Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast
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.
Thu, April 24, 2025
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
Thu, April 17, 2025
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: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Thr
Thu, April 10, 2025
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 a
Thu, April 03, 2025
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, whil
Thu, March 27, 2025
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 t
Thu, March 20, 2025
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 fait
Thu, March 13, 2025
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
Thu, March 06, 2025
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
Thu, February 27, 2025
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. Un
Thu, February 20, 2025
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 f
Thu, February 13, 2025
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 a
Thu, February 06, 2025
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 f
Thu, January 30, 2025
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
Thu, January 23, 2025
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 f
Thu, January 16, 2025
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
Thu, January 09, 2025
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, m
Thu, January 02, 2025
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 w
Thu, December 26, 2024
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 t
Thu, December 19, 2024
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 p
Thu, December 12, 2024
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: Local Suicide Prevention Hotline: dial 988 TALK Suicide Hotline (800) 273-8255 Suicide Text Line: 741-741 https://www.crisistextline.org/textline Hope Line Suicide Prevention Network (800) 784-2433 Elijah App –helps people struggling to reach their support system with one text <a href="https://drmichell
Thu, December 05, 2024
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: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https://amzn.to/3sCoqqm
Wed, November 27, 2024
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: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Righ
Thu, November 21, 2024
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: She Believed He Could So She Did: Trading Culture’s Lies for Christ-Centered Empowerment by Becky Beresford Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking A
Thu, November 14, 2024
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: Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression, or Suicidal Ideation by Lori Wildenberg Messy Journey: How Grace and Truth Offer the Prodigal a Way Home by Lori Wildenberg Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Goo
Thu, November 07, 2024
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 insta
Thu, October 31, 2024
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
Thu, October 24, 2024
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 healt
Thu, October 17, 2024
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: A Gift of Mourning Glories: Restoring Your Life After Loss by Georgia Shaffer Taking Out Your Emotional Trash: Face Your Feelings and Build Healthy Relationships by Georgia Shaffer Avoiding the 12 Relationship Mistakes Women Make by Georgia Shaffer Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxiet
Thu, October 10, 2024
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
Thu, October 03, 2024
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 di
Thu, September 26, 2024
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 churc
Thu, September 19, 2024
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. Befor
Thu, September 12, 2024
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: <li
Thu, September 05, 2024
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 daugh
Thu, August 29, 2024
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.
Thu, August 22, 2024
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
Thu, August 15, 2024
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, e
Thu, August 08, 2024
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 d
Thu, August 01, 2024
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 ch
Thu, July 25, 2024
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 be
Thu, July 18, 2024
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. Re
Thu, July 11, 2024
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
Fri, July 05, 2024
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 som
Thu, June 27, 2024
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 y
Thu, June 20, 2024
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
Thu, June 13, 2024
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: How to Rebuild Trust After Cheating Rebuilding Trust: The Only Time Words Don’t Matter in Marriage My Heart is Broken: Your Next Steps for When Your Spouse is Unfaithful by Jill Savage and Joss Cambridge Your Next Steps: What to Do When Your Spouse is Unfaithful by Jill Savage No More Perfect Marriages: Experience the Freedom of Being Real Together by Mark and Jill Savage FREE Rebuilding Trust Guide <li style="font-weight: bold;
Thu, June 06, 2024
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: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God
Thu, May 30, 2024
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: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breakin
Thu, May 23, 2024
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: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award <a href="https://amzn.
Thu, May 16, 2024
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 yo
Thu, May 09, 2024
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: The One Rule Home: Destroy the World’s Influence in Your Kid’s Life by Jeff Schadt Sacred Scars: Resting in God’
Thu, May 02, 2024
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 /
Thu, April 25, 2024
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,
Thu, April 18, 2024
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 wome
Thu, April 11, 2024
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: Free download of the Introduction and Chapter 1 to Your CORE Strength as well as a 5-minute “Wake Up and Warm Up” video Your CORE Strength: A Young Woman’s Guide to Eating, Exercise and Empowered Health by Amy Connell Your Worthy Body by Amy Connell Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https://amzn.
Thu, April 04, 2024
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: Beyond Her Yes: Reimagining Pro-Life Ministry to Empower Women and Support Families in Overcoming Poverty by Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Y
Thu, March 28, 2024
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: National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 No Shame: A Devotional for Survivors of Sexual Abuse by Melissa Heiland Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day
Thu, March 21, 2024
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: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day <em
Thu, March 14, 2024
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: Mama’s Got Anxiety: But It’s Not Going to Steal Her Joy by Courtney Devich Your Rx: 40 Scriptures that Combat Worry, Fear, Anxiety and Panic Where Do Anxiety, Worry and Fear Come From? Anxiety Attack vs. Panic Attack: Key Differences and Symptoms Coping with Anxiety {7 Steps} God and Anxiety: God’s Answer to Moses is the Same for Today Beating Anxiety: The Thief of Peace How to Get Rid of Worry, Fear, and Anxiety It Is Finished: What Jesus Would Say About Anxiety What is the Difference Between Worry, Fear, and Anxiety?
Thu, March 07, 2024
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 Chri
Thu, February 29, 2024
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
Thu, February 22, 2024
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: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90
Thu, February 15, 2024
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: Praying Personalities: Finding Your Natural Prayer Style by Janet McHenry Praying Personality Quiz Prayer Helps: Scripture-Based Prayers When You Don’t Know How to Pray . . . when listeners sign up for my monthly mini-magazine, Looking Up! at JanetMcHenry.com PrayerWalk by Janet McHenry <a href="https:/
Thu, February 08, 2024
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: Break Free from Feeling Never Enough Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <a
Thu, February 01, 2024
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: Break Free from Feeling Never Enough Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle
Thu, January 25, 2024
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: The Gift of the Unexpected: Discovering Who You Were Meant to be When Life Goes Off Plan by Jillian Benfield The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals <a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/reading-plans/31089-today-is-going-to-be-a-go
Thu, January 18, 2024
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
Thu, January 11, 2024
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: The 40-Day Body Image Workbook: Hope for Christian Women Who've Tried Everything (A Journey from Insecurity to Positive Body Image and Self-Worth) by Heather Creekmore The Burden of Better: How a Comparison Free Life Leads to Joy, Peace, and Rest by Heather Creekmore Compared to Who: A Proven Path to
Thu, January 04, 2024
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 pos
Thu, December 28, 2023
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 th
Thu, December 21, 2023
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: The 40
Thu, December 14, 2023
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: Feeling Down this Holiday Season? Break Free from Unmet Expectations How To Get Organized and Simplify Your Christmas Holidays – Episode 189 Putting REST in the Christmas Holiday
Thu, December 07, 2023
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: The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises </a
Thu, November 30, 2023
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: God Moments: Amazing Encounters with the Divine in Everyday Life by Pastor Gale Kragt The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip
Fri, November 24, 2023
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: Grace & Gratitude for Everyday Life by Michele Howe Empty Nest: What’s Next? Parenting Adult Children Without Losing Your Mind by Michele Howe Preparing, Adjusting, and Loving the Empty Nest by Michele Howe <a href="https:
Thu, November 16, 2023
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: The Secret Power of Kindness: 10 Keys to Unlocking Your Capacity to Change the World by Greg Atkinson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God P
Thu, November 09, 2023
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: The Secret Power of Kindness: 10 Keys to Unlocking Your Capacity to Change the World by Greg Atkinson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip
Thu, November 02, 2023
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 s
Thu, October 26, 2023
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: Deeply Rooted: Growing Through the Book of Romans; a 40-Day Devotional Journey by Kathy Howard The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Liter
Thu, October 19, 2023
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: Brave Enough to Believe: How the Life of Doubting Thomas Answers Our Hard Questions by Angela Donadio and Hubert Morris The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devot
Thu, October 12, 2023
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: Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You by Doris Swift The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four c
Thu, October 05, 2023
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: The Power of Connection: Maximize Your Health and happiness with Close Relationships by Gregory L. Jantz, Ph.D. The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals</l
Thu, September 28, 2023
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:
Thu, September 21, 2023
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: Say Goodbye to What Holds You Back: Shatter the Walls Surrounding You and Believe What God Says About You by Krissy Nelson <a href="https://am
Thu, September 14, 2023
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: I Used to be___: How to Navigate Large and Small Losses in Life and Find Your Path Forward by Chuck and Ashley Elliott The Hem of His Garment: Reachi
Thu, September 07, 2023
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: Grieving Forward: Embracing Life Beyond Loss by Susan Duke The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Da
Thu, August 31, 2023
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: The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christ
Thu, August 24, 2023
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 1
Thu, August 17, 2023
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: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals <a href="https://www.bible
Thu, August 10, 2023
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: 21 Days to Improved Mental Well-Being by Dr. Mel Tavares The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day <a href="
Thu, August 03, 2023
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: The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip
Thu, July 27, 2023
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: The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle
Thu, July 20, 2023
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: Choose: A Study of Moses for a Life That Matters by Jodie Niznik Crossroads: A Study of Esther and Jonah for Boldly Responding to Your Call by Jodie Niznik Trust: A Study of Joseph for Persevering Through Life’s Challenge s by Jodie Niznik Journey: A Study of Peter for Stumbling Toward Jesus’s Extravagant Grace by Jodie Niznik Galatians: Discovering Freedom in Christ Through Daily Practice by Sue Edwards and Jodie Niznik Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https://www.bible.com/en-G
Thu, July 13, 2023
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,
Thu, July 06, 2023
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: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip <a href="https://
Thu, June 29, 2023
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: Meanwhile: Meeting God in the Wait by Carol McLeod Vibrant: Developing a Deep and Abiding Joy for All Seasons by Carol McLeod Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Person
Thu, June 22, 2023
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: A Walk With the Light in the Shadows by Paul Gaumer Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip <
Thu, June 15, 2023
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. <
Thu, June 08, 2023
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
Thu, June 01, 2023
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: YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 <a href="https://leanhealthyageless.com/revive-and-thriv
Thu, May 25, 2023
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
Thu, May 18, 2023
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
Thu, May 11, 2023
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: Love, Pray, Listen: Parenting Your Wayward Adult Kids with Joy by Mary DeMuth Resources on Parenting Can the Trajectory We Want for Our Children be Sabotaged? How to Raise Our Children to Have a Strong Foundation in Jesus Trusting Our Children to
Thu, May 04, 2023
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 impos
Thu, April 27, 2023
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: Take Every Thought Captive: Exchange the Lies of the Enemy for the Mind of Christ by Kelly Balarie Battle Ready: Train Your Mind to Conquer Challenges, Defeat Doubt, and Live Victoriously by Kelly Balarie Fear Fighting: Awakening Courage to Overcome Your Fears by Kelly Balarie Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Be
Thu, April 20, 2023
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: Listen to Your Day: The Life-Changing Practice of Paying Attention by Paul Angone 101 Secrets for Your 20’s by Paul Angone 101 Questions You Need to Ask in Your Twenties by Paul Angone 25 Lies Twentysomethings Need to Stop Believing by Paul Angone Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxietys-grip-stud
Thu, April 13, 2023
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: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God by Joanna Weaver Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World: Finding Intimacy with God in the Busyness of Life by Joanna Weaver Lazarus Awakening: Finding Your Place in the Heart of God by Joanna Weaver Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award<
Thu, April 06, 2023
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: Many Voices, One Truth by Tracy Taris Walk This Way by Byron Parson Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by D
Thu, March 30, 2023
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: One Minute Prayers for Women With Cancer by Niki Hardy Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart by Niki Hardy Listening Guide for the Freshly Diagnosed Audio: How
Thu, March 23, 2023
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: Overcoming Father Wounds: Exchanging Your Pain for God’s Perfect Love by Kia Stephens Free audio message from Kia Hope for the Fatherless – Episode 9 <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/the-
Thu, March 16, 2023
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: The Parent’s Battle Plan: Warfare Strategies to Win Back Your Prodigal by Laine Lawson Craft 5 Warfare Prayers for Prodigal Children 10 Hope-Filled Responses When You Love a Prodigal <li style="
Thu, March 09, 2023
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: Fresh Hope for Today by Grace Fox Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right</e
Thu, March 02, 2023
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: Dark Clouds and Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegrp When Mountains Crumble by Danita Jenae Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip <a href="htt
Thu, February 23, 2023
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: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. The Freedom Coach Model by Jill
Thu, February 16, 2023
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: A Single Life to Live: Stop Waiting for Your Life to Begin & Thrive Where God Has You Today by Hannah Schermerhorn Hannah Schermerhorn Resources Today is Goi
Thu, February 09, 2023
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: Still Becoming: Hope, Help, and Healing for the Diet Weary Soul by Laura Acuna Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to
Thu, February 02, 2023
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: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day <a href="https://www.bible.com/en-GB/read
Thu, January 26, 2023
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: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <a h
Thu, January 19, 2023
197 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: TEXT START to 88788 or thehotline.org Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 <a href="https://leanhealthyageless.com/re
Thu, January 12, 2023
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: New Year Online Hope Prevails Bible Study In Good Time: 8 Habits for Reimagining Productivity, Resisting Hurry, and Practicing Peace by Jen Pollock Michel Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference <a
Thu, January 05, 2023
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 pow
Thu, December 29, 2022
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: 7-Day Today is Going to be a Good Day Challenge Help for When You're Feeling Blue (FREE) Webinar New Year Online Hope Prevails Bible Study The Power and Process of A Word of the Year Looking for Your Word of the Year Downloadable Worksheet This Could Be Your Best Year Discovering Good News in John: a
Thu, December 22, 2022
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: The 7-Day Today is Going to be a Good Day Challenge Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue The first ever Online Hope Prevails Bible Study Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress a
Thu, December 15, 2022
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 pr
Thu, December 08, 2022
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: The Unexpected Revival: Experiencing God’s Goodness Through Disappointment and Doubt by Erica Wiggenhorn Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle
Thu, December 01, 2022
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: Discovering Good News in John: a Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E. Jones, and Karla Dornacher Discovering Joy in Philippians: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher Discovering Hope in the Psalms: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher Men are Like Waffles, Women are Like Spaghetti: Understanding and Delighting in Your Differences by Bill & Pam Farrel Red-Hot Monogamy: Making Your Marriage Sizzle by Bill and Pam Farrel Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course
Thu, November 24, 2022
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: 8 Week Online course: “Simplify Your Holiday Season” to take the stress out of the holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Simplify Your Holiday Season by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Holidays: A Christmas Planner to Use Year After Year by Marcia Ramsland Simply December Devotions by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Space: Create Order & Reduce Stress by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay That Way by Marcia Ramsland Organizing Your Workspace for a Productivity Boost (Instant Insights) by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Time by Marcia Ramsland Free Time Tracker: Marcia’s Famous 168 Hour Time Tracker Ways to Create a More Peaceful Holiday Season – Part 1 ep 35 Ways to Create More Peace During the Holidays – Part 2 ep 36 How to Stress Less at Christmas ep 88 Trusting
Thu, November 17, 2022
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 interruptio
Thu, November 10, 2022
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: Lakeside Retreat: Life-Giving Devotions from a Restful Shore by Marci Seither Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 <a href="https://leanhealthyageless.com/revive-an
Thu, November 03, 2022
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: Cinched: Living with Unwavering Trust in an Unfailing God and the companion workbook by Kristine Brown Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <a href="https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1
Thu, October 27, 2022
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: What
Thu, October 20, 2022
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: Forgiving the Nightmare by Mark Sowersby Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Liter
Thu, October 13, 2022
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.
Thu, October 06, 2022
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: www.domesticshelters.org is a clearinghouse for resources Overcoming the Narcissist, Sociopath, Psychopath, and Other Domestic Abusers by Charlene Quint Hope for Healing from Domestic Abuse: Reaching for God’s Promise of Real Freedom by Karen DeArmond Gardner Leaving an Abusive Marriage Isn’t the End When Healing after Domestic Abuse, God will Meet You – Episode 120 Have You Done Enough? When to Leave an Abusive Relationship <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/healing-
Thu, September 29, 2022
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: 7 Deadly Friendships: How to Heal When Painful Relationships Eat Away at Your Joy by Mary DeMuth Find out if you are currently in one of the 7 toxic friendships by taking this quiz: The Deadly Friendship Quiz Boundaries by Cloud and Townsend 10 Traits of Grace Based Friends Mary DeMuth Ask Dr. B: Surviving a Friend’s Betrayal Who Is Your Best Friend? Hope for Those Who Have Toxic Friends – Episode 14 What to Do When a Friendship Breaks Up Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s
Thu, September 22, 2022
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: Transformed, not Conformed: Embracing a Life-Changing Approach to Spiritual Habits by Missy Eversole Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Docto
Thu, September 15, 2022
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: How Testimonies in the Bible Bolster Your Faith During Hard Times You Have a Story to Tell – Episode 73 Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice
Thu, September 08, 2022
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: Milepost 95: From Wreckage to Redemption by Page Geske Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Pre
Thu, September 01, 2022
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; sorrowf
Thu, August 25, 2022
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: Happy Heart: Staying Centered in God’s Love During Chaotic Circumstances by Tricia Goyer Grumble Free Year by Tricia Goyer Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Tricia Goyer: W
Thu, August 18, 2022
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: Rebuilding Trust Course The Wait Is Not Wasted Course No More Perfect Marriages by Mark and Jill Savage FREE Rebuilding Trust Guide Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day . Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-
Thu, August 11, 2022
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: Real-Life Romance: Inspiring Stories to Help You Believe in True Love by Rhonda Stoppe Moms Raising Sons to be Men by Rhonda Stoppe If My Husband Would Change, I’d Be Happy: And Other Myths Women Believe by Rhonda Stoppe The Marriage Mentor: Becoming the Couple You Long to Be by Rhonda Stoppe A Christian Woman’s Guide to Great Sex in Marriage by Rhonda Stoppe Desiring God by John Piper When I am Afraid by Edward T. Welch Joni: An Unforgettable Story by Joni Eareckson Tada Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive To
Thu, August 04, 2022
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: The Grace Impact by Nancy Kay Grace The Search for Significance by Robert McGee Lies Women Believe by Nancy Leigh DeMoss Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 <a href="https://leanhealthyageless.com/revive-and-thrive-landing-mb
Thu, July 28, 2022
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: Lessons From the River: A 30-Day Devotional by Dr. Mel Tavares Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <a href="https:/
Thu, July 21, 2022
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: One Woman Can Change the World by Ronne Rock Living Your Purpose Starts with Hope and Faith Hope for Finding Your Purpose – Episode 81 <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/ways-step-
Thu, July 14, 2022
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: Dolores Like the River by Laura Padgett Hope from a Recovering Adult Child of Alcoholic Parents – Episode 76 Never Too Broken to be Restored Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxietys-g
Thu, July 07, 2022
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: Mercy’s Rain by Cindy Sproles Liar’s Winter by Cindy Sproles What Momma Left Behind by Cindy Sproles 10 Scriptures of Encouragement for Caregivers Hope and Help for How To Avoid Caregiver Burnout – Episode 12 Caring for the Caregiver Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peac
Thu, June 30, 2022
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: Sunlight Burning at Midnight by Jessica Ronne Blended with Grip and Grace: Just Keep Livin’ When Life is Unexpected by Jessica Ronne Unseen: Exposing the Mental Health Crisis Among Special Needs Caregivers TheLucasProject.org 10 Scriptures of Encouragement for Caregivers Hope and Help for How To Avoid Caregiver Burnout – Episode 12 Caring for the Caregiver Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 <a
Thu, June 23, 2022
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: The Power of the Prayin
Thu, June 16, 2022
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: Healing for our Soul Gardens: Restoration and Wholeness After Sexual Abuse by Kristin Clouse 12 Week Online Course – Fully Restored from Abuse Free on Kristin's Website: 14 Ways to Cultivate a Grateful Heart & Fully Restored Gratitude Worksheets (top of home page) Free on Kristin's Website: A free chapter from Healing for our Soul Gardens book (look for pop up) 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life Today is Going to be a Good D
Thu, June 09, 2022
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: Well, Girl: An Inside-Out Journey to Wellness by Jami Amerine Sacred Ground, Sticky Floors: How Less-Than-Perfect Parents Can Raise (Kind Of) Great Kids by Jami Amerine Stolen Jesus: An Unconventional Search for the Real Savior by Jami Amerine Rest, Girl: A Journey from Exhausted and Stressed to Entirely Blessed by Jami Amerine 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Free Download: How T
Thu, June 02, 2022
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: Face To
Thu, May 26, 2022
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: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, available for Pre-Order Now! How What You Focus on Grows – Episode 162 How Gratitude and Thankfulness Help Us Have a Good Day – Episode 161 How God’s Promises to His People Help Them to Have a Good Day – Episode 160 How to Have a Good Day by Starting Your Day with God – Episode 159 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life Trusting God Through Cancer 1 <a href="https://www.trustinggodthrough
Thu, May 19, 2022
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: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, available for Pre-Order Now! How Gratitude and Thankfulness Help Us Have a Good Day – Episode 161 How God’s Promises to His People Help Them to Have a Good Day – Episode 160 How to Have a Good Day by Starting Your Day with God – Episode 159 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts an
Thu, May 12, 2022
161 How Gratitude and Thankfulness Help Us Have a Good Day
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 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: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, available for Pre-Order Now! Pre-Order Bundle of Bonus Gifts for Today is Going to be a Good Day Book Release How to Have a Good Day by Starting Your Day with God – Episode 159 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2
Thu, May 05, 2022
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: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, available for Pre-Order Now! Pre-Order Bundle of Bonus Gifts for Today is Going to be a Good Day Book Release <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/have-a-good-day-starting-your-
Thu, April 28, 2022
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: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, available for Pre-Order Now! Pre-Order Bundle of Bonus Gifts for Today is Going to be a Good Day Book Release 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michell
Thu, April 21, 2022
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: Mom, You’re Amazing by Jenny Dean Schmidt My new book, available now on Pre-Order: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2
Thu, April 14, 2022
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
Thu, April 07, 2022
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
Thu, March 31, 2022
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: Subscribe at www.comingaliveministries.com and receive 4 free beautiful scripture lockscreens to help encourage you in your faith steps anytime you use your phone My Yes is On the Table by Jenn Hand Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free
Thu, March 24, 2022
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: Growing Slow: Lessons on Un-hurrying Your Heart from an Accidental Farm Girl by Jennifer Dukes Growing Slow Bible Study: A 6-week Guided Journey to Un-Hurrying Your Heart by Jennifer Dukes Lee It’s All Under Control: A Journey of Letting Go, Hanging On, and Finding a Peace You Almost Forgot Was Possible by Jennifer Dukes Lee It’s All Under Control Bible Study: A 6-Week Guided Journey by Jennifer Dukes Lee Love Idol: Letting Go of Your Need for Approval and Seeing Yourself through God’s Eyes by Jennifer Dukes Lee and Lisa-Jo Baker The Happiness Dare: Pursuing Your Heart’s Deepest, Holiest, and Most Vulnerable Desire by Jennifer Dukes Lee Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <li
Thu, March 17, 2022
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: Every Mourning by Donna Fagerstrom Lifted: Encouragement in Hard Times by Donna Fagerstrom Hope in the Mourning Study Bible How To Find Hope in the Midst of Grief – Episode 70 Hope for the Grieving Parent: How to Help a Grieving Friend – Episode 3 <a href="https://drmiche
Thu, March 10, 2022
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: My favorite large print chronological Bible: The One Year Chronological Bible NLT, Premium Slimline Large Print My favorite NIV Chronological Bible: The One Year Chronological Bible NIV My favorite study Bible: CSB Life Essentials Interactive Study Bible My favorite Bible highlighter: Sharpie Accent Gel Highlighters, Fluorescent Yellow Faith Over Fear Distressed Trucker Hat - Embroidered Trucker Baseball Hat Today is a good day to have a good day wall art Pray More Worry Less Wall Décor Milk Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel Squares by Ghirardelli Skinny Dipped salted caramel chocolate covered cashews Trident Vibes Ooh La Lemon Sugar Free Gum Hint Water : Peach, Raspberry, Watermelon, and Lemon, Zero Calories, Zero Sugar and Zero Sweeteners Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links: Order Book
Thu, March 03, 2022
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: Real-Life Romance: Inspiring Stories to Help You Believe in True Love by Rhonda Stoppe Moms Raising Sons to be Men by Rhonda Stoppe If My Husband Would Change, I’d Be Happy: And Other Myths Women Believe by Rhonda Stoppe The Marriage Mentor: Becoming the Couple You Long to Be by Rhonda Stoppe A Christian Woman’s Guide to Great Sex in Marriage by Rhonda Stoppe Desiring God by John Piper When I am Afraid by Edward T. Welch Joni: An Unforgettable Story by Joni Eareckson Tada Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 <a href="https://leanhealthyageless.com/revive-
Thu, February 24, 2022
150 Recovering from Trauma and the Mistakes of Our Past
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 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: Unwanted No More by BJ Garrett Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Awa
Thu, February 17, 2022
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 o
Thu, February 10, 2022
148 How To Love Well in Marriage and Life
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 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: Men are Like Waffles, Women are Like Spaghetti: Understandi
Thu, February 03, 2022
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: Rebuilding Trust Course The Wait Is Not Wasted Course No More Perfect Marriages by Mark and Jill Savage FREE Rebuilding Trust Guide Revive & Thrive Fall Virtual Women’s Conference Trusting God Through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God Through Cancer Summit 2 Ten Minute Turn Around Courses with Tina Yeager Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip </
Thu, January 27, 2022
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: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking
Thu, January 20, 2022
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 i
Thu, January 13, 2022
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: 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates by Susan Neal Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates by Susan Neal Healthy Living Journal by Susan Neal Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1 by Susan Neal Eat God’s Food: A Kid’s Guide to Healthy Eating by Susan Neal Solving the Gluten Puzzle by Susan Neal Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 <a href="https://leanhealthyageless.com/revive-and-thrive-l
Thu, January 06, 2022
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: 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates by Susan Neal Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates by Susan Neal Healthy Living Journal by Susan Neal Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1 by Susan Neal Eat God’s Food: A Kid’s Guide to Healthy Eating by Susan Neal Candiquiz.com GlutenIntoleranceQuiz.com Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2<
Thu, December 30, 2021
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: Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference How Does Exercise Reduce Stress? How To Give Yourself GRACE in Your Health Health Rules We Need to Break for Our Good – Episode 133 Hope for Healthy Living – Episode 65 Weight Loss Journey: Hope for a Healthy Body, Mind, and Soul – Episode 104 Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip <a href="http
Thu, December 23, 2021
141 Walk and Pray: It Will Change Your life
Episode Summary: 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 hea
Thu, December 16, 2021
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. B
Thu, December 09, 2021
139 How to Let Go of the Anxiety and Overwhelm of the Holiday Season
