributor for Crosswalk and many other magazines.

                                                  Rhonda ministers alongside her husband Steve, who for 20 years has pastored First Baptist Church of Patterson, California.  They live out their own Real Life Romance writing books and speaking at their No Regrets Marriage Conferences, but their favorite ministry is their family. They have four grown children and 10 grandchildren. To learn more about Rhonda’s speaking topics, watch her teaching and to book Rhonda for your next event visit: NoRegretsWoman.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever wondered how to break free from regrets that hold you back? I talk with Rhonda Stoppe (a.k.a. the “No Regrets Woman”) about how God’s word gives us hope to break free from the regrets that often hold men and women back from living the abundant life Christ came to give. You won’t want to miss the personal anecdotes and Scripture she shares to help us in our pursuit to live a life without regret.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Regret keeps us stuck.
                                                  • Regret leads to shame and blame, neither of which are productive.
                                                  • Shaming drives us to sin more.
                                                  • Knowing truth keeps us from being stuck in shame.
                                                  • The providence of God is in the moments of our lives.
                                                  • When we fail, Jesus meets us in the place of our failures.
                                                  • When God forgives, He forgives to the utmost!
                                                  • What you feed your flesh, it craves.
                                                  • What you’ve done is not who you are—you are a new creation.
                                                  • I am more knit together with those whom I study God’s word with than anyone else in my life.
                                                  • God is bigger than your regret!! 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Philippians 3:13b-14 ESV “But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Psalm 139:23-24 ESV “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts. And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Rhonda Stoppe:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Rhonda Stoppe is the NO REGRETS WOMAN. With more than 30 years’ experience helping women build no regrets lives. “I could have listened to Rhonda talk all night, “ is what audiences say about Rhonda’s enthusiastic, humorous, transparent teaching, and zeal as an evangelist.   She’s committed to fulfill the Titus 2:4 commission by mentoring, teaching and writing books that are inspiring, grounded in Scripture and easy to read––like you're visiting with a friend over coffee.   Rhonda is the author of 6 books and appears on numerous radio programs including: Focus on the Family, Family Life Today and Dr. James Dobson’s FamilyTalk, & hosts The No Regrets Hour. She’s an evangelist and speaker at women’s events, College Women’s Chapel, Pastor’s Wives Conferences, MOPs and Homeschool Conventions. Sharing the gospel at her NoRegretsWoman Conference is her sweet spot. Rhonda is a regular contributor for Crosswalk and many other magazines.

                                                  Rhonda ministers alongside her husband Steve, who for 20 years has pastored First Baptist Church of Patterson, California.  They live out their own Real Life Romance writing books and speaking at their No Regrets Marriage Conferences, but their favorite ministry is their family. They have four grown children and 10 grandchildren. To learn more about Rhonda’s speaking topics, watch her teaching and to book Rhonda for your next event visit: NoRegretsWoman.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever wondered how to break free from regrets that hold you back? I talk with Rhonda Stoppe (a.k.a. the “No Regrets Woman”) about how God’s word gives us hope to break free from the regrets that often hold men and... full 174 Dr. Michelle Bengtson ddc3f1c3-ea2b-41e1-9d4b-fe5c4f1622d9 e662148a-53dd-43fd-a577-b2870117b502 Thu, 11 Aug 2022 09:00:46 +0000 2507 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/174-how-to-break-free-from-regrets-that-hold-you-b                                                   173 Overcome Low Self-Esteem with Audacious Grace 173 Overcome Low Self-Esteem with Audacious Grace Episode Summary: 

                                                  Nancy Kay Grace and I talk about how to overcome low self-esteem with audacious grace that sustains us. Nancy shares where low self-esteem comes from and how we can overcome and combat it by taking our thoughts captive. By the grace of God, we can overcome.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • In studying grace, I see that God provides salvation through grace but also grace for daily life.
                                                  • Grace sustains us in all the seasons of life. We are then to be grace givers to share grace with the hurting world.
                                                  • Part of overcoming low self-esteem is learning to rest in His refuge of his love and peace.
                                                  • It’s a gift when we accept God’s gift of peace and realize no matter what, God is with us.
                                                  • I determined to use my faltering tongue to speak for God.
                                                  • Low self-esteem is often the result of comparison, the performance trap, perfectionism, and people pleasing.
                                                  • God accepts me as I am, and I can become a new creation.
                                                  • All grace starts with God. He makes himself known to us. He gave us the ultimate gift of grace in Jesus Christ.
                                                  • Hope in God is a secure foundation in ever-changing life situations.
                                                  • When I struggle with depression, I have to recall God’s promises of hope and what his word says about my worth.
                                                  • To combat low self-esteem, we need to change our view of ourselves for God’s view of us.
                                                  • Learn God’s word so that you can replace negative thinking with God’s truth. It’s not easy, but through grace, God will help us take our thoughts captive.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NKJV) “God is able to make all grace abound to you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things at all times, may have an abundance for every good work.”   
                                                  • Psalm 42:5,11 (NIV) “Why, my soul, are you so downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put you hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
                                                  • Psalm 139:14 (NIV) “I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 
                                                  • John 14:27 (NIV) “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Nancy Kay Grace:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Nancy Kay Grace enjoys sharing coffee and conversation. She is a Bible teacher, speaker, and award-winning author of The Grace Impact, a devotional about God’s grace in our lives. Nancy is married to her favorite pastor, and is enjoying the stage of life with two married children and six precious grandchildren. For relaxation, Nancy loves hugs from grandchildren, playing piano, and hiking. Nancy’s blog and GraceNotes newsletter signup are found at www.nancykaygrace.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Nancy Kay Grace and I talk about how to overcome low self-esteem with audacious grace that sustains us. Nancy shares where low self-esteem comes from and how we can overcome and combat it by taking our thoughts captive. By the grace of God, we can overcome.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • In studying grace, I see that God provides salvation through grace but also grace for daily life.
                                                  • Grace sustains us in all the seasons of life. We are then to be grace givers to share grace with the hurting world.
                                                  • Part of overcoming low self-esteem is learning to rest in His refuge of his love and peace.
                                                  • It’s a gift when we accept God’s gift of peace and realize no matter what, God is with us.
                                                  • I determined to use my faltering tongue to speak for God.
                                                  • Low self-esteem is often the result of comparison, the performance trap, perfectionism, and people pleasing.
                                                  • God accepts me as I am, and I can become a new creation.
                                                  • All grace starts with God. He makes himself known to us. He gave us the ultimate gift of grace in Jesus Christ.
                                                  • Hope in God is a secure foundation in ever-changing life situations.
                                                  • When I struggle with depression, I have to recall God’s promises of hope and what his word says about my worth.
                                                  • To combat low self-esteem, we need to change our view of ourselves for God’s view of us.
                                                  • Learn God’s word so that you can replace negative thinking with God’s truth. It’s not easy, but through grace, God will help us take our thoughts captive.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NKJV) “God is able to make all grace abound to you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things at all times, may have an abundance for every good work.”   
                                                  • Psalm 42:5,11 (NIV) “Why, my soul, are you so downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put you hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
                                                  • Psalm 139:14 (NIV) “I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 
                                                  • John 14:27 (NIV) “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Nancy Kay Grace:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Nancy Kay Grace enjoys sharing coffee and conversation. She is a Bible teacher, speaker, and award-winning author of The Grace Impact, a devotional about God’s grace in our lives. Nancy is married to her favorite pastor, and is enjoying the stage of life with two married children and six precious grandchildren. For relaxation, Nancy loves hugs from grandchildren, playing piano, and hiking. Nancy’s blog and GraceNotes newsletter signup are found at www.nancykaygrace.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Nancy Kay Grace and I talk about how to overcome low self-esteem with audacious grace that sustains us. Nancy shares where low self-esteem comes from and how we can overcome and combat it by taking our thoughts captive. By the... full 173 Dr. Michelle Bengtson cac14817-1a7b-4806-ba12-01a3ec2626f2 500db23a-b138-4fa2-ad4a-b2870117b670 Thu, 04 Aug 2022 09:00:39 +0000 2717 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/173-overcome-low-self-esteem-with-audacious-grace                                                   172 How To Overcome Adversity 172 How To Overcome Adversity Episode Summary:  Have you been knocked down by life’s circumstances and are struggling to get back up?  Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we talk about how to overcome adversity and rise from the ashes.  Those things that seem impossible are not impossible when we’re working with God and cooperating with Him.

                                                  Quotables from the episode for Overcoming Adversity:

                                                  • If we aren’t advancing in the battle, we are retreating.
                                                  • We have to serve our way out in order to rise up from our ashes. As we pour into others, our pain is redeemed.
                                                  • To be content, we have to let go of what we think we should have or deserve to have.
                                                  • Our circumstances don’t define us. 

                                                  Scripture References for Overcoming Adversity:

                                                  • Matthew 17:20 (Amplified)  He answered, “Because of your little faith [your lack of trust and confidence in the power of  God]; for I assure you and most solemnly say to you, [a]if you have [living] faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and [if it is God’s will] it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.
                                                  • John 10:10 (NIV) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 (NIV) Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Mel Tavares:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Mel has a unique 35-year concurrent background in church ministry, writing, publishing, counseling, and education. She holds a Doctorate of Ministry in Pastoral Care and Counseling and is on-staff in her local church, wearing multiple hats as the Pastoral Assistant. She is an award-winning author who has written four books penned under her name, is a contributing writer to several books including the (August 2021) DaySpring release “Sweet Tea for the Grieving Soul”, contributes to several online magazines including CBN and Inspiration Ministries, has served as a ghostwriter for ministry leaders, and coached dozens of published authors. Mel passion for equipping and teaching has led her to found a local ACW Chapter, teach at Writers Conferences, as well as Bible courses.   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you been knocked down by life’s circumstances and are struggling to get back up?  Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we talk about how to overcome adversity and rise from the ashes.  Those things that seem impossible are not impossible when we’re working with God and cooperating with Him.

                                                  Quotables from the episode for Overcoming Adversity:

                                                  • If we aren’t advancing in the battle, we are retreating.
                                                  • We have to serve our way out in order to rise up from our ashes. As we pour into others, our pain is redeemed.
                                                  • To be content, we have to let go of what we think we should have or deserve to have.
                                                  • Our circumstances don’t define us. 

                                                  Scripture References for Overcoming Adversity:

                                                  • Matthew 17:20 (Amplified)  He answered, “Because of your little faith [your lack of trust and confidence in the power of  God]; for I assure you and most solemnly say to you, [a]if you have [living] faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and [if it is God’s will] it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.
                                                  • John 10:10 (NIV) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 (NIV) Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Dr. Mel Tavares:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Dr. Mel has a unique 35-year concurrent background in church ministry, writing, publishing, counseling, and education. She holds a Doctorate of Ministry in Pastoral Care and Counseling and is on-staff in her local church, wearing multiple hats as the Pastoral Assistant. She is an award-winning author who has written four books penned under her name, is a contributing writer to several books including the (August 2021) DaySpring release “Sweet Tea for the Grieving Soul”, contributes to several online magazines including CBN and Inspiration Ministries, has served as a ghostwriter for ministry leaders, and coached dozens of published authors. Mel passion for equipping and teaching has led her to found a local ACW Chapter, teach at Writers Conferences, as well as Bible courses.   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you been knocked down by life’s circumstances and are struggling to get back up?  Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we talk about how to overcome adversity and rise from the ashes.  Those things that seem... full 172 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 3c138d71-bdba-40a0-b276-8e314c3c9282 9ef10925-c40e-4e98-b0e5-b2870117c056 Thu, 28 Jul 2022 09:00:51 +0000 2396 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/172-how-to-overcome-adversity                                                   171 How To Know God's Purpose for Your Life 171 How To Know God's Purpose for Your Life Episode Summary:

                                                  My guest, Ronne Rock, and I talk about knowing what God wants us to do with our life; how we know our purpose. We have a God-designed influence, impact, purpose, and story, and yet so often we don’t see it for what it is. We compare ourselves to others and think we are supposed to be like them. But the truth is, God created each of us with a unique set of gifts, talents and personalities.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • One of the things I learned as a child was that I had to do it all myself and I couldn’t count on anyone else. 
                                                  • True leadership requires humility, a servant attitude, and valuing others. 
                                                  • When God said that He blessed man and woman, blessing means ‘happy am I.’ God delights in you! 
                                                  • Sometimes we may feel we are lacking in ability, but we all have time and can offer the gift of our presence. 
                                                  • When you’re seeking to know God’s purpose for your life, start by filling the space you’ve been given. 
                                                  • God takes everything in our lives and makes it purposeful. 
                                                  • When you’re seeking to know God’s purpose for your life, start by asking God, “How do you see me today?” 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Genesis 1:26-31 Now let Us conceive a new creation—humanity—made in Our image, fashioned according to Our likeness. And let Us grant them authority over all the earth—the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, the domesticated animals and the small creeping creatures on the earth. So God did just that. He created humanity in His image, created them male and female. Then God blessed them and gave them this directive: “Be fruitful and multiply. Populate the earth. I make you trustees of My estate, so care for My creation and rule over the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, and every creature that roams across the earth.” God (to humanity): Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant that grows on the earth and every fruit-bearing tree. They will be your food and nourishment. As for all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, and every small creeping creature—everything that breathes the breath of life—I have given them every green plant for food. And it happened just as God said. Then God surveyed everything He had made, savoring its beauty and appreciating its goodness. Evening gave way to morning. That was day six. 
                                                  • Ephesians 2:10 For we are the product of His hand, heaven’s poetry etched on lives, created in the Anointed, Jesus, to accomplish the good works God arranged long ago.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Ronne Rock:

                                                  Website Ronne / Website Book / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Ronne Rock weaves themes of transformative hope and grace-filled leadership into everything she shares on page and stage. She's an award-winning marketing executive who travels around the world to gather words and images that inspire others to action with Orphan Outreach, a global nonprofit dedicated to serving the orphaned and vulnerable. Ronne offers battle-tested wisdom about leadership, advocacy marketing, and finding God in the most beautiful and painful of circumstances. She lives in Austin, Texas.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  My guest, Ronne Rock, and I talk about knowing what God wants us to do with our life; how we know our purpose. We have a God-designed influence, impact, purpose, and story, and yet so often we don’t see it for what it is. We compare ourselves to others and think we are supposed to be like them. But the truth is, God created each of us with a unique set of gifts, talents and personalities.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • One of the things I learned as a child was that I had to do it all myself and I couldn’t count on anyone else. 
                                                  • True leadership requires humility, a servant attitude, and valuing others. 
                                                  • When God said that He blessed man and woman, blessing means ‘happy am I.’ God delights in you! 
                                                  • Sometimes we may feel we are lacking in ability, but we all have time and can offer the gift of our presence. 
                                                  • When you’re seeking to know God’s purpose for your life, start by filling the space you’ve been given. 
                                                  • God takes everything in our lives and makes it purposeful. 
                                                  • When you’re seeking to know God’s purpose for your life, start by asking God, “How do you see me today?” 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Genesis 1:26-31 Now let Us conceive a new creation—humanity—made in Our image, fashioned according to Our likeness. And let Us grant them authority over all the earth—the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, the domesticated animals and the small creeping creatures on the earth. So God did just that. He created humanity in His image, created them male and female. Then God blessed them and gave them this directive: “Be fruitful and multiply. Populate the earth. I make you trustees of My estate, so care for My creation and rule over the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, and every creature that roams across the earth.” God (to humanity): Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant that grows on the earth and every fruit-bearing tree. They will be your food and nourishment. As for all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, and every small creeping creature—everything that breathes the breath of life—I have given them every green plant for food. And it happened just as God said. Then God surveyed everything He had made, savoring its beauty and appreciating its goodness. Evening gave way to morning. That was day six. 
                                                  • Ephesians 2:10 For we are the product of His hand, heaven’s poetry etched on lives, created in the Anointed, Jesus, to accomplish the good works God arranged long ago.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

                                                  Connect with Ronne Rock:

                                                  Website Ronne / Website Book / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Ronne Rock weaves themes of transformative hope and grace-filled leadership into everything she shares on page and stage. She's an award-winning marketing executive who travels around the world to gather words and images that inspire others to action with Orphan Outreach, a global nonprofit dedicated to serving the orphaned and vulnerable. Ronne offers battle-tested wisdom about leadership, advocacy marketing, and finding God in the most beautiful and painful of circumstances. She lives in Austin, Texas.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: My guest, Ronne Rock, and I talk about knowing what God wants us to do with our life; how we know our purpose. We have a God-designed influence, impact, purpose, and story, and yet so often we don’t see it for what it is. We compare... full 171 Dr. Michelle Bengtson e054c7d4-e82c-4ff8-ada1-078950200d67 fbd5158c-f13a-4c0f-bf53-b2870117e141 Thu, 21 Jul 2022 09:00:24 +0000 3092 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/171-how-to-know-gods-purpose-for-your-life                                                   170 Alcohol & Addiction: Never Too Lost for God to Find You 170 Alcohol & Addiction: Never Too Lost for God to Find You Episode Summary: 

                                                  I talk with Tonie Camacho who lost a parent early in life, lived with a mentally ill mother, was sexually abused, raped and left for dead. She turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism. After her third DWI, and time in jail, God saved her. She learned that you are never too lost for God to find you. Sobriety is a daily struggle. But Tonie learned that the storm doesn’t last forever and God is on the other side with His hand open.

                                                  If you or a loved one struggle with alcoholism and addiction, you’ll want to listen to this hope-filled perspective.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • You are never too lost for God to save you.
                                                  • My saving grace was when God showed me He truly was willing to leave the 99 to save me.
                                                  • Addiction is about control and requires surrendering to God for control.
                                                  • I maintain my sobriety because God saved me and drinking again would be thumbing my nose at God.
                                                  • The storm doesn’t last forever. God is on the other side with His hand open.
                                                  • God was with her the whole time. All she had to do was turn around.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 5:10 NKJV “Create in me a clean heart, O God, renew a new spirit in me.”
                                                  • Psalms 27:1 NKJV “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; whom shall I be afraid?”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tonie Camacho is a 53-year old woman in recovery from alcoholism; drinking since the age of 14. She was sexually abused as a child, raped at age 24 and left for dead. Today she is a new woman with a thirst for life and the Lord. She believes that with God all things are possible.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  I talk with Tonie Camacho who lost a parent early in life, lived with a mentally ill mother, was sexually abused, raped and left for dead. She turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism. After her third DWI, and time in jail, God saved her. She learned that you are never too lost for God to find you. Sobriety is a daily struggle. But Tonie learned that the storm doesn’t last forever and God is on the other side with His hand open.

                                                  If you or a loved one struggle with alcoholism and addiction, you’ll want to listen to this hope-filled perspective.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • You are never too lost for God to save you.
                                                  • My saving grace was when God showed me He truly was willing to leave the 99 to save me.
                                                  • Addiction is about control and requires surrendering to God for control.
                                                  • I maintain my sobriety because God saved me and drinking again would be thumbing my nose at God.
                                                  • The storm doesn’t last forever. God is on the other side with His hand open.
                                                  • God was with her the whole time. All she had to do was turn around.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 5:10 NKJV “Create in me a clean heart, O God, renew a new spirit in me.”
                                                  • Psalms 27:1 NKJV “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; whom shall I be afraid?”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Tonie Camacho is a 53-year old woman in recovery from alcoholism; drinking since the age of 14. She was sexually abused as a child, raped at age 24 and left for dead. Today she is a new woman with a thirst for life and the Lord. She believes that with God all things are possible.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  I talk with Tonie Camacho who lost a parent early in life, lived with a mentally ill mother, was sexually abused, raped and left for dead. She turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism. After her third DWI, and time in jail, God... full 170 Dr. Michelle Bengtson a520654b-760d-497b-9db4-51c338e1c9b2 4621cd5a-6758-4da2-ba34-b2870117e4ea Thu, 14 Jul 2022 09:00:32 +0000 1716 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/170-alcohol-addiction-never-too-lost-for-god-to-fi                                                   169 How To Hold Onto a Christian Worldview 169 How To Hold Onto a Christian Worldview Episode Summary:

                                                  In this week’s episode, Cindy Sproles and I talk about how to hold onto a Christian worldview despite what we see going on in our country and our world. Cindy shares some startling statistics about the direction of our youth and we discuss questions like…What is a Christian worldview? How do we share it? Are we teaching our children?

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We need to focus on doing what makes God happy rather than what makes man happy.
                                                  • The best way to share our Christian worldview is by our example…how we demonstrate love.
                                                  • Our Christian worldview comes out of our genuine love for God.
                                                  • A church with no history is bound to repeat its mistakes. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 14:16 (ESV) Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
                                                  • Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV) It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
                                                  • Matthew 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Cindy Sproles:

                                                  Website Cindy / Website Christian Devotions / Facebook / Facebook Author page / Twitter / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Cindy K. Sproles is a writer, speaker, and conference director. She is the co-founder of ChristianDevotions.us and Christian Devotions Ministries. Cindy is a mentor with Write Right Author Mentoring Service and serves on writers conference faculties nationwide. She is a best selling, award-winning author of three novels with the 4th releasing soon.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In this week’s episode, Cindy Sproles and I talk about how to hold onto a Christian worldview despite what we see going on in our country and our world. Cindy shares some startling statistics about the direction of our youth and we discuss questions like…What is a Christian worldview? How do we share it? Are we teaching our children?

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We need to focus on doing what makes God happy rather than what makes man happy.
                                                  • The best way to share our Christian worldview is by our example…how we demonstrate love.
                                                  • Our Christian worldview comes out of our genuine love for God.
                                                  • A church with no history is bound to repeat its mistakes. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • John 14:16 (ESV) Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
                                                  • Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV) It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
                                                  • Matthew 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Cindy Sproles:

                                                  Website Cindy / Website Christian Devotions / Facebook / Facebook Author page / Twitter / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Cindy K. Sproles is a writer, speaker, and conference director. She is the co-founder of ChristianDevotions.us and Christian Devotions Ministries. Cindy is a mentor with Write Right Author Mentoring Service and serves on writers conference faculties nationwide. She is a best selling, award-winning author of three novels with the 4th releasing soon.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In this week’s episode, Cindy Sproles and I talk about how to hold onto a Christian worldview despite what we see going on in our country and our world. Cindy shares some startling statistics about the direction of our youth and we... full 169 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 0dfd7e6a-90df-4a14-821f-de20a8e32e29 74a0df1a-5fe4-412a-87a1-b2870117ef3d Thu, 07 Jul 2022 09:00:31 +0000 2312 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/169-how-to-hold-onto-a-christian-worldview                                                   168 Self-Care for the Caregiver 168 Self-Care for the Caregiver Episode Summary:

                                                  Jess Ronne and I talk about self-care for the caregiver. You may not currently be in a caregiver role but at some point in our lives many of us find ourselves there. Today’s guest is the mother of eight children, one of whom has profound special needs, and she was the caregiver for her husband who suffered for three years with brain cancer. She shares today about what she’s learned regarding self-care for the caregiver.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • As a caregiver, my life depends on respite. Sometimes we have to search for pockets of respite.
                                                  • As a caregiver, we need to be intentional about good habits to take care of ourselves so we can continue caring for others.
                                                  • Self-care is taking care of your body (exercise, nutrition, adequate sleep) so we can continue caring for others.
                                                  • As a caregiver, you may need to ask your spouse when they can give you a little time for yourself that fits around their needs and schedule.
                                                  • One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through caregiving is not to get caught up looking at the future and trying to control it.
                                                  • As a caregiver, your job is to stay obedient to what God called you to do and release control to God.
                                                  • The caregiver’s to-do list never ends.
                                                  • Caregivers desperately want to be seen. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 23:1-3 “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths bringing honor to his name.
                                                  • Isaiah 35:10 NLT “Those who have been ransomed by the Lord will return. They will enter Jerusalem singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Sorrow and mourning will disappear, and they will be filled with joy and gladness.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jess Ronne:

                                                  Website Jess / Website Lucas Project / Facebook Lucas Project / Instagram Jess / Instagram Lucas Project

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jess Ronne is an author, speaker, documentary producer, and caregiver advocate. She is the founder and executive director of The Lucas Project—a non-profit dedicated to provide recognition, resources, and respite for special needs families. She and her husband, Ryan, live in Tennessee with their 8 children, including their son, Lucas, who has profound special needs. Her story of beauty from ashes has been shared on The Today Show, Daily Mail, and Huffington Post, and is detailed in her memoir Sunlight Burning at Midnight. To follow the ongoing saga, she can be found at Jessplusthemess.com or thelucasproject.org.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Jess Ronne and I talk about self-care for the caregiver. You may not currently be in a caregiver role but at some point in our lives many of us find ourselves there. Today’s guest is the mother of eight children, one of whom has profound special needs, and she was the caregiver for her husband who suffered for three years with brain cancer. She shares today about what she’s learned regarding self-care for the caregiver.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • As a caregiver, my life depends on respite. Sometimes we have to search for pockets of respite.
                                                  • As a caregiver, we need to be intentional about good habits to take care of ourselves so we can continue caring for others.
                                                  • Self-care is taking care of your body (exercise, nutrition, adequate sleep) so we can continue caring for others.
                                                  • As a caregiver, you may need to ask your spouse when they can give you a little time for yourself that fits around their needs and schedule.
                                                  • One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through caregiving is not to get caught up looking at the future and trying to control it.
                                                  • As a caregiver, your job is to stay obedient to what God called you to do and release control to God.
                                                  • The caregiver’s to-do list never ends.
                                                  • Caregivers desperately want to be seen. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 23:1-3 “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths bringing honor to his name.
                                                  • Isaiah 35:10 NLT “Those who have been ransomed by the Lord will return. They will enter Jerusalem singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Sorrow and mourning will disappear, and they will be filled with joy and gladness.”

                                                   

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jess Ronne:

                                                  Website Jess / Website Lucas Project / Facebook Lucas Project / Instagram Jess / Instagram Lucas Project

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jess Ronne is an author, speaker, documentary producer, and caregiver advocate. She is the founder and executive director of The Lucas Project—a non-profit dedicated to provide recognition, resources, and respite for special needs families. She and her husband, Ryan, live in Tennessee with their 8 children, including their son, Lucas, who has profound special needs. Her story of beauty from ashes has been shared on The Today Show, Daily Mail, and Huffington Post, and is detailed in her memoir Sunlight Burning at Midnight. To follow the ongoing saga, she can be found at Jessplusthemess.com or thelucasproject.org.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Jess Ronne and I talk about self-care for the caregiver. You may not currently be in a caregiver role but at some point in our lives many of us find ourselves there. Today’s guest is the mother of eight children, one of whom has... full 168 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 61af1a09-d1b2-4367-8a45-09edeab4945f c9e585a5-7bc7-49c8-ad72-b2870117ee7a Thu, 30 Jun 2022 09:00:24 +0000 2210 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/168-self-care-for-the-caregiver                                                   167 How to Maintain Hope while Waiting on the Salvation of a Loved One 167 How to Maintain Hope while Waiting on the Salvation of a Loved One Episode Summary:

                                                  Bunny Yekzaman and I talk about how to maintain hope while waiting for the salvation of a loved one. My guest today was a Christian when she married a Muslim. She was in love and thought it was her job to save him. She’ll share what transpired and what she learned through it on today’s episode.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • There are two ways of praying: in faith or in doubt.
                                                  • When praying for our lost loved ones to be saved, we must ask God in faith without doubt.
                                                  • If we pray His will, we have the confidence that He will answer those prayers.
                                                  • We can’t prove God to someone—He proves Himself.
                                                  • My love for God kept me in my marriage…not my love for my husband.
                                                  • God took my mess and used it to create my message.
                                                  • Prove God’s love to your loved ones by loving them regardless of how they respond to you.
                                                  • When I think of and pray for my lost loved ones, I have to first remember I was once lost.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 John 5: 14-15 “This is the confidence we have in Him, that, is we ask anything according to His will, He hears us, and if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the request we have asked of Him.”
                                                  • 2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.”
                                                  • Philippians chapter 4:6-7 NASB "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
                                                  • James 1: 6-7, 19 NASB "But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 7:12-16 "But to the rest I say, not the Lord, that if any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he must not divorce her. And a woman who has an unbelieving husband, and he consents to live with her, she must not send her husband away. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified through her believing husband; for otherwise your children are unclean, but now they are holy. Yet if the unbelieving one leaves, let him leave; the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us to peace. For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?"

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Bunny Yekzaman

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Bunny Yekzaman is a child of the King, a wife of 42 years, mother of 4 & grandmother of 8.  She is a disaster relief chaplain, and works as an Enrichment specialist for a nursing home. Her passion is sharing God’s love & truth with a faith in His faithfulness to His promises. She lives with hope for her lost family and friends and finds it her calling to pray in faith for them.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Bunny Yekzaman and I talk about how to maintain hope while waiting for the salvation of a loved one. My guest today was a Christian when she married a Muslim. She was in love and thought it was her job to save him. She’ll share what transpired and what she learned through it on today’s episode.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • There are two ways of praying: in faith or in doubt.
                                                  • When praying for our lost loved ones to be saved, we must ask God in faith without doubt.
                                                  • If we pray His will, we have the confidence that He will answer those prayers.
                                                  • We can’t prove God to someone—He proves Himself.
                                                  • My love for God kept me in my marriage…not my love for my husband.
                                                  • God took my mess and used it to create my message.
                                                  • Prove God’s love to your loved ones by loving them regardless of how they respond to you.
                                                  • When I think of and pray for my lost loved ones, I have to first remember I was once lost.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 John 5: 14-15 “This is the confidence we have in Him, that, is we ask anything according to His will, He hears us, and if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the request we have asked of Him.”
                                                  • 2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.”
                                                  • Philippians chapter 4:6-7 NASB "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
                                                  • James 1: 6-7, 19 NASB "But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, 8being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 7:12-16 "But to the rest I say, not the Lord, that if any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he must not divorce her. And a woman who has an unbelieving husband, and he consents to live with her, she must not send her husband away. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified through her believing husband; for otherwise your children are unclean, but now they are holy. Yet if the unbelieving one leaves, let him leave; the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us to peace. For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?"

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Bunny Yekzaman

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Bunny Yekzaman is a child of the King, a wife of 42 years, mother of 4 & grandmother of 8.  She is a disaster relief chaplain, and works as an Enrichment specialist for a nursing home. Her passion is sharing God’s love & truth with a faith in His faithfulness to His promises. She lives with hope for her lost family and friends and finds it her calling to pray in faith for them.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Bunny Yekzaman and I talk about how to maintain hope while waiting for the salvation of a loved one. My guest today was a Christian when she married a Muslim. She was in love and thought it was her job to save him. She’ll share what... full 167 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 540f57fe-cd66-4d0f-b4dc-5cdceb8c9b63 5f092fbe-2b83-4b29-a046-b2870117f7d7 Thu, 23 Jun 2022 09:00:33 +0000 2094 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/167-how-to-maintain-hope-while-waiting-on-the-salv                                                   166 Healing from Abuse and Trauma to Walk in the Fullness of Who God Created You To Be 166 Healing from Abuse and Trauma to Walk in the Fullness of Who God Created You To Be Episode Summary: 

                                                  Kristin Clouse and I talk about how to find healing from abuse and trauma to walk in the fullness of who God created you to be. Healing from abuse is possible for all through Jesus. We talk about overcoming shame, breaking the power of secrecy, and more.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Healing from abuse is possible for all through Jesus. 
                                                  • Nothing of no one is beyond restoration with our Jesus. 
                                                  • The love of God and counsel of Godly people helped heal me.
                                                  • Shame often misappropriately dictates our identity, value, and self-worth. 
                                                  • What happened to me doesn’t dictate my present or future. 
                                                  • I know where I was. I know the despair, brokenness, and destructive places I came from. Jesus found me, healed me, and set me back on the path He created me for. I believe this is for every woman. 
                                                  • It is possible to live a life where no longer our past dictates our present and our future. 
                                                  • Ignoring abuse or trauma doesn’t mean pain and resulting issues go away on their own. 
                                                  • Challenge your shame-led thoughts with the truth of God’s word. 
                                                  • Nothing and no one is beyond the restoration of Jesus. What He did for me, He can do for you. 
                                                  • The first step is to bring your story to the light. Find someone who you trust, who you can share your story with. 
                                                  • When we break the power of secrecy off of our lives, healing can begin, and shame can be broken off of our lives. 
                                                  • One of the ways we attempt to cope with abuse is by shutting all the memories and pain away inside of us. We lock them up and try to ignore them. 
                                                  • All that energy you use to escape your past, use to fight for your future. 
                                                  • You are worth fighting for because Jesus died for you. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalms 23:3 "He restores my soul." (NKJV)
                                                  • Psalms 34:18 "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted. And saves those who are crushed in spirit." (NIV)
                                                  • Psalms 147:3 "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." (NJKV)

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kristin Clouse:

                                                  Website / Shop / Course / Podcast / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kristin Clouse is a speaker, licensed professional clinical counselor, pastor, published author, podcaster, and life, trauma and spiritual coach. She is an abuse survivor who helps hurting individuals find freedom, healing and restoration from trauma, abuse, and life difficulties by helping them recognize their soul wounds so they can grow closer in their relationship with Jesus. She is the author of Healing for our Soul Gardens: Restoration and Wholeness After Sexual Abuse and contributing author to She Writes for Him: Stories of Resilient Faith. 

                                                  God has a purpose for each of us and Kristin is passionate to see women living out the FULLNESS of who God created them to be. Kristin can be found at: www.FullyRestored.love 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Kristin Clouse and I talk about how to find healing from abuse and trauma to walk in the fullness of who God created you to be. Healing from abuse is possible for all through Jesus. We talk about overcoming shame, breaking the power of secrecy, and more.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Healing from abuse is possible for all through Jesus. 
                                                  • Nothing of no one is beyond restoration with our Jesus. 
                                                  • The love of God and counsel of Godly people helped heal me.
                                                  • Shame often misappropriately dictates our identity, value, and self-worth. 
                                                  • What happened to me doesn’t dictate my present or future. 
                                                  • I know where I was. I know the despair, brokenness, and destructive places I came from. Jesus found me, healed me, and set me back on the path He created me for. I believe this is for every woman. 
                                                  • It is possible to live a life where no longer our past dictates our present and our future. 
                                                  • Ignoring abuse or trauma doesn’t mean pain and resulting issues go away on their own. 
                                                  • Challenge your shame-led thoughts with the truth of God’s word. 
                                                  • Nothing and no one is beyond the restoration of Jesus. What He did for me, He can do for you. 
                                                  • The first step is to bring your story to the light. Find someone who you trust, who you can share your story with. 
                                                  • When we break the power of secrecy off of our lives, healing can begin, and shame can be broken off of our lives. 
                                                  • One of the ways we attempt to cope with abuse is by shutting all the memories and pain away inside of us. We lock them up and try to ignore them. 
                                                  • All that energy you use to escape your past, use to fight for your future. 
                                                  • You are worth fighting for because Jesus died for you. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalms 23:3 "He restores my soul." (NKJV)
                                                  • Psalms 34:18 "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted. And saves those who are crushed in spirit." (NIV)
                                                  • Psalms 147:3 "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." (NJKV)

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Kristin Clouse:

                                                  Website / Shop / Course / Podcast / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Kristin Clouse is a speaker, licensed professional clinical counselor, pastor, published author, podcaster, and life, trauma and spiritual coach. She is an abuse survivor who helps hurting individuals find freedom, healing and restoration from trauma, abuse, and life difficulties by helping them recognize their soul wounds so they can grow closer in their relationship with Jesus. She is the author of Healing for our Soul Gardens: Restoration and Wholeness After Sexual Abuse and contributing author to She Writes for Him: Stories of Resilient Faith. 

                                                  God has a purpose for each of us and Kristin is passionate to see women living out the FULLNESS of who God created them to be. Kristin can be found at: www.FullyRestored.love 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Kristin Clouse and I talk about how to find healing from abuse and trauma to walk in the fullness of who God created you to be. Healing from abuse is possible for all through Jesus. We talk about overcoming shame, breaking the... full 166 Dr. Michelle Bengtson a6e7b8a9-adc7-42a3-aa00-f68e68b1b865 ac0abc0e-3d95-4eb7-a758-b28701180484 Thu, 16 Jun 2022 09:50:09 +0000 1678 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/166-healing-from-abuse-and-trauma-to-walk-in-the-f                                                   165 How To Live from a Place of Grace 165 How To Live from a Place of Grace Episode Summary:

                                                  I talk with Jami Amerine about learning to live from a place of grace. Jami shares how living from grace begins with your mindset and what you focus on. Because what you focus on grows, when you focus on love, gratitude, peace, joy and faith, those will grow and be magnified. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Grace is everything and once you are free, you are free indeed.
                                                  • There’s no “but” in a good “I love you.” God never says “I love you, but…”
                                                  • Fear is our most dangerous operating system.
                                                  • Hope is a confident expectation.
                                                  • Ask God to open your eyes to a greater appreciation of His grace.
                                                  • Stop talking AT Jesus and listen TO Him.
                                                  • I truly know I am cared for, I cannot get in trouble with God and I can never be separated from Him. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Colossians 1:27 "To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."
                                                  • Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of what is hoped for the evidence of that yet seen."
                                                  • Romans 8:39 "Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jami Amerine:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest / Etsy

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jami Amerine is an author, speaker, and artist.  She and her husband, Justin live in the North Houston, Texas area.  Jami and Justin have six children ranging in age from 6-25.  Jami is a four-time published author and royalty artist. Jami and Justin are advocates for foster care and adoption.  You can learn more about Jami at sacredgroundstickyfloors.com 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  I talk with Jami Amerine about learning to live from a place of grace. Jami shares how living from grace begins with your mindset and what you focus on. Because what you focus on grows, when you focus on love, gratitude, peace, joy and faith, those will grow and be magnified. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Grace is everything and once you are free, you are free indeed.
                                                  • There’s no “but” in a good “I love you.” God never says “I love you, but…”
                                                  • Fear is our most dangerous operating system.
                                                  • Hope is a confident expectation.
                                                  • Ask God to open your eyes to a greater appreciation of His grace.
                                                  • Stop talking AT Jesus and listen TO Him.
                                                  • I truly know I am cared for, I cannot get in trouble with God and I can never be separated from Him. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Colossians 1:27 "To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."
                                                  • Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of what is hoped for the evidence of that yet seen."
                                                  • Romans 8:39 "Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jami Amerine:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest / Etsy

                                                   

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jami Amerine is an author, speaker, and artist.  She and her husband, Justin live in the North Houston, Texas area.  Jami and Justin have six children ranging in age from 6-25.  Jami is a four-time published author and royalty artist. Jami and Justin are advocates for foster care and adoption.  You can learn more about Jami at sacredgroundstickyfloors.com 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: I talk with Jami Amerine about learning to live from a place of grace. Jami shares how living from grace begins with your mindset and what you focus on. Because what you focus on grows, when you focus on love, gratitude, peace, joy... full 165 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 91f0cd35-cf64-4f9d-ab13-41017fa186b3 a1754f58-5be3-46a3-a0f3-b28701180cb0 Thu, 09 Jun 2022 09:00:39 +0000 2848 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/165-how-to-live-from-a-place-of-grace                                                   164 How Mentoring Can Change Your Life and Even Help You Overcome Loneliness 164 How Mentoring Can Change Your Life and Even Help You Overcome Loneliness Episode Summary: 