Episode Summary: What if I told you that you really can let go of the anxiety and overwhelm of the holiday season with some simple ways to create more peace? It’s true. My husband, Scott, and I have been there and we’re sharing some simple changes that will help you celebrate Christmas from a peaceful place. The holidays are a busy time where we experience an increase in stress, commitments, and chaos. But what we really want is to be able to experience the holiday joy while keeping our peace. Helpful Tips to Enjoy the Holiday Season with Peace: Don’t we all desire a more peaceful holiday season? From November first until the decorations come down sometime in January, and then the credit card bills start coming in, stress and anxiety rise and with it, our peace dwindles. What a shame when the reason for the holiday is the celebration of the Prince of Peace. Sometimes we go into the holidays with expectations we have of ourselves, expectations we have of others, and feeling the weight of expectations others have of us. After my mother died, I felt the weight of being the new matriarch of the family, and the pressure to do things the way my mother had done it. But over time, I realized that living up to those spoken or unspoken expectations was stealing my peace and joy during a time when the commercials and Hallmark movies tell us should be the most wonderful time of the year. 1) It’s so crucial that we remember who the source of our peace is. If we were to really understand the nature of God, not only would we not have to worry about peace, but all the other worldly concerns we have would go away. Jesus came not just as our savior, but also the Prince of Peace. In my newest book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises,” one of the chapters talks about “God Is” our peace. We sacrifice our peace when we take our eyes off God and put our focus on the circumstances going on around us. A regular discipline of spending time with God and in His word, will remind us of who we are in Him. During the holiday season before you do any of the holiday tasks, take a moment, stop where you are and mentally go through the list of who you are and who the source of your peace is. When we realize how much God cares for us, and the fact that nothing takes Him by surprise, we can rest in His peace. One way to remember the source of peace, is remembering Jesus only had three years on this earth to complete his heavenly mission, his kingdom assignment. Yet, we never saw Jesus running from appointment to appointment. He walked everywhere, and He walked at the pace God set for Him. We sacrifice our peace because we make a long list of to do’s that we think we must get done each day. We can get caught up in anxiety when we think of all the demands we put on ourselves. Yet Jesus said His yoke is easy and His burden is light. What if we started off the day asking God what
Thu, December 02, 2021
138 Seeing Our Health and Body from God’s Perspective
Episode Summary: Danna Demetre and I talk about seeing our health and body from God’s perspective. God wants us to be healthy so we can live out His purpose for our lives. How do we change our mindset so that we can look at our physical body and health and wellbeing as God does? Quotables from the episode: We aren’t defined by an eating disorder, what we eat or what we look like. There’s a misconception that if we are a Christian we should be able to control this. The fear of death made me wonder “what will happen when I die?” and that lead me to find God. Even if you don’t know God, He still knows you. In Christian circles, food seems to be the “acceptable addiction.” We need to stop turning to food to be our comforter instead of Christ. Ask God, “please shine a light in the dark corners of my life on what isn’t healthy.” We need to forget about self-confidence and have Christ confidence. God wants us to be healthy so we can live out His purpose for our lives. We need to spend more time wallowing in grace than in shame. One way of worshipping is by taking care of our bodies. Follow the trail of your persistent negative thoughts and emotions and ask God what He has to say about them and you. Do the right things for the right reason and trust God with the results. Scripture References: Romans 12:1-2 NASB: “Present your body as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. This is your spiritual act of service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJ “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and a sound mind.” Recommended Resources: Revive & Thrive Fall Virtual Women’s Conference Eat, Live, Thrive Diet: a Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up your Midlife Metabolism by Danna Demetre and Robyn Thomson Health Rules We Need to Break for Our Good – Episode 133 How Does Exercise Reduce Stress? Hope for Healthy Living – Episode 65 How To Give Yourself GRACE in Your Health Weight Loss Journey: Hope for a Healthy Body, Mind, and Soul – Episode 104 Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win
Tue, November 23, 2021
137 How To Find Joy When Life Is Hard
Episode Summary: We only get one life to live, and we don’t want to take it for granted. In this episode, my friend, Tracie Miles, and I talk about how to find joy when life is hard, how to trust God in difficult times, how to live life unbroken and how to reclaim your life and your heart after difficult circumstances like separation and divorce. Tracie is an author, speaker, and Director of COMPEL training for Proverbs 31 ministries. She has walked through several difficult valleys in recent years and took the time to share not only the journey she has been on, but how she learned to cope and find joy again. Quotables from the episode: To learn to trust God more, we have to open our eyes to watching Him work around us. Often, it’s in the looking back that we see God was faithful, even when we can’t feel it in the moment. God doesn’t put a timetable on our grief. One of the stages of grief is acceptance. It doesn’t mean we like what has happened but we accept that God will use it in His perfect plan. It’s okay to feel anger when you’ve been mistreated, but we want to ask God to free us of anger so bitterness and resentment don’t take root in our hearts. The end of your marriage is not the end of you. Ask God for spiritual eyesight to see His hand at work in your life. Scripture References: Psalm 46:1-2 God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Isaiah 41:10 “Don’t 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.” Recommended Resources: Living Unbroken: Reclaiming Your Life and Your Heart after Divorce by Tracie Miles Love Life Again: Finding Joy When Life is Hard by Tracie Miles Unsinkable Faith: God-Filled Strategies for Transforming the Way You Think, Feel and Live by Tracie Miles Your Life Still Counts: How God Uses Your Past To Create A Beautiful Future by Tracie Miles Stressed Less Living: Finding God's Peace In Your Chaotic World by Tracie Miles How Testimonies in the Bible Bolster Your Faith During Hard Times Trusting God in Hard Times -7 Lessons Learned 5 Tips to Cope with the Hard Times <a href="https:
Thu, November 18, 2021
136 Preparing Our Hearts for Advent Season
Episode Summary: Christine Trimpe and I talk about preparing our hearts for the advent season and the Christmas holiday. My guest is a former casual Christian who is now passionate about God’s word and just released a book about how we can seek joy through the gospel of Luke as we prepare for the advent season. Quotables from the episode: Advent is the great expectation and anticipation for the birth of our Savior You can do anything hard for 21 days, so let’s expand it to 24 days and intentionally celebrate the advent season The gospel of Luke shows us how relatable Jesus is to us Scripture References: Luke 2:19 “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” Hebrews 12:1–3 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, 2 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 the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Luke 24:52–53 Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God. Recommended Resources: Seeking Joy through the Gospel of Luke: A Christmas to Calvary Advent Countdown by Christine Trimpe Free Bonus Chapters of Seeking Joy through the Gospel of Luke Weight-Loss Hero: Transform Your Mind and Your Body with a Healthy Keto Lifestyle by Christine Carter Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect wi
Thu, November 11, 2021
135 What it means to live by faith, Unblinded Faith
Episode Summary: In this episode, I talk with Elisa Pulliam about how we can know Jesus better, gain insight and wisdom through believing God’s word, and what it truly means to live by faith, Unblinded Faith. Quotables from the episode: “Unblinded Faith is both for those who have never met Jesus before and want to know, who is God and how do you get to know Him, and what is His truth. But I think there’s too many of us that as believers that live blinded, we don’t see by faith what God has for us. And so, it was kind of a, two pillars, is the best way to describe it.” “I was trying to live out the hope of Christ, the story of Christ, the promises of God, without allowing them to apply to everything I had already been through in my past…” “My life has been built upon the principles of what I call trap and transform. So, trap is ‘take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ’ which is 2 Corinthians 10:5 and then transform is Romans 12:2, ‘be transformed by the renewing of your mind.’” “How do we get ourselves into God’s Word and have a deeper desire to have a fresh encounter with God every day, not just for the past but for the now and the future?” “I began to realize that the foundational principles of God’s sovereignty, His faithfulness, His kindness, His anger, His wrath, all of it, was shaped through the 18 years that we lived at the boarding school and because of that many of the truths that I was drawn to write about had stories that were related to those years where we lived there.” What can a reader expect when she reads this book? “That people would not walk away feeling like they knew me better but that they knew Jesus better.” How is this devotional different from others? “My hope would be that it creates a pattern for women to end Unblinded Faith and say, hey, I can continue to do this on my own in the Word. And at the same time, it provides a tool for when they’re feeling flat, and distant from God and they feel lost, they can pull it out and say I’m going to go through this again and she what God has for me next time” “You don’t get spiritually connected to God if you don’t connect with God” “I would like to see women walk away and realize that they’ve seen Him move in their life in a new way that they wouldn’t have seen, because they weren’t previously looking.” Scripture Referenced: 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.” Romans 12:2 “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Recommended Resources: Unblinded Faith: Gaining Spiritual Ins
Thu, November 04, 2021
134 How To Get Organized and Simplify Your Holidays
Episode Summary: Every year the holidays bring stress, chaos, and disorganization when one considers all the additional to-do’s added to our already over-crowded days and schedules. Today we’re going to be talking about how to get organized and simplify your holidays with holiday pro, Marcia Ramsland. 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: 8 Week Online course: “ Simplify Your Holiday Season ” to take the stress out of the holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Simplify Your Holiday Season by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Holidays: A Christmas Planner to Use Year After Year by Marcia Ramsland Simply December Devotions by Marcia Ramsland Ways to Create a More Peaceful Holiday Season – Part 1 ep 35 Ways to Create More Peace During the Holidays – Part 2 ep 36 How to Stress Less at Christmas ep 88 Simplify Your Space: Create Order & Reduce Stress by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay That Way by Marcia Ramsland Organizing Your Workspace for a Productivity Boost (Instant Insights) by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Time by Marcia Ramsland Free Time Tracker: Marcia’s Famous 168 Hour Time Tracker (scroll down to the Better Homes and Gardens
Thu, October 28, 2021
133 Health Rules We Need to Break for Our Good
Episode Summary: Amy Connell and I talk about health “rules” we’ve heard but need to be broken for our good! Not all health rules are healthy. Amy is a personal trainer on a mission to help women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect. Your body is worthy of being taken care of! The reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do. Quotables from the episode: Am I taking care of my body the way God wants me to? Perfection will enslave us when it comes to taking care of our bodies. There are certain health “rules” we’ve all heard that need to be broken, for our good. Our mindset is our fall back when things don’t go right, so we have to have an appropriate mindset about our health and wellness. I’m taking care of my body so I can do what God calls me to do. When it comes to health and wellness, something is better than nothing. We tend to self-sabotage ourselves with respect to our health and wellness through perfectionism, all or nothing thinking, and trying to do too much at once. The moment we become slave to our to-do list, it becomes detrimental to our well-being. Working towards better health is NOT a waste of time even when we don’t lose weight. Your body is worthy of being taken care of. There is no perfect body! Scripture References: 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.” Galatians 1:10 NIV “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.” Recommended Resources: Your Worthy Body: Find Freedom in Health by Breaking All the Rules by Amy Connell The Joy of Movement by Dr. Kelly McGonical, Ph.D. How To Give Yourself GRACE in Your Health Hope for Healthy Living – Episode 65 Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip <li
Thu, October 21, 2021
132 Thriving Not Just Surviving When Life Falls Apart
Episode Summary: Niki Hardy and I talk about thriving not just surviving when life falls apart. Niki has faced times of loss, grief and cancer and discovered how to live well when life falls apart. She shares what God taught her through her experiences. One thing she learned is you can breathe again and thrive! Quotables from the episode: Too often we want God to give us revelation, when what we really need is realization. Often our beliefs limit us through personalization, permanence, and pervasiveness. The abundant life isn’t in the future waiting for us. God gave us to enjoy right now. Don’t wait for life to improve to live it fully. Live life to the full today. In times of suffering, lean in, not lean away. Too often we act as if heaven is pie in the sky, but the truth is we can have cake on our plate while we wait. God not only loves you, He likes you. Scripture References: John 10:10 NIV I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Psalm 62:1-2 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: Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart by Niki Hardy Listening Guide for the Freshly Diagnosed Audio How to Handle anything Life Throws at You 10 Day audio devotion Grab a couple of free chapters of her book HERE Register for her FREE Trusting God Through Cancer Summit HERE Trials that Strengthen our Faith Two Essential Tips for Navigating Life’s Trials When Things Seem Hopeless What To Do When Trials Come Storms of Life: You’re Meant To Go Through, Not Camp Out There <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/fight-an
Thu, October 14, 2021
131 How To Untangle Yourself from the Fear of Inadequacy
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about the tie between self-sufficiency and our fear of inadequacy. My guest today is Erica Wiggenhorn who knows what it’s like to live under the shadow of the imposter syndrome, but who has learned how to untangle herself from the fear of inadequacy and let God be enough for her. She shares how she did it. Quotables from the episode: Early on in my faith walk, I cried out, “Jesus, how am I supposed to follow you if I don’t understand you?” We have multiple barometers of success, but if it isn’t based in what God says about us, we will continue striving until we are exhausted. The imposter syndrome is when you feel like a fraud or a fake and are waiting to fail and be rejected. When we feel like an imposter, inwardly we isolate and that creates a setup for great loneliness. Rather than striving, we have to rest in who God is and who He says we are. When I face circumstances in this life that are overwhelmingly huge I will know for a fact that I’m not enough and I’m not supposed to be God is enough. When I stop striving to be enough to everyone and in everything and allow God to be enough, I surrender in trust over to Him. When I make peace with my limitations, I find peace in my relationships. No human can thwart a divine plan. God’s plan doesn’t rest on our performance but on His promises. God is faithful to fill in our gaps. Our limitations provide an invitation for His limitless power. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 3:5 NASB “Not that we are adequate in ourselves so as to consider anything as having come from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God. Exodus 3:11 ESV But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharoah and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV 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 of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon Me. Recommended Resources: Free eBook set The Busy Woman’s Bundle to Grow Closer to God Letting God Be Enough: Why Striving Keeps You Stuck and How Surrender Sets You Free by Erica Wiggenhorn Unexplainable Jesus: Rediscovering the God You Thought You Knew by Erica Wiggenhorn An Unexplainable Life by Erica Wiggenhorn The Unexplainable Church by Erica Wiggenhorn Who God Says You Are: 17 Scriptures About Our True Identity <a href="https://dr
Thu, October 07, 2021
130 How To Get Unstuck in Life and Move Forward
Episode Summary: Amy Joob and I talk about how to get unstuck in life and move forward into the season God has for you. Amy Joob and her husband found themselves stuck in the recent pandemic and made the successful transition into a new path for their careers and ministry. She shares what she learned in the process. Quotables from the episode: One of the keys to getting unstuck and moving forward is to be humble and accept help. Give yourself permission to grieve your losses. Getting unstuck requires being willing to change and adapt, in faith. When you’re really feeling stuck, consider a time of fasting and prayer. Getting unstuck often requires being intentional and willing to do something completely different. Getting unstuck requires us to surrender to God’s will and His way. Loss of favor in an old place of position may be a sign it’s time to step into the new. In the midst of pain, invite Jesus in to meet you in your pain. Scripture References: Psalm 73:23-24 NLT “Yet, I still belong to you; you are holding my right hand. You will keep on guiding me with your counsel; leading me to a glorious destiny.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV “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.” Recommended Resources: Amy’s new 40-Day Prayer Journal, Unstuck: Step Into the New by Amy Joob Model Behavior: Make Your Career Path Your Calling by Amy Joob The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson Fasting by Jentezen Franklin Fasting Edge by Jentezen Franklin The New Era by Lana Vawser Revive and Thrive Summit 1 Revive and Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading
Thu, September 30, 2021
129 Using Spiritual Warfare to Win the Battle Against Our Enemy
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk to author Kelly Balarie about how to train your mind to conquer challenges, defeat doubt, and live victoriously in a world where we have a very real enemy and we must always be battle ready. Quotables from the episode: “A simple girl who loves Jesus and who is just fighting on her own to figure out all of this with God and to learn these battle lessons.’ “We know God is the one who validates us.” “Our thoughts are everything. Our thoughts really are our life. If our thoughts go off kilter, our life goes off kilter which is what I was experiencing.” "We are all in a fight to receive God’s best for ourselves.” “It’s easy to make an idol out of an outcome.” “I don’t need an outcome to define who I am. I’m fully loved, I’m adored, I’m chosen, God is with me, God is using me.” “You have to go into the discovery with God. He wants to unveil to you who you really are. And so that’s the joy, that’s really what our joy is.” “I’ve got to find out the strategies, and the weapons and the tools and the insights and the wisdom and the new thoughts so that rather than letting myself be hit by the enemy all the time, and just sucker punched behind my house, I’m going to learn how to respond on offense rather defense, proactively rather than reactively and with my every emotion.” “It’s not impossible to live victoriously, we can do it. It’s a fight but God equips us with peace to do it.” “I need to adjust my game a little and so this book helps us all to get into the right game so that we can really live victoriously.” “I am at peace; I am not anxious; I am strong; I am believing what I never have before, and this is real.” “We get our mind in line with Jesus; we become Battle Ready. “ “The truth is all the power belongs to God and all the grace is His so He loves us when we do and He loves us when we don’t. right. And humility is not what we do for God or how much we give to others, yea, like that might be a by-product of humility but true humility is saying, I love you so much Jesus, I love you so much God, I want to be with you and receive from you.” “Let’s focus on what matters. Let’s get after the real depths of what brings contentment to our hearts.” “It’s time now, ladies, for us to rise up like we never have before. You know what, it’s time, it’s time for us to believe for who God says we are; it’s time for us to love like we never have; it’s time for us to know how much God loves us.” Scripture References: 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 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 wi
Thu, September 23, 2021
128 Finding Hope After Losing a Loved One to Suicide
Episode Summary: In this episode, I talk with Karisa Moore about finding hope after losing a loved one to suicide. Karisa lost her oldest son to suicide in 2014. As a mental health professional, this is a topic we don't talk about enough. When we don't talk about it, the enemy uses that to keep us isolated, feeling alone, and in despair. Quotables from the episode: Even when we are in our darkest days and have no idea what to pray, we can take comfort knowing God’s spirit intercedes for us. If you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, consider joining a support group, attending Grief Share classes, and getting Biblical counseling. Grief is a dance we don’t want, but we can grieve with hope. Shock is a gift, a cushion to help us process our loss. There is power and a gift in the differences in how we each grieve. If you’re in the pit of depression and don’t want to get up, determine your “non-negotiables,” those things you promise yourself you’ll do despite your feelings. Scripture References: Romans 8:34-35, NIV: “Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died--more than that, who was raised to life--is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” Hebrews 11:1, KJV: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Ephesians 6:10-12 ESV: “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Recommended Resources: Broken Butterflies: Emerging Through Grief, A Suicide Survivor’s Poetic Journal by Karisa Moore Suicide Risk in Children and Teens The Sadness Behind Suicide Hope for Recovery for Suicide Attempt Survivors – Episode 49 Hope When You Have Thoughts of Suicide – Episode 22 Hope When a Suicide Attempt Feels Like the Only Option Hope after a Failed Suicide Attempt – Episode 21 <a href="https://drmichell
Thu, September 16, 2021
127 Hope for Helping Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression and Suicidal Ideation
Episode Summary: Lori Wildenberg and I talk about hope for helping your child overcome anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation. Lori almost lost her daughter to death by suicide and shares with us what she’s learned. Our passion often comes from our own hurts and trials. Her daughter suffered from anxiety, depression and a failed suicide attempt. They now help others either prevent or work through really hard circumstances. Quotables from the episode: Even those parts of our lives that are messy and embarrassing can be used by God to help others. Resiliency is a human quality. While hope is a supernatural quality made up of something greater than us. Yet we need both hope and resiliency. Comparison, competition, and instant gratification are all hope busters. Delayed gratification, connection to others, humor, and a proper perspective are all hope builders. 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: Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression, or Suicidal Ideation by Lori Wildenberg Messy Journey: How Grace and Truth Offer the Prodigal a Way Home by Lori Wildenberg Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: To connect with Lori Wildenberg: Website / Author Facebook Page / <a href="htt
Thu, September 09, 2021
126 Hope for Parents of Prodigal Children
Episode Summary: Lori Wildenberg and I talk about hope for parents who have a prodigal child or whose child is making decisions we wouldn’t wish for them. We have a vision of where we hope our children will go and how we hope they will follow the Lord. We hope they live a life that is God’s best for them. What do you do when the person you love, a sibling, or child has stepped off the expected path? How do you build the bridge and keep connections going in the midst of a prodigal situation? Quotables from the episode: We are to raise our kids according to who God created and gifted them to be. Sometimes when we or our kids veer off the expected path, God will use that as a spiritual journey to ultimately strengthen our/their faith and our/their relationship to Him. Instead of asking why our prodigal child went their own way, instead ask God, “how should I respond to this situation?” It’s important that we teach our children that behaviors have consequences, but those consequences are not tied to our love for them. Our love is unconditional. When you have a prodigal child, always keep working on building a bridge in that relationship, and keep respect in that relationship in order to keep the relationship open. When you have a prodigal child, ask God “do you want me to chase after them or continue waiting while you’re at work in them?” Scripture References: Psalm 37:3-5, 23-24 NLT “Trust in the Lord and do good. They you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you…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.” Proverbs 22:6 ESV “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Psalm 118:5-6, 17, 29 NLT “In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?...I will not die; instead, I will live to tell what the Lord has done…Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Recommended Resources: Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression, or Suicidal Ideation by Lori Wildenberg Messy Journey: How Grace and Truth Offer the Prodigal a Way Home by Lori Wildenberg Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a h
Thu, September 02, 2021
125 How To Get and Stay Organized
Episode Summary: Anyone can become more organized, even you! Marcia Ramsland, The Leading Online Organizing Coach and a Business Productivity Expert, shares how to get organized and stay organized in this podcast episode. Think of organizing as a tool – it helps you accomplish what you want to accomplish in life. So, if you’re looking around at the piles of laundry and dishes in frustration and realize it’s time to make a change, you won’t want to miss this podcast! Quotables from the episode: Getting organized is something that can be learned and will save you time, give you focus, and mental clarity. The time management of the Proverbs 31 Woman: She did it all in a lifetime, but not in one day! Getting organized improves your outlook, improves your self-esteem, improves your stress level and lets you use your gifts and talents more. Organization weeds out the less important to focus on the more important. Start your organizational efforts where it makes the most impact: your closet, kitchen, and bathroom. Take pictures in your home and of your desk and calendar and ask yourself: Is calming or cluttered? Do I want to keep living this way, or do I want to be a growing person and take action to change it? The problem with the poverty in the world is not God’s provision but our distribution. Leverage your work before play. Spend 10 minutes organizing and cleaning up clutter before watching your favorite show. Proactively get control of the 10 minute bookends of your day in the morning and the evening so that the rest of the day you can be reactive to immediate needs. 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: Online course: “ Fresh Start to a New Organized You ” to get organized and stay that way in 6 weeks Simplify Your Space: Create Order & Reduce Stress by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay That Way by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Holiday Season by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Holidays: A Christmas Planner to Use Year After Year by Marcia Ramsland Simply December Devotions by Marcia Ramsland Organizing Your Workspace for a Produc
Thu, August 26, 2021
124 How To Pray for an Incarcerated Son
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk with a guest who found herself in one of the worst situations a parent could face. Her son had been arrested, charged with murder, and incarcerated. Shonda Whitworth shares how she learned to pray for an incarcerated son and how you can too. She discovered how to maintain her hope and continue to pray even when it seemed God wasn’t answering. Quotables from the episode: In the courtroom of heaven, God is the judge, Jesus is our advocate and represents us, and Satan is our accuser. Limiting negative thoughts come from our accuser, who uses us to God “day and night.” Satan is the prosecutor in the courtroom of Heaven, accusing us day and night to God, our judge. As we enter the courtroom of heaven, we repent for our thoughts and actions, Jesus covers us with His shed blood, God forgives us and washes away the charges against us, and the accuser has been silenced. There’s only one advocate who is able to come to our defense in the courtroom of Heaven: Jesus. Jesus couldn’t do miracles in His own hometown because of the disbelief there. We must pray, believing. Freedom is a person, not a location. Scripture References: Romans 8:1 TPT "So now the case is closed. There remains no accusing voice of condemnation against those who are joined in life-union with Jesus, the Anointed One." Hebrews 4:16 TPT "So now we draw near freely and boldly to where grace is enthroned, to receive mercy’s kiss and discover the grace we urgently need to strengthen us in our time of weakness." Luke 18:1 TPT "One day Jesus taught the apostles to keep praying and never stop or lose hope." Luke 18:8 TPT "God will give swift justice to those who don’t give up. So be ever praying, ever expecting, in the same way as the widow. Even so, when the Son of Man comes back, will he find this kind of undying faith on earth?” Recommended Resources: Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven by Shonda Whitworth Life as a Mother of a Convicted Felon: From Shattered Hope to Confident Hope Hope for Parents of Incarcerated Children Operating in the Courts of Heaven: granting God the Legal Rights to Fulfill His Passion and Answer Our Prayers by Robert Henderson Assessing the Courts of Heaven: Positioning Yourself for Breakthrough and Answered Prayers by Robert Henderson Receiving Healing from the Courts of Heaven: Removing Hindrances that Delay or Deny Healing by Robert Henderson <a href="https://amzn.to/3zis
Thu, August 19, 2021
123 Hope for moving from brokenness to Victorious Living
Episode Summary: We have all made mistakes in our life. We’ve all done things we regret. We’ve all gone through hardships that have hurt and scarred us in some way. In short, we’ve all gone through brokenness. In this episode, my guest, Amy Elaine Martinez, and I talk about hope for moving from brokenness to victorious living. Amy admits to having grown up in the church, but then having made some devastating life choices. She shares what her breaking point was—when she knew something had to change. And she shares a bit of her journey from brokenness to victorious living and what that looks like. Quotables from the episode: We know we are truly broken when we know that what we do breaks God’s heart. God brings dead things back to life. With God we can rise up and move forward from brokenness to victory. When we have the transforming power of the Holy Spirit living inside of us, we have everything we need on the inside to move forward in victory. We must realize we can’t change in our own strength, but God can. Too often we put the burden on ourselves to do things in our own strength, but Christ wants to be our burden barer. Victory comes from intimacy with God. Be mindful of what pleases God, and live intentionally. That leads to victorious living. If you think you’re too broken to change, know you can because of Christ. He is our change agent. Scripture References: Psalm 51:17 (MSG) "Going through the motions doesn’t please you, a flawless performance is nothing to you. I learned God-worship when my pride was shattered. Heart-shattered lives ready for love don’t for a moment escape God’s notice." Isaiah 43:18-19 (NLT) “But forget all that—it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. 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.” Luke 12:49 (TPT) “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already ablaze with fiery passion for God! Recommended Resources: Becoming a Victory Girl: Staking Your Claim in the Kingdom by Amy Elaine Martinez Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights
Thu, August 12, 2021
122 How To Use Scripture To Pray Through Difficult Emotions
Episode Summary: We all experience a wide range of emotions. Emotions in and of themselves are not bad—they are God given. But some emotions can be a stumbling block to our relationships, prayer life and our walk with the Lord. In this episode, my guest, Linda Evans Shepherd, and I dive a bit deeper into our emotions to share how to use Scripture to pray through difficult emotions. Quotables from the episode: God created our emotions, and we can turn to him whenever we are struggling with both the word and with prayer. God cares about our emotions—He gave us the fruit of the spirit which includes love, joy, peace, etc. We have to yield our emotions to God and trust Him to see us through them. The Word of God is the solution to every problem. Praying Scriptures that deal with emotions transform those who pray them with the power of the Holy Spirit. We have to be willing to look for the blessing in the midst of every trial—there we will find the unexpected miracles. Scripture References: Psalm 145:18-19 GWT The Lord is near to everyone who prays to him, to every faithful person who prays to him. He fills the needs of those who fear him. Psalm 145:18–20 GWT He hears their cries for help and saves them. The Lord protects everyone who loves him. Psalm 16:8 NLT I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. Jeremiah 29:11 NIV “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.” Job 13:15 NIV “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him…” 1 Peter 5:7 GW Turn your anxiety over to God because he cares for you. Isaiah 41:10 NIV 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. Matthew 6:25-26 ESV Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you of more value than they? 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. Recommended Resources: Praying through Every Emotion: Experiencing God’s Peace No Matter What by Linda Evans Shepherd www.EmotionPrayers.com Praying God’s Promises: The Life-Changing Power of Praying the Scriptures by Linda Evans Shepherd <a href="https://amzn.to/3
Thu, August 05, 2021
121 Finding Hope During Difficult Times
Episode Summary: In this episode, I talk with Kim Clark about finding hope during difficult times. We discuss the nature of trials, the reason for trials, why God allows us to experience trials, and how to best handle them. Quotables from the episode: Christianity doesn’t ensure a cake-walk life—Jesus told us to expect to go through many trials and sorrows. But we don’t go through them alone. In the cellar of affliction, God keeps His choicest wine. In our trials, that’s when we grow closest to Christ. There are no shortcuts in God’s refinement process. We can come alongside others in their difficult time even when we can’t understand or relate to their particular trial. Be present. When others are going through the flames of affliction, we can throw living water on their fire. Instead of asking “why me?” we can ask “why not me?” and thank God that He trusts us with these trials, and that He never wastes our pain. God never promises an easy life, but He does promise to work all things together for good when we love Him and are following His will. In the midst of our trials, the most powerful prayer we can pray is to pray scripture back to God. Scripture References: John 16:33 NLT “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.” Isaiah 43:1-3 ESV "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." 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." Deuteronomy 31:6 ESV "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you." Romans 8:28 ESV And my all time favorite: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Recommended Resources: Deep Waters: Lift Your Gaze by Kim Clark Deep Waters: Lift Your Gaze 30-Day Devotional by Kim Clark A free 18 min. Deep Waters: Lift Your Gaze book study facilitator training video on Kim’s website A free 48 min. webinar on how to write, publish, and market your book <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.co
Thu, July 29, 2021
120 When Healing after Domestic Abuse, God Will Meet You
Episode Summary: Karen DeArmond Gardner returns to discuss how God can meet you when healing after domestic abuse. She'll share what God did in and through and for her to focus on our good and faithful God. If you are involved in a domestic abuse situation, a difficult marriage, maybe some other kind of abuse, God is waiting for you to boldly approach His throne and He will give you mercy and grace. If you missed the last episode of YHFP where we talked with Karen about the hope we have for healing after domestic abuse, I highly encourage you to listen to that episode here: Hope for Healing from Domestic Abuse – Episode 119 . Her story is compelling and important. Quotables from the episode: What I’ve learned to be true is that God loves me even more than He hates divorce. Another term for domestic abuse is intimate terrorism. God isn’t as concerned with our decorum as we are. He wants us to come as we are. So often the effects of abuse leave us viewing God like our abuser. That’s a lie from the enemy. Sometimes part of our healing is deconstructing or undoing what we previously thought we knew to be true. Domestic abuse is NOT suffering for Jesus. Scripture References: Hebrews 4:16 NLT “So, let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” Galatians 5:1 NLT “So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.” Ephesians 3:20 NLT “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: Hope for Healing from Domestic Abuse: Reaching for God’s Promise of Real Freedom by Karen DeArmond Gardner Hope for Healing from Domestic Abuse – Episode 119 Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr.
Thu, July 22, 2021
119 Hope for Healing from Domestic Abuse
Episode Summary: Even if you've not been in the situation, you know others who have and need to know there is hope. In this episode, I talk with Karen DeArmond Gardner about hope for healing after domestic abuse. Many women don’t realize they are in an abusive situation because he doesn’t hit her. Only 14% of domestic violence is physical violence. When they get out of the marriage, they don’t know that healing is available. There is hope and healing. Quotables from the episode: So often, our ministry comes out of our deepest pain, Many women don’t realize they are in an abusive relationship. Coercive Control is when someone uses coercion through the threat of violence to control or manipulate someone. Only 14% of domestic violence is actually physical violence. There is often nothing a domestic abuse victim can do to change their abuser. Domestic abuse is NOT suffering for Jesus. Scripture References: Proverbs 6:16-19 NLT “There are six things the Lord hates—no, seven things he detests: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family.” Psalm 107:1-2 NLT “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies.” Ephesians 5:2 NLT “Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” Galatians 5:13 “For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead use your freedom to serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:19-23 “When you follow the desires of yur sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” Recommended Resources: Hope for Healing from Domestic Abuse: Reaching for God’s Promise of Real Freedom by Karen DeArmond Gardner Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Miche
Thu, July 15, 2021
118 Hope For Living the Best Version of Your True Self
Episode Summary: In this episode, my guest, Kerrie Oles and I talk about the hope we have for living the best version of your true self. Have you ever felt you were all alone in your struggle? Or that nobody else would understand or relate? Or experienced shame from something you’ve done or didn’t do? Then you’ve tuned in for the right episode. Quotables from the episode: Too often we are self-conscious but don’t want to be self-aware. We put on a persona like everything is fine because we fear we may not be accepted if we’re not. If you have a pulse, you have a purpose. Emotional DNA is like a blueprint which leads us to a certain reaction and behavior. Inner healing is the freedom from the thoughts and behaviors that hold us back and do some heart work. Your DNA has Jesus Christ running through it. Tears are often a release of woundings and heartache. Let them flow so God can heal. Forgiveness is the key to unlock the healing in your heart. Jesus loves those who hurt us as much as He loves us. Scripture References: Luke 7:47-48 “I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love.” Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.” Isaiah 61:1-3 “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.” He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.” Exodus 14:13-14 “But Moses told the people, ‘Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Recommended Resources: Unlock Now: 6 Steps to Begin Inner Healing by Kerrie Oles For Real: Navigating Truths Through Trials by Kerrie Oles Revived from the Me I Used To Be by Kerrie Oles Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <
Thu, July 08, 2021
117 Hope When You Feel Abandoned by God
Episode Summary: In this episode, Nan Jones and I talk about how to maintain our hope when we feel abandoned by God. During those times when we feel alone, we so desperately need evidence of God’s abiding presence. So often when we are in the valley, going through difficult times, it’s easy to feel like God has abandoned us. That’s when we need to pray God will open our eyes so that we can see Him despite our circumstances. Quotables from the episode: Having a temper tantrum with God is demonstrating authentic faith and following the command to come boldly before His throne. We have a choice to step in, to lean in, and to focus on Him. We have to remember that our God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Seeking God and His presence is contingent on my attitude. God pursues us with His love in our desert places. Scripture References: Exodus 33:14 “And He said, ‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.’” Acts 17:27-28 “so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and have our being …” John 15:4 (NKJV) “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” Recommended Resources: The Broken Way by Ann Voskamp Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: To connect with Nan Jones: Website / Facebook profile / Facebook page / Facebook The Alabaster Girls / Twitter For more hope, stay connec
Thu, July 01, 2021
116 Overcoming Shame or Discouragement
Episode Summary: As a board certified clinical neuropsychologist, I can say with a fair degree of confidence that probably everyone can relate to experiencing shame and disappointment. We’ve all had high hopes and expectations that didn’t turn out the way we wanted, and we’ve all experienced shame over what we’ve done or said, or failed to do, or because we haven’t met our own or others’ expectations for us. In this episode, we are talking with guest counselor and coach Tina Yeager about hope for overcoming discouragement or shame. Quotables from the episode: It is the enemy of our soul who seeks to get us to isolate ourselves when we are not meant to be isolated. I thought that if I starved myself, I would become acceptable to those around me. My self-esteem improved when I really came to realize that it was God who made me loveable, and He made me worthy. God created each of us to fulfill a specific purpose. God’s standard for success is our obedience, while it’s the world who says that to be successful we have to look or behave in a certain way or accomplish certain things. Self-esteem and shame often result from our negative self-talk, especially when we exaggerate our failures by saying “I always…” or “I never…” Self-esteem and shame often result from the fear of “not being enough.” But God says He has made us enough. Knowing something is a lie really comes back to knowing what the truth is. Comparison often breeds shame, discouragement, and low self-esteem and is rooted in comparing our worst day to someone else’s best day. Scripture References: Ephesians 2:10 NIV: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Philippians 1:6 NIV: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13-14: NIV “From the beginning God chose you to be saved. . . that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV: “You are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” Matthew 22:37-39 NIV: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with 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.’” Recommended Resources: Beautiful Warrior: Finding Victory over the Lies Formed Against You by Tina Yeager Hope for Body Image: How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others Finding Freedom from Comparing Yourself to Others <a href="https://drmichellebengts
Thu, June 24, 2021
115 How To Train Your Brain To Trust God
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk about how to train your brain to trust God. Our guest, Kris Reece, is an expert in this area and will be sharing practical tips with us for learning how to renew our minds, take our thoughts captive and train our brain. Quotables from the episode: God is the one who does the transforming BY the renewing of our mind. Renewing our mind begins with addressing thoughts that are not life-giving. To take our thoughts captive we have to interrogate them to determine where they are coming from. Our thoughts come from one of three places: God (who prompts and convicts), Satan (who pressures and condemns), or us (often from our past experiences) If a thought does not come from God, I don’t want that thought. It helps me to know what the Bible says, and then to put it into my own words so I can apply it to that situation and remember it later. God never gives us more hard work—the enemy does that. God reveals the areas that need renewal, by our reactions to situations. Oversized reactions indicate our internal thought processes. Our reaction is our responsibility. Scripture References: Romans 12:2 “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Ephesians 4:23 “Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.” 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.” Recommended Resources: Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer Who Switched Off My Brain by Caroline Leaf Build a Beautiful Life Out of Broken Pieces by Kris Reece Make it Matter—A Roadmap to Living a Life of Purpose by Kris Reece A Free 5 Day Created With Purpose Devotional A Free Guide “Uncover Your God Given Purpose” Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bibl
Thu, June 17, 2021
114 Knowing How Much God Loves You
Episode Summary: So many women struggle to call God Father because they have never known a Father that was good. Today’s guest, Tanya Glanzman, struggled in that respect as well until God revealed His vast love for her, and now she knows that she is her Heavenly Father’s daughter. In today’s episode, we talk about what it truly means to embrace our identity as a child of God. Quotables from the episode: When life isn’t stable, God is faithful and unchanging in His love, mercy, and grace. We can always run boldly to His throne of grace. God is sure, steadfast, and unchanging. It is critical to embrace God’s truth and filter every situation through that. Understanding love is the catalyst to trust we are saved and forgiven and chosen to be used by God. Forgiveness is releasing a person from the debt they owe. There’s nothing God calls us to do that isn’t for our good. Precious Daughter, look to your Abba Father for your value and worth - dig into the truth of His Word to discover Who He says you are in and through Christ and who He longs to be for you because of His love for you. Allow the truth of God’s Word to be the filter through which every thought you think flows. When your thoughts do not align with the truth of what God’s Word says, begin to reject the lies that have been offered to you through others and instead replace those lies with the truth that will set you free. Scripture References: Psalm 27:10 NKJV When my father and my mother forsake me, Then the LORD will take care of me Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Romans 2:11 KJV For there is no respect of persons with God. Psalm 147:3 NKJV He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds. Recommended Resources: My Father’s Daughter: Embracing Your Identity as a Daughter of the King by Tanya Glanzman, LPC Our Identity in Christ is Certain Hope for Living in Our True Identity in Christ Who God Says You Are: 17 Scriptures About Our True Identity Remember Who You Are: 10 Scriptures to Remind You of Your True Identity Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxie
Thu, June 10, 2021
113 Financial Stress: How To Cope When Facing Bankruptcy
Episode Summary: Have you ever experienced financial loss? Or have you ever wondered what you would do or how you would make it if you lost everything you had financially? Today, I talk with Shonda Whitworth who shares a very personal and real testimony of how God brought her through great financial hardship. She learned how to cope when facing bankruptcy and truly experienced what it means to say, “when all you have is God, you’ve got enough.” Quotables from the episode: With bankruptcy, the enemy heaps on shame and uncertainty. The Bible has a lot to say about our finances. When we need financial wisdom, we need to go to His word. When there is more month than money, we have to trust God to be our provider. Trials like bankruptcy and financial crises are a character refinement process. Bankruptcy is a real life example of what Christ has done for us: debt cancellation. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 1:9 “But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God.” Romans 5:3-5 “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.” Recommended Resources: Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven: Petitions for Prisoners and Prison Families by Shonda Whitworth Shadowboxing: The Dynamic 2-5-14 Strategy to Defeat the Darkness Within by Dr. Henry Malone A free downloadable PDF of 8 Prayers to Pray for Your Incarcerated Loved One is available at FortressofHopeMinistries.com Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award </u
Thu, June 03, 2021
112 Discovering Joy in the Midst of Hard Times
Episode Summary: We would be hard pressed to find anyone right now who isn’t going through a hard time, just have experienced a hard time, or headed into a hard time. Yet hard times often challenge our joy. In today’s episode, we talk with guest, Heidi McLaughlin, who experienced several hard times in a row and yet shares with us how she learned to discover joy in the midst of hard times. Quotables from the episode: God is a God of an “upper-story.” Don’t try to figure God out—trust that He has your situation figured out. People often come into our lives to act as sandpaper to us—helping refine our rough edges. Don’t despise the deserts and fires of life. It’s in the fire that our priorities change. We have to plant that which we want to experience in life. If we want companionship, we must be a companion to others. If we want kindness, we must be kind to others. Joy is the portal of heaven. Scripture References: 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 NIV “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” Colossians 2:7 NLT Let your roots grow down into him, and draw up nourishment from him, so you will grow in faith, strong and vigorous in the truth you were taught. Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving for all he has done. Recommended Resources: Fresh Joy: Finding Joy in the Midst of Loss, Hardship, and Suffering by Heidi McLaughlin Sand to Pearls: Making BOLD Choices to Enrich Your Life by Heidi McLaughlin Beauty Unleashed by Heidi McLaughlin Restless for More: Fulfillment in Unexpected Places by Heidi McLaughlin You CAN Have Joy! The Fight For Joy Joy is a Gift From God 8 Ways to Find Joy in Life Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <a hr
Thu, May 27, 2021
111 Alopecia: We Are Not Defined by Physical Flaws and Imperfections
Episode Summary: We talk about how our identity is in Christ and not a reflection in the mirror. My guest, Carol Chisolm, calls herself a survivor after suffering many years with alopecia, an autoimmune disorder that results in hair loss. She coined the phrase “I have alopecia, but it doesn’t have me” to remind herself that her identity is in Christ and not a reflection in the mirror. She has a real passion for helping others understand that we are God’s workmanship and not defined by our physical flaws and imperfections. This episode discusses how our perceived flaws or imperfections limits our effectiveness and the hope we have for overcoming them. Quotables from the episode: God can’t use us if we’re fearful. How can God get the glory if others never know our struggles? If we make obedience to God more important than our comfort, then we will be blessed. Too often we allow our flaws to control us so that we can neither be productive nor fruitful. Look at yourself in the mirror and own it, flaws and all. Half the battle is owning what we have while the second half is declaring that it doesn’t own us. Without acknowledging our flaws, we can’t seek help. Trust God to cover and carry you, imperfections and all. Scripture References: Psalms 139:14 (KJV) “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) “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.” Romans 8:28 (NLT) “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Isaiah 46:3-4 (NLT) “’Listen to me, descendants of Jacob, all you who remain in Israel. I have cared for you since you were born. Yes, I carried you before you were born. I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.’” Recommended Resources: Our Identity in Christ is Certain Who God Says You Are: 17 Scriptures About Our True Identity Remember Who You Are: 10 Scriptures to Remind You of Your True Identity Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https:/
Thu, May 20, 2021
110 Prodigal Child: Hope and healing when your loved one has gone astray
Episode Summary: Many parents have suffered the pain that ensues when they’ve had a prodigal child. In this episode, we talk about how to gain hope and healing when your loved one has gone astray. My guest today is Judy Slegh, who experienced having a prodigal child and is going to share what she learned through that experience. Quotables from the episode: Our emotions reveal our thoughts. Do not harden your heart towards your prodigal—God hasn’t. As we forgive, it releases baggage and we can receive hope for our prodigal. God sees our prodigal from their full potential. We should too. A declaration is a statement speaking God’s heart for our situation and our agreement with that. Declarations are from the heart of God. Declarations can overcome distance. God sets us up to win—but we choose whether to move closer to God or further away. Focus on who your prodigal was before they walked away. Vulnerability is being courageous. God is doing everything He can to bring your prodigal back. Scripture References: Malachi 4:6a “He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents” 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.” Job 1:10 “You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does.” Isaiah 61:1-5 “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. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the LORD’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory. They will rebuild the ancient ruins, repairing cities destroyed long ago. They will revive them, though they have been deserted for many generations. Foreigners will be your servants. They will feed your flocks and plow your fields and tend your vineyards.” Recommended Resources: 20 Life Changing Declarations to Speak for My Prodigal Situation e-book. Downloadable through www.restoringtheruins.com Help! I Have a Prodigal by Judy R Slegh Declarations that Empower Us by David Crone Forgiveness by Rodney Hogue <a href="https://amz
Thu, May 13, 2021
109 When It Feels Like You’re Losing Your Mind - Finding Hope
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk about finding hope when it feels like you’re losing your mind. My guest today, Sheryl Turner, is a delivered drug addict, stage four cancer survivor and former widow. Once a hopeless dope fiend, she is now a dopeless hope-fiend. Quotables from the episode: God wants you to accept forgiveness. Love covers a multitude of sins over our lives. When we feel trapped by the sins of our past, it helps to 1) Stop, 2) Confess it to God, and 3) Believe we are forgiven. Your ideas may be good but not best – look for HIS best for your life. Instead of doing, doing, doing, let God lead the way. Scripture References: 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.” John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is no condemnation for those that are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 2:4 “Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance” Isaiah 61:3 says, “to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes the oil of joy instead of mourning, a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” Psalm 37:4 says “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and he will do this.” Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Recommended Resources: It’ll Be Okay: Finding God When Doubt Hides the Truth by Sheryl Giesbrecht Turner The Bondage Breaker by Dr. Neil T. Anderson Victory Over the Darkness by Dr. Neil T. Anderson The Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study<
Thu, May 06, 2021
108 Dysfunctional Mother Daughter Relationships: Hope for Breaking the Cycle
Episode Summary: Today we talk about hope for breaking the cycle of dysfunctional mother daughter relationships. My guest, Phylis Mantelli, experienced mother wounds and went on to break the cycle of mother daughter dysfunction with her own children. She always says, “We are not a perfect family, but a bonded family.” She’s here today to share hope and the lessons she learned with us. Quotables from the episode: Trauma feels normal and tries to convince you that you don’t deserve better. In order to change, you have to believe in something bigger than you. We have to take our parents off a pedestal and look at them as normal people with real hurts, faults, and strengths. Just because our loved ones are broken doesn’t mean we have to stay broken. Look at the things that are not working for you anymore. Write down in a journal the things you would want to start changing in your life. Take one thing, pray and ask what you can start doing today to start making those baby steps. There is always a hope and a promise for better days. However, it is up to us to take ACTION on it! Praying specifically each day is important, asking God to show you is important, but actually moving in the direction He leads you on is key. Forgiveness in unhealthy families is possible when you have a God who shows you the way. It is possible to change things you have grown up learning or seeing in destructive ways. Scripture References: Proverbs 3:5-6 HCSB “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths.” Jeremiah 29:13 HCSB “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” Isaiah 41:10 HCSB “Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand.” Recommended Resources: Unmothered: Life With a Mom Who Couldn’t Love Me by Phylis Mantelli “ The Five Tips for Setting Boundaries ” Free Download Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Per
Thu, April 29, 2021
107 Hope When Prayers Go Unanswered
Episode Summary: Today we’re talking about how to have hope when prayers go unanswered. Samantha Morgan returns to share more of her journey through infertility, an adoption that fell through, an international adoption, foster parenting, and a domestic adoption. Through the very real, hard circumstances, God taught her how to wait on Him as she was waiting for Him to answer her prayers. Quotables from the episode: I thought God was punishing me, but really, He was drawing me to Him, to learn how to trust Him more. God can handle our anger, our disappointment, our questions. He would rather we be honest and open with Him—He knows what we think anyway, but He wants us to share with Him. You don’t see purpose in the waiting period, until it’s over and you look back. It’s okay to not be in control. God wants to take that burden for you. Our faith doesn’t move or impress God—His plan for our lives is already in motion. Scripture References: Romans 8: 26-27 NIV “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.” Hebrew 11:1 NIV “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for, and assurance about what we do not see.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 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.” Hebrews 10:23 NIV “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” Romans 8:26-28 NIV “In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Recommended Resources: Miraculously My Own: One Woman’s Incredible Journey of Infertility, Faith, and Adoption by Samantha J. Morgan Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <a href="https
Thu, April 22, 2021
106 Hope for Healing After Infertility
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk about hope for healing after infertility and adoption. My guest, Samantha Morgan, is going to share her testimony after enduring infertility, an adoption that fell through, foster parenting, and the beautiful ways God used her disappointments for good, weaving a beautiful tapestry that she never could have imagined. Quotables from the episode: Adoption is rooted in pain from both sides. Giving my infertility to God allowed me to get out of His way so He could do what only He could do. Infertility brings with it all the emotions of grief. Infertility is not your fault, and it’s not a punishment for something you did or didn’t do. I had to ask myself, do I want to be pregnant, or do I really want to be a mom? Scripture References: Romans 8: 26-27 NIV “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.” Hebrew 11:1 NIV “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for, and assurance about what we do not see.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 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: Miraculously My Own: One Woman’s Incredible Journey of Infertility, Faith, and Adoption by Samantha J. Morgan Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Samantha Morgan: Website / Faceb
Thu, April 15, 2021
105 Thought Life: 6 Top Interviews for 2 Year Anniversary
Episode Summary: This is a special episode because it marks our 2-yr anniversary of weekly podcast episodes to offer you a Biblically-based hope-filled perspective. For this episode, I’d like to highlight some of the favorite episodes from the past year or so. It seems like I’ve spent the bulk of my career teaching about the importance of our thoughts and our words, so it’s not really much of a surprise that many of the episodes we’ve aired touch on the importance of our thought life. We’ve talked about how to transform our thoughts and transform our life. We’ve talked about how to overcome grumbling, complaining, and negativity. We’ve talked about the importance of our words in our relationships and how to intentionally use our words to improve relationships. We’ve shared how our thoughts often lead us down the spiral into comparison, and how to stop comparing ourselves to others. We also had a several-week series on how to overcome worry, fear, and anxiety, and we also talked about replacing the lies we’ve believed with the truth of God’s word, and so much more. Quotables from the episode: In episode 43, we talked with Sarah Geringer about How to Change Your Thoughts to Transform Your Life [click here to listen to her entire episode - How To Change Your Thoughts and Transform Your Life – Episode 43 ]. Sarah struggled with her thoughts for a long time before realizing she could do something about them. She shares a bit about her healing journey. Sarah had so much more to say on the topic of How to Change Your Thoughts to Transform Your Life that I hope you’ll go back and listen to ep. 43, and read her guest blog post [click here to read 3 Easy Ways to Meditate on God’s Word ]. In one of my favorite episodes, ep. 64, we talked with Tricia Goyer about the journey she and her family, including her ten children, embarked upon to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and Negativity [click here to listen to her entire episode - How to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and General Negativity – Episode 64 ]. She shared from her experiences in an effort to guide us on our own journey to overcome negativity in our own lives: Who doesn’t want to let go of Grumbling, Complaining, and Negativity? I know I want to keep my thoughts and words positive and filled with gratitude. If you want to learn more about how to do this, go back and listen to episode 64 [click here to listen to her entire episode How to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and General Negativity – Episode 64 ] and read her guest blog post [click here to
Thu, April 08, 2021
104 Weight Loss Journey: Hope for a Healthy Body, Mind, and Soul
Episode Summary: In this episode, Christine Carter of Weight Loss Hero and I talk about her weight loss journey and the hope we have for a healthy body, mind and soul. In order to achieve lasting change in our bodies, we must first transform our minds. We can also take control of areas of our lives, like fear, that are holding us back from change. Through Christine’s business, she coaches people looking to sustain a healthier lifestyle. Her own weight-loss journey of 150+ pounds has been highlighted on multiple media sites, including fitnessmagazine.com, thetodayshow.com, and popculture.com. Quotables from the episode: Our feelings are not facts. Society says we have to tuck it in, but we need to address our thoughts and feelings. You can lose weight and still feel empty. Don’t eat your feelings. Sin feels like a hug at first until it doesn’t let go. Fear holds people back from change. Surrender means leaning into Jesus. Self-sabotage comes from the voices in our head. Scripture References: Philippians 4:13 “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 “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, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” Recommended Resources: Weight-Loss Hero: Transform Your Mind and Your Body with a Healthy Keto Lifestyle by Christine Carter Eat, Live, Thrive Diet: A Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism by Danna Demetre and Robyn Thompson Dr. Colbert’s Hormone Health Zone: Lose Weight, Restore Energy, Feel 25 Again! by Don Colbert Dr. Colbert’s Keto Zone Diet: Burn Fat, Balance Appetite Hormones, and Lose Weight by Don Colbert Hope for Healthy Living How to Give Yourself Grace in Your Health Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxietys-gr
Thu, April 01, 2021
103 Will Your Anchor Hold in the Storms of Life?
Episode Summary: Will your anchor hold in the storms of life? In this episode, we’re talking about how to stay anchored in a storm and flourish instead of sink. Joining me is my friend, Cynthia Cavanaugh, author of Anchored: Leading Through the Storms. Quotables from the episode: We need to give permission to others to share their struggles. Be careful not to be married to ministry instead of your spouse. We need to listen more than we talk. Offering spiritual platitudes never helped anyone. You don’t have to agree with someone to validate their emotions. God says, “Do you trust me? I am enough.” We need to prepare before the storm so we don’t capsize in the storm. Don’t try so hard to be someone who makes everyone else happy. Just be who God created you to be. Live Bold: Trust Jesus, step out in faith, and take risks with God. Scripture References: Mark 4:35-41 “As evening came, Jesus said to is disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. 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?’ When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Silence! Be still!’ Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, ‘Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?’ The disciples were absolutely terrified. ‘Who is this man?’ they asked each other. ‘Even the wind and waves obey him!’” Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” Psalm 37:1-7 “Don’t worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong. For like grass, they soon fade away. Like spring flowers they soon wither. Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord and he will give you your heart’s desires. 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. Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act.” Isaiah 43:2-3 “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. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” Recommended Resources: Anchored: Leading Through the Storms by Cynthia Cavanaugh Live Bold: A Devotional Journal
Thu, March 25, 2021
#102 Biblical Joy: Finding, Keeping, and Living in God’s Joy
Episode Summary: In this episode, Suzie Eller and I discuss some truths that just might change everything you thought you knew about joy. I so relate to my guest today because she has experienced one incredibly painful trial after another, and yet through it, she has come to savor the sweet aroma of her Savior walking with her in those trials. Quotables from the episode: After a year of sorrow, I began to search for biblical joy. I found 6 surprising truths that helped me redefine joy, keep joy, and live joy. Biblical joy isn’t a feeling…it’s a knowing. Biblical joy is tied to God’s goodness over our life. Joy is consciously walking into God’s love and care. We have a choice to make: we can turn away from God or turn to Him. While we may not always be able to “choose joy,” we can choose the SOURCE of our joy. We don’t have to limit ourselves to experience either joy or sorrow, but rather, give ourselves permission to experience joy AND sorrow. God is not disappointed by how we feel. Those feelings are indicators. He not only created us to feel, but cares about how we feel. Know that joy is for you and it’s not tied to your circumstances. Scripture References: John 16:22 NIV Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. John 15:11 NIV I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. Romans 8:27-29 MSG He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God isworked into something good. God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. Recommended Resources: Joy Keeper: 6 Truths that Change Everything You Thought You Knew About Joy by Suzie Eller You CAN Have Joy! The Fight For Joy! From Joy-Immune to Joy-Full! Are You Seeking Joy? How to Raise Teenagers With Confidence and Joy Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <a
Thu, March 18, 2021
101 Hope When Things Aren't Always What They Seem
Episode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about how to find hope when things aren’t always as they seem. My guest, Lori Boruff, has been at the place where she felt hopeless, but then found the true source of hope, and has learned that even when life is difficult, things aren’t always as they seem. Quotables from the episode: I know hope because I’ve known what it was to be hopeless. Sometimes hope isn’t really lost, it just gets buried under the emotional rubble. We often think our way is best, but God’s way is blessed. 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.” Colossians 1:21-22 MSG “You yourselves are a case study of what he does. At one time you all had your backs turned to God, thinking rebellious thoughts of him, giving him trouble every chance you got. (22) But now, by giving himself completely at the cross, actually dying for you, Christ brought you over to God’s side and put your lives together, whole and holy in his presence. You don’t walk away from a gift like that!” Recommended Resources: Hope In The Ruins – A Rescue and Recovery Plan For Hearts In Crisis by Lori Boruff Cell 121: Learning To Never Give Up on Yourself or Your Loved Ones in the Toughest Moments of Life by Rusty Boruff Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Website Lori Boruff / Website OneEighty / Facebook Lori Boruff For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book <a href="https://amzn.t
Thu, March 11, 2021
100 Lies We Believe vs. Truths from the Bible about our Identity
Episode Summary: This is my birthday week, and in this episode, I wanted to give back to you, our faithful listener. I share what was the impetus for my daily social media “Today is a good day…” devotions. With age often comes wisdom. In this episode, I decided to focus on the lies that we often believe, and truths from the Bible about our identity. Quotables from the episode: As long as God is still on His throne, today is a good day for a good day. The lies we believe about ourselves limit us from fulfilling God’s calling for our lives. What matters most is knowing what God says about us and believing that over the lies of the enemy. If we weren’t imperfect we wouldn’t need a Savior. The worth of something is determined by the price we are willing to pay for it. Jesus thought we were so worthy that He paid the price of His life for us. There is nothing we can do to earn God’s love. Scripture References: 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.” Isaiah 53:5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. 2 Corinthians 12:9 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. Ephesians 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace. Ephesians 1:5 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. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together - spirit, soul, and body - and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. Song of Solomon 2:16a My beloved is mine and I am his. Ephesians 1:5-6 “having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He [a]made us accepted in the Beloved.” Isaiah 41:10 Don’t 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. 1 Corinthians 15:57 “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus 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: Free Download: How To Fight Fearf
Thu, March 04, 2021
099 How to Jump Out of Your Comfort Zone and Dare with God
Episode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about what it looks like to jump out of our comfort zone, have faith and dare with God. My guest today, is Kate Battistelli, mother of DOVE and GRAMMY award-winning Christian recording artist Francesca Battistelli, and author of The God Dare. Quotables from the episode: A “God Dare” is always too big for us—we can’t do it on our own without God’s help. The impossible is God’s zone. A “God Dare” often makes no earthly sense. It’s only after the fact that we can look back and see the dots connected. God will equip you for whatever He calls you to. Scripture References: Hebrews 11:1 “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.” Genesis 15:5-6 “Then the Lord took Abram outside and said to him, ‘Look up into the sky and count the starts if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!’ And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith.” Recommended Resources: The God Dare by Kate Battistelli Growing Great Kids by Kate Battistelli Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Kate Battistelli: Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest / Website For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / <a href="http
Thu, February 25, 2021
098 Moving from Trials to Triumph
Episode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about the hope we have for moving from trials to triumph. My guest today, Tammy Whitehurst, shares how the hope God gives for today and the new strength He gives for tomorrow turns our trials into opportunities for praise. Quotables from the episode: We often get stuck going backwards, but life is meant to be lived in a forward motion. A broken heart can leave us bitter and wasting our days or better for it. So often our problems turn into praises if we will just hold on long enough. Every mess has a Messiah who wants to see us through it and turn our mess into a message. We can either allow life to get us stuck in a rut, or run toward God. God’s grip doesn’t slip! I’ve never seen the back of Jesus, but he’s seen my back plenty of times. We need to fight with faith, not our fist. Disappointment drove me to the depths of despair. When we swim in a sea of unforgiveness, it pulls us under. The power of forgiveness is huge. Worship while you wait. Don’t concentrate on what you don’t know—focus on what you do know: God’s truth. The enemy is not going to be convinced until you are. Hope comes from Jesus—grab hold of Him. I want to live every day doing my best and letting God do the rest. You may be bent, but you’re not broken! Scripture References: 1 John 4:4 “But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.” Acts 20:24 “But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.” Isaiah 54:17 “But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord; their vindication will come from me. I, the Lord, have spoken!” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s
Thu, February 18, 2021
097 How To Engage in Spiritual Warfare
Episode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about our identity in Christ, the reality of spiritual warfare and the importance of praying daily for our children. We’re fighting a real battle that we can’t ignore. This is the kind of battle we fight on our knees. Join me with my guest, Tina Chambers Smith, founder of Raising Kids on Your Knees. Quotables from the episode: Our identity in Christ is despite what we do. My identity is rooted in the fact that I am a child of God and that never changes. What I do comes out of who I am. Spiritual warfare is a truth encounter. We see less than 20% of reality with our physical eyes. What lies did you bring from your independent life into your life that is dependent on God? “Lordship” is following no matter what. We grow the most in life’s hardest places. Our goal as parents is to place our child’s hand in the hand of a holy, living, good God. Scripture References: 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!” Matthew 28:18 “Jesus came and told his disciples, ‘I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.’” Ephesians 6:12 “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Recommended Resources: Victory Over the Darkness by Neil Anderson Bondage Breaker by Neil Anderson The Adversary by Mark Bubeck The Calvary Road by Roy Hession Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Tina Chambers Smith: Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter For more hope, stay conn
Thu, February 11, 2021
Rebuilding Intimacy in Marriage
Episode Summary: In this episode, I’m talking with relationship experts, and the founders of the Living Love-Wise Community, Bill and Pam Farrel, about rebuilding intimacy in marriage. Quotables from the episode: For wives, romance means connection. For men, romance starts with respect. Romance communicates to your spouse “You are worth it.” A loving (and romantic) relationship requires intentionality. Instead of spending money, consider making memories. Give yourself permission to love yourself like God does. The best Valentine’s Day gifts are personalized. If you are in a relationship and don’t feel loved, try treating your partner the way you would want to be treated and watch God change their heart over time. Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 13:1-8, 13 “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have absolute faith so as to move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and exult in the surrender of my body, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs. Love takes no pleasure in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails…And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love.” Hebrews 3:13 “But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called "Today," so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.” Philippians 2:1-4 “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” 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: Men are Like Waffles, Women are Like Spaghetti: Understanding and Delighting in Your Differences by Bill & Pam Farrel Discovering Joy in Philippians: A Creative Dev