                                                  We talk about how a mentor can change your life and even help you overcome loneliness. My guest, author and speaker Jayme Hull, shares how her life was changed when she accepted Christ because her church assigned a mentor to her that walked with her and pointed her to Christ. She also shares about her experiences both as a mentee and a mentor and how a mentoring relationship can positively impact your life.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Knowing you need help growing in your faith is the beginning of mentoring.
                                                  • A mentor is simply someone who is just a little further along in their Christian walk and is still growing and able to point you to Christ.
                                                  • A mentoring relationship discusses how God is showing up in your lives.
                                                  • A good mentor is a good listener, encourager, teachable, approachable, and always moving forward and growing.
                                                  • Loneliness is what the enemy desires for us. But mentoring can help us overcome loneliness.
                                                  • In the absence of a mentor, the Bible tells us that David encouraged himself in the Lord.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 78:4,6-7 NIV “We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders…so the next generation might know them—even the children not yet born—and they in turn will teach their own children. So each generation should set its hope anew on God, not forgetting his glorious miracles and obeying his commands.”
                                                  • Titus 2:1-8 NIV “As for you, Titus, promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching. Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience. Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God. In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely. And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.”
                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:24 "God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful."
                                                  • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV "Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jayme Hull:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  JAYME HULL is a speaker and author of Face To Face: Discover How Mentoring Can Change Your Life with Moody Publishers and Side By Side: 8 Conversations To Build Your Confidence In Christ An 8-Week Bible Study to encourage women to stop avoiding the tough conversations and begin talking with the God of hope. She is also the host of Face to Face Mentoring Podcast. Jayme is a graduate of New York University and Certified Spiritual Direction Coach with the Blackaby Ministries International. She has spent a lifetime mentoring and training hundreds of Christian women to connect with God and others through a mentoring relationship. Her passion is to encourage others to invest in the next generation and make a positive difference in today’s culture. Jayme and her husband call the Nashville area their home and have three married children and 6 happy grandkids.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  We talk about how a mentor can change your life and even help you overcome loneliness. My guest, author and speaker Jayme Hull, shares how her life was changed when she accepted Christ because her church assigned a mentor to her that walked with her and pointed her to Christ. She also shares about her experiences both as a mentee and a mentor and how a mentoring relationship can positively impact your life.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Knowing you need help growing in your faith is the beginning of mentoring.
                                                  • A mentor is simply someone who is just a little further along in their Christian walk and is still growing and able to point you to Christ.
                                                  • A mentoring relationship discusses how God is showing up in your lives.
                                                  • A good mentor is a good listener, encourager, teachable, approachable, and always moving forward and growing.
                                                  • Loneliness is what the enemy desires for us. But mentoring can help us overcome loneliness.
                                                  • In the absence of a mentor, the Bible tells us that David encouraged himself in the Lord.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 78:4,6-7 NIV “We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders…so the next generation might know them—even the children not yet born—and they in turn will teach their own children. So each generation should set its hope anew on God, not forgetting his glorious miracles and obeying his commands.”
                                                  • Titus 2:1-8 NIV “As for you, Titus, promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching. Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience. Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God. In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely. And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.”
                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:24 "God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful."
                                                  • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV "Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jayme Hull:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  JAYME HULL is a speaker and author of Face To Face: Discover How Mentoring Can Change Your Life with Moody Publishers and Side By Side: 8 Conversations To Build Your Confidence In Christ An 8-Week Bible Study to encourage women to stop avoiding the tough conversations and begin talking with the God of hope. She is also the host of Face to Face Mentoring Podcast. Jayme is a graduate of New York University and Certified Spiritual Direction Coach with the Blackaby Ministries International. She has spent a lifetime mentoring and training hundreds of Christian women to connect with God and others through a mentoring relationship. Her passion is to encourage others to invest in the next generation and make a positive difference in today’s culture. Jayme and her husband call the Nashville area their home and have three married children and 6 happy grandkids.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  We talk about how a mentor can change your life and even help you overcome loneliness. My guest, author and speaker Jayme Hull, shares how her life was changed when she accepted Christ because her church assigned a mentor to her... full 164 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 7fb056f7-96f1-4917-b41a-bc1fe5b3df2d c9366e94-1481-4dd2-9374-b28701181c3f Thu, 02 Jun 2022 09:00:44 +0000 2522 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/164-how-mentoring-can-change-your-life-and-even-he                                                   163 Daily habits and practices that help you have a good day 163 Daily habits and practices that help you have a good day Episode Summary: 

                                                  Our mindset matters. The choices we make matter. Our habits and disciplines matter. Join me with Jayne Patton as we talk about daily habits and practices we can put into place so that when we get up in the morning, our day is already off to a good start. Jayne also shares the one practice, above all else, that helps determine whether or not you’re going to have a good day.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When we ask the Lord for His lens through which to view our situation, it changes our perspective and frames our day.
                                                  • We are told to put on the armor of God, and put on the garment of praise, but those are intentional choices we make to do what God has told us to do to fight our battles.
                                                  • A key to having a good day is not just to be in the word, but to saturate your life with God’s word, actually believe what you are reading, and apply it to your everyday life.
                                                  • We are told that in this world we will experience trials. In order to have a good day despite the trials, we must take a pre-emptive approach and do what we can ahead of time to help foster a good day.
                                                  • When we have a cluttered environment, we also then tend to have a cluttered mind and a cluttered heart.
                                                  • By taking the time to clear your area of clutter the night before, you can awaken in a state of peace, and the clutter and chaos around you won’t distract you from your quiet time with God.
                                                  • Think about the fact that the Creator of the Universe wants to spend time communicating with you personally. Are you going to deprive Him of that?
                                                  • Our homes should be a place of refuge and calm away from the stress and the chaos of the world.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jayne Patton:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jayne Patton holds a deep love for the global and diverse body of Christ followers. She believes in crossing over denominational lines to bring the gospel in a way that is powerful and relevant. Her prayer is that God uses her personal presentation style to bring others to a deeper level of understanding of the scriptures. She married her husband Mike in 1999 and together they have 3 children. 

                                                  In 1996, Jayne graduated from Missouri Baptist University with a B.A. in Business Administration with a minor in Management. She left a lucrative sales career soon after the birth of her first child, and entered into the world of women’s ministry via the local church through facilitating Bible studies, hosting events, speaking locally, and more. Before launching Altered Ministries, she currently holds the position of Women’s Ministry Director for her local church, and has worked with government officials regarding the plight of persecuted Christians worldwide. 

                                                  Jayne is a popular speaker at events, conferences, banquets, and churches through her inspirational and motivational speaking. Jayne loves to read in her spare time, can always be bribed with Mexican food, and never…EVER…turns down a double-stuffed Oreo. Ever.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Our mindset matters. The choices we make matter. Our habits and disciplines matter. Join me with Jayne Patton as we talk about daily habits and practices we can put into place so that when we get up in the morning, our day is already off to a good start. Jayne also shares the one practice, above all else, that helps determine whether or not you’re going to have a good day.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When we ask the Lord for His lens through which to view our situation, it changes our perspective and frames our day.
                                                  • We are told to put on the armor of God, and put on the garment of praise, but those are intentional choices we make to do what God has told us to do to fight our battles.
                                                  • A key to having a good day is not just to be in the word, but to saturate your life with God’s word, actually believe what you are reading, and apply it to your everyday life.
                                                  • We are told that in this world we will experience trials. In order to have a good day despite the trials, we must take a pre-emptive approach and do what we can ahead of time to help foster a good day.
                                                  • When we have a cluttered environment, we also then tend to have a cluttered mind and a cluttered heart.
                                                  • By taking the time to clear your area of clutter the night before, you can awaken in a state of peace, and the clutter and chaos around you won’t distract you from your quiet time with God.
                                                  • Think about the fact that the Creator of the Universe wants to spend time communicating with you personally. Are you going to deprive Him of that?
                                                  • Our homes should be a place of refuge and calm away from the stress and the chaos of the world.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jayne Patton:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jayne Patton holds a deep love for the global and diverse body of Christ followers. She believes in crossing over denominational lines to bring the gospel in a way that is powerful and relevant. Her prayer is that God uses her personal presentation style to bring others to a deeper level of understanding of the scriptures. She married her husband Mike in 1999 and together they have 3 children. 

                                                  In 1996, Jayne graduated from Missouri Baptist University with a B.A. in Business Administration with a minor in Management. She left a lucrative sales career soon after the birth of her first child, and entered into the world of women’s ministry via the local church through facilitating Bible studies, hosting events, speaking locally, and more. Before launching Altered Ministries, she currently holds the position of Women’s Ministry Director for her local church, and has worked with government officials regarding the plight of persecuted Christians worldwide. 

                                                  Jayne is a popular speaker at events, conferences, banquets, and churches through her inspirational and motivational speaking. Jayne loves to read in her spare time, can always be bribed with Mexican food, and never…EVER…turns down a double-stuffed Oreo. Ever.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Our mindset matters. The choices we make matter. Our habits and disciplines matter. Join me with Jayne Patton as we talk about daily habits and practices we can put into place so that when we get up in the morning, our day is... full 163 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 00b8b4c4-20d4-4636-b09b-13d4c6e125b3 82fe2e3b-d53f-488f-a24d-b28701181c39 Thu, 26 May 2022 09:00:14 +0000 1935 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/163-daily-habits-and-practices-that-help-you-have                                                   162 How What You Focus on Grows 162 How What You Focus on Grows Episode Summary:

                                                  What we focus on grows and impacts the quality of our day for better or for worse. We’ll talk about the neurological reason why this happens! And, we’ll discuss how to improve your day with some simple steps on how to focus on God instead of problems.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • If we are not careful our minds will rule for us. God tells us to stay close to the vine (John 15:4), be transformed (Rom 12:2) and the stories of sowing and reaping (Luke 8). 
                                                  • Before we decide what to focus on, we have to start with the end result. So often I have to ask myself, “What is the goal?” What do I want? Peace, joy, favor…the good stuff.
                                                  • It’s possible to focus on God, not our problems.
                                                  • There is a difference between focusing on facts as opposed to truth.
                                                  • Simple steps for focusing on God.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Timothy 4:13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them.
                                                  • Philippians 4:8-9 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
                                                  • Luke 6:45 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  What we focus on grows and impacts the quality of our day for better or for worse. We’ll talk about the neurological reason why this happens! And, we’ll discuss how to improve your day with some simple steps on how to focus on God instead of problems.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • If we are not careful our minds will rule for us. God tells us to stay close to the vine (John 15:4), be transformed (Rom 12:2) and the stories of sowing and reaping (Luke 8). 
                                                  • Before we decide what to focus on, we have to start with the end result. So often I have to ask myself, “What is the goal?” What do I want? Peace, joy, favor…the good stuff.
                                                  • It’s possible to focus on God, not our problems.
                                                  • There is a difference between focusing on facts as opposed to truth.
                                                  • Simple steps for focusing on God.

                                                   

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Timothy 4:13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them.
                                                  • Philippians 4:8-9 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
                                                  • Luke 6:45 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: What we focus on grows and impacts the quality of our day for better or for worse. We’ll talk about the neurological reason why this happens! And, we’ll discuss how to improve your day with some simple steps on how to focus on God... full 162 Dr. Michelle Bengtson b6935aa2-de0c-4a13-9a75-86f08c391554 9c71ed70-08eb-4260-8baf-b28701182d90 Thu, 19 May 2022 09:00:27 +0000 1457 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/162-how-what-you-focus-on-grows                                                   161 How Gratitude and Thankfulness Help Us Have a Good Day 161 How Gratitude and Thankfulness Help Us Have a Good Day Are you wondering how gratitude and thankfulness could help us set ourselves up to have a good day? God commands us to come to Him with thanksgiving, but what difference does it make? I’m here to tell you, it changes everything. In this episode, we’ll talk about why they’re important how the positive impact they have on your well-being and stress level.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Gratitude is an emotion expressing an appreciation for what one has as opposed to what one wants.
                                                  • Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what one receives—tangible or intangible—as they acknowledge the goodness in their lives.
                                                  • Remember that being grateful is about appreciating what one has, as opposed to what one wants. Being thankful or thanking someone often implies you are acknowledging your thanks for something that someone has given you.
                                                  • Gratitude helps make us happier, builds positivity, fosters sleep and relaxation, helps increase productivity. It leads to a less self-centered and materialistic life. Gratitude also improves our health and mental health, and helps improve relationships.
                                                  • A grateful person experiences a higher level of positive thoughts like love, happiness, and lower stress level.
                                                  • When we practice gratitude in life, we are creating a happy and less competitive life around ourselves, therefore, our overall well being increases.
                                                  • There are several ways to express gratitude and thankfulness.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:11-13 “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Are you wondering how gratitude and thankfulness could help us set ourselves up to have a good day? God commands us to come to Him with thanksgiving, but what difference does it make? I’m here to tell you, it changes everything. In this episode, we’ll talk about why they’re important how the positive impact they have on your well-being and stress level.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Gratitude is an emotion expressing an appreciation for what one has as opposed to what one wants.
                                                  • Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what one receives—tangible or intangible—as they acknowledge the goodness in their lives.
                                                  • Remember that being grateful is about appreciating what one has, as opposed to what one wants. Being thankful or thanking someone often implies you are acknowledging your thanks for something that someone has given you.
                                                  • Gratitude helps make us happier, builds positivity, fosters sleep and relaxation, helps increase productivity. It leads to a less self-centered and materialistic life. Gratitude also improves our health and mental health, and helps improve relationships.
                                                  • A grateful person experiences a higher level of positive thoughts like love, happiness, and lower stress level.
                                                  • When we practice gratitude in life, we are creating a happy and less competitive life around ourselves, therefore, our overall well being increases.
                                                  • There are several ways to express gratitude and thankfulness.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:11-13 “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Are you wondering how gratitude and thankfulness could help us set ourselves up to have a good day? God commands us to come to Him with thanksgiving, but what difference does it make? I’m here to tell you, it changes... full 161 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9278295e-125c-4443-8418-37652a3677ef fed85dfc-d51b-4cc4-8655-b28701182ff5 Thu, 12 May 2022 09:00:07 +0000 1319 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/161-how-gratitude-and-thankfulness-help-us-have-a                                                   160 How God’s Promises to His People Help Them to Have a Good Day 160 How God’s Promises to His People Help Them to Have a Good Day Episode Summary:

                                                  In today’s episode, we are talking about how God’s promises to his people help us have a good day. There are very few things we can depend on in this world, but we can depend on God to keep His promises, and because of that, we can have a good day despite our circumstances.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • People change their mind, and they break their promises, but God is not a man and he cannot lie, so he cannot break his promises.
                                                  • A promise is of no more value than is the ability of the one who makes it to carry through. It also includes willingness to do so.
                                                  • There are over 1000 promises from God to his people.
                                                  • God supplies every need we have and His grace is sufficient for us.
                                                  • God promised his children won’t be overtaken by temptation.
                                                  • God promised victory over death and that all things work together for good.
                                                  • He promised love and forgiveness for those who believe in Jesus.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 1:20 “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.”
                                                  • Romans 4:13, 16 "For the promise that he should be heir of the world, was not to Abraham or his seed through the Law, but through the righteousness of faith. . . therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed." 
                                                  • Genesis 22:18 "And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice". 
                                                  • Acts 13:32-33 says: "And we declare unto you glad tidings how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again."
                                                  • Philippians 4:19 "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus".
                                                  • Jude v24 "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present your faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy."
                                                  • Acts 2:32 "This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we are all witnesses."
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 15:3,4 "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures."
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 15:57 "but thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In today’s episode, we are talking about how God’s promises to his people help us have a good day. There are very few things we can depend on in this world, but we can depend on God to keep His promises, and because of that, we can have a good day despite our circumstances.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • People change their mind, and they break their promises, but God is not a man and he cannot lie, so he cannot break his promises.
                                                  • A promise is of no more value than is the ability of the one who makes it to carry through. It also includes willingness to do so.
                                                  • There are over 1000 promises from God to his people.
                                                  • God supplies every need we have and His grace is sufficient for us.
                                                  • God promised his children won’t be overtaken by temptation.
                                                  • God promised victory over death and that all things work together for good.
                                                  • He promised love and forgiveness for those who believe in Jesus.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 1:20 “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.”
                                                  • Romans 4:13, 16 "For the promise that he should be heir of the world, was not to Abraham or his seed through the Law, but through the righteousness of faith. . . therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed." 
                                                  • Genesis 22:18 "And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice". 
                                                  • Acts 13:32-33 says: "And we declare unto you glad tidings how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again."
                                                  • Philippians 4:19 "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus".
                                                  • Jude v24 "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present your faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy."
                                                  • Acts 2:32 "This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we are all witnesses."
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 15:3,4 "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures."
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 15:57 "but thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In today’s episode, we are talking about how God’s promises to his people help us have a good day. There are very few things we can depend on in this world, but we can depend on God to keep His promises, and because of that, we... full 160 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9687df80-2d74-495b-8902-08faa9ce37a6 9009abe8-d33a-4f00-9cfe-b28701183cc1 Thu, 05 May 2022 09:00:37 +0000 1168 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/160-how-god-s-promises-to-his-people-help-them-to                                                   159 How to Have a Good Day by Starting Your Day with God 159 How to Have a Good Day by Starting Your Day with God Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever gone through really difficult circumstances, and just craved a good day? A really good day? Many years ago, that’s what I longed for. In this episode, I’ll share what I’ve learned about how to have a good day by starting your day with God. When we start our day with God, He will be on your mind throughout the day, and that helps make every day a good day!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The course of our day will be directly impacted good or bad, dependent on whether we start our day with God.
                                                  • The Bible warns how to start our day (Psalm 118:24; Psalm 103:1; Ephesians 6:11; Lamentations 3:22-23; Matthew 5:16)
                                                  • Let’s talk about how do I pray to start a day:
                                                    • Thanksgiving;
                                                    • wisdom and guidance;
                                                    • protection;
                                                    • believing he works all things for good.
                                                  • There’s a 5-minute morning routine that makes a huge difference on whether I have a good day or not.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 42:8 But each day the LORD pours his unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing his songs, praying to God who gives me life.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Have you ever gone through really difficult circumstances, and just craved a good day? A really good day? Many years ago, that’s what I longed for. In this episode, I’ll share what I’ve learned about how to have a good day by starting your day with God. When we start our day with God, He will be on your mind throughout the day, and that helps make every day a good day!

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The course of our day will be directly impacted good or bad, dependent on whether we start our day with God.
                                                  • The Bible warns how to start our day (Psalm 118:24; Psalm 103:1; Ephesians 6:11; Lamentations 3:22-23; Matthew 5:16)
                                                  • Let’s talk about how do I pray to start a day:
                                                    • Thanksgiving;
                                                    • wisdom and guidance;
                                                    • protection;
                                                    • believing he works all things for good.
                                                  • There’s a 5-minute morning routine that makes a huge difference on whether I have a good day or not.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 42:8 But each day the LORD pours his unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing his songs, praying to God who gives me life.

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Have you ever gone through really difficult circumstances, and just craved a good day? A really good day? Many years ago, that’s what I longed for. In this episode, I’ll share what I’ve learned about how to have a good day... full 159 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 8e8480f9-62cf-4b34-8fdc-907e5a9fefe9 5986a624-9ba0-4e44-a7c6-b287011847fd Thu, 28 Apr 2022 09:00:42 +0000 1248 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/159-how-to-have-a-good-day-by-starting-your-day-wi                                                   158 Words of Encouragement for Mothers 158 Words of Encouragement for Mothers Episode Summary:

                                                  As a mother, do you ever struggle with comparison? Or do you look at other moms and wish you could be “amazing” like them? Do you ever wonder about your God-given purpose in life?  I’ve been there. That’s what Jenny Dean Schmidt of Channel Mom and I are talking about in this episode…words of encouragement for mothers.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I came to Christ through motherhood; it was then that God showed me that my former work in the “spotlight” was a false light compared to His light in my life, as His child, and as a mother with children of my own.
                                                  • Very soon after my son’s birth, God allowed me to lose my high-profile job in television. Because it felt like losing my religion, identity, honor and self-worth, I sunk into a postpartum depression for a year-and-a-half.
                                                  • The place of humility is a great place to be. It is there that we are shaped, blessed, and perfected.
                                                  • Mom’s preserve life, teach life, correct life, and sacrifice their lives.
                                                  • Moms do what Jesus asked us to do each and every day, and in serving their families, they are the most Christ-like.
                                                  • As I missed the accolades and attention I got when I was on TV, God revealed to me how we honor people on our screens who are not necessarily doing anything good for the world (and, often, giving us bad news) and yet we don’t honor the women charged with raising up His children.
                                                  • I saw this as a travesty, that mothers don’t know their own value because the world does not affirm it. God called me to encourage moms through the media and support them through outreach.
                                                  • God proves Himself throughout history and throughout our lives. Personally, I can say that He has never failed me. His love saves us daily.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”
                                                  • Exodus 3:14 “I Am Who I Am.”
                                                  • Romans 8:28 “And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, and who are called according to His purpose.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jenny Dean Schmidt:

                                                  Website / Facebook Channel Mom / Facebook Mom You’re Amazing / Twitter / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jenny Dean Schmidt is executive director of ChannelMom media, and has hosted ChannelMom radio and podcast for 11 years. Before founding ChannelMom, Jenny had an extensive career in TV news, where she worked as an on-air report, host, producer, and writer for media entities across major U.S. cities. 

                                                  Jenny has interviewed and posed questions to two U.S. presidents, as well as many other politicians and celebrities. She’s covered high-profile news stories, including the OJ Simpson trial, the Columbine massacre, and a number of presidential campaigns.

                                                  Beyond her media career, Jenny is passionate about the important role of today’s mothers, charged with raising up the next generation. Jenny chose to leave her TV career to commit to raising her own children at home. She believes the motherhood role is over overshadowed by popular culture values that glorify celebrities and the celebrity lifestyle. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  As a mother, do you ever struggle with comparison? Or do you look at other moms and wish you could be “amazing” like them? Do you ever wonder about your God-given purpose in life?  I’ve been there. That’s what Jenny Dean Schmidt of Channel Mom and I are talking about in this episode…words of encouragement for mothers.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I came to Christ through motherhood; it was then that God showed me that my former work in the “spotlight” was a false light compared to His light in my life, as His child, and as a mother with children of my own.
                                                  • Very soon after my son’s birth, God allowed me to lose my high-profile job in television. Because it felt like losing my religion, identity, honor and self-worth, I sunk into a postpartum depression for a year-and-a-half.
                                                  • The place of humility is a great place to be. It is there that we are shaped, blessed, and perfected.
                                                  • Mom’s preserve life, teach life, correct life, and sacrifice their lives.
                                                  • Moms do what Jesus asked us to do each and every day, and in serving their families, they are the most Christ-like.
                                                  • As I missed the accolades and attention I got when I was on TV, God revealed to me how we honor people on our screens who are not necessarily doing anything good for the world (and, often, giving us bad news) and yet we don’t honor the women charged with raising up His children.
                                                  • I saw this as a travesty, that mothers don’t know their own value because the world does not affirm it. God called me to encourage moms through the media and support them through outreach.
                                                  • God proves Himself throughout history and throughout our lives. Personally, I can say that He has never failed me. His love saves us daily.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”
                                                  • Exodus 3:14 “I Am Who I Am.”
                                                  • Romans 8:28 “And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, and who are called according to His purpose.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jenny Dean Schmidt:

                                                  Website / Facebook Channel Mom / Facebook Mom You’re Amazing / Twitter / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jenny Dean Schmidt is executive director of ChannelMom media, and has hosted ChannelMom radio and podcast for 11 years. Before founding ChannelMom, Jenny had an extensive career in TV news, where she worked as an on-air report, host, producer, and writer for media entities across major U.S. cities. 

                                                  Jenny has interviewed and posed questions to two U.S. presidents, as well as many other politicians and celebrities. She’s covered high-profile news stories, including the OJ Simpson trial, the Columbine massacre, and a number of presidential campaigns.

                                                  Beyond her media career, Jenny is passionate about the important role of today’s mothers, charged with raising up the next generation. Jenny chose to leave her TV career to commit to raising her own children at home. She believes the motherhood role is over overshadowed by popular culture values that glorify celebrities and the celebrity lifestyle. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: As a mother, do you ever struggle with comparison? Or do you look at other moms and wish you could be “amazing” like them? Do you ever wonder about your God-given purpose in life?  I’ve been there. That’s what Jenny Dean... full 158 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 10ea6073-45fa-4d68-bdfc-8d5383d1dae5 f1c3bfb1-deaf-4483-9b92-b287011860ce Thu, 21 Apr 2022 09:00:38 +0000 2171 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/158-words-of-encouragement-for-mothers                                                   157 The Best of Year 3 - Who We Are and Mindset 157 The Best of Year 3 - Who We Are and Mindset Episode Summary:

                                                  On this week's podcast, we're celebrating the 3rd anniversary of Your Hope-Filled Perspective where we offer you a Biblically-based Hope-Filled Perspective. This week, we’re sharing the 6 episodes that you downloaded the most over the past year. To introduce a snippet of each one, I’ll share a bit about what I liked about each episode. I find it interesting that the top 6 episodes of the past year come down to knowing who we are and paying attention to our mindset. 

                                                  Thank you so much for tuning in each week! Without you, this program wouldn't exist! 

                                                  And, now for the featured episodes.

                                                  Quotables from each episode:

                                                  • In episode 115, we talked with Kris Reece about How To Train Your Brain to Trust God. You’ll get to hear a bit about her story and what led her to become so passionate about helping others to train their brain to trust God.
                                                  • Listen to her episode here: How To Train Your Brain to Trust God
                                                  • Kris also shared her 4 step process that shows you how to renew your mind and put an end to toxic thinking: Toxic Thinking: Take Control of Your Thoughts
                                                  • In episode 29, How To Help Someone with Depression, I recorded with my husband, Scott. We cover so many helpful topics including common signs & symptoms, helpful things to do, what to say, and what not to say.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here: How To Help Someone with Depression
                                                  • I have written prolifically about depression on my blog. Just search for “depression” in the search bar. I also include links to resources below.
                                                  • In episode 131, we talked with Erica Wiggenhorn about How to Untangle Yourself from the Fear of Inadequacy. Many people struggle with fear of inadequacy or the imposter syndrome and don’t even know it. Earlier in my career, I certainly did, but I didn’t want to. That’s why I was so grateful for Erica’s wisdom and insight.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here: How to Untangle Yourself from the Fear of Inadequacy.
                                                  • Erica also shares the secret she learned for understanding your worth and recognizing your true value: The Secret to Understanding Your Worth
                                                  • In Episode 116, we talked with Tina Yeager about Hope for Overcoming Shame or Discouragement. I absolutely loved my interview with Tina regarding how to overcome shame or discouragement, because when the enemy can’t defeat us, he tries to discourage us. Tina vulnerably shared from her own personal and professional experiences, so you’d know she knows.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here:  Hope for Overcoming Shame or Discouragement
                                                  • Tina also shared encouragement for those struggling in silence with shame and discouragement, significance and identity issues in this article: Struggling in Silence with Shame and Discouragement
                                                  • In Episode 130, we talked with Amy Joob about How To Get Unstuck in Life and Move Forward. Many people have written to me during the last couple of years, lamenting how stuck they feel, despite their desire to move on to bigger and better things. Amy Joob and her husband faced that same thing during the Covid Pandemic. She shares how they moved forward.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here: How To Get Unstuck in Life and Move Forward
                                                  • Amy also shares how she moved forward from fears and hurts that had kept her stuck here: Are You Stuck? Right Alignment Will Get You Unstuck!
                                                  • In Episode 125, we spoke with Marcia Ramsland about how to keep our life and mind decluttered by Getting Organized and Staying Organized.  I have benefited from Marcia’s wisdom, and so appreciate how simple she breaks down tasks to make them more manageable and sustainable.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here: How To Get Organized and Stay Organized
                                                  • Marcia is an organizing pro, even more so around the holidays! She shared her top 10 Organizing Tips for Fall to Start Your Holidays Off Right

                                                  I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s anniversary episode. It was so much fun to dive into those episodes that were most popular with our listeners. When we consider that God tells us how important it is to take every thought captive, these six episodes do exactly that. For future episodes, we'd love to know what you enjoy, the guests you've loved, and the topics you'd like us to cover.

                                                  Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  On this week's podcast, we're celebrating the 3rd anniversary of Your Hope-Filled Perspective where we offer you a Biblically-based Hope-Filled Perspective. This week, we’re sharing the 6 episodes that you downloaded the most over the past year. To introduce a snippet of each one, I’ll share a bit about what I liked about each episode. I find it interesting that the top 6 episodes of the past year come down to knowing who we are and paying attention to our mindset. 

                                                  Thank you so much for tuning in each week! Without you, this program wouldn't exist! 

                                                  And, now for the featured episodes.

                                                  Quotables from each episode:

                                                  • In episode 115, we talked with Kris Reece about How To Train Your Brain to Trust God. You’ll get to hear a bit about her story and what led her to become so passionate about helping others to train their brain to trust God.
                                                  • Listen to her episode here: How To Train Your Brain to Trust God
                                                  • Kris also shared her 4 step process that shows you how to renew your mind and put an end to toxic thinking: Toxic Thinking: Take Control of Your Thoughts
                                                  • In episode 29, How To Help Someone with Depression, I recorded with my husband, Scott. We cover so many helpful topics including common signs & symptoms, helpful things to do, what to say, and what not to say.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here: How To Help Someone with Depression
                                                  • I have written prolifically about depression on my blog. Just search for “depression” in the search bar. I also include links to resources below.
                                                  • In episode 131, we talked with Erica Wiggenhorn about How to Untangle Yourself from the Fear of Inadequacy. Many people struggle with fear of inadequacy or the imposter syndrome and don’t even know it. Earlier in my career, I certainly did, but I didn’t want to. That’s why I was so grateful for Erica’s wisdom and insight.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here: How to Untangle Yourself from the Fear of Inadequacy.
                                                  • Erica also shares the secret she learned for understanding your worth and recognizing your true value: The Secret to Understanding Your Worth
                                                  • In Episode 116, we talked with Tina Yeager about Hope for Overcoming Shame or Discouragement. I absolutely loved my interview with Tina regarding how to overcome shame or discouragement, because when the enemy can’t defeat us, he tries to discourage us. Tina vulnerably shared from her own personal and professional experiences, so you’d know she knows.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here:  Hope for Overcoming Shame or Discouragement
                                                  • Tina also shared encouragement for those struggling in silence with shame and discouragement, significance and identity issues in this article: Struggling in Silence with Shame and Discouragement
                                                  • In Episode 130, we talked with Amy Joob about How To Get Unstuck in Life and Move Forward. Many people have written to me during the last couple of years, lamenting how stuck they feel, despite their desire to move on to bigger and better things. Amy Joob and her husband faced that same thing during the Covid Pandemic. She shares how they moved forward.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here: How To Get Unstuck in Life and Move Forward
                                                  • Amy also shares how she moved forward from fears and hurts that had kept her stuck here: Are You Stuck? Right Alignment Will Get You Unstuck!
                                                  • In Episode 125, we spoke with Marcia Ramsland about how to keep our life and mind decluttered by Getting Organized and Staying Organized.  I have benefited from Marcia’s wisdom, and so appreciate how simple she breaks down tasks to make them more manageable and sustainable.
                                                  • Listen to that episode here: How To Get Organized and Stay Organized
                                                  • Marcia is an organizing pro, even more so around the holidays! She shared her top 10 Organizing Tips for Fall to Start Your Holidays Off Right

                                                  I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s anniversary episode. It was so much fun to dive into those episodes that were most popular with our listeners. When we consider that God tells us how important it is to take every thought captive, these six episodes do exactly that. For future episodes, we'd love to know what you enjoy, the guests you've loved, and the topics you'd like us to cover.

                                                  Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: On this week's podcast, we're celebrating the 3rd anniversary of Your Hope-Filled Perspective where we offer you a Biblically-based Hope-Filled Perspective. This week, we’re sharing the 6 episodes that you downloaded the most over... full 157 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 5c579324-3fe4-4913-bf66-55c54e530f24 23092a62-01eb-4e71-a0f6-b2870118627b Thu, 14 Apr 2022 09:00:24 +0000 2356 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/157-the-best-of-year-3-who-we-are-and-mindset                                                   156 How To Hang On to Threadbare Hope {When Circumstances are Too Hard to Handle} 156 How To Hang On to Threadbare Hope {When Circumstances are Too Hard to Handle} Episode Summary:

                                                  Lisa Appelo and I talk about how to hang onto threadbare hope when our circumstances are too hard to handle. Our guest today speaks from her own personal experience. When her husband died suddenly, Lisa was left alone to walk herself and her seven children through loss and grief. She shares what she learned.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When life felt incredibly bad, I needed to know life could be good again.
                                                  • Sometimes we have to let go of the life we wanted and take hold of the life in front of us.
                                                  • It’s okay to feel our emotions, but they do a poor job telling us the truth.
                                                  • Utter dependence on God isn’t what we want, but it’s where God designed us to be.
                                                  • Loss revealed where I had misplaced my hope and I learned to hang onto Biblical hope when my emotions were screaming different.
                                                  • God does give us too much to handle so that we will learn to depend on him and relinquish the myths of self-control and self-sufficiency.
                                                  • When we become helplessly dependent on God we will see God is faithful and that He will come through.
                                                  • I’ve seen that being in a place of helpless dependence on God is the best place to be.
                                                  • Even in the unknown, we can thank God.
                                                  • God doesn’t have a plan B! He already knows how He is going to see you through!
                                                  • The 3 best words you can say to someone going through a difficult time is “You’re not alone.” And they aren’t…even when it feels like they are alone, God is with them and will not forsake them.
                                                  • Even as life feels better now, as I’m used to the pace, weight and isolation of single parenting following loss, I never want to forget I’m utterly dependent on God for wisdom, guidance, provision and so much more.
                                                  • I might be facing a scary future, but I’d learned God’s promises would hold there.
                                                  • We can daily anchor in God’s Word to let Him refocus our perspective, renew our hope and exchange our emotions for His truth.
                                                  • We can remember God’s past faithfulness and His character.
                                                  • We can tender our heart to God so that we don’t waste the suffering.
                                                  • We can look for God’s good hand all around us, which is such a boost to our faith that God is working even in painful circumstances.
                                                  • For the one who feels underwater in circumstances that are too much to handle, I’d tell them to look to God to do what we cannot.
                                                  • We can’t fix a broken heart or force an outcome. But in that place, we can enter a trust relationship God designed for us.
                                                  • We can chisel out idols of control and comfort we’ve polished and learn to trust in the Lord with all our heart. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.
                                                  • Psalm 46:1 (ESV) “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
                                                  • Deuteronomy 33:26-27 (NIV) “There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides across the heavens to help you, and on the clouds in his majesty. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Lisa Appelo:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lisa Appelo is an author and speaker inspiring women to cultivate faith in life’s storms. Ten years ago, Lisa became a sudden widow and single mom to 7. She’s published at many sites including Proverbs 31 Ministries, (in)courage, and Risen Motherhood, and her book Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart releases April, 2022. 

                                                  As a former litigating attorney, Lisa is passionate about rich Bible teaching. Get your free copy of 7 Days of Hope for Your Shattered Heart at LisaAppelo.com and connect with Lisa on Instagram @lisaappelo.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Lisa Appelo and I talk about how to hang onto threadbare hope when our circumstances are too hard to handle. Our guest today speaks from her own personal experience. When her husband died suddenly, Lisa was left alone to walk herself and her seven children through loss and grief. She shares what she learned.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • When life felt incredibly bad, I needed to know life could be good again.
                                                  • Sometimes we have to let go of the life we wanted and take hold of the life in front of us.
                                                  • It’s okay to feel our emotions, but they do a poor job telling us the truth.
                                                  • Utter dependence on God isn’t what we want, but it’s where God designed us to be.
                                                  • Loss revealed where I had misplaced my hope and I learned to hang onto Biblical hope when my emotions were screaming different.
                                                  • God does give us too much to handle so that we will learn to depend on him and relinquish the myths of self-control and self-sufficiency.
                                                  • When we become helplessly dependent on God we will see God is faithful and that He will come through.
                                                  • I’ve seen that being in a place of helpless dependence on God is the best place to be.
                                                  • Even in the unknown, we can thank God.
                                                  • God doesn’t have a plan B! He already knows how He is going to see you through!
                                                  • The 3 best words you can say to someone going through a difficult time is “You’re not alone.” And they aren’t…even when it feels like they are alone, God is with them and will not forsake them.
                                                  • Even as life feels better now, as I’m used to the pace, weight and isolation of single parenting following loss, I never want to forget I’m utterly dependent on God for wisdom, guidance, provision and so much more.
                                                  • I might be facing a scary future, but I’d learned God’s promises would hold there.
                                                  • We can daily anchor in God’s Word to let Him refocus our perspective, renew our hope and exchange our emotions for His truth.
                                                  • We can remember God’s past faithfulness and His character.
                                                  • We can tender our heart to God so that we don’t waste the suffering.
                                                  • We can look for God’s good hand all around us, which is such a boost to our faith that God is working even in painful circumstances.
                                                  • For the one who feels underwater in circumstances that are too much to handle, I’d tell them to look to God to do what we cannot.
                                                  • We can’t fix a broken heart or force an outcome. But in that place, we can enter a trust relationship God designed for us.
                                                  • We can chisel out idols of control and comfort we’ve polished and learn to trust in the Lord with all our heart. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.
                                                  • Psalm 46:1 (ESV) “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
                                                  • Deuteronomy 33:26-27 (NIV) “There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides across the heavens to help you, and on the clouds in his majesty. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Lisa Appelo:

                                                  Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest / Twitter

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lisa Appelo is an author and speaker inspiring women to cultivate faith in life’s storms. Ten years ago, Lisa became a sudden widow and single mom to 7. She’s published at many sites including Proverbs 31 Ministries, (in)courage, and Risen Motherhood, and her book Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart releases April, 2022. 