Thu, February 04, 2021
095 Childhood Depression: What Does It Look Like and How Can Parents Help?
Episode Summary: In this episode we’re talking to licensed professional counselor, Michelle Nietert, about how to recognize depression in children, what parents can do to help, and how parents can know when it’s time to seek outside help for their children. Quotables from the episode: One in four children will have mental health issues by the time they are 18 years old. We’ve gotten things confused with our children. Too often we see them as human doings rather than human beings. There is nothing that you, I and God can’t face together. Kids need a chance to fail under your own safe roof. Children will have a better chance of managing social media well when they understand the purpose of it. The best way parents can help their depressed children is by listening, empathizing, and validating their feelings. Scripture References: Psalm 43:5 “Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!” Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Recommended Resources: More Than Moody by Harold Koplewicz Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope for Depression in Children and Teens Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Michelle Nietert: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Pinterest For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Ord
Thu, January 28, 2021
094 Hope for Discovering Joy in the Midst of Pain
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about how to find joy in the midst of life’s painful situations. In fact, our guest today is going to help us understand how joy can be found in any situation. Adria Wilkins enjoys telling a story, adding sprinkles of joy and a few extra dollops to liven it up. After suffering the unthinkable—the death of her 3-year-old son Blake, she found that Jesus sustains, and even surprises His followers with joy. If you need hope for finding joy in the midst of pain, this episode is for you. Quotables from the episode: If nothing else, nature can bring us joy. We all go through struggles, but joy can be found if we are willing to look for it. Faith is our sustaining power. Happiness comes and goes, and is dependent on our circumstances, but joy is internal, and a gift from God, that we can have despite our circumstances. Joy often comes from changing our perspective about our circumstances, and looking for the good amidst the rubble. Scripture References: Psalm 28:7, “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” Proverbs 11:25, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Psalm 100:1, “Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.” Recommended Resources: The Joy Box Journal by Adria Wilkins Fight for Joy From Joy-Immune to Joy-Full Are You Seeking Joy? How To Raise Teenagers with Confidence and Joy You Can Have Joy Don't Let Comparison Steal Your Joy Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Rea
Thu, January 21, 2021
093 Spiritual Warfare is Real
Episode Summary: In this episode we talk about the reality of spiritual warfare and the fact that we can be securely held in the midst of such battles. Quotables from the episode: If you are living and breathing, you will experience spiritual warfare in some way. We were not born on a playground—we were born onto a battlefield. Our previous wounds coupled with bitterness and resentment give Satan access to our hearts and lives. The longer we nurse our wounds, the more they become an idol in our lives. Scripture References: 1 John 4:4 “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” Deuteronomy 33:12 “About Benjamin he said: ‘Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between his shoulders.’” Recommended Resources: The Invisible War by Chip Ingram Forgiving My Father, Forgiving Myself by Ruth Graham Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Cheryl Lutz: Cheryl's Facebook / Securely Held 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 / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drmichelleb
Thu, January 14, 2021
092 Hope for Experiencing Joy Despite our Circumstances
Episode Summary: In this episode, Christina Custodio and I talk about experiencing joy despite our circumstances. Today’s guest knows what it’s like to face trials and triumph, and experience joy despite her circumstances. Her son almost died from a brain aneurysm. I hope you’ll be encouraged as you listen to today’s episode. Quotables from the episode: I believe that all things can work together for good, especially when we trust God to work in our lives without getting in the way and trying to take control. Though things may not look the way we had hoped, we can change the way we look at them and find peace. When we are in times of crisis, when we will look at the needs of others over our own, we can experience His joy and peace. Even when things don’t turn out the way we want, they can still be good! Peace comes from trusting God. We cannot experience peace apart from Him. We have to remember that God covers us even in our weaknesses. If we will look for God in every circumstance, we will not only find Him, but we will experience the joy that only comes from Him. Read scriptures that specifically talk about who God is and why we can trust Him. Start acting as if you trust Him until you really do. Scripture References: James 1:2-4 “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. Isaiah 40:31 “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” Recommended Resources: Believing God by Beth Moore Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award<
Thu, January 07, 2021
091 Hope for Transforming our Body, Mind, Heart and Soul
Episode Summary: In this episode, my guest Christine Trimpe and I talk about Transformation of Body, Mind, Heart, & Soul. Christine has an inspiring transformation story. Not only did she lose over 100 pounds, but she gained a rich relationship with her savior. Listen in to hear how she did it, and you can too. Quotables from the episode: Sometimes weight loss journeys aren’t about physical weight at all. God met me in my worst despair. Insecurity and fear holds us back from God’s best for us. God gave me a voice I didn’t recognize. I was very good at masking my feelings, and feeding them with food. God loves us so much He wants us to live our best life. Scripture References: Romans 12:1-2 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.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. (NIV) Ephesians 2:3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 2 Timothy 1:6-7 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. (NIV) Recommended Resources: The Obesity Code: Unlocking the Secrets of Weight Loss by Jason Fung, MD. Weight-Loss Hero: Transform Your Mind and Your Body with a Healthy Keto Lifestyle by Christine Carter Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Christine Trimpe:
Tue, December 29, 2020
090 Benefits of a Sugar Fast
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about how we can exchange our physical addictions to food/sugar for spiritual transformations. My guest today is friend, Wendy Speake, author of The 40-Day Sugar Fast: Where Physical Detox Meets Spiritual Transformation. Today we’ll explore what is fasting, why should we consider it, and what are some of the surprising benefits. Quotables from the episode: Sugar is a stronghold for many people. 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: The 40-Day Social Media Fast: Exchange Your Online Distraction for
Tue, December 22, 2020
089 Soul Care: How to Reduce Anxiety During the Holidays (Replay)
Episode Summary: If you have ever felt overwhelmed, worn out, or overcome by holiday pressures, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about soul care: how to reduce anxiety with tips on tending to your soul and remaining unruffled during the chaos of the holidays. Whether we have a lot of time or a little time, our Heavenly Father delights in spending time with us. When we spend time with Him, we can rid ourselves of worry, fear, and anxiety, and remain in His peace. When we think about Jesus’s three years of ministry, he walked into the most chaotic environments but brought His peace with Him. So we can walk into any situation, allowing God’s peace to dominate us, and then it will spread outward. As believers with the Holy Spirit, we do carry God’s peace with us, but too often we forfeit that peace by becoming consumed by the chaos around us. Peace is not the opposite of chaos, it comes from inside so it’s not dependent on our circumstances. We need to look at situations from God’s vantage point. We are all capable of bringing His peace to our situations but we have to be more deliberate and less easily influenced by our circumstances. Anxiety comes from looking at our circumstances rather than up at our heavenly Father. We lose our peace when we’ve gotten our focus wrong. We never see the entire situation, but He can because He’s already gone before us. So often we become consumed by focusing on the details when He wants us to leave the details to Him and trust Him with the big picture. Try to make time for family, friends, and memory making. Be sure to make sure you are already plugged into God, before the chaos takes over. Taking time at the end of the day to still our thoughts and give God our cares of the day can help us sleep more peacefully and wake up unruffled the next morning. By looking over the plans of the next day, we can wake up prepared instead of in a panic about the day. Understand that your wellbeing is paramount to God, as well as the wellbeing of those around you. You cannot get water from an empty well. It’s just not possible to pour out when we ourselves are dry and empty. He wants us to be taking care of our own soul, and taking care of our physical body so that it doesn’t give out on you. Quotables from the episode: “Find your voice, live your story.” Edie Melson Whether we have a lot of time or a little time, our Heavenly Father delights in spending time with us. When we think about Jesus’s three years of ministry, he walked into the most chaotic environments but brought His peace with Him. Scripture References: John 14:27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” Philippians 3:16 “Only let us live up to what we h
Thu, December 17, 2020
088 How To Stress Less at Christmas
Episode Summary: How do you put the world on halt, and tell those you’ve committed to that you just can’t do? How do you draw the line between enough and too much? Who determines what is adequate and appropriate and when we cross the line to excessive? Have you ever wrestled with any of those questions? I think it’s common for us to hope for, and even strive for, a picture-perfect Norman Rockwell Christmas. But the reality is, that picture is fictitious and the longer we strive for that, the more exhausted we become, and the less we enjoy the holidays. Today we’re going to be talking about stressing less at Christmas. 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: Ways to Create
Thu, December 10, 2020
087 Looking For Love in All the Wrong Places
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk about moving from brokenness to wholeness, and maintaining our hope in God. A misguided search for love & acceptance lured Maureen Hager into the life of an outlaw motorcycle gang. Caught up in a violent gang war, she sustained two gunshot wounds from M16 rifles. While severely wounded, this act of violence was the turning point God used to give her a restored life in Him. Quotables from the episode: If you are experiencing any pain or hardship right now, and wonder what good could come out of this, you’ve tuned in to the right episode. Sometimes a grieving heart will lead us to look for love in all the wrong places. When we’ve had a wounding to our heart, we will seek acceptance from whomever will fill it. It’s a universal search we all have: looking for love. But there is only one true source that will satisfy. So often people stay in unhealthy environments and relationships because they feel trapped. I had no idea of the journey ahead, all I know looking back is that that bullet was my escape from that gang. God saved my life. Often circumstances we find ourselves in is an opportunity for God to reach into that pit and pull us up to higher ground. If you end up in the hospital, you need an advocate! When you feel alone, it’s easy to believe the lie that God has abandoned you. The biggest lesson I learned was that God did love me, and my hardened heart started to melt. In our places of desperation that is when we become most willing to listen to God. I experienced the God of hope and that made all the difference in my life. When I sought out the gang, I was looking for love and acceptance but never found it, but when I began going to church I learned what true love was. What the enemy intended to harm me, God has used for my good. God is waiting for you to come to Him. He loves you. The extent of His love for us is unfathomable. Accepting that He does love us makes all the difference. You are never too broken for God to heal you. Scripture says Jesus was broken for you and for me. If we were not broken human beings, we would never have needed a Savior. Jesus came because we are broken. Your past does not define you. Scripture References: Psalm 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, behold, all things have become new. Revelation 12:11a And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. Recommended Resources: Love’s Bullet: A Wounded Victim in a Biker Gang War Transformed by God’s Love by Maureen Hager Healing the So
Thu, December 03, 2020
086 Hope for When Life Doesn't Go as Planned
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about how life often doesn’t go the way we planned for it to go, which often makes us wonder where God is or if he sees or cares. My guest today, Tracy Steel, is a lover of both interior design and theology who combines these two passions to creatively help women find peace and understand who God is and his purpose for them whenever their life doesn’t go as they hoped or planned for. Quotables from the episode: We can’t find comfort, security, and contentment in anything but God. The only thing that remains constant is God himself. Sometimes when we experience greater loss, it sets the stage to experience more of God’s comfort. Is God your focal point? Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 15:58 “So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. Psalm 33:11 “But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken.” Hebrews 2:10 “God, for whom and through whom everything was made, chose to bring many children into glory. And it was only right that he should make Jesus, through his suffering, a perfect leader, fit to bring them into their salvation.” Recommended Resources: “ A Redesigned Life: Uncovering God’s Purposes When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned ” by Tracy Steel A 5-Day Reading Plan for Uncovering God's Purpose For You by Tracy Steel - Bible.com Reading Plan “ Praying God’s Word ” by Beth Moore Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Tracy Steel: Website / <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TracyMSteel
Fri, November 27, 2020
085 Benefits of Taking a Break from Social Media
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about how we can exchange our online distractions for real-life devotion. My guest today is friend, Wendy Speake, author of The 40-Day Social Media Fast: Exchange Your Online Distractions for Real Life Devotion . She’ll be sharing what she has learned through her periods of social media fasting and why we may want to consider doing the same. Quotables from the episode: “Whatever keeps me from my Bible is my enemy, however harmless it may appear.” A. W. Tozer Exchange your online distractions for real-life devotion. It is possible that what we are turning to, in order to cope with stress may actually be increasing our stress. God never called us to a sugar sacrifice, but to a living sacrifice. The goal of fasting is always to lay down that which is temporary and pick up that which is eternal and extraordinary. When we give God our ordinary hunger, we get a hunger for Him. He will satisfy our hunger. The only thing that doesn’t trip us up is running to Him. The conviction of God is kind. Digital minimalism: Choosing which hours to open up social media instead of what hours to shut down. When we take the details of our fast to the person of Christ, He will personalize the process for us. We set down social media so we can get social with the Lord. The more time we spend on social media, the more we compare ourselves to others, the more we feel like we are missing out, and the more depressed and anxious we become. Johan Wolfgang Von Goethe warned, “Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.” We live in a culture that values beautiful pictures but isn’t comfortable with beautiful brokenness. When you put your phone down it’s easier to lift your eyes up. While our smart devices offer us an easy way to find anything in the world, they can also be a distraction from the things that can’t be found with a Google search. If you want to learn to walk right up to God, start by considering how close He already is. We run to Him not to get a fix, but for Him to fix anything broken in us. Scripture References: Colossians 3:2 MSG “Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that’s where the action is.” Jonah 2:8 “Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them.” Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” 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 heart
Thu, November 19, 2020
084 How To Be Thankful for the Small Things
Episode Summary: In this week’s episode, we’re going to be talking about how to be thankful for the little things in life when the big things seem to be falling down around us. I remember a time when God spoke to my heart and was really challenging me to examine my heart and answer the question, do I trust God in ALL things? Today, as we approach what is generally considered a holiday at which time we give thanks, He challenges us to thank Him for ALL things. This is a tall order. So we’re going to be talking about how to do that. Quotables from the episode: One of the best ways to be thankful for the little things is to remember the grateful prayers of our children. It’s easy to thank God when things are going well. It’s a sacrifice to thank God when things are hard. How can we flip the narrative in our mind and be thankful for the hard situations? The snoring means he is breathing, the dirty socks on the floor mean our children are home, the dishes in the sink mean we have food to eat. Looking at the lack of others will stir gratitude in our hearts for what we have that others don’t. This is a very unusual year. Sometimes it isn’t just a matter of what we have to be thankful for, but who we can be thankful to. Tips for practicing gratitude when you don’t feel like it: Appreciate the kindness of others Shift your focus away from the pain Be thankful for learning opportunities (more tips given in the podcast) God honors our gratitude, our thankfulness, our praise, especially when it is an offering and we don’t “feel like it.” 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. Matthew 18:3 Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. Philippians 4:6-7 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. Recommended Resources: Thanksgiving: Thoughts on Gratitude Thanksgiving: The Not so Little Things Gratitude Over Grumbling <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/ask-dr-b-6-ways-to-practice-gratitude-when-you
Thu, November 12, 2020
083 Hope for Overcoming Perfectionsim
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about the well-known women of the Bible, Mary and Martha. Have you ever seriously considered them? Which one do you identify with most? I’ll confess, I’ve always been more of a Martha wanting to live like Mary. I spent my earlier years very much like a Type-A, driven, achiever, and prized myself on how long my to-do list was, and how much of it I accomplished every day. And yet, when I read the account of Jesus visiting the home of Mary and Martha, I always felt a bit of disappointment and discouragement because it felt like Jesus favored Mary and her personality and temperament more than Martha. But my guest today has good news for you whether you identify more with Mary or with Martha. Quotables from the episode: When worry grows and appeals to the appetite of our hearts, may be grow sick of it, and feast on faith. We must starve worry, and feast on worship. Jesus disciplines those He loves—He guides us because He cares about us. Instead of striving for perfection, rest in the perfection of Jesus! Since God has forgiven us, we have to forgive ourselves. God is personal in His relationship with us. Grace is a gift to be received, mot a prize to be earned. Because of Jesus’s sacrifice, we can pause and celebrate the work that has already been done. Our souls can be at rest even when our hands are busy. Scripture References: Luke 10:38-42 “As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits where while I do all the work? Tell her to come help me.” But the Lord, said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” Ephesians 2:8-10 “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this: it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so one of us can boast about it. 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.” Romans 3:23-24 “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.” Recommended Resources: Made Like Martha: Good News for the Woman Who Gets Things Done by Katie Reid <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.c
Thu, November 05, 2020
082 The Miracle Man Shares Hope
Episode Summary: Today I’ve got a guest with a riveting story. By all medical accounts, he should not still be living. He is a true miracle man, and shares hope with us. Today we’re going to be talking about how God takes the worst of situations and works them for our good, and how we can find hope and peace in that. Quotables from the episode: When all else fails, God never fails us. Scripture References: James 1:2-4 “Dear brother and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing." James 1:12 “God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." Recommended Resources: They Call Me Miracle Man: a Life of Success, Tragedy, Betrayals, and Hope by Jay Straub The Mystery of Catastrophe by Joel Richardson and Nathan Graves Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jay Straub: 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 / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drmichellebengtson
Thu, October 29, 2020
081 Hope for Finding Your Purpose
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about finding our purpose. Did you know that God created you with a very specific purpose? He has plans for you to fulfill that ONLY you can do. Quotables from the episode: “Your emotions will make you second guess yourself, but your confidence in God will make you stand upright.” Dr. Marina McLean “Knowing your purpose starts by identifying your passion.” Courage is seeing something is possible. The depth of pressure that you can handle distinguishes you from being good to being great. Most people find their purpose in the midst of their pain. Scripture References: Psalms 8:4-6 “What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” 2 Corinthians 1:20 “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.” Proverbs 31:30-31 “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.” Recommended Resources: 3 Power Moves to Make Your 2020 Mega, Free Download An Appetite for Worship by Dr. Marina McLean Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Dr. Marina McLean: Website Mega Women / Instagram Mega Women / Website Dr. Marina McLean / Instagram Dr. Marina McLean / Facebook / Twitter For more hope, stay conne
Thu, October 22, 2020
080 Hope in the Midst of Hardship
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about the fact that even in spite of hardships and difficulties that God has allowed, He also shows us how to find hope. My guest today has been through trial after trial, but Julie Holmquist shares with us how she maintained her hope despite her hardships. Quotables from the episode: Scripture says “Hope is an anchor for the soul.” Anchors steady us, and hope pulls us forward, out of the storm. Faith is the driving force in our lives. Without faith, we have no hope. We maintain our hope despite our hardships by remembering God’s faithfulness in the past. God is NOT afraid of our feelings. He can handle our honest emotions. Waiting on God is NOT passive. It is actively intertwining our hearts with His. Waiting on God is actively watching with expectation for Him to move and act. It is an eager anticipation. When someone is hurting and struggling to maintain hope despite their hardships, don’t try to fix it for them. Trying to fix it short-circuits God’s plan for them. Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 4:8-12 “You think you already have everything you need. You think you are already rich. You have begun to reign in God’s kingdom without us! I wish you really were reigning already, for then we would be reigning with you. Instead, I sometimes think God has put us apostles on display, like prisoners of war at the end of a victor’s parade, condemned to die. We have become a spectacle to the entire world—to people and angels alike. Our dedication to Christ makes us look like fools, but you claim to be so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are so powerful! You are honored, but we are ridiculed. Even now we go hungry and thirsty, and we don’t have enough clothes to keep warm. We are often beaten and have no home. We work wearily with our own hands to earn a living. We bless those who curse us. We are patient with those who abuse us.” Job 13:15 “God might kill me, but I have no other hope. I am going to argue my case with him.” Job 2:10 “But Job replied, ‘You talk like a foolish woman. Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?’ So in all this, Job said nothing wrong.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip H
Thu, October 15, 2020
079 Hope for Overcoming Racism
Episode Summary: Nelson Mandela said “No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love.” Today we’re going to have a bit of a different episode. I’ve invited a friend to join me on the program to talk about hope for overcoming racism. Christina Custodio and I recently sat down over a three hour lunch and had a very honest, open dialogue about the issue of racism, and what we can do to be more sensitive to the pain and insults received by our brothers and sisters of a different race. Quotables from the episode: When someone is hurting, don’t brush it off or try to mitigate it, rather express that you believe them. You may not have experienced racism but you can express “I don’t understand but I want to.” For us to heal from racism, we must offer forgiveness even when it’s not asked for. Christ offered love and forgiveness for ALL, despite skin color, nationality, or cultural bias. Scripture References: Galatians 3:28 “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:3-4 “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. Colossians 3:11 “There is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.” Acts 10:34 To summarize: “God shows no partiality.”= Romans 10:12 “There is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him.” John 3:16 His grace is universal: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study </
Thu, October 08, 2020
078 How To Find Joy Even in the Midst of Pain
Episode Summary: Today, my guest, Tricia Thirey, and I talk about how to find joy even in the midst of life’s most difficult circumstances. My guest knows pain, loss, and grief, and yet, God challenged her to find the joy in her every day despite her circumstances. She’ll be sharing how to find joy even in the midst of pain. Quotables from the episode: It’s important to grieve well, which includes not just the loss of the person, but also acknowledging everything else that loss represents. It’s okay to not be okay, but it’s not okay to want to stay there. When God is all you have, you have all you need. Even in the midst of the most difficult circumstances, God never withholds good things from His children, including things that bring us joy. Scripture References: Psalm 30:5b “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” Proverbs 31:25 “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” 2 Timothy 4 :7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Tricia: 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) / <a href="https://www.linkedin.com
Thu, October 01, 2020
077 How To Stop Comparing Yourself To Others
Episode Summary: In my 30 years in mental health, one of the most prevalent issues I’ve seen in my office has been not truly knowing our identity in Christ. So many look to others and their accomplishments, only to come up short and lacking in the joy Christ came to give us. Too often we spend our efforts trying to be better, and in the end, we just carry around a burden we were not meant to carry. In The Burden of Better , Heather Creekmore uses her characteristic humorous style to help us learn how a comparison-free life leads to joy, peace, and rest. She helps us understand how “the life of comparison is the old nature, not our new nature,” and then helps us see how living comparison-free lets us rest in the joy that is ready for our pursuing. If you’ve struggled with comparison, and constantly trying to be better (and who of us hasn’t?), then you’ve tuned in for the right episode. Today we’re going to be talking about how living a life striving to become “better” steals our joy, peace, and rest. In today’s episode, we’re going to talk with Heather Creekmore, author of “ The Burden of Better: How a Comparison Free Life Leads to Joy, Peace, and Rest ”. Quotables from the episode: Too often we don’t realize it but we are enslaved to the “burden of better.” Adam and Eve already had perfect, but Satan convinced them to sin so they could find “better.” Slowly we turn our hearts away from the source of all that is good and toward the illusion of self-made satisfaction. You can’t be fully present in the life God designed for you when you constantly wonder what life would be like if it were more like hers. Comparison’s ladder has no top rung. The concept of “better” is elusive. Comparison can turn into a heart of envy. Comparison is the opposite of contentment. When I’m robbed of peace, joy, and contentment through comparison, I’m robbed of strength. Comparison can become an idol. When we idealize, we idolize. It’s not about you, it’s about me, we convince ourselves. Comparison is not a big deal, we reason. It’s necessary for my self-improvement. It doesn’t actually hurt anyone. How close can we be to someone who we constantly size up In comparing we add on to what God asked of us. It doesn’t matter what you think of you. It only matters what God says of you. If the enemy convinces us we are the only ones, he gets us isolated and powerless. If we were perfect, we wouldn’t need a Savior. Perfection keeps us trapped by arbitrary measures. God’s sustaining grace comes in our suffering. Suffering builds character and makes us more like Jesus. Are you seeking to be better or are you seeking Jesus? The first step in a comparison-free act
Thu, September 24, 2020
076 Hope from a Recovering Adult Child of Alcoholic Parents
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about what it’s like to be a recovering adult child of two alcoholic parents, and how even in such a difficult situation, God pursues us. Today we are going to be talking about God’s grace and love for us no matter where we come from or what our lives have been like. Quotables from the episode: You don’t have to be the same as someone else to serve as a valuable mentor. We must drop the blame and stop feeding the anger if we want to heal. You can change no matter what age and stage you’re at. Recovery is not a sprint, it is a lifetime marathon. 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.” Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God.” Recommended Resources: Dolores, Like the River by Laura Padgett Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Laura Padgett: Website / Facebook / Twitter / 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) / <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/DrM
Thu, September 17, 2020
075 How to Live Bravely, Courageously, and Without Fear
Episode Summary: Today we’re talking about how we can become brave, think big, dream wildly, and live without fear. While most of us may desire this, few know how to get there. My guest today, Tracey Mitchell, will show us how. Quotables from the episode: Every storm has a valuable takeaway. You have to learn to sail in every season Never believe things won’t improve. Sow what you want to receive. Pay courage forward. Scripture References: Joshua 1:9 “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.” 1 Corinthians 16:13 “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” Recommended Resources: “ Becoming Brave: How to Think Big, Dream Wildly, and Live Fear-Free” by Tracey Mitchell “ The Invitation to Intimacy with God ” compiled by Tracey Mitchell “ Downside Up: Transform Rejection into Your Golden Opportunity ” by Tracey Mitchell Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Tracey Mitchell: 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 / <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DrMichelleBe
Thu, September 10, 2020
074 How To Maintain Your Hope in the Face of Financial Catastrophe
Episode Summary: Have you ever experienced financial loss? Or wondered how you might handle it if you did? What if I told you that there could actually be hidden blessings from a financial catastrophe? My guest today, Patricia Durgin, shares how she maintained hope in the face of financial catastrophe, and how you can too. Quotables from the episode: “We lost everything except our family, our home, and our Savior.” No matter what we can lose in life, we can’t lose God. God sends His most trusted soldiers into the deepest darkness so we can be reminded that no matter what happens, He is with us. I don’t believe in hopelessness. Because of Him, #HopePrevails. We see God better in the dark. Don’t leave God’s side. He is the only hope we’ve got and the only hope we need. Scripture References: Psalm 6:3-4 “My soul is in deep anguish. How long, Lord? How long? Turn, Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.” 2 Corinthians 1:9 “But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Patricia Durgin: Website / Facebook Profile / Facebook Business For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / <a href="https://www.linke
Thu, September 03, 2020
073 You Have a Story to Tell
Episode Summary: Every one of us has a story to tell that others need to hear. Today’s guest is going to help us know if we’ve been called to write that story, and how understanding the different personality types will help us connect better with our readers. Quotables from the episode: “If you want to change the world, pick up a pen.” Martin Luther You have to know your reader’s personality to connect with them Honesty encourages hope. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 3:3 “You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.” Habakkuk 2:2 “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.” 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: Called to Write by Linda Gilden Words to Live By by Linda Gilden Called to Speak by Linda Gilden Articles, Articles, Articles! by Linda Gilden Personality Perspectives – Clues to Building Better Relationships by Linda Gilden Mommy Pick-Me-Ups by Linda Gilden Mama Was the Queen of Christmas by Linda Gilden Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Linda Gilden: Website / <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Author-Linda-Gilden-1169102
Thu, August 27, 2020
072 When an Atheist Finds Jesus
Episode Summary: I was raised in the church since I was born. We were there every time the doors were open. And in my teen years, we helped plant churches, so we were there before everyone else arrived and stayed after everyone else had left. I consider myself very fortunate because I was given a solid spiritual foundation. But not everyone is so fortunate. Today we’re going to be talking to a guest who grew up an atheist before coming to know Christ in her young adult years. If you have been praying for someone to come to know Jesus as their personal savior, today’s guest’s story will encourage you. Quotables from the episode: Some think that if you are strong, you don’t need God. But it’s just the opposite. You cannot have hope apart from who God is. Love is both who God is and what He does. Scripture References: Philippians 3:8-10 “I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of Him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God based on faith. My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death,” Exodus 33:18 “please let me see Your glory.” Ephesians 2:10 “For we are His creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them.” Recommended Resources: The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel More Than a Carpenter by Josh McDowell Prodigal God by Tim Keller Knowing God by JI Packer My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award <a href="https://amzn.to/2K68a7l
Thu, August 20, 2020
071 How To Navigate God's Doors and Know His Will
Episode Summary: Have you ever considered that our life is a series of doors? Our guest, Cindy LaFavre Yorks, helps unpack how to navigate God’s doors: the closed door, open door, side door, trap door, and locked door. Quotables from the episode: Sometimes God has to close a door before we will become ready to walk through a new open door. Scripture References: 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.” 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.” Revelation 2:10 “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” 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: “ The Side Door: Welcoming God’s Divine Detours ” by Cindy Yorks “ The Trap Door: Embracing God’s Divine Deliverance ” by Cindy Yorks Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: To connect with Cindy LaFavre Yorks: Facebook / Instagram For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book H
Thu, August 13, 2020
070 How To Find Hope in the Midst of Grief
Episode Summary: Today we talk about the fact that no matter what we’re going through, God is always there, and He cares. My guest today knows pain and loss. She experienced miscarriage, the murder of her sister (a victim of domestic violence), the loss of two brothers within a short period of time, and the death of her 14-month old granddaughter to Trisomy 18. Yet, she still maintains her hope. In this episode, she shares how she finds hope in the midst of grief. Quotables from the episode: No matter what we’re going through, God is always there, and He cares. Two phrases to never say to someone who is grieving: “At least…” and “You should…” Scripture References: Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” Recommended Resources: Always There: Finding God’s Comfort Through Loss by Anne Peterson Broken: A Story of Abuse, Survival and Hope by Anne Peterson Droplets: Poetry for Those in Grief by Anne Peterson He Whispers: Poetic Talks With God by Anne Peterson Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: To connect with Anne Peterson: Website / Facebook / <a href=
Thu, August 06, 2020
069 When Bad Things Happen to Good People
Episode Summary: Although we never want to think about it, life can change for any of us in an instant. My guest in this episode shares how on an ordinary day, her life changed in the most horrific way when she was involved in an accident that killed another individual. We never think something like that will happen to us. She shares the struggles that result after a moral injury, and how she continues to find hope despite being involved in an accidental death. Quotables from the episode: God uses broken things. Fruit comes after suffering. The minute you share your testimony, it is never in vain. Instead of asking “Why me?”, ask “Why not me?” and “What can I do now?” If God forgives us, we have to forgive ourselves. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 1:3 “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.” 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.” Acts 20: 24 “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” Recommended Resources: Half a Life: a Memoir by Darin Strauss Accidental Impacts Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jennifer Eikenhorst: Website / Facebook / <a href="https://www.instagram.co
Thu, July 30, 2020
068 How To Overcome Overwhelm
Episode Summary: Life is busy, and we’ve got plenty to do for our families, our jobs, and our ministries. But if we’re not careful, burnout can ensue. In this episode, my guest, Patty Scott, and I talk about how to overcome overwhelm. Life is constantly shifting and it can be difficult to find God in the midst of the storm. It is important to find our footing and seek God even when we think we don’t have time. Quotables from the episode: Even Jesus took time off. Look at the day at hand, it's got enough trouble of its own. Don't look ahead, it's too big for you. God didn't give us the Sabbath as a punishment. He gave it to us as a gift. CS Lewis says, it's not the load you carry, but how you carry it that makes all the difference. Scripture References: Psalm 46:10 “Be still (cease striving) and know I am God.” 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 61:1 “…He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners…” Hebrews 4:9-11 “There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience.” Recommended Resources: Slow Down, Mama: Intentional Living in a Hurried World by Patty Scott Slow Down, Mama: Thirty-One Days to Help You Slow and Savor by Patty Scott Practicing the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence Life Without Lack: Living in the Fullness of Psalm 23 by Dallas Willard One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression
Thu, July 23, 2020
067 How To Live a Life of Purpose
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk about how to live a life of purpose. You can find your God-given purpose even when you feel lost. If you’ve ever wondered how to find your purpose, or what it even is, you won’t want to miss this episode with Dr. Kris Reece. Our guest is an expert in this area and will be sharing practical tips with us for living a life of purpose. Quotables from the episode: God can and will do exceedingly, abundantly, above what you could ask hope or think. He desires to reveal your purpose even more than you desire to fulfill it. Proverbs 25:2 reminds us that it is the glory of God to conceal a matter, it is the glory of kings to search it out. God wants to take us on a journey of discovery. On that journey is where we find, truth, purpose and HIM. We cannot find our “do” until we know our “be.” Our purpose often isn’t pretty, but it’s perfectly ours. 3 Ways God often reveals our purpose: positioning, prodding, and pulling. Two common barriers to our purpose: trouble-free thinking and sensational thinking. Our purpose is what we were created for; our career is what we do. We may miss our purpose because we are focusing too much on our career. If you want to know your purpose, ask God for a heart of discovery: to discover more about you and more about God. Without God, we won’t find our God-given purpose. He has to be part of the equation. 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.” Proverbs 25:2 “It is God’s privilege to conceal things, and the king’s privilege to discover them.” Psalm 139:13 “You have made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb.” Ephesians 3:20 “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,” Recommended Resources: Make it Matter—A Roadmap to Living a Life of Purpose by Kris Reece A Free 5 Day Created With Purpose Devotional A Free Guide “Uncover Your God Given Purpose Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <a href="https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/16633-breaking-anxietys-grip-by-mic
Thu, July 16, 2020
066 What Would You Do if You Only Had 10 Days to Live?
Episode Summary: Have you ever experienced a trial so great it turned your entire life upside down, inside out, or left you wondering how long you had to live? What would you do? How would you spend your time? To whom would you turn? As a neuropsychologist, I see thousands of patients who struggle with diagnoses ranging from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, and learning disabilities to brain tumors, traumatic brain injury, and dementia. When they receive a diagnosis, there is often a mixture of emotion from relief to fear. Relief often comes from just knowing what has been causing their symptoms and knowing that treatment does exist, and yet the relief is often quickly replaced by the unknown of all that is yet to be faced. I often wonder how anyone faces such difficulties without a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, and faith in God who promises to be with us at all times. Having been in situations like that personally, and seeing many patients facing such circumstances, I can tell you, we never quite know how we will respond until we are faced with the situation. In her book God’s Best During Your Worst , today’s guest, Robin Luftig recounts her story of her own diagnosis of a brain tumor and the next ten days that ensued from diagnosis to surgery. She shares the real life questions, fears, and other emotions she battled as she faced the very real possibility that the tumor or the treatment could claim her life. And during that time, she had to come to grips with the earlier life influences that shaped many of her beliefs about herself and her God. While I know of no one who would desire to go through such an ordeal, I suspect that if you asked Robin now, she would likely tell you that in many respects, what she gained through the experience was worth anything she lost in the process. For in the process, it drew her closer to her husband, her children, and her God; the very God who desires to use our trials to increase our faith and perfect it so that we will ultimately be complete in Him. That’s what would allow us to count experiences like this all joy. James 1:2-4 reminds us, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” What a challenge it is, however, to see the joy in the midst of trouble, but our chances of doing so are increased if we will rely on the One who will not only carry us through the difficulties but also perfect our faith in the process. Have you ever thought about what you would do if you only had a few more days to live? Or how you would maintain your hope in the midst of such a devastating diagnosis? My husband and I faced a similar situation when he was diagnosed with a very
Thu, July 09, 2020
065 Hope for Healthy Living
Episode Summary: Today we talk about how to approach your health with a spirit of grace. My guest is my friend, Amy Connell, who is a personal trainer on a mission to help women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect. The reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do. Quotables from the episode: Am I taking care of my body the way God wants me to? Perfection will enslave us when it comes to taking care of our bodies. One of the struggles that we tend to wrestle with regarding our health and wellness tends to be an all or nothing mentality. Scripture References: Colossians 3:12 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” 1 Timothy 4:3-5 “They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 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: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Amy Connell: 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 / <a href="https://www.twi
Thu, July 02, 2020
064 How to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and General Negativity
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk about how to overcome grumbling, complaining, and general negativity. Think that’s impossible? Our guest, Tricia Goyer, shares how she and her family pursued the grumble-free year! Join us for a candid conversation about how grumbling and complaining is unhealthy for us, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. We see plenty of examples in the Bible of people grumbling and complaining, and we also see that God plainly punished grumbling. No one likes to be around those who grumble and complain. But we can learn to defeat grumbling, complaining, and negativity, and Tricia Goyer teaches us how in this episode! Quotables from the episode: Grumbling essentially boils down to telling God, “You aren’t doing enough, God.” ~ Tricia Goyer The root of grumbling is typically unmet expectations. ~ Tricia Goyer Gratitude is one of our best tactics to defeat grumbling. ~ Tricia Goyer Scripture References: Psalm 106:25 “But grumbled in their tents; They did not listen to the voice of the Lord.” Philippians 2:14 “Do all things without grumbling of disputing.” 1 Peter 4:9 “Be hospitable to one another without complaint.” Recommended Resources: The Grumble-Free Year: Twelve Months, Eleven Family Members, and One Impossible Goal by Tricia Goyer Join Tricia’s free 30-day Grumble Free Challenge. TONS of great information and tips every day. Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Tricia Goyer: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter For m
Thu, June 25, 2020
063 Former Model Shares: the Myth of Perfection {and What She Found to be Much More Satisfying}
Episode Summary: Theodore Roosevelt said “Comparison is the thief of joy.” After my conversation with former print and runway model, Jennifer Strickland, I would have to say the strive for perfection is another thief of joy. In this episode, we talk about how the strive for perfection leaves us empty and lonely, and how our true worth and value can only be found in our true identity as children of God. Former model, Jennifer Strickland tells us her story about being an international model, and how she turned her back on modeling at the height of her career and never looked back after she found something far more precious and life-giving than a life of anorexia, bulimia, and constant striving for the perfect body. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and walked away disappointed, I encourage you to listen to the end for hope and encouragement. Quotables from the episode: Satan works outside in. God works inside out. Jennifer Strickland We need to turn from the mirror of the world to the mirror of the Word. Jennifer Strickland The mirror doesn’t define us. The Creator defines us. Jennifer Strickland Perfection is an empty place to be. Jennifer Strickland We need to look beyond the outward appearance and into the soul. Jennifer Strickland Scripture References: 1 Samuel 16:7 “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’” 1 Peter 3:3-5 says, “Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful. They put their trust in God and accepted the authority of their husbands.” Recommended Resources: “ Girl Perfect ” by Jennifer Strickland “ More Beautiful Than You Know ” by Jennifer Strickland “ Beautiful Lies ” by Jennifer Strickland “ 21 Myths (Even Good) Girls Believe About Sex ” by Jennifer Strickland Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide <a href="https://www.bible.com
Thu, June 18, 2020
062 How Perspective Impacts How We Cope in Times of Stress and Crisis
Episode Summary: This is the anniversary series of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective.” Specifically, we are discussing the concept of “Perspective” and how our perspective impacts how we cope in times of stress and crisis, as well as how our perspective impacts our attitudes, our thoughts, and our behaviors. Your perspective will: determine your attitudes and your actions. dictate what others notice about you. either attract others to or distract others from you. Ezekiel experienced a vision that changed his perspective (Ezekiel chapters 1-3) Our perspective will largely determine our focus, and what we focus on grows. If our perspective is one of doom and gloom, we will focus on the negative in the world. If our perspective is one that believes God will provide, we will be grateful and still experience peace and joy in the midst of difficulty. We need to shift our perspective from we have to vs we get to. Changing our perspective is often not an easy thing to do. It’s often based in the foundation of how we were raised, or how we’ve been treated in the past, and at the root of things, what we believe. When we believe the character of God, we will have a perspective that reflects that. But when we believe the lies of the enemy, our perspective, and thus our attitudes, actions, and words will reflect that. God is good: He only provides good things for His children. God is faithful: He has seen us through every difficult situation 100% of the time. God is trustworthy: He does not lie and always keeps His promises. God is loving: God acts out of love for His children. God is forgiving: If we humble ourselves and pray, confessing our sins to God, He is faithful to forgive us our sins. God is FOR us: His will is good, pleasing, and perfect for each of us. What does it mean to take every thought captive intentionally think about what we are thinking about pray and ask God to reveal any blind spots ask if it lines up with God’s word rebuke anything that doesn’t agree with God’s word replace it with God’s truth ask the Holy Spirit to continually remind you of all truth The question we all have to ask ourselves today is: what is my perspective and is it good, true, and holy? Quotables from the episode: Our perspective will largely determine our focus, and what we focus on grows. “we have to” vs “we get to.” What is my perspective, and is it good, true, and holy? Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 2:16 “For ‘Who can know the Lord’s thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?’ But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ.” Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transfo
Thu, June 11, 2020
061 What Will Come Out From You When You are Squeezed?
Episode Summary: In this week’s episode, we’re in the third of our four-part anniversary series, taking apart the title “Your Hope-Filled Perspective.” Today we’re looking at the word FILLED: what it means, what role we play, what choices we have, and what consequences there will be for such choices. We have a choice of what to be filled with, but we will all be filled with something . Words of Christ--Luke 6:45 The good person out of the good treasure of the heart produces good, and the evil person out of evil treasure produces evil; for it is out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks. “filling” is a sub-theme of the Bible It is a CHARACTERISTIC of God’s work In creation In redemption Definitions Heb: Fulness, abundance, to accomplish, complete, confirm, SATISFY, replenish Greek: make full, fill up, abound, liberally supply You can’t be neutral—you WILL be filled with something. What will you choose to be filled with? What will you choose to be filled with?? Quotables from the episode: Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. What we are filled with, will come out when we are squeezed. Even an empty pitcher is filled with something, even if it’s only air. “Filling” is a characteristic of God’s work in creation and in redemption. What will you choose to be filled with? Scripture References: 2 Chronicles 7:1 “The glory of the Lord filled the house …” Psalm 71:8 “Let my mouth be filled with thy praise…” Psalm 72:19 “… let the whole earth be filled with his glory” Psalm 104:28 “thou openest thy hand, they are filled with good” Proverbs 14:14 (KJV, para) “The faithless in heart shall be filled with his own ways. 2 Kings 24… Manasseh “…filled Jerusalem w innocent blood” Ezra 9:11 “…filled the land w uncleanness…” Ecclesiastes 6:7 “All the labor of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite is not filled.” Romans 1:29 “… being filled with all unrighteousness…” Job 16:8 (KJV) “…thou hast filled me with wrinkles …” Isaiah 55:1-2 “Come, all of you who thirst, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk, without money and without cost! Why spend money on that which is not bread, and your labor on that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and your soul will be FILLED with the richest of foods…” Romans 12:2 (KJV) “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 (KJV) “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing in
Thu, June 04, 2020
060 HOPE: What Is It, How Do We Get it, and How Do We Display it?
Episode Summary: This is the second in a four-part anniversary series of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective.” Specifically, today we are discussing the concept of “Hope.” What is hope, how do we get it and how do we display it? And what isn’t it? The Bible has two uses for the term HOPE One is simple but ungrounded expectation that something specific may happen—closest to English vernacular understanding. Second is a CONFIDENCE that something anticipated will come to pass. What is the difference between FAITH and HOPE? The Bible talks about both, and sometimes the same word is used. The concepts are very closely related. Best illustration: a child is told by her parents that they will be taking her to DisneyWorld soon. FAITH is the quiet confidence that her parents are being truthful and that the promised visit will happen. HOPE is the excited expectancy of the promised visit that has the child bouncing off the walls. FAITH is the basis for HOPE. What are the characteristics of HOPE? Forward looking Positive Expectant/anticipatory of something longed for Patient Focused on sufficiency and abundance ACTIVE HOPE is ACTIVE, it requires PREPARATION. Think of the Disney example. As the child ANTICIPATES, she will engage in various activities that illustrate this expectancy. In our culture and language, HOPE is understood in a very passive context—we don’t grant it much power in our lives, yet both the NT and the OT point to HOPE as crucial to our daily existence. HOPE is closely paralleled to FEAR Forward looking Expectant—of something dreaded Negative instead of positive Based on anxiety or worry instead of faith Focused on inadequacy & loss Quotables from the episode: Emil Brunner— “What oxygen is to the lungs, such is hope to the meaning of life.” FAITH is the basis for HOPE. Hope is active. Our hope is grounded in the overwhelming abundance and goodness of God. 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 for a future and a hope.” David in Psalms linked his HOPE in God with courage and strength (Ps 31:24) Paul also (Rom 5:5) describes the abundance and fulfilling nature of HOPE. Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/breakin
Thu, May 28, 2020
059 Celebrating the One Year Anniversary of YHFP: The Importance of “Your” Pt 1
Episode Summary: This is our one year anniversary of producing the Your Hope-Filled Perspective podcast. And we are so thankful to you, our listeners and our viewers for tuning in with us each week as we seek to provide you with a biblically based hope-filled perspective. We thank you for the gift you have given us in terms of your reviews, subscribing to the podcast, and sharing it with others. We started this podcast, and continue this podcast out of a desire to serve you. To bring you a hope-filled perspective for the trials you encounter in your daily life. Because our focus is YOU and YOUR needs, we’d love to hear what topics and guests YOU would like to hear in upcoming episodes. Quotables from the episode: She not only shared her story, but she taught us about how to pray, into the courtroom of heaven. We have an enemy. He's our adversary. And he's our accuser. And so he accuses us day and night to God, who's our ultimate judge. God wants us to use wisdom and to trust him in all things Yet, God has revealed himself personally to each believer. Jesus was an individual, and He cared for the individual. We don't have to fight on a war on two fronts, a front of the earthly issues that are going on and front on the spiritual internal issues that are going on as a believer. Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award 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) / <a href="https://www.linkedin
Thu, May 21, 2020
058 How To Practically Fight Anxious Thoughts and Win
Episode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode, we talk in depth about how we can fight anxious thoughts and win. Forty million American adults suffer from anxiety, while 264 million suffer worldwide. Chances are, even if you don’t suffer with anxiety, you know many friends and loved ones who do. In this episode, we’re going to talk about how to win over fearful and anxious thoughts. The first thing to remember is that we are in a battle, and the enemy of our soul doesn’t play fair. Secondly, we have to recognize that it is the enemy who tempts us with worry, fear, and anxiety. So often the thoughts we have aren’t even our thoughts. But if we don’t actively take them captive, and compare them to God’s word, we all too often readily accept them. Did you know that you can actually talk back to anxiety? You can! In this episode, we talk at length about how to talk back to worry, fear, and anxiety, and reclaim a much more peaceful life. Quotables from the episode: You can talk back to anxiety and make it leave! If we want to rid ourselves of worry, fear, and anxiety, we’ve got to separate the facts from God’s truth. God’s truth always trumps the facts. Scripture References: 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.” 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 1 Peter 5:8 “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” 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.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Chris
Thu, May 14, 2020
057 - How God Gives us a Sound Mind to Defeat Anxiety
Episode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode, we talk in depth about the third weapon God gives us to defeat anxiety: a sound mind. When God says He has given us a sound mind to defeat worry, fear, and anxiety, we can get excited because we have been given the mind of Christ. Before Jesus started his earthly ministry, the Holy Spirit led Him into the wilderness for 40 days and nights. There he was repeatedly tempted by the enemy. It was Jesus’s sound mind that allowed Him to defeat the enemy and not give in to temptation. He knew the word of God and He used it to refute the enemy’s temptation. We too can refute the enemy’s temptation for worry, fear, and anxiety by using the sound mind God gave us, coupled with the word of God. Psalm 112:8 tells us, “They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.” With a sound mind, you are hopeful and confident. In this episode, we discuss how we access and use our sound mind in order to defeat worry, fear, and anxiety in our lives. Quotables from the episode: With a sound mind, you are hopeful and confident. Part of using our sound mind to refute worry, fear, and anxiety, is standing on God’s word. Scripture References: Psalm 112:8 tells us, “They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.” 1 Thessalonians 5:6 “So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award 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 / <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/category/blo
Thu, May 07, 2020
056 How God Gives Us His Perfect Love to Defeat Anxiety
Episode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode, we talk in-depth about the second weapon God gives us to defeat anxiety: His perfect love. John 15:9 tells us, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.” In order to remain in God’s love, we must first accept that He gives His love, and we must then receive it for ourselves. But His love is crucial for defeating worry, fear, and anxiety in our lives. 1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” In this episode, we discuss the things we know to be true about God’s love and the many ways that we can access God’s love to defeat worry, fear, and anxiety in our lives. Quotables from the episode: One of the greatest issues I witnessed in my private practice was of individuals thinking they were unlovable, and not truly knowing how much God loves them. When we realize that we are loved by the God of the universe and that out of love for us He protects us, comforts us, fights for us, etc., then we can face any situation without worry, fear, or anxiety. Scripture References: John 15:9 tells us, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.” 1 John 4:8 “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 John 4:18 “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Ho
Thu, April 30, 2020
055 How To Improve Mother Daughter Relationships
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about how to improve mother/daughter relationships and the hope available for restoration and reconciliation. Mother/daughter relationships can be so painful, and especially with Mother’s Day coming up, we can have a tendency to mourn what we don’t have in our own mother/daughter relationship. If you struggle in your mother/daughter relationship, or have been desiring an improved relationship, then you’ll want to stick this program out to the last minute. Experts in mother/daughter relationship reconciliation and restoration, Blythe Daniel and Dr. Helen McIntosh join us to share what they learned, and the lessons they penned in “Mended: Restoring the Hearts of Mothers and Daughters.” Quotables from the episode: When it comes to relationship reconciliation, we have to put our relationship over any differences. Relationship reconciliation doesn’t just happen. We have to purpose to be healthy in our interactions with each other. Scripture References: Isaiah 61:4 Then they will rebuild the ancient ruins, They will raise up the former devastations; And they will repair the ruined cities, The desolations of many generations. Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. Recommended Resources: “ Mended: Restoring the Hearts of Mothers and Daughter ” by Blythe Daniel and Dr. Helen McIntosh Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Award-Winning Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Website / Facebook Blythe / Faceboo
Thu, April 23, 2020
054 How God Gives Us Power To Defeat Anxiety
Episode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode we talk in-depth about one of the weapons God gives us to defeat anxiety: Power. There are many ways for Christ followers to appropriate God’s power. Romans 8:11 tells us, “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.” We have been given the same power that raised Christ Jesus from the dead, yet too many believers are walking around powerless, not appropriating His power. In this episode we discuss the many ways that we can access God’s power to defeat worry, fear, and anxiety in our lives. Quotables from the episode: The first of three key weapons that God has given us to defeat anxiety is His power. Too many Christ followers don’t appropriate the power that God has made available to them. Scripture References: Revelation 12:10 “…now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of His Christ, for the accuser…has been thrown down. 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: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award 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 / <a href="https://www.twitter
Thu, April 16, 2020
053 Worry Creeps, Anxiety Seeps, Crises Explode
Episode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode, we break down worry, fear, anxiety, and crises, and how they are different, and how they each impinge on our lives. Jesus said not to worry about tomorrow and be anxious for nothing. He never said “except when my bank account dips, or when the toilet paper runs out, or when you have to work or go to school online.” Anxiety results from living in a place of dread instead of victory. When we become anxious, we have projected dread into our situation. That brings with it an endless supply of “what ifs?” So much of our anxiety comes from us wanting to have control, but the reality is that we have very little control, but God is in control and He isn’t going to wrestle us for it. In this episode, we continue to discuss how to defeat anxiety especially in times of crisis. Quotables from the episode: Fear is an emotional response to a real or perceived threat. Anxiety is apprehension and anticipation of some future event. Worry is thinking about problems or fears that may never even come to pass. Worry creeps, anxiety seeps, and crises explode. Faith entails having the courage to give God control. True peace is not the absence of trouble but resting in the sovereignty of God in the midst of it. Scripture References: Luke 12:26 “And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?” Philippians 4:9 “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.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxie
Thu, April 09, 2020
052 Practical Ways to Exchange Worry, Fear and Anxiety for Peace During a Crisis
Episode Summary: With the Coronavirus outbreak, the world is facing astronomical amounts of worry, fear, and anxiety. In episode 50, we discussed ways of defeating anxiety during a crisis like the Coronavirus. In this episode, Scott and I discuss more practical tips to exchange worry, fear, and anxiety for peace during a crisis. Trusting God is key! Quotables from the episode: It’s important not to run on our feelings, during times of crises, but rather, to stand on truth. Instead of saying, “I have to” we can shift the perspective and say “I get to…” For example, instead of I have to stay in the house for the next two weeks or longer you say, I get to spend quality time with my family. Let’s take this opportunity to do some new things, to look at the situation from a new perspective, to consider our feelings and how our feelings are often grounded in the lies that we believe. The truth is, God is still in control. Fear is really the emotional response to either a real or a perceived imminent threat, something that might happen right away. Anxiety is really an abnormal or overwhelming sense of apprehension in anticipation of a future event that may or may not ever happen. Worry is thinking about a problem or fears over something that could happen. Worry is our thoughts about an unknown future. My concern is that when we allow anxiety, worry, fear to rule and reign in our heart and our mind, we lose the chance to respond rationally, and we lose our peace. God tells us in His Word, be anxious for nothing; do not worry about tomorrow; do not be afraid. God knows what's going on in the world today. I believe that what has allowed us to get through these recent circumstances is being able to look back and recognize where God has been faithful each and every time before. Peace really comes from living in the present and remembering what has already been accomplished in the past, to assure us of our future. We tend to approach life thinking, “Show me, then I'll trust you.” But God tells us to “trust Him, then he'll show us.” Trusting God really takes the responsibility for the outcome off our shoulders and places it on God’s. How do we trust God? T-Take God at His Word (Numbers 23:19) R-Rest in His presence and promises (Matthew 11:28-30) U-Understand the outcome doesn’t depend on us S-Acknowledge that God is Sovereign (Psalm 84:11) T-Turn to the testimony of previous experiences (Revelation 12:11) An attitude of gratitude when we recognize all that God has already blessed us with amazing blessings makes it easier to trust Him. God inhabits the praises of his people. Find ways to praise Him during this time. Recommended Resources: <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/fight-anxious-fearful
Thu, April 02, 2020
051 Helping a Teenager with Anxiety during a Crisis
Episode Summary: We’ve been doing a series on the podcast recently of episodes all related to helping defeat anxiety during times of crisis. Given what so many of us have been experiencing with the current crisis and the disruption of anything normal, it would be natural to realize that our children’s lives are being significantly impacted as well, and this may breed worry, fear, and anxiety. This episode is about how to help a teenager with anxiety during a crisis. Join me as I interview my teenager, Bryce. We discuss ways that help us understand worry, fear, and anxiety in our teens and children and what we and they can do about anxiety. For many of our children, the Coronavirus is the first major crisis they have ever had to face, at least on such a global level. This episode is unique in that I have the opportunity to interview a teenager to help understand their perspective and what they might be doing to try to manage the emotional impact that crises have on them. While this episode was recorded during the COVID19 pandemic, the truths contained therein are applicable regardless of the situation prompting a child’s anxiety. Quotables from the episode: Coronavirus didn’t take God by surprise, and He promises He knows the plans He has for us: to prosper us and not to harm us, plans for a hope and a future! Scripture References: 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.” Matthew 6:34 “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” 1 Peter 5:7 “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book <a href="https://drmichellebeng
Thu, March 26, 2020
050 Defeating Anxiety During a Crisis like Coronavirus
Episode Summary: Everyone will fight challenges and trials at some point in their life, and at the time of this recording, the world is facing the Coronavirus outbreak, and with that has come astronomical amounts of worry, fear, and anxiety. In this episode, we discuss ways to defeat anxiety during a crisis like the Coronavirus. This may be the first real crisis our children have had to face in their lifetimes, and it’s important for us to remember that they will take their cues for how to respond to crisis from watching and listening to us. In today’s society, our ready access to news and information can fuel anxiety. In our current situation, we need time to absorb this, but that is made difficult because the information is changing day by day, or sometimes hour by hour. It’s important not to run on our feelings, during times of crises, but rather, to stand on truth. Quotables from the episode: We need to absorb this. Anxiety comes because we want to know it all. We want to control it all. We want to influence it all…but we can’t. Our feelings are really just the outward manifestation of the thoughts we believe. We may not be able to control the situation, but we can choose our response to the situation. Scripture References: Exodus 20:2 “I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery.” Romans 8:28 “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: To order Hope Prevails: https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-book/ Website: https://drmichelleben
Thu, March 19, 2020
049 Hope for Recovery for Suicide Attempt Survivors
Episode Summary: If you’ve ever had suicidal thoughts, have survived an attempted suicide, suffered the loss of a friend or loved one to death by suicide, or experienced depression or anxiety. Join me with my guest, Veronica Sites, as we talk about Hope for Recovery for Suicide Attempt Survivors. The Bible tells us in Psalm 34:18 that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” If you are feeling broken-hearted, crushed in spirit, or perhaps, hopeless, stay with us and listen to the conversation between a board certified clinical neuropsychologist and a first response crisis chaplain. More importantly, we are two individuals who have been there. My guest, Veronica Sites, is a first response crisis chaplain. She grew up in a family of first responders. Sadly, she lost a family member to death by suicide. Afterward, the experience caused a shift in how she responded in those situations. Experiencing tragic life experiences brought her to the point where she began to believe some lies that took her down the path to attempt 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.” That is what has happened!. She now serves as a first response crisis chaplain and tries to educate others about suicide prevention. The word success, commit, failed, and complete are dangerous words with respect to suicide. When God brings us through a suicide attempt is not a failure. The enemy will use those words to make the individual feel shame. Success is not in death. Success is in who we are in Christ, and how will we respond. To commit, means a crime against humanity. God says thou shalt not kill. It is better to say that someone died by suicide or attempted to die by suicide in order to help with healing. We have to recognize the power of our words and use them in a sensitive manner. Peer support is so important in recovery for survivors and suicide attempt survivors. Proverbs 17:17 says “A brother is born for a time of adversity.” And “Just as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen the minds of each other” (Proverbs 27:17). When a brother stumbles, we are called to come alongside and pick them up and run the race with them. Recognize that relationships are going to change because trust has been broken after a suicide attempt. Every relationship becomes shaken, including their relationship with themselves and the Lord. Recent research has found that suicide has to be dealt with in the church because it still remains an elephant in the room. We must be bold and courageous and enter into the conversation. We can’t always refer out to mental health if they aren’t addressing the spiritual foundation or else it won’t be a full continuum of care that is addressed. When it comes to suicide, you would much rather ask an individual “Are you
Thu, March 12, 2020
048 Hope for Parents of Incarcerated Children
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk with my guest, Shonda Whitworth, who found herself in the worst of situations…the kind of situation no parent ever wants to experience. She received a call that her son had been arrested and charged with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon under the Texas Law of Parties. She shares not only her heartache but what the Lord has taught her through it, how her prayer life has changed, and the hope available for parents of incarcerated children. Quotables from the episode: When tragedy comes, God’s word has to be inside of us in order to come out of us during those hard times. You have to know what you believe before a crisis hits, because when it does you have a split second before you fall back on what you really do believe. Only God can make something good come out of a good situation. And He promises that in His word. We can take a situation that the enemy tries to shame us for, and say “No!” to his taunts and jeers because the Bible says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:1) God used the most unlikely people and the most difficult circumstances to fulfill His promises. For example, God used Samson even though he wandered off, but God ultimately used him for good. We need to pray for those who are in prison as if we were in prison ourselves. Appealing to the courtroom of heaven is praying. God is judge of all. The enemy is our accuser. Because Jesus died on our behalf, we can enter the courtroom of heaven at any time. But the enemy doesn’t like we can petition our Father for those things that are rightfully ours. The blood of Jesus covers our sin when we come to the Father and repent and confess. We may not have a loved one in prison, but the enemy so often holds each of us in our own prisons through worry, fear, anxiety, depression, discouragement, shame, sin, etc. Confession and repentance sets us free! Jesus already paid the price for every sin we have or will ever commit, but it is up to us to go to our Heavenly Father, the only one worthy of judging us, to repent and confess our sin so that he will declare us not guilty. And that sets us free. 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." Hebrews 4:16 NLT "So, let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most." Romans 15:13 NLT "I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of t
Thu, March 05, 2020
047 Hope and Healing for Humans Trafficked, Exploited and Abused
Episode Summary: It is so easy for us to go about our daily life oblivious to the hurt and pain and bondage of others around us. But human trafficking, exploitation, and abuse are happening to people in our own cities and neighborhoods. In this episode, my guest, Brenda Harkins, and I talk about this troublesome issue, and how victims can find hope and healing. Quotables from the episode: So many of us have no idea that trafficking happens right here in the United States, and in our own cities. There are over 300,000 trafficked victims in the United States. California is the most trafficked state, and Texas is second. Within Texas, Houston is the most trafficked city, and Dallas/Ft. Worth is the second most trafficked city in Texas. Once it gets on your radar, you begin noticing girls/women with a more controlling adult who won’t let them speak for themselves, and they avert their eyes. As parents, we need to be having discussions with our children to help safeguard them. We must talk about it. We must explain the dangers of social media, and trusting strangers…even those who seem extremely interested and friendly. People pose as people they are not. They need to know never to give personal information out online. People are sent into schools to befriend those who may not have friends, and then they will groom them until the children believe they are truly their friend, but their real intentions are otherwise. We must talk to our children about the reality of this, and we must be involved enough to know our children’s friends and their families. We all have an Egypt, a wilderness, and a promised land. With Egypt we think of the slavery of the Israelites, but it was a place that saved their lives because during a famine it was a place they could get food. Often, in our lives, what starts out as a safe place, can become a place where we are trapped or in bondage (like addictions, or unhealthy relationships). The Israelites left Egypt and were about to enter a place of freedom, when they stepped into the wilderness which was unfamiliar to them. Sometimes the unfamiliar can seem worse than what we know because we don’t know what to expect. The wilderness experience is where we can come alongside and tell others that we are with them and they do not have to walk their journey alone, as they walk toward their Promised Land. Too often, we become comfortable in our discomfort because it’s what we know, and we fear the unknown because we don’t know how to navigate that. But we don’t have to know how to navigate that if we are trusting our heavenly Father. There is often a relationship between being trafficked, exploited, or abused, and those never knew the love of their earthly parents. The enemy manipulates people into believing that others can be trusted who will violate that trust. People in abusive situations don’t always r
Thu, February 27, 2020
046 Trusting God is Faithful in Our Painful Situations
Episode Summary: If you have ever experienced an unforeseen trial and wondered how God could possibly use it for good, then this episode is the perfect show for you. I talk with my guest, Gina Kelly, about how God can use the absolute worst circumstances in our life for good and for His glory. My guest today experienced a significant tragedy as a young child that threatened her life. Doctors expected her to either die, or to have significant brain injury and to never walk or talk again. You’ll want to hear her story and what she learned about God’s faithfulness. Even in our most difficult circumstances, God can use them to comfort others who are going through difficult trials. During those times, God will show us how He can be trusted. Children can be so cruel to other children who are different in some way, but when we can maintain our faith in God, they will come to see that and admire it. And God will bring circumstances in our lives to help us value our own differences. Furthermore, God will use our differences for His glory. God truly does give beauty for ashes, and what the enemy intends for harm, God will use for good. Sometimes God uses our adversity to help us learn that He can be trusted. Ultimately God has to be our source of hope, and our source of peace, and our source of confidence. The enemy is defeated by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony. So our testimony has the power to impact the lives of others. Quotables from the episode: God is big enough and patient enough to handle our reactions to our trials. Healing often starts when others love on us and speak truth into our lives. God will use our differences for His glory. God truly does give beauty for ashes, and what the enemy intends for harm, God will use for good. Sometimes God uses our adversity to help us learn that He can be trusted. Scripture References: Proverbs 3:5-6, “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.” 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: Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award