                                                  As a former litigating attorney, Lisa is passionate about rich Bible teaching. Get your free copy of 7 Days of Hope for Your Shattered Heart at LisaAppelo.com and connect with Lisa on Instagram @lisaappelo.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: Lisa Appelo and I talk about how to hang onto threadbare hope when our circumstances are too hard to handle. Our guest today speaks from her own personal experience. When her husband died suddenly, Lisa was left alone to walk herself... full 156 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 131bc9d5-03e4-47d9-8c17-c9dc3fd47d78 f209aee7-9df9-4377-ba22-b28701186f8f Thu, 07 Apr 2022 09:00:52 +0000 2169 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/156-how-to-hang-on-to-threadbare-hope-when-circums                                                   155 How To Move Past Fear and Say Yes to God 155 How To Move Past Fear and Say Yes to God Episode Summary: 

                                                  Jenn Hand and I talk about how to move past fear and say yes to God. What does it look like to say yes to God? We cover what it means to put your yes on the table for God and move from fear stops to faith steps. When we say yes to God, we can move past fear to walk in faith into all He has for us to do. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Putting your yes on the table begins with saying, “I want to say yes to God, but ____.” What is it that stops you from saying yes to God?
                                                  • We want to minister the hope of Christ on the holy ground of suffering.
                                                  • Faith is believing God in the dark for what you heard Him say in the light.
                                                  • Common “fear stops” are fear of rejection, fear of failure, fear of not being enough, etc.
                                                  • We can get so caught up in watching other peoples’ race that we forget to pay attention to the race God has us running.
                                                  • As you put your “yes” on the table for God, consider writing out the word yes on paper, a post-it, even a rock, as a sign and a symbol of your desire to obediently say yes to Him. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Joshua 1:9 ESV “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
                                                  • Isaiah 6:8  ESV “And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.”
                                                  • Matthew 28:16 ESV “Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[b] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Jenn Hand:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jennifer Hand is the Executive director of Coming Alive Ministries. She wishes she could sit down and have a strong cup of coffee with each of you and ask you what makes you come alive? The things that make Jenn come alive are strong coffee (did we mention Jenn loves coffee), Jesus (of course), collecting coffee mugs, missions around the world, and spoiling her nephews and nieces. 

                                                  Jenn founded Coming Alive Ministries in 2012 and loves the honor of traveling nationally and internationally providing the invitation to come alive in Christ through conferences, retreats, written resources and counseling. Jenn has had the joy of serving in over 30 countries and speaking at around 40 ladies events a year. With her Master’s degree in trauma counseling, God has opened a unique door for Jenn to respond after natural disasters around the world, providing trauma counseling and the hope of Christ on the holy ground of suffering.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Jenn Hand and I talk about how to move past fear and say yes to God. What does it look like to say yes to God? We cover what it means to put your yes on the table for God and move from fear stops to faith steps. When we say yes to God, we can move past fear to walk in faith into all He has for us to do. 

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Putting your yes on the table begins with saying, “I want to say yes to God, but ____.” What is it that stops you from saying yes to God?
                                                  • We want to minister the hope of Christ on the holy ground of suffering.
                                                  • Faith is believing God in the dark for what you heard Him say in the light.
                                                  • Common “fear stops” are fear of rejection, fear of failure, fear of not being enough, etc.
                                                  • We can get so caught up in watching other peoples’ race that we forget to pay attention to the race God has us running.
                                                  • As you put your “yes” on the table for God, consider writing out the word yes on paper, a post-it, even a rock, as a sign and a symbol of your desire to obediently say yes to Him. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Joshua 1:9 ESV “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
                                                  • Isaiah 6:8  ESV “And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.”
                                                  • Matthew 28:16 ESV “Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[b] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Jenn Hand:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jennifer Hand is the Executive director of Coming Alive Ministries. She wishes she could sit down and have a strong cup of coffee with each of you and ask you what makes you come alive? The things that make Jenn come alive are strong coffee (did we mention Jenn loves coffee), Jesus (of course), collecting coffee mugs, missions around the world, and spoiling her nephews and nieces. 

                                                  Jenn founded Coming Alive Ministries in 2012 and loves the honor of traveling nationally and internationally providing the invitation to come alive in Christ through conferences, retreats, written resources and counseling. Jenn has had the joy of serving in over 30 countries and speaking at around 40 ladies events a year. With her Master’s degree in trauma counseling, God has opened a unique door for Jenn to respond after natural disasters around the world, providing trauma counseling and the hope of Christ on the holy ground of suffering.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Jenn Hand and I talk about how to move past fear and say yes to God. What does it look like to say yes to God? We cover what it means to put your yes on the table for God and move from fear stops to faith steps. When we say yes... full 155 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 816e1ee1-c6a1-46fe-827f-76eb0fcc19c7 ad6ad101-5233-443d-b140-b2870118790f Thu, 31 Mar 2022 09:00:44 +0000 1765 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/155-how-to-move-past-fear-and-say-yes-to-god                                                   154 How to Slow Down and Enjoy Life 154 How to Slow Down and Enjoy Life Episode Summary: 

                                                  Jennifer Dukes Lee and I talk about the advantages of slowing down to live life and how the most important things in life take the longest to grow. If you’re ready to make a break from fast-paced living and learn how to adopt a growing slow lifestyle, you won’t want to miss this episode.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We are an output-driven society and we forget about the importance of what we take in.
                                                  • In order to live the fullest life by slowing down, pay attention to the things that really matter.
                                                  • Take time to appreciate what God is doing in each season.
                                                  • Most of us don’t appreciate winter, but winter offers the opportunity to rest, to celebrate what we’ve been through, and to heal.
                                                  • Time is our friend, not our enemy, and is to be cherished.
                                                  • God views time differently than we do. We tend to always be in a hurry, but God makes everything beautiful in its right time.
                                                  • Consider adopting habits of the unhurried: like lighting candles at dinner, walking around your gardens, lingering in conversation at the end of a church service.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart."
                                                  • Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 3:9 "You are God’s field."

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Jennifer Dukes Lee:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jennifer Dukes Lee lives on the fifth-generation Lee family farm in Iowa, where she and her husband are raising crops, pigs, and two beautiful humans. She writes books, loves queso, and enjoys singing too loudly to songs with great harmony. Once upon a time, she didn't believe in Jesus; now he's her CEO. Find Jennifer at www.JenniferDukesLee.com and on Instagram at @JenniferDukesLee.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Jennifer Dukes Lee and I talk about the advantages of slowing down to live life and how the most important things in life take the longest to grow. If you’re ready to make a break from fast-paced living and learn how to adopt a growing slow lifestyle, you won’t want to miss this episode.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We are an output-driven society and we forget about the importance of what we take in.
                                                  • In order to live the fullest life by slowing down, pay attention to the things that really matter.
                                                  • Take time to appreciate what God is doing in each season.
                                                  • Most of us don’t appreciate winter, but winter offers the opportunity to rest, to celebrate what we’ve been through, and to heal.
                                                  • Time is our friend, not our enemy, and is to be cherished.
                                                  • God views time differently than we do. We tend to always be in a hurry, but God makes everything beautiful in its right time.
                                                  • Consider adopting habits of the unhurried: like lighting candles at dinner, walking around your gardens, lingering in conversation at the end of a church service.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart."
                                                  • Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."
                                                  • 1 Corinthians 3:9 "You are God’s field."

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Jennifer Dukes Lee:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jennifer Dukes Lee lives on the fifth-generation Lee family farm in Iowa, where she and her husband are raising crops, pigs, and two beautiful humans. She writes books, loves queso, and enjoys singing too loudly to songs with great harmony. Once upon a time, she didn't believe in Jesus; now he's her CEO. Find Jennifer at www.JenniferDukesLee.com and on Instagram at @JenniferDukesLee.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Jennifer Dukes Lee and I talk about the advantages of slowing down to live life and how the most important things in life take the longest to grow. If you’re ready to make a break from fast-paced living and learn how to adopt... full Dr. Michelle Bengtson dc29bb37-1838-413f-b4b8-d274944ea7b9 e96dab01-6fc5-4e6b-82fd-b2870118d66b Thu, 24 Mar 2022 09:00:17 +0000 2304 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/154-how-to-slow-down-and-enjoy-life                                                   153 How To Deal with Grief and Maintain our Hope 153 How To Deal with Grief and Maintain our Hope Episode Summary: In this episode, I talk with my friend, Donna Fagerstrom, about how to deal with grief. Donna shares the truths she learned during her own grief journey and in walking with others through the grieving process. We can maintain our hope, because Jesus is our hope, and become an overcomer through the tough times.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The gift of mercy is feeling another’s pain as though it were your very own.
                                                  • When we grieve or mourn, it attests to the degree we loved someone or something.
                                                  • After most every loss, we experience grief.
                                                  • The fact that Jesus wept after Lazarus died, knowing He was going to bring him back to life again, modeled the healthy nature and the gift of grief God gave us.
                                                  • We need to give ourselves permission to grieve.
                                                  • When we stuff our grief, it will end up coming out at another albeit less expected and less appropriate time.
                                                  • We don’t grieve like people who don’t know Jesus. Our grief leads to our hope and our hope leads to Jesus. The hope of Heaven is our great comfort.
                                                  • Our hope here is temporal, but our hope in Heaven is for all eternity.
                                                  • There are so many different ways we have experienced grief, loss, and mourning over the past couple of years.
                                                  • Don’t stand in judgment when others grieve…it’s a very individual process.
                                                  • The example of the thief on the cross when Jesus died can comfort us when we don’t know where a loved one will spend eternity.
                                                  • There’s no right or wrong way to grieve—only the best way for you.
                                                  • If you haven’t given yourself permission to grieve, you will just beat yourself up by putting unrealistic expectations on yourself.
                                                  • Don’t let others put their expectations on you for how you should grieve or how long it will take. Be gentle and kind with yourself.
                                                  • In your grief, seek out those who have the gift of mercy and a willingness to listen. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Jeremiah 31:3 "I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow, says the Lord."
                                                  • Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and He saves those who are crushed in spirit."
                                                  • Hebrews 13:5 "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Donna Fagerstrom:

                                                  Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Born and raised in West Michigan, Donna Fagerstrom was spiritually impacted by Holland Youth for Christ, surrendering her life to God and full-time ministry.  Donna is a gifted writer, communicator, worship leader and women’s disciple-maker. Her alma mater, Cornerstone University, awarded her the Woman of Influence award in 2010. After serving for 49 years in a variety of life-engaging ministries (Local Church; Seminary; Church Planting and Marketplace Chaplaincy), Doug and Donna have retired to write, coach executive leaders and nurture their family. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In this episode, I talk with my friend, Donna Fagerstrom, about how to deal with grief. Donna shares the truths she learned during her own grief journey and in walking with others through the grieving process. We can maintain our hope, because Jesus is our hope, and become an overcomer through the tough times.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • The gift of mercy is feeling another’s pain as though it were your very own.
                                                  • When we grieve or mourn, it attests to the degree we loved someone or something.
                                                  • After most every loss, we experience grief.
                                                  • The fact that Jesus wept after Lazarus died, knowing He was going to bring him back to life again, modeled the healthy nature and the gift of grief God gave us.
                                                  • We need to give ourselves permission to grieve.
                                                  • When we stuff our grief, it will end up coming out at another albeit less expected and less appropriate time.
                                                  • We don’t grieve like people who don’t know Jesus. Our grief leads to our hope and our hope leads to Jesus. The hope of Heaven is our great comfort.
                                                  • Our hope here is temporal, but our hope in Heaven is for all eternity.
                                                  • There are so many different ways we have experienced grief, loss, and mourning over the past couple of years.
                                                  • Don’t stand in judgment when others grieve…it’s a very individual process.
                                                  • The example of the thief on the cross when Jesus died can comfort us when we don’t know where a loved one will spend eternity.
                                                  • There’s no right or wrong way to grieve—only the best way for you.
                                                  • If you haven’t given yourself permission to grieve, you will just beat yourself up by putting unrealistic expectations on yourself.
                                                  • Don’t let others put their expectations on you for how you should grieve or how long it will take. Be gentle and kind with yourself.
                                                  • In your grief, seek out those who have the gift of mercy and a willingness to listen. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Jeremiah 31:3 "I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow, says the Lord."
                                                  • Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and He saves those who are crushed in spirit."
                                                  • Hebrews 13:5 "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Donna Fagerstrom:

                                                  Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Born and raised in West Michigan, Donna Fagerstrom was spiritually impacted by Holland Youth for Christ, surrendering her life to God and full-time ministry.  Donna is a gifted writer, communicator, worship leader and women’s disciple-maker. Her alma mater, Cornerstone University, awarded her the Woman of Influence award in 2010. After serving for 49 years in a variety of life-engaging ministries (Local Church; Seminary; Church Planting and Marketplace Chaplaincy), Doug and Donna have retired to write, coach executive leaders and nurture their family. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In this episode, I talk with my friend, Donna Fagerstrom, about how to deal with grief. Donna shares the truths she learned during her own grief journey and in walking with others through the grieving process. We can maintain our... full 153 Dr. Michelle Bengtson d3bdb03e-0c15-4e58-99cf-7bd99152db8d be65f7c5-46cd-4012-83fa-b2870118ee6c Thu, 17 Mar 2022 09:00:19 +0000 1685 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/153-how-to-deal-with-grief-and-maintain-our-hope                                                   152 My Favorite Things 152 My Favorite Things Episode Summary: 

                                                  In celebration of my birthday month, I’m sharing a personal peek into some of my favorite things. Little things that make life more pleasant. And, some of the things that get me through the hardest of times. I’ve enjoyed getting to know some of you throughout my years of writing and podcasting. I thought it might be a bit fun to let you know a bit about me. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Job 42:5 NLT “I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Bengtson

                                                  Dr. Bengtson studied neuroscience and is board certified in clinical neuropsychology. She established her own clinical practice in the Dallas area. From her professional and personal life, she recognized a deep lack of understanding of the call to “renew our minds” and the transformational effects a robust understanding of this has on our physical and mental health and outlook.

                                                  Dr. Bengtson lives to foster regeneration and renew life in her listeners. She recognizes brokenness in her life and others’ and offers steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places.

                                                   Dr. Bengtson authored the award-winning “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression,” its award-winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises,” and her fourth book will be available in May 2022 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and speaks at conferences and churches internationally. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  In celebration of my birthday month, I’m sharing a personal peek into some of my favorite things. Little things that make life more pleasant. And, some of the things that get me through the hardest of times. I’ve enjoyed getting to know some of you throughout my years of writing and podcasting. I thought it might be a bit fun to let you know a bit about me. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Job 42:5 NLT “I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  About Dr. Bengtson

                                                  Dr. Bengtson studied neuroscience and is board certified in clinical neuropsychology. She established her own clinical practice in the Dallas area. From her professional and personal life, she recognized a deep lack of understanding of the call to “renew our minds” and the transformational effects a robust understanding of this has on our physical and mental health and outlook.

                                                  Dr. Bengtson lives to foster regeneration and renew life in her listeners. She recognizes brokenness in her life and others’ and offers steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places.

                                                   Dr. Bengtson authored the award-winning “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression,” its award-winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises,” and her fourth book will be available in May 2022 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and speaks at conferences and churches internationally. 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  In celebration of my birthday month, I’m sharing a personal peek into some of my favorite things. Little things that make life more pleasant. And, some of the things that get me through the hardest of times. I’ve enjoyed... full 152 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 9a9fea45-e42c-46ab-a51f-b4bc34be619a 44ffc0da-df4b-43b6-bb85-b2870118f032 Thu, 10 Mar 2022 10:00:26 +0000 1812 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/152-my-favorite-things                                                   151 How to Laugh Out Loud When Life is Hard 151 How to Laugh Out Loud When Life is Hard Episode Summary:  We talk about how God views joy and how to laugh out loud when life is hard. We all go through difficult times that snatch our very breath, and steal our laughter. My guest, Rhonda Stoppe (the “No Regrets Woman”) has experienced her share of heartache. Today, she’s going to share what she has learned about how God views joy and how to laugh out loud even when life is hard.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Fighting for joy by counting our blessings rather than our concerns is key.
                                                  • The Lord knows what is on your horizon and He will equip you ahead of time.
                                                  • When Scripture tells us to “rejoice in the Lord,” it’s not rejoicing in the trial but in the character of God.
                                                  • Joy is different than happiness which depends on our circumstances. Joy is a deep-seeded confidence that my life is in God’s hands.
                                                  • It is the Word of God that will speak to your life when you don’t know what to do or where to go when life is hard.
                                                  • The God of the Bible takes what was meant for evil and produces good.
                                                  • Happiness increases and decreases based on our circumstances and feelings. Rejoicing in the Lord is a constant because we know He is in control.
                                                  • Joy that comes with gratitude is genuine joy. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Nehemiah 8:10 ESV “The joy of the Lord is our strength.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:4-7 ESV “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Rhonda Stoppe:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Rhonda Stoppe is the NO REGRETS WOMAN. With more than 30 years’ experience helping women build no regrets lives. “I could have listened to Rhonda talk all night, “ is what audiences say about Rhonda’s enthusiastic, humorous, transparent teaching, and zeal as an evangelist.   She’s committed to fulfill the Titus 2:4 commission by mentoring, teaching and writing books that are inspiring, grounded in Scripture and easy to read––like you're visiting with a friend over coffee.   Rhonda is the author of 6 books and appears on numerous radio programs including: Focus on the Family, Family Life Today and Dr. James Dobson’s FamilyTalk, & hosts The No Regrets Hour. She’s an evangelist and speaker at women’s events, College Women’s Chapel, Pastor’s Wives Conferences, MOPs and Homeschool Conventions. Sharing the gospel at her NoRegretsWoman Conference is her sweet spot. Rhonda is a regular contributor for Crosswalk and many other magazines.

                                                  Rhonda ministers alongside her husband Steve, who for 20 years has pastored First Baptist Church of Patterson, California.  They live out their own Real Life Romance writing books and speaking at their No Regrets Marriage Conferences, but their favorite ministry is their family. They have four grown children and 10 grandchildren. To learn more about Rhonda’s speaking topics, watch her teaching and to book Rhonda for your next event visit: NoRegretsWoman.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  We talk about how God views joy and how to laugh out loud when life is hard. We all go through difficult times that snatch our very breath, and steal our laughter. My guest, Rhonda Stoppe (the “No Regrets Woman”) has experienced her share of heartache. Today, she’s going to share what she has learned about how God views joy and how to laugh out loud even when life is hard.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Fighting for joy by counting our blessings rather than our concerns is key.
                                                  • The Lord knows what is on your horizon and He will equip you ahead of time.
                                                  • When Scripture tells us to “rejoice in the Lord,” it’s not rejoicing in the trial but in the character of God.
                                                  • Joy is different than happiness which depends on our circumstances. Joy is a deep-seeded confidence that my life is in God’s hands.
                                                  • It is the Word of God that will speak to your life when you don’t know what to do or where to go when life is hard.
                                                  • The God of the Bible takes what was meant for evil and produces good.
                                                  • Happiness increases and decreases based on our circumstances and feelings. Rejoicing in the Lord is a constant because we know He is in control.
                                                  • Joy that comes with gratitude is genuine joy. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Nehemiah 8:10 ESV “The joy of the Lord is our strength.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:4-7 ESV “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Rhonda Stoppe:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Rhonda Stoppe is the NO REGRETS WOMAN. With more than 30 years’ experience helping women build no regrets lives. “I could have listened to Rhonda talk all night, “ is what audiences say about Rhonda’s enthusiastic, humorous, transparent teaching, and zeal as an evangelist.   She’s committed to fulfill the Titus 2:4 commission by mentoring, teaching and writing books that are inspiring, grounded in Scripture and easy to read––like you're visiting with a friend over coffee.   Rhonda is the author of 6 books and appears on numerous radio programs including: Focus on the Family, Family Life Today and Dr. James Dobson’s FamilyTalk, & hosts The No Regrets Hour. She’s an evangelist and speaker at women’s events, College Women’s Chapel, Pastor’s Wives Conferences, MOPs and Homeschool Conventions. Sharing the gospel at her NoRegretsWoman Conference is her sweet spot. Rhonda is a regular contributor for Crosswalk and many other magazines.