Thu, February 20, 2020
045 Hope for Freedom from Depression
Episode Summary: If you have ever struggled with depression or loved someone who struggles, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about how my guest was able to break the bonds of depression, and wants to offer that same hope to you. So many people suffer with depression in silence because they are ashamed to share their pain. Many who struggle with depression wear a protective mask as a protective barrier, but it can really weigh you down. So much of social media portrays a perfect life when really things were falling apart behind the scenes. Nobody wants to admit that they are depressed. Most often depression starts months or years before we recognize it for what it is. And depression often turns us into someone we, nor our friends and family members recognize. Some who are depressed get to the point of feeling helpless and hopeless, which is a tool of the enemy of our soul, making us believe that suicide is the only way out of the pain. God can use others to speak life and wellness into our lives. Their testimony of overcoming life’s darkest circumstances can lend us hope. God wants to be all we need. Sometimes we have to get so desperate or even flat on our back that the only place we can look is up and trust God in the hardest of times. Unforgiveness can contribute to depression. We need to forgive those who have hurt us, otherwise bitterness and resentment build up and contribute to depression. Forgiveness isn’t denying what has happened but it is saying, “God you are in a better place to deal with the situation” and allowing God to redeem the situation. It releases us from carrying that burden. There are times we may have to forgive repeatedly. Sometimes forgiveness is a process over time. Jesus offered me forgiveness freely. When our view of God changes, our life will also change. Our view of God affects our mental health whether it is a false view of God or a right view of God. So often when circumstances are hard, we can accuse God and assume He doesn’t care about us or love us, but that is a false view of God. You might consider praying three things: 1) that you’d have an accurate perception of God, 2) that he would show you his perception of you, and 3) that he would help you have the same perception of yourself that he has of you. For families who have a depressed loved one, even if you don’t understand depression, just listen because you play an important role in your loved one’s healing. You don’t have to have the answers or try to fix the situation. Just offer to be there for them and go through the journey with them. Know you are not alone. Even though you feel alone, God is with you, God sees you, He loves you, He cares about you, and you are not the only one to feel that way. There is hope. When you don’t know what else to do, cry out to God. Admit your need for Him. Quotables from the
Thu, February 13, 2020
044 Hope for Marriage Struggles
Episode Summary: If you have ever had marriage struggles or have friends or loved ones who struggle in their marriage, or just want to improve your marriage, then today is the perfect show for you. In this episode, my guest, Pam Farrel, and I discuss how to thrive, not just survive, in marriage. Relationships are hard, but marriage is on an entirely different level. And sometimes the things we loved about our fiance’ is the same thing that we grow to dislike or resent in marriage. But Pam will discuss how to grow our love for our mate. 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, but men like to keep individual issue 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: <a
Thu, February 06, 2020
043 How To Change Your Thoughts and Transform Your Life
Episode Summary: If you have ever struggled with your thought life or wondered what it means to transform your thought life, then today is the perfect show for you. Join me with my friend, Sarah Geringer, as we talk about how to change your thoughts and transform your life. Paying attention to our thought life is important! As a neuropsychologist, I can tell you we have between 50-70,000 thoughts a day. That’s a lot of taking thoughts captive but so worth it. God’s word is the ultimate truth. While other books can help us, there is no comparison to the power of God’s word to change us into someone more like Him. The answer to all our problems lies within Scripture. God said in His word that He has already given us everything we need for life and godliness. We can break the stronghold Satan has put on our lives by using Scripture. Jesus was the son of God and the son of man, He was the word and He chose to use the ancient scriptures to counter Satan’s attacks. When we come up against anxiety-provoking situations, or worrisome thoughts, or feelings of insecurity, we can come against them with scripture. God would love nothing more than to give us His peace in exchange for our anxiety. It’s crucial that we pay attention to the thoughts we are having, and the words we are speaking. We can be condemning ourselves with our own words. As we read our Bible, it’s helpful to ask three questions: What does this verse tell me about God? What does this verse tell me about myself? What does God want me to do with this information for others (personal application)? So many of our thoughts are careless thoughts because we don’t pay enough attention before we have them. By being intentional about examining our thoughts and asking God to search our minds and hearts, God will teach us things we weren’t previously aware of. We need to also be careful about the shows we watch and the music we listen to, because we’re putting information into our minds that do not mesh with the truth of God’s word. As you examine your thoughts, you’ll be surprised by all the things God wants to reveal to you. Our emotions are the outward manifestations of the thoughts we believe. But we must take the time to monitor the thoughts we believe. It’s too easy to get caught up in our emotions and believe them and let them influence us in nonproductive ways. God’s word is our anchor, our guide, the one true thing when so much of what we encounter is not true. Whatever our thought life struggles are, is where Satan is likely to strike. That’s where we are most vulnerable to believing his lies. Any of these places are weak places in our stress. A stronghold is any area where Satan has a hook in a certain area to try to distract you, make you more miserable, and make you less effective for God’s kingdom. Christian meditation is thinking about God’s word, taking scriptures and mulling over them. What does it tell me
Thu, January 30, 2020
042 Hope When Life Knocks You Down
Episode Summary: If you have ever felt like God gave you direction and maybe even a path to take but then life didn’t look like you expected or desired, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about maintaining hope even when life doesn’t go or doesn’t look like we expected it to. On today’s show, we’re going to be talking to my friend, Abby McDonald who is going to share with us how she finds hope in Christ in the midst of life’s messes and struggles. So often we think we hear from God for our direction, but then we question Him when things don’t go the way we thought they were supposed to go. We can see God during those seasons, but we have to shift our perspective. Scripture gives us example after example of people who held onto that hope and held onto their faith when they were encountering adversity. They felt called by God, they received a word from Him, and they persevered, but still they encountered struggle and opposition and obstacles. When Jesus called the first disciples, they didn’t see a miracle or anything from Him other than the request to follow Him. Yet they dropped everything and went—it wasn’t until later that they saw Him reveal himself as the true Messiah. We have to look at God’s character and His attributes when we don’t see what we expected. When we receive Christ, we receive a new spirit, but our minds aren’t new. They have to be continually renewed and transformed for our entire lives because we have an enemy who fills our minds with lies. Abby explained how after going through some pretty tumultuous times, she faces life now with much more peace. When situations come up in her life now, she doesn’t always default to fear or doubt anymore, but now recognizes it as an attack and knows what to do now. We talk about how so often we focus on the short term conveniences and happiness rather than the long term rewards that come from faith in Jesus. Surrender is often so hard because it has a passive connotation to it, and when we think of surrender, we think someone is laying down and letting people walk all over them. Our culture hasn’t given us a popular view of surrender. But surrender really brings peace, and that only comes through trusting God. If we will let things go, and not demand we understand all the why’s of our experiences, we can experience His peace when we no longer hold onto that need for control. First, pray, and then know that God has such a beautiful plan for each of our lives. It goes far beyond what we can see in that moment and goes into eternity. He sees all of it and He is knitting all of it together as He works even when we cannot see it. If you prayerfully surrender to God, He will lift that weight. When we try to control things, we are holding on. As long as we hold on (to the bitterness, resentment, unforgiveness, need to control, etc.) our hands are not open to receiving God’s best for us. We have to open up our gras
Thu, January 23, 2020
041 Hope for Overcoming SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder
Episode Summary: It’s a common phenomenon: presents are unwrapped, resolutions are made, decorations are put away, bills arrive and with them often come the post-holiday blues. We often feel deflated, let down, and perhaps weighed down by a few extra pounds. Are you having a hard time resuming your normal activities? Has your energy been replaced by the winter sluggishness? Does it seem no matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to find your joy in the aftermath of the holidays? Then stick with us today as we talk about hope for overcoming SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder or the post-holiday blues. 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 Affectiv
Thu, January 16, 2020
040 Finding Freedom from Comparing Yourself to Others
Episode Summary: If you have ever struggled with comparing yourself to others or wishing you were someone else, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about how we get trapped in the comparison cycle and what effect that has on us. All of us struggle with comparison from time to time. Comparison can be used as a tool, but not when we use it to determine if we are worthy and okay. Even before we know there is something different about us or doesn’t measure up, Satan uses that to hold us down. It all boils down to lies and we believe him. This often happens to us early in childhood before we can recognize the lies for what they are. Think about Mary and Martha. That is one of the most classic examples of comparison. But Jesus held both Mary and Martha in such high regard. The root of comparison often comes down to insecurity, but it usually comes back to the enemy of our souls. We all long for and look for love. So we look for assurance and our insecurity prompts us to look around. Sometimes the deeply ingrained comparison stemming from insecurity often comes from the way our faith is distorted. Every good Christian woman knows about the virtuous Proverbs 31 woman and feels like she doesn’t measure up. After a while, we become burdened with the need to become always better without the assurance that we are loved just as we are. God loves us so much that we are adopted as His children and loved as we are, where we are. True humility is accepting what God says about us. We often choose the most outstanding attribute in others and wish we were like that and then take all those outstanding attributes and created a mythical person who doesn’t exist. Often we then project our insecurities onto others around us which can create real problems in relationships. One of the reasons we hold others in such high esteem while we struggle to accept ourselves is because we know all our own sin, but we don’t know about the sin of others. So they look spotless while we feel tarnished. Social media can be used for so much good, but we must not let it be a tool that causes God’s image-bearers to doubt their place. Comparison can be used for good: doctors compare our status to the expected outcome and compare our numbers to the ideal because often someone’s life depends on it. Comparison often helps to ensure social justice. Comparison can be used as a teaching tool during which we compare our efforts with someone who is more knowledgable to learn from it. But comparison often results in isolation to keep us from the fellowship and communion that we were designed for. Comparison is the thief of joy. God himself is about relationship. We were created for relationship because we were created by relationship. We were not intended to stand alone. You are enough. You are more than enough. You were intended to be
Thu, January 09, 2020
039 A More Hope-Filled Alternative to New Year's Resolutions
Episode Summary: If you have ever failed at accomplishing a New Year’s resolution and then felt bad about yourself, then today is the perfect show for you. The New Year always seems to impose a “re-set,” if you will, on our lives, and often it brings with it the expectation of life-altering changes in the form of resolutions which days later have a tendency to usher in feelings of defeat and failure. But that doesn’t have to be and today we will discuss some healthy alternatives to the fateful New Year’s resolution. 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 f
Thu, January 02, 2020
038 Hope for Living in our True Identity in Christ
Episode Summary:If you have ever questioned who you are, what your purpose is, or how God views you, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about Embracing who we are, and becoming all God created us to be. And in order to know who that is, sometimes we have to dispel some of the lies we have believed about ourselves. My guest on today’s show is author, speaker, and life coach, Holley Gerth. Holley helps us understand some of the most common lies we believe, where these lies come from, and how to replace these lies with life-giving truth about our true identity in Christ. We often have the tendency to believe lies such as “I am not enough…” or “I’m all alone,” or “I’m invisible.” Yet God’s word assures us, that in our humanness we aren’t enough but having Him living inside us is enough and makes us more than conquerors. Furthermore, God sees us, He promises to always be with us, and that He thinks about us constantly. Scripture tells us to guard our heart and our mind and to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ Jesus. This means it’s important that we examine our thoughts, determine where they come from and the source of those lies, repent of believing the lies and receive God’s truth. Holley suggests that instead of focusing on all of our flaws, that we focus on the strengths God has entrusted into us, the skills we’ve been given, and those whom we can serve from our strength. It’s so important to know God’s word so that we can recognize the lies when we encounter them, and so that we realize God loves us just as we are, as His children, but that He also loves us so much He doesn’t want to leave us where we are. Quotables from the episode:If you have ever questioned who you are, what your purpose is, or how God views you, then today is the perfect show for you. We all have lies that we have come to believe about ourselves. One very common lie that people believe is “I am not enough (pretty enough, talented enough, educated enough…).” The truth is, we’re not enough, but Jesus is enough in us. His word says that he will give us everything we need for life and godliness. Another common lie that many believe is “I’m alone” or “I’m invisible.” A U.S.A. Today study said that half of Americans said they had one or fewer people that they could talk to about meaningful things, and that includes spouses and family. So if you have more than one close person in your life to share things with, consider yourself blessed. Sometimes we feel especially alone when we go through transitions (like a move, or a new job, or we’ve become a new parent with a young baby in the home). If you truly have no one to share with or discuss meaningful things with, that’s an especially good time to seek someone out in the mental health field. The lies that we’re prone to believe really started back in the Garden of Eden when the enemy said, “Did God
Thu, December 26, 2019
037 Soul Care: How To Reduce Anxiety During the Holidays
Episode Summary: If you have ever felt overwhelmed, worn out, or overcome by holiday pressures, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about soul care: how to reduce anxiety with tips on tending to your soul and remaining unruffled during the chaos of the holidays Whether we have a lot of time or a little time, our Heavenly Father delights in spending time with us. When we spend time with Him, we can rid ourselves of worry, fear, and anxiety, and remain in His peace. When we think about Jesus’s three years of ministry, he walked into the most chaotic environments but brought His peace with Him. So we can walk into any situation, allowing God’s peace to dominate us, and then it will spread outward. As believers with the Holy Spirit, we do carry God’s peace with us, but too often we forfeit that peace by becoming consumed by the chaos around us. Peace is not the opposite of chaos, it comes from inside so it’s not dependent on our circumstances. We need to look at situations from God’s vantage point. We are all capable of bringing His peace to our situations but we have to be more deliberate and less easily influenced by our circumstances. Anxiety comes from looking at our circumstances rather than up at our heavenly Father. We lose our peace when we’ve gotten our focus wrong. We never see the entire situation, but He can because He’s already gone before us. So often we become consumed by focusing on the details when He wants us to leave the details to Him and trust Him with the big picture. Try to make time for family, friends, and memory making. Be sure to make sure you are already plugged into God, before the chaos takes over. Taking time at the end of the day to still our thoughts and give God our cares of the day can help us sleep more peacefully and wake up unruffled the next morning. By looking over the plans of the next day, we can wake up prepared instead of in a panic about the day. Understand that your wellbeing is paramount to God, as well as the wellbeing of those around you. You cannot get water from an empty well. It’s just not possible to pour out when we ourselves are dry and empty. He wants us to be taking care of our own soul, and taking care of our physical body so that it doesn’t give out on you. Quotables from the episode: “Find your voice, live your story.” Edie Melson Whether we have a lot of time or a little time, our Heavenly Father delights in spending time with us. When we think about Jesus’s three years of ministry, he walked into the most chaotic environments but brought His peace with Him. Scripture References: John 14:27, “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” Philippians 3:16, “Only let us live up to what we have already attained.”
Thu, December 19, 2019
036 Ways to create more peace during the holidays
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. Don’t we all desire more peace during the holidays? From November first until the decorations come down sometime in January, and then the credit card bills start coming in, stress and anxiety rise and with it, our peace dwindles. What a shame when the reason for the holiday is the celebration of the Prince of Peace. What if I told you that you really can let go of some of the anxiety and overwhelm of the holiday season with some simple ways to create more peace during the holidays? It’s true. I’ve been there and have been so grateful for making some simple changes so that I could celebrate from a peaceful place. You can too as you read about ways to create a more peaceful holiday season. Last week, on Ways to create a More Peaceful Holiday Season Part 1 - Episode 35, 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 t
Fri, December 13, 2019
035 Ways to Create a More Peaceful Holiday Season
Episode Summary: Holidays are a busy time, and we experience an increase in stress, commitments, and chaos. But what we really want is to be able to experience the holiday joy while keeping our peace. Today we’re going to discuss some practical ways to keep our peace during the holiday season. Don’t we all desire a more peaceful holiday season? From November first until the decorations come down sometime in January, and then the credit card bills start coming in, stress and anxiety rise and with it, our peace dwindles. What a shame when the reason for the holiday is the celebration of the Prince of Peace What if I told you that you really can let go of some of the anxiety and overwhelm of the holiday season with some simple ways to create a more peaceful holiday season? It’s true. I’ve been there, and have been so grateful for making some simple changes so that I could celebrate from a peaceful place. You can too as you read about ways to create a more peaceful holiday season. Sometimes we go into the holidays with expectations we have of ourselves, expectations we have of others, and feeling the weight of expectations others have of us. After my mother died, I felt the weight of being the new matriarch of the family, and the pressure to do things the way my mother had done it. But over time, I realized that living up to those spoken or unspoken expectations was stealing my peace and joy during a time when the commercials and Hallmark movies tell us should be the most wonderful time of the year. 1. It’s so crucial that we remember who the source of our peace is. If we were to really understand the nature of God, not only would we not have to worry about peace, but all the other worldly concerns we have would go away. Jesus came not just as our savior, but also the Prince of Peace. In my newest book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises,” one of the chapters talks about “God Is” our peace. We sacrifice our peace when we take our eyes off God and put our focus on the circumstances going on around us. A regular discipline of spending time with God and in His word, will remind us of who we are in Him. During the holiday season before you do any of the holiday tasks, take a moment, stop where you are and mentally go through the list of who you are and who the source of your peace is. When we realize how much God cares for us, and the fact that nothing takes Him by surprise, we can rest in His peace. One way to remember the source of peace, is remembering Jesus only had three years on this earth to complete his heavenly mission, his kingdom assignment. Yet, we never saw Jesus running from appointment to appointment. He walked everywhere, and He walked at the pace God set for Him. We sacrifice our peace because we make a long list of to do’s that we think we must get done each day. We can get caught up in anxiety when we think of all the demands we put
Thu, December 05, 2019
034 Trusting God in Difficult Times
Episode Summary: We only get one life to live, and we don’t want to take it for granted. In this episode, we sit down and talk with author and speaker, Tracie Miles, about trusting God in Difficult Times, and how to find joy in the hard times. Today’s guest is my friend, Tracie Miles. Tracie is an author, speaker, and Director of COMPEL training for Proverbs 31 ministries. Tracie has walked through several difficult valleys in recent years and took the time to share not only the journey she has been on, but how she learned to cope and find joy again. Tracie shared that a key to loving life again and finding joy when life is hard, recording those times in our history when God was faithful to encourage our hearts when life gets difficult again. Tracie also suggested finding a support system, which may or may not be in the church. She further shared the importance of getting enough rest, sleep, eating well, and perhaps even seeking out a Christian counselor. Tracie pointed out that frequently a stumbling block to our joy is our attitude and perspective. She talked about the difference between complaining to God and lamenting as we share our sorrows with God. Tracie pointed out that if we truly want God’s joy, that it’s crucial we recognize our value and know that God truly loves us. Tracie talked about the importance of having God’s perspective: When Jesus looks at us, He sees us through the lens of mercy, and grace. Quotables from the episode: If you’ve been going through a hard time trusting God in difficult times, then this is the show for you to listen to! During those really difficult, painful experiences in life, it helps to look back and remember all those other times before when God was faithful and brought me through, and trusting that He will bring us through the current situation as well Make sure you find a strong support system. Friends, family, people in your church who can also give you spiritual support, to help keep you grounded in your faith so you are strong enough mentally and physically to be able to do the hard things. Make sure that you are taking care of yourself: physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Especially if others (like children) are depending on you, you’ve got to take care of yourself in order to be able to attend to the needs of others. Eat well, exercise, and do what it takes to sleep. We have to choose not to let our circumstances dictate our joy. It’s so important that we let God renew our thoughts and renew our mind, because only then can the real healing begin. Besides our circumstances (which are often largely outside of our control), another stumbling block to keeping our joy is out attitude and perspective; the thoughts we entertain. We have to be intentional about the thoughts we have. If we keep having the same negative thoughts we had yesterday and the day before, we’ll end up having the s
Fri, November 29, 2019
033 Hope for Healing after Spiritual Abuse
Episode Summary: If you have ever been abused by someone in the church, been manipulated by the church, or been under abusive authority within the church, or want to know how to avoid all the above, then this show is the perfect show for you. In this episode, I speak with Athena Dean Holtz about spiritual abuse. Those at greatest risk of being the victim of spiritual abuse appear to be those who don’t truly know what the Word of God says. Manipulators thrive on control and thrive on converting others to their way of thinking. Intimidation is another characteristic of abusers, leaving their victims feeling all alone, powerless, defeated, and victimized. While most situations of abuse are not the victim’s fault, it can nonetheless be so helpful for the victim to ask God the Father “What role did I play in this?” When we take responsibility for our own behavior, it strips the abuser of their power. Furthermore, learning what behaviors and patterns are recurring and leaving victims wounded, helps us take responsibility for the roll we played, and it makes us more responsible for having honest dialog with the one who is wounded by agreeing in prayer, and agreeing with what God says about us, and often has the added benefit of helping us not repeat behaviors and patterns in relationship that would lead to future abuse. Quotables from the episode: It’s so crucial that we know the Scripture and know when it is being taken out of context. Furthermore, when we aren’t familiar enough with the scriptures for ourselves can make us easily intimidated by the scriptures when others proclaim them. If we leave wounded areas in our life unhealed, leaves us open to further work by the enemy of our soul. Intimidation is a common strategy used by those who are abusive. And that’s just like the enemy, who is a big bully and is intimidating when Jesus isn’t like that at all. When we have been hurt and wounded by people, that can leave a void in our lives that can leave us open to being wounded by others and be drawn in by others in the future, and manipulators are good at observing and figuring out what our triggers points and vulnerable weak spots are, so they can use those to their advantage. Abusers often begin with a grooming process, where they take a special interest in someone and go out of their way to make that person feel special. But at the same time, they also make it seem that anyone who questions, or challenges, or who points out anything that could be negative as the enemy. The abusers will often make it sound righteous by cutting off anyone who disagrees with their position. In the grooming process, they also want to isolate you and cut you off from friend, family members, and anyone who might point out the fallacies of their beliefs and help you see truth. If a spiritual leader is not humble enough to allow people to challenge them on their opinions
Thu, November 21, 2019
032 Hope and Healing for a Wounded Heart
Episode Summary: If you have ever felt broken, worthless, or unable to be used by God, then today is the perfect show for you. (And by the way, if it sounds like thunder in the background, there IS thunder in the background. Both Suzie and I were in the midst of terrible storms when we recorded this. But the show must go on. In this episode, I spoke with my friend, Suzie Eller, about how God can heal our broken places. Suzie and I discussed how we all have areas of brokenness in our lives, and so often God uses those areas of brokenness to become areas of ministry after God has come in and healed us. By inviting God into those broken places, God changes us, our direction, our heart, and even the future generation Healing is always a process. While we never become completely healed this side of heaven, we can experience increasing levels of healing over time. Healing was exactly part of the reason Jesus came, and the closer we become to God, the greater the levels of healing we receive. The power of Jesus’s death on the cross is not in anything we do, but instead in what He did for us. By healing us in our areas of brokenness, we can then comfort others who may go through similar situations. Suzie discussed three things we don’t have to do for our healing: earn God’s love, do this alone, or run away. Quotables from the episode: Whenever we see the word “will” in Scripture, that is a promise from God. Knowing God changes us. But it doesn’t just change us, knowing Him changes our direction, it changes our heart, and it changes the next generation. Healing goes on for a lifetime. We never become fully healed this side of heaven. Our story matters a lot, and our woundedness looks different from person to person, but Jesus came for us. We begin the healing process by embracing the truth that no matter what it looks like, He has us on His heart, and He also knows how to heal us. Our woundedness can look very different from person to person. We can be wounded from people, from the church, from sin, from loss... Jesus knows where our woundedness lies and how to heal us. If we could have healed ourselves, we would have. Jesus meets us where we are. 3 Things You Don’t Have to do for Your Healing: You don’t have to earn God’s love. You don’t have to go anywhere. He meets you right where you are. You don’t have to do this alone. God’s got you. Just like when Peter began to sink, Jesus reaches out to help us. You don’t have to run away. We run away from a lot of things. We run toward comparison and away from God. We run away when we think we’ve made a mistake. But we never have to run away from God. Jesus said He has come for us. If you are running away, you don’t have to run anymore. Just stop, turn around, and move toward Him. When God says “I have come…” or “I have overcome the world…” or “I will f
Thu, November 14, 2019
031 You are Loved by God
Episode Summary: If you have ever felt like God didn’t or couldn’t love you, then today is the perfect show for you. In this episode, I had the opportunity to chat with Wendy Blight about her journey to discovering how much God loves her, and how that has positively impacted her outlook since that time. Wendy shares her most harrowing life experience, and how that caused her to view God initially, question God, and come to know God’s love in a new and transforming way. We all go through experiences that cause us to question, and sometimes even question God. Such experiences can either cause us to turn away from God in anger, or turn toward God to find His love and comfort despite our circumstances. We often have a picture of God that is quite different than who He really is, until we begin to get to know God’s character. Wendy shared what helped her get through life’s difficult trials, and how He can change us if we let Him. Wendy discussed the importance of answering the question “Who is on the throne of my heart,” and how that impacts our attitudes and behaviors. Wendy shared how we can know and truly receive God’s love, and how much He desires that for each one of us. Quotables from the episode: Many people question if God loves them, especially when it seems God allowed things to happen to us that He could have prevented. It’s hard to associate someone who supposedly loves you and who is so powerful who allows bad things to happen. But the truth is nothing separates us from the love of God. There are several universal questions people ask when going through a dark time, “God are you real?” and “God do you care? Sometimes we grow up with a picture of God that isn’t consistent with the God of the Bible. What we really need to know is the character of God. Being in the word of God can give us a new lens and a new perspective. Even when God allows things to happen, He is there, He cares, He loves us, He weeps for us, and He is waiting for us on the other side. We will be more than a conqueror in Christ Jesus. But to be a conqueror, we have to go through the battle. But we make it through that because of Him. He can take the most ugly, traumatic messes of our life and make them beautiful with his healing, peace, love, and joy. An important question for us to ask is, “Who is on the throne of my heart?” God wants to be on the throne of our heart. He wants to be our everything. When we talk about what is on the throne of our heart, it’s anything, like a recurring thought pattern, that comes to you all the time and governs your day or governs your life. Who or what am I looking to for my hope, and for my safety and my security? That’s an indication that that thing holds a higher place in your heart and in your life than God does. In such situations, it’s important to have Scriptures which can interrupt those thought patterns, and speak t
Thu, November 07, 2019
30 Hope and Help for Parenting a Child with Special Needs
Episode Summary: If you are the parent or relative of a special needs child or support a friend who is, then today is the perfect show for you. Misty is the parent to a son who had grand mal seizures and was eventually diagnosed with autoimmune encephalitis and PANDAS. The strep virus went to his brain and began to attack his brain, leaving him with multiple deficits. He was born with club feet, rarely slept the first three years of his life, had severe sensory sensitivity, had delayed speech, and required multiple hospitalizations. She felt very much alone because none of her friends could relate, and she homeschooled her children which further isolated them. In this episode Misty shares how she and her husband found hope despite parenting a child with special needs. She offers insight for other parents with a child with special needs, as well as for how friends and family can support parents with a child with special needs. God knew each of us before we were knit in our mother’s womb, and He has a purpose and a plan for each of us. Remembering this is crucial for parents with a child with special needs. He has given you your child because He knew you were the best parent this child could have. Now lean into Him for wisdom and direction. Quotables from the episode: You are never alone on your journey. Life is hard, but God is always there with us God entrusts our children to us. He knows out of all the parents, who are the perfect parents for our children. Nonetheless, He wants us to seek Him for wisdom in our parenting endeavors. It’s not our responsibility for us to have all the answers, but if we seek Him, He will guide us. We have no control. We’d like to think that we have control over our lives but we don’t. But if God has allowed something to come into our lives, God is good, and He loves us, and we can trust that His sovereign hand has allowed it to happen, and we can learn and grow from it. No matter what that circumstance is, He is our hope, and He will see us through it. God loves us for who we are, just right where we are. We don’t have to do anything to earn His love. Parents of special needs children share some universal struggles. They tend to feel alone, and for that it helps to be in community both with other parents of special needs children, but also with parents of children that don’t have special needs. It’s so important that parents of special needs children, and all parents really, take care of themselves because if we won’t take care of ourselves, we are not going to be able to care for those God has entrusted to us. During those times when we feel like we aren’t cut out for parenting, shifting our perspective to one of gratitude and praise makes all the difference. Yes, parenting is hard, especially a child with special needs, but it also affords some blessings we wouldn’t have had otherwise, like meeting different people, and ev
Thu, October 31, 2019
029 How To Help Someone with Depression
Episode Summary: Today we’re talking about how to help someone with depression. October is National Depression Awareness Month. Earlier in the month, we’ve heard several guests share their experiences and their hope-filled perspectives as it pertained to depression. Yet I felt that we would be remiss if we didn’t also have an episode addressing how to help someone with depression because depression doesn’t occur in isolation—it impacts our spouses, our family, our friends, and others around us. Mental health awareness is two-fold: One learning to live with it; the other learning to love through it. If you have a spouse, friend, or loved one with depression, and you want to know how to help, this is the episode for you. By 2020, depression will be our greatest epidemic worldwide: greater than heart disease, cancer, and diabetes combined. Depression is considered a medical condition, specifically, a mood disorder. Everyone’s experience with depression is different but there are some general, common signs and symptoms: -Change in mood (sad, blue, irritable, agitated, angry) -Change in socialization -Decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities -Decreased energy level which can make normal daily tasks difficult to accomplish -Changes in sleep and appetite (sleeping and/or eating too much or too little) -Self-medicating (drugs, alcohol, spending, gambling, shopping, work) -Crying -Thoughts of suicide or self-harm 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: Enter into their experience with them and be present. Offer to make a doctor’s appointment for them and offer to go with them. Make plans with them. Even if they decline, keep offering. Ask how you can pray for them and pray with them. Remain encouraging and positive. Meet tangible needs (i.e. car pool, pick up grocery items, run errands). Be willing to just sit and be with them. Convey there is hope. 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: “It’s all in your head.” “Snap out of it.” “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.) “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.)