                                                  Rhonda ministers alongside her husband Steve, who for 20 years has pastored First Baptist Church of Patterson, California.  They live out their own Real Life Romance writing books and speaking at their No Regrets Marriage Conferences, but their favorite ministry is their family. They have four grown children and 10 grandchildren. To learn more about Rhonda’s speaking topics, watch her teaching and to book Rhonda for your next event visit: NoRegretsWoman.com.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  We talk about how God views joy and how to laugh out loud when life is hard. We all go through difficult times that snatch our very breath, and steal our laughter. My guest, Rhonda Stoppe (the “No Regrets Woman”) has... full 151 Dr. Michelle Bengtson c3ae4c29-0b0a-4fdc-90e1-e1c8a4ae0092 aefc1074-db7d-4dab-a723-b2870119244e Thu, 03 Mar 2022 10:00:22 +0000 2008 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/151-how-to-laugh-out-loud-when-life-is-hard                                                   150 Recovering from Trauma and the Mistakes of Our Past 150 Recovering from Trauma and the Mistakes of Our Past In this week’s episode, I talk with BJ Garrett about recovering from trauma from sexual abuse and the mistakes in the past. She shares that no matter what you’ve done or what has been done to you, healing is available in Jesus Christ. Love changes everything.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • If you have a secret burden, find a safe person to tell. A friend, a counselor, a pastor, etc.
                                                  • If we allow our pain to turn into purpose, God will never waste it.
                                                  • God will take the ugliest of the ugly and make it beautiful.
                                                  • Forgiveness doesn’t mean reconciliation or saying that what someone did was okay, but that they no longer hold you emotionally hostage to their behavior.
                                                  • We forgive because we’ve been forgiven.
                                                  • We are commanded to forgive ourselves. When we don’t, it’s like telling Jesus that His death on the cross wasn’t good enough for us.
                                                  • When we allow God to turn our pain into purpose, the trauma triggers become less and less.
                                                  • Love changes everything.
                                                  • As long as Satan keeps you silenced, he remains in control.
                                                  • Telling the secret is the first step to releasing you from Satan’s bondage.
                                                  • I fail, I learn, I do better. I fail, I learn, I do better.
                                                  • No matter what you have done, no matter what has been done to you, there is hope and healing through Jesus Christ.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 147:3 NIV "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
                                                  • Revelation 12:11a "They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony."
                                                  • John 4:39 "Many of the Samaritans from town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony."

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with BJ Garrett:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  BJ Garrett is the award-winning author of Unwanted No More from Exploited to Embraced by God. BJ is an energetic speaker, passionate about telling her life story of overcoming a life full of abuse and bad decisions, loves serving on the mission field and serves as the Executive Director for Christ-centered Abortion Recovery & Education (CARE) 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   In this week’s episode, I talk with BJ Garrett about recovering from trauma from sexual abuse and the mistakes in the past. She shares that no matter what you’ve done or what has been done to you, healing is available in Jesus Christ. Love changes everything.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • If you have a secret burden, find a safe person to tell. A friend, a counselor, a pastor, etc.
                                                  • If we allow our pain to turn into purpose, God will never waste it.
                                                  • God will take the ugliest of the ugly and make it beautiful.
                                                  • Forgiveness doesn’t mean reconciliation or saying that what someone did was okay, but that they no longer hold you emotionally hostage to their behavior.
                                                  • We forgive because we’ve been forgiven.
                                                  • We are commanded to forgive ourselves. When we don’t, it’s like telling Jesus that His death on the cross wasn’t good enough for us.
                                                  • When we allow God to turn our pain into purpose, the trauma triggers become less and less.
                                                  • Love changes everything.
                                                  • As long as Satan keeps you silenced, he remains in control.
                                                  • Telling the secret is the first step to releasing you from Satan’s bondage.
                                                  • I fail, I learn, I do better. I fail, I learn, I do better.
                                                  • No matter what you have done, no matter what has been done to you, there is hope and healing through Jesus Christ.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Psalm 147:3 NIV "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
                                                  • Revelation 12:11a "They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony."
                                                  • John 4:39 "Many of the Samaritans from town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony."

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with BJ Garrett:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  BJ Garrett is the award-winning author of Unwanted No More from Exploited to Embraced by God. BJ is an energetic speaker, passionate about telling her life story of overcoming a life full of abuse and bad decisions, loves serving on the mission field and serves as the Executive Director for Christ-centered Abortion Recovery & Education (CARE) 

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In this week’s episode, I talk with BJ Garrett about recovering from trauma from sexual abuse and the mistakes in the past. She shares that no matter what you’ve done or what has been done to you, healing is available in Jesus... full 150 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 182259fc-cf66-408f-a8e5-9312f356930c 1a4013fa-9d07-4a3b-95ec-b287011921cb Thu, 24 Feb 2022 10:00:39 +0000 2247 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/150-recovering-from-trauma-and-the-mistakes-of-our                                                   149 Persevering in Prayer for Difficult Relationships 149 Persevering in Prayer for Difficult Relationships Episode Summary:  Today we’re talking about Persevering in Prayer for Difficult Relationships. We all have those prickly, difficult people in our lives that challenge us. Lyli Dunbar and I talk about three types of difficult people and how we can set boundaries with and pray for the difficult people in our lives.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I have chosen to view difficult relationships as my mission field instead of my battlefield. 
                                                  • I have what I refer to as my “Holy Spirit Hit List” of difficult people that God has called me to love and pray for.
                                                  • 3 Types of Difficult People: the bulldozer who has a lot to say but doesn’t listen well to others, the party all the time who causes chaos and wants you to clean up their messes, and the Eeyore/complainer who lacks teachability and progress but just wants to whine and complain.
                                                  • God got a hold of my heart and reminded me that it’s His kindness that leads to repentance – not my nagging. 
                                                  • We are to be the hands and feet of Jesus in others’ lives but be aware of false burden bearing.
                                                  • Your job is not to change difficult people but to love them. But we have to let go of the disease to please.
                                                  • Difficult people tend to carry a lot of pain around in them.
                                                  • Be intentional; create margin and space around the interactions with difficult people, pray up before you engage, and do something fun to decompress or debrief after interacting.
                                                  • I made a conscious decision to choose love and fight for redemption in these relationships, and I’ve seen how persevering love makes a powerful difference.
                                                  • Jesus washed the feet of Judas even knowing what Judas would ultimately do to him.
                                                  • I can either offer God my all today, or I can keep making excuses and miss out on seeing Him at work in my life.
                                                  • I don’t want to live a lukewarm life. I want to kindle a vibrant faith and keep a holy fire ablaze in my heart.
                                                  • I want to say YES to freedom in Christ and NO to bondage and defeat.
                                                  • When you go home after an interaction with a difficult person, and think about the interaction over and over, you probably need to set some boundaries in that relationship.
                                                  • Stubborn hearts soften as we step forward with open hearts and arms outstretched. Love triumphs every time.
                                                  • In praying for difficult people, incorporate scripture such as Acts 6:18-20 in your prayers for them.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Colossians 3:12-15 (NLT): “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
                                                  • Proverbs 10:12 (NLT):  “Hatred stirs up quarrels, but love makes up for all offenses.”
                                                  • Ephesians 4:2 (NLT):  “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.”
                                                  • Acts 26:18-20 (NLT): “…to open their eyes, to they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people, who are set apart by faith in me…I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that all must repent of their sins and turn to God—and prove they have changed by the good things they do.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Lyli Dunbar:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest 

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lyli Dunbar’s burning passion as a writer, speaker and Biblical life coach is to fuel a wildfire faith in the weary hearted. She starts every weekday by digging into the Word verse by verse with thousands of women as a writer for Proverbs 31 Ministries’ First 5 App and Love God Greatly. A fireball at heart, Lyli is energized by singing karaoke in the car with her husband, reading 12 books at a time, and cooking Cuban food for a full house. Stop by lylidunbar.com to grab faith fuel for your day or connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.  

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Today we’re talking about Persevering in Prayer for Difficult Relationships. We all have those prickly, difficult people in our lives that challenge us. Lyli Dunbar and I talk about three types of difficult people and how we can set boundaries with and pray for the difficult people in our lives.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I have chosen to view difficult relationships as my mission field instead of my battlefield. 
                                                  • I have what I refer to as my “Holy Spirit Hit List” of difficult people that God has called me to love and pray for.
                                                  • 3 Types of Difficult People: the bulldozer who has a lot to say but doesn’t listen well to others, the party all the time who causes chaos and wants you to clean up their messes, and the Eeyore/complainer who lacks teachability and progress but just wants to whine and complain.
                                                  • God got a hold of my heart and reminded me that it’s His kindness that leads to repentance – not my nagging. 
                                                  • We are to be the hands and feet of Jesus in others’ lives but be aware of false burden bearing.
                                                  • Your job is not to change difficult people but to love them. But we have to let go of the disease to please.
                                                  • Difficult people tend to carry a lot of pain around in them.
                                                  • Be intentional; create margin and space around the interactions with difficult people, pray up before you engage, and do something fun to decompress or debrief after interacting.
                                                  • I made a conscious decision to choose love and fight for redemption in these relationships, and I’ve seen how persevering love makes a powerful difference.
                                                  • Jesus washed the feet of Judas even knowing what Judas would ultimately do to him.
                                                  • I can either offer God my all today, or I can keep making excuses and miss out on seeing Him at work in my life.
                                                  • I don’t want to live a lukewarm life. I want to kindle a vibrant faith and keep a holy fire ablaze in my heart.
                                                  • I want to say YES to freedom in Christ and NO to bondage and defeat.
                                                  • When you go home after an interaction with a difficult person, and think about the interaction over and over, you probably need to set some boundaries in that relationship.
                                                  • Stubborn hearts soften as we step forward with open hearts and arms outstretched. Love triumphs every time.
                                                  • In praying for difficult people, incorporate scripture such as Acts 6:18-20 in your prayers for them.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Colossians 3:12-15 (NLT): “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
                                                  • Proverbs 10:12 (NLT):  “Hatred stirs up quarrels, but love makes up for all offenses.”
                                                  • Ephesians 4:2 (NLT):  “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.”
                                                  • Acts 26:18-20 (NLT): “…to open their eyes, to they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people, who are set apart by faith in me…I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that all must repent of their sins and turn to God—and prove they have changed by the good things they do.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Lyli Dunbar:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest 

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Lyli Dunbar’s burning passion as a writer, speaker and Biblical life coach is to fuel a wildfire faith in the weary hearted. She starts every weekday by digging into the Word verse by verse with thousands of women as a writer for Proverbs 31 Ministries’ First 5 App and Love God Greatly. A fireball at heart, Lyli is energized by singing karaoke in the car with her husband, reading 12 books at a time, and cooking Cuban food for a full house. Stop by lylidunbar.com to grab faith fuel for your day or connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.  

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Today we’re talking about Persevering in Prayer for Difficult Relationships. We all have those prickly, difficult people in our lives that challenge us. Lyli Dunbar and I talk about three types of difficult people and how we... full 149 Dr. Michelle Bengtson f469d310-6db9-4ee1-871f-27308356cbd6 2826265f-ecb5-4c43-a3f6-b287011927bc Thu, 17 Feb 2022 10:00:46 +0000 2739 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/149-persevering-in-prayer-for-difficult-relationsh                                                   148 How To Love Well in Marriage and Life 148 How To Love Well in Marriage and Life If you’ve ever struggled in marriage or have friends or loved ones who struggle or maybe you just want to learn better how to love-wise, you’ve found the right episode! I talk with Relationship Specialist, Pam Farrel, not just about loving the mate God gave us but also about how to love well.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Sometimes wisdom breeds willingness to change.
                                                  • The Farrels encourage a confident covenant, which are rules of engagement during disagreements.
                                                  • Don’t be interested in just solving a marital problem, but also fall in love with that person again.
                                                  • Men are like waffles, women are like spaghetti.
                                                    • Women move from one issue to many different issues, but then tie it all up together, like spaghetti while men like to keep individual issues in separate boxes, and resolve each box before moving on to another box.
                                                    • Men park in their boxes, often not thinking about anything, while women misinterpret their silence.
                                                  • In olden days, you pulled together because you had to just to survive. So emotional needs were not high on the list at that point. Today we have a different view of survival and includes “Am I feeling satisfied? Am I feeling peaceful? Am I feeling fulfilled?”
                                                  • If our spouse isn’t making us happy, we mistakenly believe someone else out there will.
                                                  • We live in a social media driven society, where we only get to see others’ highlights, and people don’t see the real work that has to be done, and how God meets our needs to pull us through.
                                                  • Valentine’s Day is like a double-edge sword.
                                                    • For singles and widows, get a plan in place before Valentine’s Day. There are many around you who are feeling the same way. 
                                                  • Ways to encourage your spouse:
                                                    • Let your spouse you know you admire them.
                                                    • Commend your spouse in front of their friends or colleagues.
                                                    • Warm-up to an idea by asking questions for more details of their idea.
                                                    • Let you know you are praying for them.
                                                    • Enthusiastically embrace one of their opinions.
                                                  • It only takes one breakthrough. You’re only one breakthrough away from a stronger relationship.
                                                  • The last thing we should do when we’re struggling in our relationships is to isolate. We need community and the support of others.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 19:8 “The one who gets wisdom loves life.”
                                                  • 1 John 4:19 “We love each other because he loved us first.”
                                                  • Ephesians 4:2-3 “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                   Connect with Pam Farrel:

                                                  Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter / Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest Pam Farrel:

                                                  Pam Farrel, with her husband, Bill, are international speakers, and authors of over 50 books including best-selling Men are like Waffles, Women are like Spaghetti.  They are relationship specialists and seek to help people become “Love-Wise.” Pam has experience as a Pastor’s wife and Women’s Ministry Director. Pam is a cheerleader, challenger and coach that believes that "The one who gets wisdom loves life." (Proverbs 19:8) Her new creative Bible studies are Amazon bestsellers: Discovering Hope in the Psalms ; Discovering Joy in Philippians and Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament. When the Farrels are not traveling for speaking, you will find them on their live aboard boat or enjoying their 3 sons, 3 daughters in law and 5 grands.  www.Love-Wise.com

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   If you’ve ever struggled in marriage or have friends or loved ones who struggle or maybe you just want to learn better how to love-wise, you’ve found the right episode! I talk with Relationship Specialist, Pam Farrel, not just about loving the mate God gave us but also about how to love well.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Sometimes wisdom breeds willingness to change.
                                                  • The Farrels encourage a confident covenant, which are rules of engagement during disagreements.
                                                  • Don’t be interested in just solving a marital problem, but also fall in love with that person again.
                                                  • Men are like waffles, women are like spaghetti.
                                                    • Women move from one issue to many different issues, but then tie it all up together, like spaghetti while men like to keep individual issues in separate boxes, and resolve each box before moving on to another box.
                                                    • Men park in their boxes, often not thinking about anything, while women misinterpret their silence.
                                                  • In olden days, you pulled together because you had to just to survive. So emotional needs were not high on the list at that point. Today we have a different view of survival and includes “Am I feeling satisfied? Am I feeling peaceful? Am I feeling fulfilled?”
                                                  • If our spouse isn’t making us happy, we mistakenly believe someone else out there will.
                                                  • We live in a social media driven society, where we only get to see others’ highlights, and people don’t see the real work that has to be done, and how God meets our needs to pull us through.
                                                  • Valentine’s Day is like a double-edge sword.
                                                    • For singles and widows, get a plan in place before Valentine’s Day. There are many around you who are feeling the same way. 
                                                  • Ways to encourage your spouse:
                                                    • Let your spouse you know you admire them.
                                                    • Commend your spouse in front of their friends or colleagues.
                                                    • Warm-up to an idea by asking questions for more details of their idea.
                                                    • Let you know you are praying for them.
                                                    • Enthusiastically embrace one of their opinions.
                                                  • It only takes one breakthrough. You’re only one breakthrough away from a stronger relationship.
                                                  • The last thing we should do when we’re struggling in our relationships is to isolate. We need community and the support of others.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Proverbs 19:8 “The one who gets wisdom loves life.”
                                                  • 1 John 4:19 “We love each other because he loved us first.”
                                                  • Ephesians 4:2-3 “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                   Connect with Pam Farrel:

                                                  Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter / Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                   

                                                  Guest Pam Farrel:

                                                  Pam Farrel, with her husband, Bill, are international speakers, and authors of over 50 books including best-selling Men are like Waffles, Women are like Spaghetti.  They are relationship specialists and seek to help people become “Love-Wise.” Pam has experience as a Pastor’s wife and Women’s Ministry Director. Pam is a cheerleader, challenger and coach that believes that "The one who gets wisdom loves life." (Proverbs 19:8) Her new creative Bible studies are Amazon bestsellers: Discovering Hope in the Psalms ; Discovering Joy in Philippians and Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament. When the Farrels are not traveling for speaking, you will find them on their live aboard boat or enjoying their 3 sons, 3 daughters in law and 5 grands.  www.Love-Wise.com

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: If you’ve ever struggled in marriage or have friends or loved ones who struggle or maybe you just want to learn better how to love-wise, you’ve found the right episode! I talk with Relationship Specialist, Pam Farrel, not just... full 148 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 87433d45-5a5d-4be9-a979-e8165e8e0b0e e083abf7-49c8-41c5-992f-b287011942d8 Thu, 10 Feb 2022 10:00:29 +0000 3009 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/148-how-to-love-well-in-marriage-and-life                                                   147 How To Rebuild Trust After Cheating 147 How To Rebuild Trust After Cheating Episode Summary: 

                                                  Join me with guests Mark and Jill Savage as we discuss how to rebuild trust and rebuild your marriage after cheating. Marriage is hard on the best of days, but when infidelity and temptation enter in, it makes it very painful. You won't want to miss this enlightening episode as Mark and Jill share hope from their personal experiences.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • After infidelity, you don’t want to go back to life as normal.
                                                  • Even after cheating, with two willing people, marriage can become restored and stronger.
                                                  • The one who broke the trust has the biggest impact on how fast trust will be rebuilt.
                                                  • If you don’t heal wounds in an inappropriate way, it will leak out at an unfortunate time.
                                                  • The question after enduring cheating and infidelity is, “Lord, how do you want to use this to grow me?”

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:5-6 ESV “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:13 NLT “For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.”
                                                  • Isaiah 41:13 NIV “For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jill Savage:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Tiktok / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jill Savage is an author and speaker who is passionate about relationships. She has been called one of today’s most exciting female speakers.  Her honest, engaging communication is strengthened by her ability to make her audience laugh while they learn.

                                                  Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books including Empty Nest, Full Life, Real Moms ... Real Jesus, the best-selling No More Perfect Moms, No More Perfect Kids, Better Together, and No More Perfect Marriages. Jill and her husband, Mark, live in Illinois and have five children and eight grandchildren. You can find Jill online at www.jillsavage.org.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: 

                                                  Join me with guests Mark and Jill Savage as we discuss how to rebuild trust and rebuild your marriage after cheating. Marriage is hard on the best of days, but when infidelity and temptation enter in, it makes it very painful. You won't want to miss this enlightening episode as Mark and Jill share hope from their personal experiences.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • After infidelity, you don’t want to go back to life as normal.
                                                  • Even after cheating, with two willing people, marriage can become restored and stronger.
                                                  • The one who broke the trust has the biggest impact on how fast trust will be rebuilt.
                                                  • If you don’t heal wounds in an inappropriate way, it will leak out at an unfortunate time.
                                                  • The question after enduring cheating and infidelity is, “Lord, how do you want to use this to grow me?”

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Romans 8:5-6 ESV “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:13 NLT “For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.”
                                                  • Isaiah 41:13 NIV “For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” 

                                                  Recommended Resources: 

                                                  Social Media Links for Host and Guest:

                                                  Connect with Jill Savage:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Tiktok / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jill Savage is an author and speaker who is passionate about relationships. She has been called one of today’s most exciting female speakers.  Her honest, engaging communication is strengthened by her ability to make her audience laugh while they learn.

                                                  Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books including Empty Nest, Full Life, Real Moms ... Real Jesus, the best-selling No More Perfect Moms, No More Perfect Kids, Better Together, and No More Perfect Marriages. Jill and her husband, Mark, live in Illinois and have five children and eight grandchildren. You can find Jill online at www.jillsavage.org.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:  Join me with guests Mark and Jill Savage as we discuss how to rebuild trust and rebuild your marriage after cheating. Marriage is hard on the best of days, but when infidelity and temptation enter in, it makes it very painful.... full 147 Dr. Michelle Bengtson c8efcda4-4487-4605-a9d7-185ff51dd77f 7464c9c3-de66-458b-a35e-b28701194af0 Thu, 03 Feb 2022 10:00:15 +0000 2913 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/147-how-to-rebuild-trust-after-cheating                                                   146 Maintaining Hope Despite Chronic Illness and Pain 146 Maintaining Hope Despite Chronic Illness and Pain Episode Summary:

                                                  In recent years, I’ve encountered more and more people who suffer with chronic illness and pain. It’s not something anyone ever desires, and it can significantly limit our quality of life. Join me with friend and coach, Jen Roland, as we talk about maintaining hope despite chronic illness and pain.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Increased pain can produce increased anxiety and fear, but we have to know God still provides through it all. 
                                                  • In following God in and despite the pain, we get to experience how He provides for His children.
                                                  • We may not ask for a chronic illness or chronic pain, but we can decide to champion it well.
                                                  • How we think negatively about pain can become a stronghold, but our divine weapon is the Word of God.
                                                  • I will not grieve losses that have not yet happened.
                                                  • Pain is a gift—it alerts us of what is going on in our body.
                                                  • Because I am seeking God in the midst of my pain, He will use it for good.
                                                  • In the midst of pain, we will find peace when we look forward to the cross.
                                                  • To purposely steward your pain, you might try distracting yourself with healthy things (like taking pretty photos) and shift your thoughts to what is pure and praiseworthy.
                                                  • Natural methods of pain control that have helped me include distraction, movement, scripture, anti-inflammatory diets, and deep breathing.
                                                  • God doesn’t promise to answer why He has allowed pain in our lives, but He does redeem it.
                                                  • Even with broken pain-filled bodies, God is making us new on the inside. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NLT “That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are quite small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Jen Roland:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jen Roland is a writer, speaker, coach, and women's ministry leader with a passion for walking alongside others toward wholeness. Through her website, workshops, speaking, and coaching, she helps others implement positive lifestyle practices (e.g. nutrition, movement, mindfulness) and develop a deeper relationship with God. Since her neuropathy diagnosis, Jen's ministry has focused on serving those with chronic pain and illness. She provides them with support and resources to reduce pain, overcome fear and anxiety, and improve their quality of life.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In recent years, I’ve encountered more and more people who suffer with chronic illness and pain. It’s not something anyone ever desires, and it can significantly limit our quality of life. Join me with friend and coach, Jen Roland, as we talk about maintaining hope despite chronic illness and pain.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • Increased pain can produce increased anxiety and fear, but we have to know God still provides through it all. 
                                                  • In following God in and despite the pain, we get to experience how He provides for His children.
                                                  • We may not ask for a chronic illness or chronic pain, but we can decide to champion it well.
                                                  • How we think negatively about pain can become a stronghold, but our divine weapon is the Word of God.
                                                  • I will not grieve losses that have not yet happened.
                                                  • Pain is a gift—it alerts us of what is going on in our body.
                                                  • Because I am seeking God in the midst of my pain, He will use it for good.
                                                  • In the midst of pain, we will find peace when we look forward to the cross.
                                                  • To purposely steward your pain, you might try distracting yourself with healthy things (like taking pretty photos) and shift your thoughts to what is pure and praiseworthy.
                                                  • Natural methods of pain control that have helped me include distraction, movement, scripture, anti-inflammatory diets, and deep breathing.
                                                  • God doesn’t promise to answer why He has allowed pain in our lives, but He does redeem it.
                                                  • Even with broken pain-filled bodies, God is making us new on the inside. 

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NLT “That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are quite small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Jen Roland:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Jen Roland is a writer, speaker, coach, and women's ministry leader with a passion for walking alongside others toward wholeness. Through her website, workshops, speaking, and coaching, she helps others implement positive lifestyle practices (e.g. nutrition, movement, mindfulness) and develop a deeper relationship with God. Since her neuropathy diagnosis, Jen's ministry has focused on serving those with chronic pain and illness. She provides them with support and resources to reduce pain, overcome fear and anxiety, and improve their quality of life.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary: In recent years, I’ve encountered more and more people who suffer with chronic illness and pain. It’s not something anyone ever desires, and it can significantly limit our quality of life. Join me with friend and coach, Jen... full Dr. Michelle Bengtson 069a01dc-b693-4796-932b-9f67464eb2f1 c32e9ddc-88a5-4bc0-827e-b2870119267e Thu, 27 Jan 2022 10:00:07 +0000 3042 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/146-maintaining-hope-despite-chronic-illness-and-p                                                   145 Freedom to Pursue Your God-Given Dreams 145 Freedom to Pursue Your God-Given Dreams Episode Summary:

                                                  The majority of people carry around a vision, a call, and idea—like a woman who is pregnant, at different stages, birth needs to happen! Sometimes we need to dream, make plans and take steps forward. Annette Trucke shares how to step out of your comfort zone with the freedom to pursue your God-given dreams.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I would say the majority of people carry around a vision, a call, and idea—like a woman who is pregnant, at different stages, birth needs to happen!
                                                  • We all wait for things to be just-so or we never step out of our comfort zone. We worry too much about what others may think, or we just don’t think we can clear the hurdles.
                                                  • Measuring risk helps people to see what they already have or can do, what they will need to obtain, the risk and if they are willing to take them, and the rewards of pushing through.
                                                  • I learned to walk with others through grief, realizing it is one area where it really helps to walk with someone who has been through it and still remains in it, to a large extent.
                                                  • We all light up when we are doing that thing or things that we are designed for—that which is in our DNA, experiences, education, God-given gifts and dreams and fits into our lives.
                                                  • Comparing ourselves to others, lies we believe, self-doubt, and thinking we aren’t qualified keeps us from pursuing our dreams.
                                                  • We can’t rely on others to validate our dreams but God will when He is the one who gives them to us.
                                                  • Sometimes we feel we need permission to follow our God-given dreams but God grants us permission.
                                                  • Emboldening people to move forward and seeing them have the joy doing so, is priceless.
                                                  • When we go through difficult times in life that demand all our energy, it’s okay to put our dreams on the back burner as long as we don’t give up on them or forget about them.
                                                  • Joy comes in moving forward with our God-given dreams.
                                                  • Creativity is grown and stretched.
                                                  • Our best thinking and creative thought requires time. Time to be alone away from the sights and sounds, the pulls and pushes of everyday life. And, do not be afraid to dream.
                                                  • One mistake I see people make is they to try wait for the perfect time and to be ultra-prepared to move forward in any fashion. I say dream, make some plans, and take some steps forward.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Revelations 12:11 And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony, And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die.
                                                  • Isaiah 48:6b “Now I will tell you new things, secrets you have not yet heard.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:19 NIV See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.
                                                  • Ephesians 3:20 “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Annette Trucke:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Annette Trucke lives in Eugene, Oregon amid the lavish and lush beauty of the Pacific Northwest. A writer, creative, and speaker she shares hope as a precious commodity. Her life message is to creativity challenge people to dare to dream and bring them to fruition. Her joy is found in creative thought, the outdoors, and notably, God and people—most especially her family, precious friends, and new faces God brings along to connect with daily.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  The majority of people carry around a vision, a call, and idea—like a woman who is pregnant, at different stages, birth needs to happen! Sometimes we need to dream, make plans and take steps forward. Annette Trucke shares how to step out of your comfort zone with the freedom to pursue your God-given dreams.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I would say the majority of people carry around a vision, a call, and idea—like a woman who is pregnant, at different stages, birth needs to happen!
                                                  • We all wait for things to be just-so or we never step out of our comfort zone. We worry too much about what others may think, or we just don’t think we can clear the hurdles.
                                                  • Measuring risk helps people to see what they already have or can do, what they will need to obtain, the risk and if they are willing to take them, and the rewards of pushing through.
                                                  • I learned to walk with others through grief, realizing it is one area where it really helps to walk with someone who has been through it and still remains in it, to a large extent.
                                                  • We all light up when we are doing that thing or things that we are designed for—that which is in our DNA, experiences, education, God-given gifts and dreams and fits into our lives.
                                                  • Comparing ourselves to others, lies we believe, self-doubt, and thinking we aren’t qualified keeps us from pursuing our dreams.
                                                  • We can’t rely on others to validate our dreams but God will when He is the one who gives them to us.
                                                  • Sometimes we feel we need permission to follow our God-given dreams but God grants us permission.
                                                  • Emboldening people to move forward and seeing them have the joy doing so, is priceless.
                                                  • When we go through difficult times in life that demand all our energy, it’s okay to put our dreams on the back burner as long as we don’t give up on them or forget about them.
                                                  • Joy comes in moving forward with our God-given dreams.
                                                  • Creativity is grown and stretched.
                                                  • Our best thinking and creative thought requires time. Time to be alone away from the sights and sounds, the pulls and pushes of everyday life. And, do not be afraid to dream.
                                                  • One mistake I see people make is they to try wait for the perfect time and to be ultra-prepared to move forward in any fashion. I say dream, make some plans, and take some steps forward.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Revelations 12:11 And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony, And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die.
                                                  • Isaiah 48:6b “Now I will tell you new things, secrets you have not yet heard.”
                                                  • Isaiah 43:19 NIV See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.
                                                  • Ephesians 3:20 “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Annette Trucke:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Annette Trucke lives in Eugene, Oregon amid the lavish and lush beauty of the Pacific Northwest. A writer, creative, and speaker she shares hope as a precious commodity. Her life message is to creativity challenge people to dare to dream and bring them to fruition. Her joy is found in creative thought, the outdoors, and notably, God and people—most especially her family, precious friends, and new faces God brings along to connect with daily.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   The majority of people carry around a vision, a call, and idea— but the birth of the dream needs to happen! Annette Trucke shares how to step out of your comfort zone with the freedom to pursue your God-given dreams. full Dr. Michelle Bengtson b3afced7-dc63-41e7-ad70-a67cc486a3ec 6e959492-77bf-4458-8691-b28701193c24 Thu, 20 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000 1826 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/145-freedom-to-pursue-your-god-given-dreams                                                   144 Help Your Kids Establish Good Health and Eating Habits 144 Help Your Kids Establish Good Health and Eating Habits Episode Summary:

                                                  My guest, Susan Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, and I talk about how to help our children establish good health and eating habits. Susan is a certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services lead her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • 1 in 4 children in the United States are clinically obese.
                                                  • 13% of children aged 2-5 suffer from obesity; 20% of children 6-12 years old are obese.
                                                  • Children who have increased weight in kindergarten are four times more likely to be obese in 8th grade.
                                                  • Obesity in our children leads to Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
                                                  • Most of our processed foods have stripped the nutrients out of our foods and contributed to the obesity crisis.
                                                  • 85-90% of our corn, wheat, oat, and soy products have been genetically modified.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 5:18 “Don’t drink too much wine, for many evils lie along that path be filled instead with the Holy Spirit and controlled by him.” Use the specific scripture you chose to bind the strong man every time he tempts you. Write this verse on an index card and memorize it.
                                                  • James 4:7 (NIV) “Submit yourself to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
                                                  • There is a secret to resisting the devil—you must first submit yourself to God. How in the world do you do that? In my experience, you no longer do your will but God’s will by submitting your life to him.
                                                  • Luke 10:19 Jesus told his disciples, “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy.” If you are a disciple of Jesus you can accept the authority he gave you.
                                                  • In the book of Acts, the apostles healed and worked miracles in the name of Jesus. Using the name of Jesus is key to binding the strong man of addiction because then you operate under Jesus’s authority.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Susan Neal:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Susan U. Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, is an author, speaker, and certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services led her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans.

                                                  Her award-winning Healthy Living Series includes:

                                                  • 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates
                                                  • Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates
                                                  • Healthy Living Journal (awarded “2019 Best Inspirational Gift Book”)
                                                  • Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1

                                                  Her latest publication is Solving the Gluten Puzzle.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  My guest, Susan Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, and I talk about how to help our children establish good health and eating habits. Susan is a certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services lead her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • 1 in 4 children in the United States are clinically obese.
                                                  • 13% of children aged 2-5 suffer from obesity; 20% of children 6-12 years old are obese.
                                                  • Children who have increased weight in kindergarten are four times more likely to be obese in 8th grade.
                                                  • Obesity in our children leads to Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
                                                  • Most of our processed foods have stripped the nutrients out of our foods and contributed to the obesity crisis.
                                                  • 85-90% of our corn, wheat, oat, and soy products have been genetically modified.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 5:18 “Don’t drink too much wine, for many evils lie along that path be filled instead with the Holy Spirit and controlled by him.” Use the specific scripture you chose to bind the strong man every time he tempts you. Write this verse on an index card and memorize it.
                                                  • James 4:7 (NIV) “Submit yourself to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
                                                  • There is a secret to resisting the devil—you must first submit yourself to God. How in the world do you do that? In my experience, you no longer do your will but God’s will by submitting your life to him.
                                                  • Luke 10:19 Jesus told his disciples, “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy.” If you are a disciple of Jesus you can accept the authority he gave you.
                                                  • In the book of Acts, the apostles healed and worked miracles in the name of Jesus. Using the name of Jesus is key to binding the strong man of addiction because then you operate under Jesus’s authority.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Susan Neal:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Susan U. Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, is an author, speaker, and certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services led her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans.

                                                  Her award-winning Healthy Living Series includes:

                                                  • 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates
                                                  • Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates
                                                  • Healthy Living Journal (awarded “2019 Best Inspirational Gift Book”)
                                                  • Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1

                                                  Her latest publication is Solving the Gluten Puzzle.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   My guest, Susan Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, and I talk about how to help our children establish good health and eating habits. The statistics and rate of childhood obesity in the US will astound you. Susan’s goal is to change these statistics through education. full 144 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6b0dc7a7-00e0-407f-aa27-3651019f5cfb 11ec239f-7d61-42c8-9628-b28701193e38 Thu, 13 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2806 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/144-help-your-kids-establish-good-health-and-eatin                                                   143 How To Improve Your Health and Weight 143 How To Improve Your Health and Weight Episode Summary:

                                                  Today we’re going to be talking about how to improve your health and weight. We’ll talk about root causes of health issues and different ways we can maximize our health through what we eat. We talk with Susan Neal, RN, MBA, MHS who is a certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services led her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • 50% of Americans have a chronic illness or diagnosis.
                                                  • 42% of Americans are obese.
                                                  • Root causes of disordered eating include candida overgrowth, food addiction, and stress eating.
                                                  • Ways to improve our health including removing triggers, get accountability, and get dopamine through activities other than eating sugar (a hug, singing, walking in nature, etc.)
                                                  • Look at your plate. If most or all of it comes from the garden or ranch, you’re probably eating pretty healthy.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 5:18: “Don’t drink too much wine, for many evils lie along that path be filled instead with the Holy Spirit and controlled by him.” Use the specific scripture you chose to bind the strong man every time he tempts you. Write this verse on an index card and memorize it.
                                                  • James 4:7 (NIV): “Submit yourself to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
                                                  • There is a secret to resisting the devil—you must first submit yourself to God. How in the world do you do that? In my experience, you no longer do your will but God’s will by submitting your life to him.
                                                  • Luke 10:19: Jesus told his disciples, “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy” If you are a disciple of Jesus, you can accept the authority he gave you.\
                                                  • In the book of Acts, the apostles healed and worked miracles in the name of Jesus. Using the name of Jesus is key to binding the strong man of addiction because then you operate under Jesus’s authority.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Susan Neal:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Susan U. Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, is an author, speaker, and certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services led her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans.

                                                  Her award-winning Healthy Living Series includes:

                                                  • 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates
                                                  • Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates
                                                  • Healthy Living Journal (awarded “2019 Best Inspirational Gift Book”)
                                                  • Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1

                                                  Her latest publication is Solving the Gluten Puzzle.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  Today we’re going to be talking about how to improve your health and weight. We’ll talk about root causes of health issues and different ways we can maximize our health through what we eat. We talk with Susan Neal, RN, MBA, MHS who is a certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services led her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • 50% of Americans have a chronic illness or diagnosis.
                                                  • 42% of Americans are obese.
                                                  • Root causes of disordered eating include candida overgrowth, food addiction, and stress eating.
                                                  • Ways to improve our health including removing triggers, get accountability, and get dopamine through activities other than eating sugar (a hug, singing, walking in nature, etc.)
                                                  • Look at your plate. If most or all of it comes from the garden or ranch, you’re probably eating pretty healthy.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 5:18: “Don’t drink too much wine, for many evils lie along that path be filled instead with the Holy Spirit and controlled by him.” Use the specific scripture you chose to bind the strong man every time he tempts you. Write this verse on an index card and memorize it.
                                                  • James 4:7 (NIV): “Submit yourself to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
                                                  • There is a secret to resisting the devil—you must first submit yourself to God. How in the world do you do that? In my experience, you no longer do your will but God’s will by submitting your life to him.
                                                  • Luke 10:19: Jesus told his disciples, “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy” If you are a disciple of Jesus, you can accept the authority he gave you.\
                                                  • In the book of Acts, the apostles healed and worked miracles in the name of Jesus. Using the name of Jesus is key to binding the strong man of addiction because then you operate under Jesus’s authority.

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Susan Neal:

                                                  Website

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Susan U. Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, is an author, speaker, and certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services led her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans.

                                                  Her award-winning Healthy Living Series includes:

                                                  • 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates
                                                  • Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates
                                                  • Healthy Living Journal (awarded “2019 Best Inspirational Gift Book”)
                                                  • Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1

                                                  Her latest publication is Solving the Gluten Puzzle.

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Susan Neal, RN, and I talk about how to improve your health and weight, just in time for the goals you may have set at the beginning of the year. We talk about root causes of health issues and different ways we can maximize our health through what we eat. full 143 Dr. Michelle Bengtson 6aa811b8-7b91-4717-ad27-0e7b7210ccea bc666e32-b4a3-4790-882f-b28701194328 Thu, 06 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2840 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/143-how-to-improve-your-health-and-weight                                                   142 The Power of Forgiveness in Health and Healing 142 The Power of Forgiveness in Health and Healing Episode Summary:

                                                  In this episode, we’re talking about the power of forgiveness in health and healing. Our guest is Wendie Pett, who is passionate about motivating people to make fitness and good nutrition part of their daily routine. Her goal is to help others get healthy and healed so they can fulfill their God-given mission.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We can’t show up to only be physically fit, but our mind must be fit as well.
                                                  • We often tell ourselves an old story that no longer serves us well.
                                                  • Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the lock to improving our health and wellbeing.
                                                  • We often look to fill a void that only Jesus can fill.
                                                  • Fear of change or feeling vulnerable often holds people back from becoming healthy and whole. We have to dispel the lies we tell ourselves.
                                                  • Be intentional about moving throughout the day. Your body is your best gym.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Wendie Pett:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Wendie Pett, is passionate about motivating people to make fitness and good nutrition part of their daily routine. She teaches the balance of mind, body and spirit through her Visibly Fit™ wellness program. Wendie has a nationally syndicated television program that airs every Saturday on the NRB Network, Upliftv, WLCN, and IBN Television. She contributes weekly on KTIS radio in the Twin Cities as ‘Coach Wendie’ and is a featured columnist in VEGWORLD Magazine, The Christian View, Best Ever You, Refreshed, Vegan Lifestyle, and Diet.com.