Thu, October 24, 2019
028 Hope and Help for Depression and OCD
Episode Summary: If you have ever struggled with depression or obsessive or compulsive tendencies, or you have a friend or loved one who has, then today is the perfect show for you. It’s not uncommon to experience depression and OCD, in fact, today’s guest has experienced both. Depression and OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) can present differently for each person. An individual with OCD may struggle to fight the need to check locks on the house before going to bed or as they are leaving to go out. They may have intrusive, irrational thoughts. They may feel that they have to do something to prevent something bad from happening, that truly is not within their direct control although they believe it is. In our culture, people use OCD as an adjective but it is so much worse than that and can be so debilitating. Anxiety falls under the category of anxiety disorders. Frequently, it encompasses irrational fears. Hope-Filled Perspective: God listens. Pray. Be honest with God. Tell Him how you are feeling. Ask for His help. Consider sharing with a trusted friend or counselor who can provide support and objective feedback. Depression and OCD do not have to rule your life. Wes has developed a ministry called PerseveringHope.com where they write about mental health issues, grief, and illness, in an effort to encourage others and spread hope. Quotables from the episode: If you have ever struggled with depression or obsessive or compulsive tendencies, or you have a friend or loved one who has, then this show is the perfect episode for you. Individuals with mental health issues, like depression or OCD, often feel like they are the only one who struggles. This can make it hard to reach out for help, out of fear that they will not be understood. So often we cannot see the struggles that others are dealing with. We, likewise, also try to hide our struggles so that they are not apparent to others. We frequently put pressure on ourselves and begin to think that if we are not perfect, God will not love us. But the truth is that God just loves us for who we are. It doesn’t matter how much we do for Him or how much we fail Him. Having gone through depression and experiencing something like anxiety can develop in us a greater sense of empathy for others’ struggles. If you haven’t gone through depression, or anxiety, or cancer, or other difficult circumstances, it can be difficult to relate and understand what others are experiencing. But when you go through it, your compassion and empathy toward others with similar conditions increases. Mental health issues like depression and OCD are not God’s best for us, nor His desire for us. But we live in a fallen world. Regardless, there is help, hope, and healing available. Because depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder, or anxiety are such isolating conditions, there can be a te
Thu, October 17, 2019
027 Hope in the Face of Blindness
Episode Summary: If you have ever felt prevented from living the life you expected or held back by a disability, then this show is the perfect show for you. We talked with my friend, Carolyn Newell, about living with blindness. Carolyn knows what it is to live with blindness, but she calls her disability a gift from God. So many of us take our sight for granted, so I wanted to hear from her what it’s like to live with blindness in a sighted world, and how she maintained her hope despite the limitation it imposes. Carolyn spoke about the challenges of a blind person: having to rely on organization and her memory, getting disoriented when trying to go places, and needing help but not having offers to have. She spoke about experiencing depression as a consequence of her frustrations; feeling she was incapable of doing things and trying to do more than she could. She called herself “Super Blind Woman” because she tried to do it all. When Carolyn experienced depression, she couldn’t feel God’s presence. But Hebrews 13:5 assured her that God had not abandoned her. She also shares how learning braille taught her how to depend on God. When she was most frustrated, Carolyn prayed scripture back to God. When encountering difficulties because of her blindness, she repeatedly prays, “God, you said in your word that if we have the faith the size of a tiny mustard seed, we can move mountains, and I need you to move that mountain!” Carolyn shared how vital it is that we step out in faith and trust God. Even though we often feel we can’t do something, God can. That may be through prayer, or it might come by asking others for help. If you are struggling with some kind of limitation, Carolyn recommends that you pray and read the word of God and that is where we get our strength. Carolyn learned that she can do many of the same things that others do, she just has to do them differently. But God is the one we need to depend on more than ever. God has a purpose for our trials that we may not see at the time, but will come to appreciate as a gift, just as Carolyn does with her blindness. Quotables from the episode: Organization and memory are essential for anyone with visual impairment. When I lose something, it’s in those moments that I will pray and ask Jesus to help me. A guide dog can help expand a blind person’s independence. If I wasn’t blind, my life wouldn’t be free of frustrations, they would just be different. One of the greatest struggles being blind is that no one seems to know to offer help. It’s okay if we get upset or disappointed with God, but we don’t want to stay in that place. Some of the days we think are going to be the worst days of our lives open up the door for so much more. It’s fine to have the attitude that you can do it all, but the reality is that it doesn’t work. None of us can do it all. When you strive for pe
Fri, October 11, 2019
026 Laughter is Good Medicine {Even for Depression and Suicidal Thoughts}
Episode Summary: If you or someone you love have ever struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts and wondered if there is help and hope, this is the perfect episode for you to listen to, as we explore how laughter is good medicine. My guest, Dave Ebert, shares how he grew up under a harsh, military father who was physically ill after serving in the military. As an adolescent, Dave became depressed, and then sought out to release some of that depression by entertaining others through wrestling. Ultimately, Dave began a career in improv comedy to help encourage others and give them hope where they are. Dave offers his hope-filled perspective for dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts, as well as practical easy tips that someone can begin to implement today. Quotables from the episode: The enemy will whisper in our ears that we are worthless, but that’s a lie. Too often, we inappropriately assume our value comes from what we do instead of whose we are. We can take comfort by looking at some of the biblical greats like King David, Elijah, Job, and Paul, who all went through bouts of depression. When a group of strangers laugh together, suddenly they are no longer strangers because they have all admitted something about themselves. “Laughter is a tangible evidence of hope.” Michael Jr. Laughter makes you more open to receiving from someone else. Laughter can also heal. As parents, we need to be having conversations with our children about depression and suicidal thoughts, not only to stave off their attempts but to also equip them to help friends and classmates. The number of emergency room admissions for suicidal thoughts and attempts has doubled in our adolescent population from 2015-2019. Kids are spending more time online and less time building real relationships. We’ve got to be monitoring what they are watching and what is coming into their hearts and minds. Social media, such as the Netflix program “13 Reasons Why,” is glorifying suicide in our children. Your hope-filled perspective: you are made in God’s image. God created emotions. It’s okay to feel them. Don’t add to your misery by condemning yourself for the feelings you have. Be honest with God about them—He knows everything anyway. Be around people, and let people in. It’s important, especially when you are feeling depressed and suicidal to hear other voices besides the enemy’s voice in your ear. Be around those who will support you and love you. Get involved in church. Be around other believers who can encourage you. It’s okay to not be okay, but it’s not okay to stay there. If Jesus Christ, the son of God, thought you were important enough to die for, who are you to disagree. To make a change today: 1) Don’t stay in the dark physically. Open the blinds and shutters. 2)
Thu, October 03, 2019
025 How We Fight Against Worry, Fear, and Anxiety
Episode Summary: If you have ever experienced worry, fear, or anxiety, then this is the perfect episode for you! We’ve spent the last couple of weeks discussing worry, fear, and anxiety in part to celebrate the release of my new book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” which is now available at retailers near you and online. If you didn’t get to listen to either of the two previous week’s episode, I would encourage you to go back and listen to Episode 23 and Episode 24 because we had a great discussion about what exactly is worry, fear, and anxiety, where do they come from, what role trust in God plays, and how we increase our trust in Him. Today we really want to focus on what we can do about anxiety. Too many books tell you not to worry or not to be anxious, but they don’t tell you how. Today I want to talk about how we fight against worry, fear, and anxiety. Perfectionism is rooted in anxiety. Stress is mostly a self-inflicted wound. We put unrealistic expectations on ourselves that even God doesn’t put on ourselves. We worry, stress, and try to problem solve about every possible eventuality, which robs us of our peace and joy in the moment, and we can never get that moment back. Now it’s not always a self-inflicted wound. But our response to difficult situations inflicts the greatest stress. Even in the most unfortunate situations, we can choose to trust God through it. It’s a matter of taking every thought captive. We have to overcome worry, fear, and anxiety by seeing it as the battle it is. John 10:10 says that “The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy…” That thief comes to steal our joy and kill our peace. 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us “For God hath not given you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and of sound mind.” So, God is showing us that worry, fear, and anxiety are rooted in the spirit of fear. Our enemy brings that on us. But He’s also showing us that He has given us the weapons of power (the same power that raised Christ from the dead), Love (perfect love that casts out fear), and a sound mind (the mind of Christ) to fight the battle against worry, fear, and anxiety. We are given power through the Name of Jesus, through the Word of God, through the Cross, through Jesus’s blood, and so much more. God’s love is another powerful weapon. The enemy doesn’t have access to God’s love. God’s love is good and trustworthy. As Christ-followers, we have been given a sound mind because we have been given the mind of Christ. The same mind that fought the enemy in the wilderness. We have access to the Holy Spirit whose job it is to remind us of all truth. If you’ve accepted Christ as your savior, you have a new bloodline. Peace is not a thing; peace is a person. We long for peace, but peace can always be with us because God is peace and He is always with us. Recognize that worry, fear, and a
Wed, September 25, 2019
024 How Worry, Fear, and Anxiety Cause Us to Lose Our Peace
Episode Summary: If you have ever experienced worry, fear, or anxiety, then this is the perfect episode for you! Last week we announced the release of my new book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” which is now available at retailers near you and online. If you didn’t get to listen to last week’s episode, I would encourage you to go back and listen: https://drmichellebengtson.com/what-difference-between-worry-fear-and-anxiety-episode-23/ because we had a great discussion about what exactly is worry, fear, and anxiety, and where do they come from. Today we’re going to talk about the role that our trust in God plays and how we sacrifice our peace. Worry, fear, and anxiety overlap but they are not identical. Worry is thinking about problems or fears; thinking about an unknown future that creates anxious feelings. It’s really our thought processes. Fear is an emotional response to a real or perceived threat. Anxiety is the anticipation of a future threat. But all three of these start in our mind! The enemy can use our words to instill fear in others. For example, parents will say things to their children trying to protect their children but their words can cause their children to experience fear. Our fear really comes down to not trusting God completely. T-Take God at His Word -fear ultimately comes from trusting the lies of the enemy more than trusting God’s word. So we must consciously decide to trust what God has said in His word. R-Rest in His Presence -God doesn’t expect us to do everything right. There is no peace apart from God’s presence. If we will take time and spend time in His presence, the rest of the day goes better, and our thoughts will be more centered on Him, and we will be more at peace. U-Understand that the outcome doesn’t depend on us -God asks that we will believe, that we will trust, that we will have faith. When we will do what He asks us to do, the outcome is His responsibility. S-Accept that God is Sovereign -Our circumstances don’t take God by surprise. He already knows about them and what He is going to do about them. His ways are good, His plans for us are good—even when we go through pain. T-Turn to the Testimony of Previous Experiences -we can look back both in our own experiences as well as others’ experiences and see God’s faithfulness which makes it easier to trust God. Jesus came to give us peace, not as the world gives, but in a way that only He can give. He already gave that gift. So when we get wrapped in worry, fear, and anxiety, we are rejecting His gift of peace. Once we recognize worry, fear, and anxiety operating in our lives, we have to reject it and choose to trust
Thu, September 19, 2019
023 What is the Difference Between Worry, Fear, and Anxiety?
Episode Summary: If you have ever experienced worry, fear, or anxiety, then this is the perfect episode for you! [tweet this] Anxiety is considered “the common cold of mental illness.” So many people experience worry, fear and anxiety, and they’ve come to accept it as part of their life just like we accept the common cold: as if it is inevitable and it’s going to happen. As a society, we’ve come to expect worry, fear, and anxiety as a part of our life. But that’s not God’s way, God’s plan, or God’s intent. Worldwide, over 7.3% of the population suffers from an anxiety disorder. That amounts to one out of 13 people, or 264 million people. And that is just those who are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. That doesn’t account for the millions who never seek treatment, or those who have subclinical but still problematic levels of worry, fear, and anxiety. Even if you don’t struggle with worry, fear, or anxiety, you have a loved one, friend, or co-worker who does struggle. Worry, fear, and anxiety overlap but they are not identical. Worry is thinking about problems or fears; thinking about an unknown future that creates anxious feelings. It’s really our thought processes. Fear is an emotional response to a real or perceived threat. Anxiety is the anticipation of a future threat. But all three of these start in our mind! Worry, fear, and anxiety rob us because they take our focus away from all the good God is doing in us and through us and for us, and focus on all the lies of the enemy, then we can’t focus on all the good things going on for us now while we are busy problem solving for all the potential future eventualities. There are chemical, hereditary, and life experience contributors but those are not the true CAUSE of anxiety. In 2 Timothy 1:7, God shows that the spirit of fear is the cause of anxiety. It started back in the Garden of Eden with Adam, Eve, and the serpent. They experienced shame after they took the serpent’s bait. Shame was the result of their fear of God. Our thoughts can change our brain chemistry. So if we accept fearful thoughts, that can change our brain chemistry, and produce anxiety. Recognize those thoughts aren’t even your own thoughts! John 10:10 says “The thief comes only to steal, and kill and destroy…” The enemy is out to steal our joy, kill our peace, and destroy our identity. Our worry, fear, and anxiety comes because we don’t really trust God. When we recognize we haven’t been fulling trusting God, all we have to do is repent, and ask Him to help us and He will! Quotables from the episode: God says that worry, fear, and anxiety are not our portion—peace is! Worry, fear, and anxiety overlap but they are not identical Worry is thinking about problems or fears; thinking about an unknown future that creates anxious feelings. It’s really our thought processes Fear is an emotional
Thu, September 12, 2019
022 Hope When You Have Thoughts of Suicide
Episode Summary: 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. September 8-September 14, 2019 is National Suicide Prevention Week in the United States of America, so I wanted to devote this episode to discussing suicide prevention. This is also the week before my newest book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” releases in all major retailers. Because those who get to the point where they consider suicide as a viable option are often overcome with anxiety, it seemed only fitting that we would have an episode that would cover both issues. Scripture tells us in Psalm 34:18 that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” If that is you today, as one who is feeling broken hearted, crushed in spirit, or perhaps, hopeless, I hope that you will stay with us and listen to our conversation today between a board certified clinical neuropsychologist and a first response crisis chaplain, but more importantly, as two individuals who have been there. 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. It’s okay to ask God how we are to get through our most difficult circumstances. When God’s children submit to Him, He will often send us back to give others hope. We must be so very careful of the words we speak. When we speak things like “I can’t do this anymore,” we forfeit in the spiritual, and give the enemy an open door to bring havoc into our lives. The enemy takes just a seed of truth and twists it to try to deceive us. That is why it is so crucial that we truly know the truth of God’s word. Use the truths of God’s word. Meditate on scripture, listen to praise and worship. When the stinking thinking sets in, speak it out and ask the Lord to unpack it like a trunk. He has given us power, love, and a sound mind. Quotables from the episode: The Lord never wastes a hurt. God transforms pain that was meant to be destructive into something that can be productive for His namesake and the healing of others. People don’t necessarily want to die…they just want the pain to end. You are the temple of the living God.We can always trust the Lord, e
Thu, September 05, 2019
021 Hope After a Failed Suicide Attempt
Episode Summary: If you have ever felt hopeless, helpless, or worthless, if you have ever felt like giving up the fight and ending it all, then today is the perfect show for you. If you’ve ever considered attempting suicide or lived following a failed suicide attempt, you’ll want to hear our guest’s story in this episode. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I talk with my guest, Rob Decker, who shares very candidly about his failed suicide attempt, and how he has found hope for a better life. Rob shares his story about growing up in a dysfunctional home, watching his parents model poor choices with drugs and alcohol, his own history of substance abuse, and finally culminating in a failed suicide attempt. Then Rob shares how, despite his upbringing and his own poor choices, he has found hope and is living a joy-filled, hopeful life, and how you can too. Quotables from the episode: If you have ever felt hopeless, helpless, or worthless, if you have ever felt like giving up the fight and ending it all, then today is the perfect show for you. If you’ve ever considered attempting suicide or lived following a failed suicide attempt, you’ll want to hear our guest’s story in this episode. Even when our earthly parents reject or abandon us, God is our Heavenly Father and He will take care of us. God is our Father, and because of that, we can know everything will be okay. Christ still heals today, and He could simply touch us and heal us, but sometimes we learn more through the process and become closer to Him as a result. Despite the difficult circumstances we go through, the only way we can find freedom is to forgive. So often God uses our trials, our tribulation, our childhood, our experiences to help someone else. Find your peace in God and know that He has a purpose for your life. He has great things planned for your life. He will carry you through the trials. Find your hope in Him. He won’t let you down. The best decision you can make is to make Jesus Christ your Lord. It’s also important to make the decision to take care of yourself. Exercise, eat right, get enough rest, surround yourself by like-minded individuals who really care about your well-being, and do things that bring you joy. Scripture References: Psalm 27:13 “I would be in despair if I did not believe I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” 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 for a future and a hope.” Psalm 40:1-3 “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.” Recommended Resources:
Thu, August 29, 2019
020 Give Yourself a Break
Episode Summary: As a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist, not a day goes by that I don’t have to address the importance of rest with my patients struggling from medical and mental health disorders ranging from ADHD to post-concussion syndrome. As a society that is now driven to better and faster technology, rest has become a lost art, but no less fundamentally important to our physical emotional, cognitive, and spiritual well-being. God granted us both time and the model of rest for our good, yet we’ve come to treat it as a weakness or a punishment. If you have ever felt worn out, weary, and longing for more, then today is the perfect show for you. In this episode, Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith and I talked not just about the importance of rest, but about the different types of rest (and some of them might surprise you). As a neuropsychologist, I’m frequently interviewed about what we can do to help our physical and emotional well-being, and Dr. Dalton-Smith and I talked about the importance of rest to help us be more productive and more creative. We think we can accomplish more by doing more and skimping on rest, but the opposite is true. Quotables from the episode: Often, obeying God’s command to rest takes a step of faith. When God gives us a command to rest, it is for our good. It is opening up room for something better. But so often we are unwilling to trust Him in that process. We keep trying to grab on to the small blessings, but it keeps Him from giving us the really big one coming our way. We tend to treat rest as if that’s an indulgence. Sometimes God has to take us to the place where we are at the lowest of the low in order for us to hear His voice. When we are so busy, and not taking time to adequately enter His rest, the business drowns out His voice from our ears We can get so busy that we have a religious relationship with God but no true personal relationship There are seven types of rest: physical rest (active and passive) mental rest (the easiest way to know you don’t have it is when you lie down to go to sleep at night but you can’t turn your brain off) emotional rest (rest that comes from being able to be very truthful and authentic; being able to say what you mean without having to censor your words) spiritual rest (breaking away from a religious relationship with God and focusing on intimacy with God; spending time in His presence to worship Him) social rest (understanding which people are draining in your life, and which ones are more life giving and make you feel better just by being around them; social rest is rest from the presence of others) sensory rest (taking breaks from sensory stimulation like the tv, radio, lights, being touched) creative rest (comes from allowing yourself the space to appreciate beauty) People often need to make a mindset shift: r
Thu, August 22, 2019
019 Finding Freedom and Breakthrough
Episode Summary: We all struggle with pain from our past. Places where brokenness continues to cut deep into the fabric of our soul. If you have ever felt stuck, and really, no matter where you are on the path to wholeness, our discussion today will comfort, equip, and challenge you to keep pressing forward, past brokenness to healing. My guest, Jennifer Watson, author of Freedom! The Gutsy Pursuit of Breakthrough and the Life Beyond It https://amzn.to/2KRuPpv shares her story as a pastor’s wife and women’s ministry leader who has battled depression, anxiety, brokenness, and insecurities. Quotables from the episode: We all struggle with pain from our past. Places where brokenness continues to cut deep into the fabric of our soul. If you have ever felt stuck, then this is the episode for you to listen to. [click to tweet] no matter where you are on the path to wholeness, our discussion today will comfort, equip, and challenge you to keep pressing forward, past brokenness to healing. [click to tweet] You can’t ask someone for direction when they’ve never been where you are going. Sometimes we need to seek the input of counselors, or mentors, or those who are more spiritually mature to help us heal and move forward with our lives. Freedom in a holy confidence to be able to walk in who God created you to be. There is a holy confidence in how God wants to use us. There is a military definition of breakthrough that says it’s the advancement beyond enemy territory. Can’t you just imagine stomping through enemy territory, and not just going up to it, but going beyond it to take back what has been stolen. People have a natural tendency to retreat from pain. But truly, you have to feel it to heal it. You can try to stuff the pain down and ignore it, but if you do, it will come back at an inopportune, unexpected time later. The enemy wants us to remain stuck in our brokenness. He wants us to be fixated on our problems instead of the promises of God. We have to be intentional about not going into hiding anymore, and facing our issues head on, no matter how painful, no matter how long it takes. We have to remember that God is so much bigger than our situations. No matter what battle we are facing, we are not facing it alone. God repeatedly says in His word that He will never leave us, and in fact, in Exodus 14:14, it says He will fight for us, if we will just be still. Where do your thoughts go? A couple indications that we’ve become stuck in a broken place and haven’t moved forward is when we find our conversation always returning to the event, or the person, or the offense, or when we start rehearsing conversations in our mind that we wish we’d had with the person who hurt us. When we focus on problems instead of promises of God, we get stuck. We all need t
Thu, August 15, 2019
018 Exciting News! Breaking Anxiety’s Grip New Book Release
Episode Summary: I’ve got some exciting news to share with my listeners and readers this week! So many of you have asked for it, and it’s finally here! We’re announcing the soon to be released book that YOU asked me to write, to help you in your struggles with worry, fear, and anxiety. Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises will be released by Baker Revell on September 17, 2019. This book is truly a gift from my heart. It was written with you in mind, much like my first book, “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” , Breaking Anxiety’s Grip is written from a dual perspective of a doctor who has treated thousands of patients with anxiety, and as a fellow sufferer. As I began to really research for this book, however, God revealed to me that worry, fear, and anxiety are not our portion; peace is. He came to give us peace. In Breaking Anxiety’s Grip , I share what worry, fear, and anxiety are, where they come from, and what tools we can use to conquer them. I want to encourage you to go pre-order the book now because we have some amazing pre-order bonuses bundled together to give you for free to everyone who pre-orders before September 16, 2019. We are offering digital downloads of the Fear No More Declaration, 3 Beautiful word art prints, 3 fun adult coloring pages, the Spotify link that includes all the songs included in the Recommended Play List at the end of every chapter. The pre-order bundle also includes a digital download of an original painting by Emily Curiak titled “The Price of Peace,” as well as the digital download of Recover: Rest, Relax, Revive, and Rejuvenate playlist with 6 originally composed piano tracks by award-winning composer, producer, and pianist Jamar Jones. In coming weeks, we’ll talk more about worry, fear, and anxiety: what is it, where does it come from, and what do we do about it. But for now, I just wanted to share this exciting news and invite you to come along on the journey with me. Quotables from the episode: We all struggle with worry, fear, and anxiety to some degree, and we’ve come to accept it as normal; that’s why it’s considered the common cold of mental illness. Worry, fear, and anxiety are not your portion, peace is. Scripture References: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” Psalm 139:23 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 KJ "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." John 16:33 Recommended Resources: https://drmichellebengtson.com/announcing-breaking-anxietys-grip/ <l
Thu, August 08, 2019
017 How To Deal with Fear Effectively
Episode Summary: As a neuropsychologist, I know the power of our mind, the power of our thoughts. Have you ever wondered how to deal with fear effectively? If you have ever battled your thoughts, and felt like you couldn’t win, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about training our mind to conquer challenges, defeat doubt, and live victoriously. Today we’re talking to my friend, Kelly Balarie, about what it means to be battle ready. Her book by the same title is one that helps us proactively prepare to fight back against doubt, disbelief, and uncertainty and how to deal with fear in order to live from a stance of determination, resiliency, and faith to be all that God has called us to be. Kelly offers us tangible suggestions of ways to take heart and keep our minds focused on His truth for victorious living. Kelly and I talk about how we fight any good fight, first in our mind, because what is in our mind will come out in our actions. When we continue to believe a lie, we really hurt ourselves. Kelly shares how she learned through her difficulties how to deal with fear by changing her thoughts. She explains what it means to be battle ready. She also gives several tips about how to do that, like what it means to adopt a buffet mindset, or how to take a mind vacation. Quotables from the episode: As a neuropsychologist, I know the power of our mind, the power of our thoughts. If you have ever battled your thoughts, and felt like you couldn’t win, then today is the perfect show for you. [click to tweet] Today we’re going to be talking about training our mind to conquer challenges, defeat doubt, and live victoriously. This is an episode you won’t want to miss. [click to tweet] We fight any good battle first in our mind. We can either try to do things on our own, or we can find life through God. Advancement really comes when we get to the place where we admit that we can’t do it ourselves and we need God. Our mess is our message, and God meets us in our mess. When the trials come, we need to keep our thoughts fixed on heaven, on Jesus, and how we have the mind of Christ. Our thoughts are where the battles are won and lost. We need God’s fresh insight in our thoughts! Faith is a gift from God. It comes from Him, and we don’t have to try to conjure it up or strive to make it happen. We have to preach to ourselves. We have to speak the word of God to our situation and over ourselves. Personalize scripture to remind yourself things like God says you are holy, righteous, more than a conqueror, and victorious in Christ Jesus. Just like the Socrates method of teaching, if you teach what you have learned, you hold onto it better. For Scripture that we don’t understand, all we have to do is ask God to teach us His word, and for the Holy Spirit to reveal the word to our lives.