                                                  Wendie is a full-time business owner, a naturopathic doctor, wife, mother, author, speaker, TV host, advisory board member for Christian Women in Media and part-time volunteer. Her business consists of whole-food/plant-based wellness coaching, emotional healing, personal online training, fitness planning, educational and motivational speaking, and creating new products/tools to assist clients along their wellness journey.

                                                  After a major injury to her shoulder, she resorted to body weight resistance exercises for strength and healing and hasn’t turned back to any other form of training since. She has helped countless others reach their fitness goals without ever compromising their joints, tendons, or ligaments - teaching that Your Body Is Your Gym™! To learn more go to www.wendiepett.com

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  In this episode, we’re talking about the power of forgiveness in health and healing. Our guest is Wendie Pett, who is passionate about motivating people to make fitness and good nutrition part of their daily routine. Her goal is to help others get healthy and healed so they can fulfill their God-given mission.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We can’t show up to only be physically fit, but our mind must be fit as well.
                                                  • We often tell ourselves an old story that no longer serves us well.
                                                  • Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the lock to improving our health and wellbeing.
                                                  • We often look to fill a void that only Jesus can fill.
                                                  • Fear of change or feeling vulnerable often holds people back from becoming healthy and whole. We have to dispel the lies we tell ourselves.
                                                  • Be intentional about moving throughout the day. Your body is your best gym.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
                                                  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Wendie Pett:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

                                                  Guest:

                                                  Wendie Pett, is passionate about motivating people to make fitness and good nutrition part of their daily routine. She teaches the balance of mind, body and spirit through her Visibly Fit™ wellness program. Wendie has a nationally syndicated television program that airs every Saturday on the NRB Network, Upliftv, WLCN, and IBN Television. She contributes weekly on KTIS radio in the Twin Cities as ‘Coach Wendie’ and is a featured columnist in VEGWORLD Magazine, The Christian View, Best Ever You, Refreshed, Vegan Lifestyle, and Diet.com.

                                                  Wendie is a full-time business owner, a naturopathic doctor, wife, mother, author, speaker, TV host, advisory board member for Christian Women in Media and part-time volunteer. Her business consists of whole-food/plant-based wellness coaching, emotional healing, personal online training, fitness planning, educational and motivational speaking, and creating new products/tools to assist clients along their wellness journey.

                                                  After a major injury to her shoulder, she resorted to body weight resistance exercises for strength and healing and hasn’t turned back to any other form of training since. She has helped countless others reach their fitness goals without ever compromising their joints, tendons, or ligaments - teaching that Your Body Is Your Gym™! To learn more go to www.wendiepett.com

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Wendie Pett and I talk about the power of forgiveness in health and healing. Wendie is passionate about motivating people to make fitness and good nutrition part of their daily routine. You can fulfill your God-given mission when you're healthy & healed. full 142 Dr. Michelle Bengtson dd76fc8c-3092-445d-8540-fed978aee581 2b35d3c3-0344-412c-b57f-b28701194860 Thu, 30 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000 1600 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/142-the-power-of-forgiveness-in-health-and-healing                                                   Walk and Pray: It Will Change Your life Walk and Pray: It Will Change Your life I don't know about you, but at times my prayer life gets a bit stale. Sometimes, I need to do something to elevate it a little bit and bring new life into my prayers. In this episode, I talk with Janet McHenry about her book, The Complete Guide to The Prayers of Jesus. Janet shares how when she began to walk and pray. It changed her life and it will change yours as well.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I began to realize that, you know, that I wasn’t the only one who had prayer needs. I could begin to open up my eyes around me and begin to intercede for others in prayer.
                                                  • I’ve prayer walked around the school campuses, to me that’s a huge focus. I prayer walk around the city offices and our county offices, and I know of lot of those people there as well.
                                                  • You begin to become more invested in your community. I remember walking with an elderly friend of mine, her name was June. She passed away some years ago. But well into her 80’s, she was still walking. One day she said, even in my own block, she said Janet, who lives there, and I said I don’t know and that’s a shame. I will find out.
                                                  • I realized as I was reading through the Bible and marking all these various instances in regard to prayer, that really, He (Jesus) is a prayer mentor.
                                                  • Even the disciples said, Lord, teach us how to pray. They didn’t know how to pray. They believed but they still didn’t know how to pray.
                                                  • I call my life an organic prayer life because it ebbs and flows all day long.
                                                  • Instead of having, thinking like well, I need to have 5 extra minutes today to pray and then check, it’s done. I don’t think it’s done. I think God wants more of us then just 5 minutes of our day.
                                                  • I want the sense that God is glorified because of who I am, not some magic formula prayer that I do once a day. Not some good act, here or there. Not because I may fast, oh my goodness, you know. Jesus simply encouraged us to have time with our Father and to desire that. You know that can be a huge desire of our lives simply to make our life reflective of the Father we love.
                                                  • Jesus embraced the trouble He was in. He still wanted God to be glorified through Him. As hard as that is, I say that’s a really hard prayer because we want the bad stuff to go away. We just want to be blessed. Lord, favor me. Lord, bless me. That was never Jesus’ prayer. He never said that. He said glorify Yourself in my life.
                                                  • I believe that God wants us to pray big. He says, “with man, this is impossible, but all things are possible with God.” I believe that is a teaching related to prayer. He said ask and you receive.
                                                  • He called people to bigger things, so I think that we are supposed to pray big and expect God to show up. In our inadequacies He will be made known and magnified. I have what I call Prayer Walking Eyes. So, as I see needs, I just immediately pray.
                                                  • You can pray and you know that God will hear your prayer and that it is having an effect.
                                                  • You can be a partner with God in the needs for the people around you, your family, the community.

                                                  Scripture Referenced:

                                                  • Matthew 6:9-13 NIV “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’"
                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
                                                  • Matthew 27:46 ESV "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
                                                  • Matthew 19:26 NIV Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Janet McHenry:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast

                                                   

                                                  About Janet McHenry:

                                                  including the best-selling PrayerWalk and her newest, The Complete Guide to the Prayers of Jesus: What He Prayed and How It Will Change Your Life Today (Bethany House). A former journalist and educator, she now writes full time from her home in the Sierra Valley, where her husband is a rancher and where they raised their four children. She coordinates the prayer ministries at The Bridge Church in Reno, where she annually organizes a prayerwalk for the schools. Janet enjoys connecting with folks on social media and invites others to contact her through her website, www.janetmchenry.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   I don't know about you, but at times my prayer life gets a bit stale. Sometimes, I need to do something to elevate it a little bit and bring new life into my prayers. In this episode, I talk with Janet McHenry about her book, The Complete Guide to The Prayers of Jesus. Janet shares how when she began to walk and pray. It changed her life and it will change yours as well.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • I began to realize that, you know, that I wasn’t the only one who had prayer needs. I could begin to open up my eyes around me and begin to intercede for others in prayer.
                                                  • I’ve prayer walked around the school campuses, to me that’s a huge focus. I prayer walk around the city offices and our county offices, and I know of lot of those people there as well.
                                                  • You begin to become more invested in your community. I remember walking with an elderly friend of mine, her name was June. She passed away some years ago. But well into her 80’s, she was still walking. One day she said, even in my own block, she said Janet, who lives there, and I said I don’t know and that’s a shame. I will find out.
                                                  • I realized as I was reading through the Bible and marking all these various instances in regard to prayer, that really, He (Jesus) is a prayer mentor.
                                                  • Even the disciples said, Lord, teach us how to pray. They didn’t know how to pray. They believed but they still didn’t know how to pray.
                                                  • I call my life an organic prayer life because it ebbs and flows all day long.
                                                  • Instead of having, thinking like well, I need to have 5 extra minutes today to pray and then check, it’s done. I don’t think it’s done. I think God wants more of us then just 5 minutes of our day.
                                                  • I want the sense that God is glorified because of who I am, not some magic formula prayer that I do once a day. Not some good act, here or there. Not because I may fast, oh my goodness, you know. Jesus simply encouraged us to have time with our Father and to desire that. You know that can be a huge desire of our lives simply to make our life reflective of the Father we love.
                                                  • Jesus embraced the trouble He was in. He still wanted God to be glorified through Him. As hard as that is, I say that’s a really hard prayer because we want the bad stuff to go away. We just want to be blessed. Lord, favor me. Lord, bless me. That was never Jesus’ prayer. He never said that. He said glorify Yourself in my life.
                                                  • I believe that God wants us to pray big. He says, “with man, this is impossible, but all things are possible with God.” I believe that is a teaching related to prayer. He said ask and you receive.
                                                  • He called people to bigger things, so I think that we are supposed to pray big and expect God to show up. In our inadequacies He will be made known and magnified. I have what I call Prayer Walking Eyes. So, as I see needs, I just immediately pray.
                                                  • You can pray and you know that God will hear your prayer and that it is having an effect.
                                                  • You can be a partner with God in the needs for the people around you, your family, the community.

                                                  Scripture Referenced:

                                                  • Matthew 6:9-13 NIV “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’"
                                                  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
                                                  • Matthew 27:46 ESV "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
                                                  • Matthew 19:26 NIV Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Guest and Host

                                                  Connect with Janet McHenry:

                                                  Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast

                                                   

                                                  About Janet McHenry:

                                                  including the best-selling PrayerWalk and her newest, The Complete Guide to the Prayers of Jesus: What He Prayed and How It Will Change Your Life Today (Bethany House). A former journalist and educator, she now writes full time from her home in the Sierra Valley, where her husband is a rancher and where they raised their four children. She coordinates the prayer ministries at The Bridge Church in Reno, where she annually organizes a prayerwalk for the schools. Janet enjoys connecting with folks on social media and invites others to contact her through her website, www.janetmchenry.com.

                                                   

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                   

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   I don't know about you, but at times my prayer life gets a bit stale and it needs new life. Today, I talk with Janet McHenry about prayer walking. She shares how when she began to walk and pray, it changed her life and it will change yours, too. full Dr. Michelle Bengtson ecbb05f1-864c-4f97-9339-e8852c017956 2291be5e-89f7-42bf-b47c-b287011948ef Thu, 23 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000 1645 https://omny.fm/shows/hope-filled-perspective-with-dr-michelle-bengtson/141-walk-and-pray-it-will-change-your-life                                                   140 Focusing on What’s Important to Reduce Holiday Stress 140 Focusing on What’s Important to Reduce Holiday Stress Episode Summary:

                                                  We all want a peaceful Christmas, but, “life gets busy.” Sometimes we’re forced to slow down, and guess what? We discover we actually CAN let go of some of the tasks and duties that not only weigh us down, but also steal our peace.

                                                  Last week, on episode 139 How To Let Go of the Anxiety and Overwhelm of the Holiday Season, we talked about the fact that in order to create a more peaceful holiday season, we need to remember who the source of our peace is. We also started talking about ways to recognize and reduce our expectations of ourselves and others in order to experience less worry and anxiety and more of His peace during the holidays.

                                                  So often Paul addressed the people in his letters by saying “Grace and peace to you from God our father through Jesus Christ our Lord.” God wants us to experience His peace, But we cannot experience true peace apart from God’s presence.”

                                                  So much worry, fear, and anxiety are a result of trying to maintain control of things that we cannot control. And we certainly cannot control others’ expectations. If all the holidays preparations are a burden to you, whose expectations are you trying to live up to?

                                                  Consider sitting the family down to determine what expectations they have. If you didn’t do ____, it wouldn’t feel like Christmas to them. This could mean just sending digital Christmas cards instead of physically mailing cards. Or perhaps you reduce your baking to just baking the family’s absolute favorite treats. Consider lessening the amount of decorating you do to the favorite décor for your family. You might also consider cutting back on the holiday meals to just the favorite dishes or buying a precooked meal to reduce the stress you encounter during the holiday season. Limiting the gift giving not only simplifies things, but helps you be a good steward of what God has given you, and lets you enjoy people over presents.

                                                  Assess why you do what you do? Is it because you’re trying to live up to someone else’s expectations? Is it bringing you joy or draining yourself of joy?

                                                  In our gift giving, I think it’s so important to teach our children that Christmas isn’t about them, but about the greatest gift God could ever give in the birth of His son. And it’s great to take a lesson from the wisemen and limit our gift giving to those that are the most special way to communicate our love to each other.

                                                  We try so hard to set the perfect table, cook the perfect meal, and give the perfect gifts. But one great gift to give others is to release them from our expectations of how they will respond. They will never live up to the expectations in our mind anyway.

                                                  Another way to maintain peace during the holidays is to choose our focus. It’s crucial that we focus on maintaining our healthy routines during the holidays. Consider continuing to make time for a daily quiet time, getting in your regular exercise, make rest a priority, and eat well.

                                                  But it’s also important to maintain a nightly routine: review your calendar for the next day or two so you aren’t taken by surprise the next day, record the new tasks that come up that must be completed, consider reading an advent reading or similar devotion each evening before going to bed, and pray thanking God for what He enabled you to do during the day and giving him your cares for all your tomorrows.

                                                  Another way to choose our focus is to limit technology during the holiday season. It’ll free up your time to get some of the holiday specific tasks completed.

                                                  Another way to choose our focus is to limit negativity, and negative inputs.

                                                  Also consider helping those who are alone or are going through a hard time during the holidays. Even when you are feeling down, you’d be surprised how helping others will encourage your own heart and bring a sense of peace to your heart and mind.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We cannot experience true peace apart from God’s presence.
                                                  • In our gift giving, I think it’s so important to teach our children that Christmas isn’t about them, but about the greatest gift God could ever give in the birth of His son.
                                                  • Even when you are feeling down, you’d be surprised how helping others will encourage your own heart and bring a sense of peace to your heart and mind.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Colossians 3:15 “Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.”
                                                  • Isaiah 26:3 “He will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is stayed on thee.”
                                                  • Luke 6:31 “Do to others as you would like them to do to you.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7 “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. THEN you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, and the author of the bestselling, award winning “Hope Prevails: Insights From A Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression," the award winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” and the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises.” She has been a board certified clinical neuropsychologist for more than twenty years. This doctor knows pain and despair firsthand and combines her professional expertise and personal experience with her faith to help others be all God created them to be. Using sound practical tools, she affirms worth and encourages faith. Dr. Bengtson offers hope as a key to unlock joy and relief—even in the middle of the storm. She and her husband of thirty-two years have two teenage sons and reside in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. She blogs regularly on her own site: http://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com and is on most social media platforms. She is also a popular podcast show host of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” at

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, and the author of the bestselling, award winning “Hope Prevails: Insights From A Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression," the award winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” and the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises.” She has been a board certified clinical neuropsychologist for more than twenty years. This doctor knows pain and despair firsthand and combines her professional expertise and personal experience with her faith to help others be all God created them to be. Using sound practical tools, she affirms worth and encourages faith. Dr. Bengtson offers hope as a key to unlock joy and relief—even in the middle of the storm. She and her husband of thirty-two years have two teenage sons and reside in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. She blogs regularly on her own site: http://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com and is on most social media platforms. She is also a popular podcast show host of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” at https://apple.co/2madPRo

                                                  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

                                                  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

                                                  ]]>                                                   Episode Summary:

                                                  We all want a peaceful Christmas, but, “life gets busy.” Sometimes we’re forced to slow down, and guess what? We discover we actually CAN let go of some of the tasks and duties that not only weigh us down, but also steal our peace.

                                                  Last week, on episode 139 How To Let Go of the Anxiety and Overwhelm of the Holiday Season, we talked about the fact that in order to create a more peaceful holiday season, we need to remember who the source of our peace is. We also started talking about ways to recognize and reduce our expectations of ourselves and others in order to experience less worry and anxiety and more of His peace during the holidays.

                                                  So often Paul addressed the people in his letters by saying “Grace and peace to you from God our father through Jesus Christ our Lord.” God wants us to experience His peace, But we cannot experience true peace apart from God’s presence.”

                                                  So much worry, fear, and anxiety are a result of trying to maintain control of things that we cannot control. And we certainly cannot control others’ expectations. If all the holidays preparations are a burden to you, whose expectations are you trying to live up to?

                                                  Consider sitting the family down to determine what expectations they have. If you didn’t do ____, it wouldn’t feel like Christmas to them. This could mean just sending digital Christmas cards instead of physically mailing cards. Or perhaps you reduce your baking to just baking the family’s absolute favorite treats. Consider lessening the amount of decorating you do to the favorite décor for your family. You might also consider cutting back on the holiday meals to just the favorite dishes or buying a precooked meal to reduce the stress you encounter during the holiday season. Limiting the gift giving not only simplifies things, but helps you be a good steward of what God has given you, and lets you enjoy people over presents.

                                                  Assess why you do what you do? Is it because you’re trying to live up to someone else’s expectations? Is it bringing you joy or draining yourself of joy?

                                                  In our gift giving, I think it’s so important to teach our children that Christmas isn’t about them, but about the greatest gift God could ever give in the birth of His son. And it’s great to take a lesson from the wisemen and limit our gift giving to those that are the most special way to communicate our love to each other.

                                                  We try so hard to set the perfect table, cook the perfect meal, and give the perfect gifts. But one great gift to give others is to release them from our expectations of how they will respond. They will never live up to the expectations in our mind anyway.

                                                  Another way to maintain peace during the holidays is to choose our focus. It’s crucial that we focus on maintaining our healthy routines during the holidays. Consider continuing to make time for a daily quiet time, getting in your regular exercise, make rest a priority, and eat well.

                                                  But it’s also important to maintain a nightly routine: review your calendar for the next day or two so you aren’t taken by surprise the next day, record the new tasks that come up that must be completed, consider reading an advent reading or similar devotion each evening before going to bed, and pray thanking God for what He enabled you to do during the day and giving him your cares for all your tomorrows.

                                                  Another way to choose our focus is to limit technology during the holiday season. It’ll free up your time to get some of the holiday specific tasks completed.

                                                  Another way to choose our focus is to limit negativity, and negative inputs.

                                                  Also consider helping those who are alone or are going through a hard time during the holidays. Even when you are feeling down, you’d be surprised how helping others will encourage your own heart and bring a sense of peace to your heart and mind.

                                                  Quotables from the episode:

                                                  • We cannot experience true peace apart from God’s presence.
                                                  • In our gift giving, I think it’s so important to teach our children that Christmas isn’t about them, but about the greatest gift God could ever give in the birth of His son.
                                                  • Even when you are feeling down, you’d be surprised how helping others will encourage your own heart and bring a sense of peace to your heart and mind.

                                                  Scripture References:

                                                  • Colossians 3:15 “Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.”
                                                  • Isaiah 26:3 “He will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is stayed on thee.”
                                                  • Luke 6:31 “Do to others as you would like them to do to you.”
                                                  • Philippians 4:6-7 “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. THEN you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

                                                  Recommended Resources:

                                                   

                                                  Social Media Links for Host:

                                                  For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

                                                  Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast

                                                  About Dr. Michelle Bengtson

                                                  Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, and the author of the bestselling, award winning “Hope Prevails: Insights From A Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression," the award winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” and the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises.” She has been a board certified clinical neuropsychologist for more than twenty years. This doctor knows pain and despair firsthand and combines her professional expertise and personal experience with her faith to help others be all God created them to be. Using sound practical tools, she affirms worth and encourages faith. Dr. Bengtson offers hope as a key to unlock joy and relief—even in the middle of the storm. She and her husband of thirty-two years have two teenage sons and reside in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. She blogs regularly on her own site: http://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com and is on most social media platforms. She is also a popular podcast show host of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” at