Fri, August 02, 2019
016 Hope for Healing from Physical and Domestic Abuse
016 Hope for Healing from Physical and Domestic Abuse Episode Summary: If you have ever been the victim of physical or sexual abuse, been the target of domestic violence, or survived a traumatic event, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re talking about finding hope and healing after trauma, particularly domestic violence. On this episode, I had a very frank discussion with my friend, Melanie Pickett, who experienced a 15-year marriage that entailed domestic violence and sexual assault but shares how she found hope to go on. Melanie not only shared her story, but also the “red flags” that she missed that others need to be aware of. Melanie offers practical suggestions for what to do if you are in an abusive relationship, and how to hold on to hope. Quotables from the episode: We will all go through hard times, but we have to remember that the trials are just a chapter not the entire story. Life will go on. After experiencing a traumatic event, trauma counseling can be so helpful and so healing. Even in the darkest nights, God still provided. One of the red flags Melanie missed was her husband’s extreme possessiveness which in the extreme isn’t about wanting to be with you but wanting to control and manipulate. Look at your relationships and ask yourself if they really line up with the love chapter in the Bible (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Is your relationship patient and kind? Not jealous or boastful or proud or rude? Does it not demand its own way? Is it not irritable and keep no record of being wrong? Does it rejoice over truth and not injustice? That is a good guideline for what a healthy relationship is like. Things to consider in your relationship: Are you afraid? Do you feel unsupported or that you can’t share your true feelings? You’re never more alive than when you are in pain, because that’s when you’re on your knees and God is really working. [click to tweet] Melanie never blamed God for what happened to her. She did, however, blame her ex-husband, but over time she came to a place where she could have compassion for how tormented he must have been. If you are in an abusive relationship, it’s not your fault. It’s not okay that it is happening, and you don’t deserve it. Financial concerns is not a reason to stay in an abusive relationship. God will work everything out. There is help, there is hope. You are not damaged goods. Even though the healing process is painful, there are better days ahead. Good Biblical therapy is key for moving on. Don’t stay in an abusive relationship because you think you can change a person. You can’t. Change has to come from God. Do not minimize your situation by thinking “Well, at least he’s not hitting me” because abuse is abuse and you don’t know when things will escalate, and it might cost you your life The most
Thu, July 25, 2019
015 Hope for the Fight Against Cancer
Episode Summary: If you have ever gone through a difficult trial that you hadn’t anticipated, or given an unexpected diagnosis, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about how to maintain our hope when unexpected news like a devastating medical diagnosis turns your life upside down. We’ll specifically discuss hope for the fight against cancer. In this episode, Scott Bengtson shares about some of the very difficult life circumstances that turned our lives upside down, from a long-distance commuter marriage for several years to his fight against cancer with a very poor prognosis. He reflected on how his upbringing resurfaced during those times to provide him a foundation on which he could rest his hope despite what doctors warned would be his fate. We also discussed tips for how we chose to navigate those treacherous waters, while minimizing the negativity in our lives and focusing on what we knew to be true. Scott and I discussed the importance of knowing what you believe before crisis hits because that is no time to try to determine what you think is true. You must cement your beliefs before you fight against cancer. We also talked about the importance of guarding our hearts and minds, and what exactly that means. We also shared things that people said or did that were of help and encouragement, as well as things that were said or done which were not helpful. Scott ended the broadcast sharing his perspective about how to maintain hope in the difficult times, and reminded us that doctors are just human, and they give their best estimates but that God cannot be put in a box or limited to humanly derived statistics. Quotables from the episode: Tears are liquid prayers. Life may be difficult, but successes still happen. Sometimes we hold on to hope by doing what you know to do. There were many days of discouragement and fear, filled with many anguished prayers. A lot of those days were valley days. But what got us through those dark days was knowing who he was, who his Father was, and how we could go to Him in honest prayers, and we had the privilege to worship Him. The trials we experienced didn’t change the truth that we knew. It is often not living day by day, but depending on God moment by moment. You have to know what you believe before a crisis hits, because that is what you will fall back on when crisis hits. It would have been easier to get through those trials if we had understood the power of our words, and the importance of guarding our minds. We made the decision to no longer watch the evening news or take the daily newspaper because we wanted to limit the negativity that entered our home. We are now less likely to allow people to speak negative things to or over us. And now we are more careful about what we say to others. When someone is going through a trial or dev
Fri, July 19, 2019
014 Hope For Those Who Have Toxic Friends
Episode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about the pain of the friendship relationships that steal your joy. Specifically, toxic friends. Have you ever struggled with a friendship that has gone array? Perhaps you invested yourself fully into a friendship only to find out that the relationship was a bit one-sided, or perhaps even a toxic friendship? If so, then today is the perfect show for you. There's something wrong with your friendship, but you can't figure out what. Is everything in your head? Unfortunately, most of us have a few toxic friends over the course of our life. Toxic friendships happen to everyone, but we seldom identify the underlying issues while we battle confusion or the friendship breaks up. Friendships can be hard but breaking up is even harder. Maybe you're left bewildered in the friendship's wake, paralyzed to move forward. On today’s show we are going to be talking to Mary DeMuth. After wading through several difficult relationships with toxic friends, Mary reveals the seven different types of toxic friendships and empowers you to identify the messiest relationships causing you the greatest anguish. I had the pleasure of reading an early copy of her book, The Seven Deadly Friendships and offered my written endorsement: "In 30 years as a mental health practitioner, I've had the privilege of working with patients who have struggled with and suffered because of toxic friends, akin to those detailed in The Seven Deadly Friendships . Mary helps us identify those toxic relationships and then points us to seven life-giving practices to help us receive and extend healthy friendships." Quotables from the episode: Have you ever had toxic friends? If so, you’ll want to listen to this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson. The toxic friendships are based on the seven deadly sins listed in Proverbs 6: haughty eyes, lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who sows discord in a family. Almost all sins are relational in some sort of way, whether they are relational toward God or toward others. The difficult relationships we face that coordinate with the seven deadly sins are: Narcissist Nolan, Unreliable Uma, Predator Paige, Conman Connor, Temptor Trevor, Faker Fiona, and Dramatic Drake. For each of these types of relationships, we need to know what the scriptures say about them, but we also need to ask ourselves the question, “Am I like this?” Relationships are built on two or more individuals, and we each play a role in their success or their failure. We need to examine our hearts and become better friends, because the stuff of life is built on friendships. There are a lot of divorce recovery books availab
Fri, July 12, 2019
013 Hope When Our Loved One is Terminally Ill or Requires Hospice Care
Episode Summary: We have all experienced the loss of loved ones, and if you haven’t, you will, because death happens to all of us. If you have ever had a friend or loved one who is terminally ill or referred to hospice care at the end of their life, or wondered about hospice and what they do, then today is the perfect show for you. In this episode, I’m talking with my friend, Shelley Sisson, a retired hospice and palliative care nurse. Shelley shares what hospice care entails, when it is utilized, and how to die well. She shares that the end of life is like standing on holy ground, and although it can be painful to watch a friend or loved one with a terminal illness die, that we can catch glimpses of heavenly treasures if we will look for them. When a terminally ill patient has been referred for hospice care, the goal is symptom management and to keep them as comfortable as possible during whatever time they have left. Hospice has a team that works together to provide medication management, self-care, chaplain services, as well as patient and family education to help the family best support their loved one at the end of their life. Shelley shares how we can best support a friend or loved one with a terminal illness receiving hospice care, as well as how we can support their grieving loved ones. Death is inevitable for all of us, but we can take the opportunity to die well. Quotables from the episode: Today we’re going to be talking about hope in the midst of loving someone with a terminal illness. If you have ever had a friend or loved one who is terminally ill and referred to hospice care, or wondered about hospice and what they do, then today is the perfect show for you. It’s crucial that at the end of life, we learn how to die well. Hospice is medical care that can be provided once a doctor has said that there is nothing else that can be done to cure a condition. Hospice provides care and comfort measures, to address symptoms, and to keep the patient comfortable in their final days. Hospice care is usually provided for the last few days to months of a terminally ill patient’s life. If you or your loved one are not clicking with your hospice team, there are other teams available, and it’s okay to ask to be transferred to work with another team that might be a better fit. Hospice helps provide support for administering medications, self-care for the patient, and trains the family to be able to best support their loved one. There is always a last dose of medication. Someone has to administer the last dose. But it is not the last dose that has caused them to die. It is not something to feel guilty about. Don’t exclude your children from the dying process. They tend to handle it better than adults do. But if you don’t include them, they will be prone to believe lie
Thu, July 04, 2019
012 Hope and Help for How to Avoid Caregiver Burnout
Episode Summary: If you’ve ever been in a caregiving role, whether it be for a child, spouse, sick parent or relative, you know how hard it can be to care for yourself as well. In this episode, we are going to talk about caregiver burnout, and how we can have hope as caregivers, despite the toll it can take. We’ll be talking with Sarah Forgrave, one who has been in the position of caregiver for at least two different family members, and author of the book Prayers of Hope for Caregivers . Sarah’s impetus for writing about hope and prayer for caregivers was birthed out of her own season of caregiving for her sister, and then for her young son. Sarah learned ways to help avoid caregiver burnout. She understands the many challenges a caregiver faces, and the fact that caregivers are often overlooked in the shadow of the person who’s sick. Sarah shares how she learned that we can talk to God authentically where we are, that we don’t have to put on a Christian mask, and that He welcomes us just as we are. Sarah also shares that in order to avoid caregiver burnout, carve out a few minutes each day to nurture your soul. During times of caregiving, all of your attention goes toward the other person’s wellbeing, but don’t forget about your own needs in the process. Self-care is crucial to providing care for others. As you go through each day, pay attention to the five-minute windows you have alone (like when your care recipient is sleeping, when you’re driving, etc.), and make one intentional choice to nurture our relationship with God. Maybe read a short devotional at home or listen to an uplifting worship song while you drive. You might take a few deep breaths and incorporate Scripture medication with it—whatever fits the moment. Quotables from the episode: If you have ever been a caregiver to a child, or a sick parent, spouse, friend, or relative, then today is the perfect episode for you. When you feel alone or invisible as a caregiver, remember that God sees you and hears you. His strength is more than enough to carry us through—it may be a minute by minute process of trust, but He will provide what we need. It is not selfish for the caregiver to engage in some self-care, in fact, it will help avoid caregiver burnout. You have to refill yourself before you can pour out on others. In order to avoid caregiver burnout, carve out a few minutes each day to nurture your soul. Listening to this episode can help. Scripture References: Psalm 142:4-5 “I look for someone to come and help me, but no one gives me a passing thought! No one will help me; no one cares a bit what happens to me. Then I pray to you, O Lord, I say, ‘you are my place of refuge. You are all I really want in life.” Psalm 22:24 “God has never let you down, never looked
Tue, July 02, 2019
011 Hope for Post-Abortion Syndrome
Episode Summary: Statistics suggest that 1 in 3 women will have an abortion, and all need to know there is hope for what they often experience as a post abortion syndrome. The ultimate shame and grief over the loss of that child is often as intense as a mother who loses a child to miscarriage or premature death. If you or a loved one have endured an abortion, then today is the perfect show for you for a hope-filled perspective. In this episode we talk with Jessica DeYoung, who shares her story surrounding her decision to have an abortion, as well as her experience with the post abortion syndrome. Jessica explains that she believed that if she had her baby, it would destroy her family, and that she felt (as many women do) that abortion was the only option. So she and her boyfriend came to the conclusion that they needed to take the life of someone nobody knew about rather than destroying both of their families. Jessica shared that she repeatedly asked God to forgive her for having an abortion, and one day when she was apologizing yet again and asking God to forgive her, he replied, “Sweet daughter, I don’t know what you are talking about” because He had already forgiven her, but she had yet to receive His forgiveness and forgive herself. Jessica explained that part of the healing process in her post abortion syndrome entailed sharing her story, first with one person, then with many, so that the secrets she held in the dark would no longer have power over her. Quotables from the episode: One in three women will have an abortion. If you are one who has experienced an abortion and have been trying to heal from post abortion syndrome, then this episode is for you. When you are pregnant and in a desperate situation, it feels like there is nothing else you can do, but that is not the truth. Each of us will have times in our lives where there feels there is no way out of the situation so we take things into our own hands. With hardship, it doesn’t matter how big or little it seems to other people, when you are the one going through it, it is a big things. Loving a woman who is in the midst of a post abortion syndrome can help them not feel so ashamed and allow them to heal. Satan wants to keep up in darkness, but as soon as we shine God’s light into our darkness and through the cracks of our hurt and pain, shame, and guilt, that is where healing starts. It is never God who inflicts guilt, shame, or condemnation on us—that always comes from the enemy of our soul. God is faithful to forgive us. We don’t have the power to forgive ourselves nor do we have the power to save ourselves. What we do have the power to do is to trust in the forgiveness of our Father, and to fully surrender and trust that what He said is true. Key Scriptures: “Blessed are those who mou
Tue, July 02, 2019
010 Hope after Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Episode Summary: In this episode, I talk with a long-time colleague, and trusted friend, Dr. Lori Spohr. We have both worked in the field of Neuropsychology for over 25 years helping patients with various neurological disorders including traumatic brain injury. Dr. Spohr is a rehab neuropsychologist and works primarily with patients with illness or injury like stroke, traumatic brain injury, dementia, or patients with chronic difficulties like multiple sclerosis. Frequently following traumatic brain injury or concussion, loved ones and family members do not have a good understanding of the neurological process, what symptoms might be experienced, a typical course of recovery, what they can expect during recovery, and how they might be able to assist with recovery to help optimize healing. In this episode, Dr. Spohr and I discuss the advances in traumatic brain injury over the last 30 years, the biggest struggle for traumatic brain injury sufferers, and the biggest struggles for their caregivers. We also then discuss how the TBI patient can still hold on to hope, and what they can do to help maintain good self-care in the recovery process. Quotables from the episode: If you are someone who has suffered from a traumatic brain injury, or are a caregiver for someone with #TBI, then listen to this episode! #concussion Neuropsychology utilizes assessment and testing to help patients better understand themselves and work toward improving their quality of life. Neuropsychology focuses on neurological illness or injury and how that affects a person’s behavior and thought. Now, the majority of patients who get a traumatic brain injury survive it. The brain controls everything about us. Patients with a traumatic brain injury often have changes in physical functioning, emotional functioning (sometimes depression, irritability, anger) as well as changes in thinking skills (like making decisions and keeping themselves safe). A traumatic brain injury affects the whole family. Initially the caregivers want them to survive, then they focus on the physical challenges because they are the most obvious, then they are faced with the changes in behavior and cognition. It can be hard to adapt both for the traumatic brain injury patient and their caregivers because you can’t see the injury. This makes it hard for the caregivers to appreciate that there is an ongoing problem. Even mild brain injuries have changes in attention, organizing, and planning, and those can be very frustrating deficits. For a traumatic brain injury patient, it is a matter of being able to accept what is while going on to adapt to a new normal. A patient with traumatic brain injury often has difficulty returning to school, to work, and to their relationships, and it can be difficult for friends and caregivers can struggle because
Tue, June 11, 2019
009 Hope for the Fatherless
Episode Summary: Recently, close to Mother’s Day, we aired an episode about overcoming Mother Wounds. We received very positive feedback about that episode, and felt that as we near Father’s Day, knowing that can be a painful day for many, that we should also have an episode about the impact of being fatherless and experiencing Father Wounds. If you have been left fatherless, or have ever felt wounded by your earthly father, or felt that your relationship with your earthly father has potentially negatively impacted your relationship with your Heavenly Father, then today is the perfect show for you. You don’t have to be fatherless to experience father wounds. Today I’m talking with my friend, Lisa Burkhardt Worley, author of The Only Father I Ever Knew: How a Fatherless Child Finally Found True Love . In this episode, Lisa shared her experience of living fatherless from birth, and how she came to realize the need to heal the resulting father wounds that ensued. Lisa shared how she came to experience a relationship with God, her heavenly father, and begin to heal the wound that began when she was left fatherless at birth. Lisa and I talked about the impact of being fatherless on our personality and our behavior, and how we interact with others. We also talked about some ways to begin the healing process. Quotables from the episode: If you have ever felt wounded by your earthly father, or felt that your relationship with your earthly father has potentially negatively impacted your relationship with your Heavenly Father, then today is the episode for you. A father wound can occur when a relationship with a father was not all God intended it to be; whether from an absent father, an abusive father, or even a father who was physically present but not emotionally present. A father speaks into your self-esteem. The father is so important to a child’s well-being. When someone is fatherless, they often struggle with self-esteem, and often search elsewhere for the love of a father figure. Father wounds can occur to boys or girls, men or women. The Heavenly Father will pursue us. Sometimes we say yes, and sometimes we run the other direction. The decision is ours. God has a heart for the fatherless. He doesn’t want you to feel alone. But we have to be open to Him stepping into that role of father for us. We can tell God the Father anything we want to. There is nothing hidden in His sight. We cannot equate God the Father to our earthly fathers. Many think of God the Father as distant. But He is our Abba Daddy who views us as His child. He wants an intimate relationship with Him. If our earthly father was abusive, we think of God as a harsh God. If our earthly father was absent, leaving us fatherless, we think of God as a distant God. But in actuality, He pursues us thro
Tue, June 11, 2019
008 Hope in Widowhood: How to Help a Grieving Widow
Episode Summary: If you have lost a spouse and are now widowed, or you have a friend who is a new widow, then today is the perfect show for you. We’re going to talk about what it’s like to become a widow or widower, how to help a grieving widow, and how to support a widow in such a trying time. Seven years ago, Lisa Appelo went to bed happily married to her high school sweetheart and woke up a widow and single mom of seven. As she navigated grief and shepherded her children through their own grief, God not only mended her broken heart but reshaped it. Before this happened to her, she didn’t know how to help a grieving widow, but now she shares from her experience to help us understand how to help a widow who is grieving. In this episode, we are going to discuss what it’s like to unexpectedly become a widow. Lisa shared from her experience how to help a grieving widow. We discuss what to say or do that is helpful, as well as things to avoid saying because they aren’t helpful and may, in fact, be hurtful. And we also discuss things a widow can do to help themselves during the grief process. Quotables from the episode: If you have lost a spouse and are now widowed, or you have a friend who is a new widow, then today is the perfect show for you. If you want to know how to help a grieving widow, then I’d encourage you to listen to this episode. We will ALL need this information at some point in our lives. Sometimes the hardest part after the death of a spouse is the loss of a future together. There are no more plans or dreams or time together. Nobody ever teaches us how to grieve. It takes us by surprise, and everyone’s experience is a little different. Two things anchored us during the grief process: getting away alone and reading the Bible, and keeping a gratitude journal of the things I saw God do for us and around us. God does not take the pain away from us, but He is present with us in the hard times. The second year, in many ways, is harder than the first year after a spouse dies because by then the fog has lifted. One of the hardest aspects of grief is the loneliness we experience. The person we most want to share life with is gone. Grief is a deep loss that we will never get over. When you have a grieving friend, show up and be present. Don’t wait for them to call you and ask for help. Say “I love you,” “I’m praying for you,” “I’m here for you,” “I’m so very sorry for your loss,” and “How can I pray specifically for you?” Follow the Holy Spirit’s prompting and do things to help without being asked. Send a text during the day, take their children out with yours, mow their lawn, take their car for its annual inspection, etc. Others’ words can’t change anything, but God’s Word can change everything. When you have a grieving friend, be careful
Tue, June 11, 2019
007 Hope and Help for How to Parent Teenagers
Episode Summary: Let’s face it, parenting teens can be a trying time. We all want to know how to parent teenagers effectively. If you are a parent of teens, or even of young children who will become teens, and want to effectively guide them rather than managing them, today is the perfect show for you. In this episode, we will be talking with Connie Albers, author of “Parenting Beyond the Rules: Raising Teens with Confidence & Joy.” Today we are going to be talking about the high calling of parenting. After 30 years of parenting five children and 20 years of working with teens, Connie has witnessed the negative impact of well-intentioned but misguided parenting styles, all focused on managing teens rather than guiding them. Connie prefers to raise a teen according to his or her strengths, talents, and personality type in a way that will equip the teen to manage life. In this episode, Connie shares with us how to parent teenagers with confidence and joy. Connie believes that the teen years are not something to dread. This critical season of our children learning to become adults can be filled with joy and rich relationship by parenting beyond the rules. Quotables from the episode: If you’ve ever wondered how to parent teenagers with confidence and joy, you’ll want to listen to this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson. We should strive to guide our teens, rather than manage them. The home is one of the best and hardest places to make disciples. Connie suggests raising teens according to their strengths, talents, and personality types in a way that will equip our teens to manage life. Kids still need our guidance, even if they don’t think they do. So often, parents don’t want to parent—they want to be their child’s friend. If you will parent now, you can be your child’s friend later, but if you are your child’s friend now, they will grow to resent you. Start by getting to know your teen’s world. It is much different than the world the parents grew up in. Come alongside your child and help them find an area they are passionate about. If we don’t let our teens stumble and fall when they are within the safe confines of our home, they will stumble and fall after they’ve left the nest and they won’t know how to manage it. Parents are so naturally good at enforcing rules. But sometimes we have to parent beyond the rules. As your child grows and matures, you can begin adjusting the rules. Pray, step back and start listening more to your child, start monitoring your mouth, and ask the Lord to help you discern what your child is trying to communicate to you. Trust the Lord to give you the wisdom and insight you need to either back off or to approach that child in a different way. It’s always too soon to give up. It is
Tue, June 11, 2019
006 Hope for Body Image: How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
Episode Summary: With summer on its way, you only have to check out at the grocery store to read story after story about how to achieve the perfect bikini body. Comparison is the thief of joy, so looking at those perfect models only serves to make us feel inferior, inadequate, and unworthy. In this episode, we’re discussing the real root behind body image issues, and how to stop comparing yourself to others. If you’ve ever found yourself comparing your looks or your abilities or your accomplishments, to others, you aren’t alone, and today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about the trap of comparison and how we can find hope despite all the shortcomings we see in ourselves. In today’s episode, we’re going to talk with Heather Creekmore, author of “Compared to Who: A Proven Path to Improve Your Body Image”. She shares several tips that she has learned for how to stop comparing yourself to others, and helps us understand where to shift our focus and why, as a key to eliminating comparison and body image issues. Quotables from the episode: Stop comparing and start living. Listen how, here. If you ever compare yourself to others, or struggle with body image issues, and want to know how to stop comparing yourself to others, this is an episode you’re going to want to listen to. We as a culture are trained to believe that body image issues are really about our body, but that just isn’t true. We fall for the lie that if we just looked different, we would feel different. The truth is, beauty doesn’t give us freedom, beauty doesn’t give us perfect lives. Only Jesus saves. Body image issues are really an idol. It’s a misplaced worship issue…an idolatry issue. A daily exercise of confession and repentance brings freedom. So every day it’s a matter of saying, “No, I am not going to bow down to the idol of the mirror or the scale anymore.” Comparison feeds body image issues. We look around at others, and compare our imperfections to what we see as perfection in others. Comparison and body image issues often start in elementary school or by middle school or high school where we start looking around at others and realizing we are shaped differently than them. Beauty is subjective and we all have different ideals of what the most beautiful person looks like. That subjectivity makes the goal of trying to look like them elusive. The first step in breaking free of body image issues is seeing that idol, and recognizing it for what it is. Rather than looking in the mirror and trying to find something you like about yourself, tilt the mirror up so that rather than focusing on yourself, you see a reflection of Jesus. The answer to body image issues isn’t loving yourself more. The answer is loving Jesus more. The greatest co
Tue, June 11, 2019
005 Hope in the Face of Fear: How to be Courageous
Episode Summary: Have you ever struggled with worry, fear, anxiety, a lack of courage, or wondering about God’s purpose for your life and wonder how to be courageous? If so, this episode is the perfect show for you. Whether you’re facing struggles with singleness, the mounting challenges of marriage and motherhood, health issues, a financial crisis—God has equipped you to walk in freedom and confidence as you abide in Him, strengthened by His power and provision. In this episode we are going to be talking to LaTan Roland Murphy, author of “Courageous Women of the Bible,” as she shares from her own personal experience how to be courageous. She shares how humility is a key to courage. Quotables from the episode: If you ever struggled with worry, fear, anxiety, a lack of courage, or wondering about God’s purpose for your life and wonder how to be courageous, you’ll want to listen to this episode. We must stand on the truth of God’s word in order to be courageous. We can be our own worst enemy and best enemy, which is a double-edged sword we end up using against ourselves. When God’s word becomes our double edge sword, it gives him so much room to carve away all the things we don’t want to be weighed down with, so we can live victoriously and courageously. Hope requires waiting and waiting requires courage. We can rest in knowing that God is in the middle of all the circumstances we face, He’s still at work, and He has a good ending. Courage is the pure grit that helps us to press in even when we are most fearful. It keeps us moving, living, loving, and pursuing. We need a Godly confidence. As we take in Christ, He reshapes us. We are often full of fear, but wear a mask, and pretend to be something we aren’t. If you want to have what others have, you have to be willing to do what they did to get there. Sometimes, if we get an instantaneous miracle, we forget what God did, but if we have to participate in it, it makes more of a lasting impression and change in our heart. When we have nothing but the word of God we have all we need. So often we want to be in control, but if we would release our need to control to God, then we can realize our dependence on a big God. God doesn’t need to use us, but we get a blessing because we make ourselves available to be used by Him. When we are one on one with Him, we get to partner with the almighty in his supernatural strength. Never stop praying. Talk with Jesus all day long. Fellowship with the One who has the answers when we don’t have all the answers. Scripture says out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speak which means when we get bumped by life’s pressures, that’s what’s going to come out of us. It’s hard to be courageous when we are holding on to worry, fear, and anxiety. If w
Tue, June 11, 2019
004 Hope for Healing Mother Wounds with Aliene Thompson
Episode Summary: In recent years, I’ve heard quite a bit of discussion about “father wounds” and how those can have a significantly detrimental impact on our relationship with God as our Heavenly Father. But I’ve seen precious little discussion about mother mounds or healing mother wounds. If you have been the recipient of mother wounds, or perhaps you were the mother who wounded your child, then today is the perfect show for you. I grew up in a home with a mother who was very depressed my entire childhood, yet we didn’t know at the time that that was what was wrong. She was also from a foreign country where displays of affection or emotion were discouraged. So for a very long time, I believed I was unlovable, and tried desperately to earn my mother’s love, yet received mother wounds instead. Whether this is your story or you have been wounded by a mother in some other way, we want to have a discussion that will provide you with some hope. In this episode we answer the question what are mother wounds? And where do they come from. Then we address how to heal from mother wounds. Aliene helps us understand what it means to detach from unhealthy branches in order to attach to the one true vine. She discusses the importance of being in God’s word, abiding in His presence, praying in Jesus’s name, and acting on what God tells you in order to heal from mother wounds. Quotables from the episode: If you have suffered from mother wounds or need healing from mother wounds, then today’s episode is for you. A mother wound is when a child does not receive what God intended for a child to experience with a mother, which is a nurturing environment, and to be nurtured. Mother wounds may be completely unintentional because a mother experienced tragedy or illness and she wasn’t able to provide the nurturing her child needed. Even if a child experiences the loss of a mother, a wound can occur because they didn’t receive the nurturing their soul needs. If we don’t find healing, it will perpetuate itself. On a subconscious level, you will look for what you didn’t receive from your mother which can cause you to seek out unhealthy relationships. If we don’t bring mother wounds into the light, there will be no healing, and they will continue. To find out how to heal mother wounds, listen here. We often inappropriately carry the guilt and shame for our mother’s inappropriate behavior. Your actions will tell you what you believe. Our emotions are the outward manifestation of the thoughts we believe, and our emotions largely govern our behavior. So, we need to pay attention to the thoughts we believe. Father wounds often result in difficulty relating to our Heavenly Father, but mother wounds can result in difficulty relating to the Holy Spirit. We have to detach from our mother to attach to the true vine by forgivi
Tue, June 11, 2019
003 Hope for the Grieving Parent: How to Help a Grieving Friend
Episode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about finding hope and calm in the chaos after the loss of a child and how to help a grieving friend. Whether you’ve lost a child to death, or even perhaps lost the dreams you had for your child because of illness or disability, or perhaps you are a friend or loved one to a grieving parent, we want you to know that you are not alone, and that there is hope despite the darkness you may feel. No one anticipates a child dying, but when that happens, we need to know how to help a grieving friend. We need to know what helps and what doesn’t, what we should say and what we shouldn’t. That’s what Susan shares from her own grief experience. Quotables from the episode: The loss of a child is so painful. If you want to know how to help a grieving friend, listen to this episode. God has a purpose for each one of us, and we need to open our hands instead of clenching so tightly what we think is ours. Everyone is going to experience the death of a loved one. When I heard my son died, it was like the earth opened up and I fell into the abyss. In my grief, the longer I looked down at my feet, the blacker it became and I realized I was defeated. The Bible tells us that the enemy of our soul is under our feet, so I was looking at and listening to the liar. We need to look up and find the light. The light is Jesus. We should never say “I know exactly how you feel.” It’s better to compassionately say, “I can’t imagine your pain. But I care.” I challenge people who are grieving to get into the word of God. Let those words wash over you. If you’ve lost a loved one, particularly a child, there is no shame in weeping. Jesus wept. But remember grief is a process and the timeline is different for everyone. God can handle our anger. He knows it anyway. He just wants us to keep talking to Him. Scripture References: “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-4) “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” (Isaiah 41:10). Recommended Resources: “Dance with Jesus: From Grief to Grace” by Susan B. Mead “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner
Tue, June 11, 2019
002 Hope for Depression Part 2: How to Fight Depression
Episode Summary: This episode is part 2 of Hope for Depression with Dr. Michelle Bengtson. Dr. Bengtson reviews highlights from part 1, and then answers the question how to fight depression. She reviews the fact that when it comes to depression, the enemy seeks to steal our joy, kill our peace, and destroy our identity. She then shares about the limits God puts on the enemy’s and depression’s influence in our lives, just like God limited the enemy’s impact on Job. Dr. Bengtson helps us understand that our depressive thoughts aren’t even our own thoughts, and how to combat them. Dr. Bengtson combines her faith with her clinical practice to help you find out how to fight depression. She shares some of the most common lies the enemy gets us to believe, and then the truth to refute those lies. In this episode, she also shares practical tips for those who want to better support a depressed loved one. Quotables/Tweetables: If you wonder how to fight depression, then this is the program for you. When it comes to depression, the enemy of our soul seeks to steal our joy, kill our peace, and destroy our identity. God put limits on the influence that the enemy could have on Job, and God does that for us as well. God doesn’t allow the enemy or depression to define our worth. God is the only one who can define our worth. We have infinite worth because Christ gave His life for us. Christ exchanged our sin for His perfection, our death for His life, and our bondage for His freedom. So if the son sets you free, you are truly free (John 8:36). Depression doesn’t determine our destiny. Your past doesn’t predict your future. If you are a Christ follower, your destiny is secure. God does require perfection, but we can never meet that standard for perfection, only Jesus did. Salvation is because of what Jesus did for us. Both fear and faith demand our focus, but we can trust God and no longer fear. Nothing, not the enemy nor depression, can separate us from the love of God. God’s only requirement of us is not that we would be perfect, but that we would believe in Him. We have a role to play in our own healing. Scripture says we must recover ourselves: recognize we’ve believed the enemy’s lies, repent to God for believing the enemy instead of God’s truth, then renounce and reject the enemy’s lies and replace them with God’s truth. Then receive God’s peace, love, and joy. God doesn’t leave us alone or to our own devices. Jesus never asked questions because He needed the answers. He asked questions so that those he asked them of would learn more. We have between 50-70,000 thoughts a day. How are you doing taking EVERY thought captive? First you have to pay attention to the thoughts you are having, then ask if it is consistent with God says in the Bible, or am I believing a
Tue, June 11, 2019
001 Hope for Depression Part 1: Am I Depressed?
Episode Summary: In this episode Dr. Michelle Bengtson shares hope for depression. She talks about her history as a neuropsychologist, treating patients with depression for decades and thinking she was immune to it, before she endured a very bad episode of depression. She helps the listener who is asking the question, am I depressed? She discusses common signs and symptoms of depression to help the listener determine if depression might be something they or a loved one struggle with. Dr. Bengtson combines her faith with her clinical practice. In this episode, she also shares some of the fundamental spiritual contributors to depression so that they can better understand what they are dealing with. Scripture tells us that “The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy, but I have come that they might have life and have it to the full” (John 10:10). When it comes to depression, the enemy steals our joy, kills our peace, and attempts to destroy our identity. In this episode, Dr. Bengtson unpacks how he does that because we can’t fight effectively unless we know what we’re fighting against. Quotables from the episode: There is help and hope for depression. By 2020, depression will be our greatest epidemic worldwide; greater than heart disease, cancer, and HIV put together. In their lifetime, one in four will suffer from depression. When it comes to depression, no one is immune. Not even the doctor, nor the Christian. Our feelings are just the outward manifestation of the thoughts we believe. We can’t fight effectively unless we know what we’re fighting against. If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, you are not alone. There is help and hope! Recommended Resources: “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award. https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-despite-depression/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/a-letter-to-one-struggling-with-depression/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/this-thing-called-depression-signs-and-symptoms/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/how-do-i-know-if-im-depressed-common-symptoms-of-depression/ <a href="https://drmichellebengtson.com/10-verses-of-hope-for-when-you-are-do
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