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05 Dec 2019
034 Trusting God in Difficult Times
00:28:31
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 same negative outcome.
If we truly want to experience joy, it’s crucial that we not only recognize our value, but that we also love ourselves.
When Jesus looks at us, He sees us through the lens of mercy, and grace. He doesn’t look at what we’ve done or haven’t done, or all our mistakes or regrets, or sins or failures. We can’t have joy and love other people, and love on other people, really until we love ourselves.
There’s no way we can experience joy and happiness when we complain frequently.
Complaining is really against God but lamenting is sharing our sorrow with Him.
We need to keep in mind that divorce results in grief, just like after losing someone to death. The difference is that you mourn the loss of someone who is still living. You mourn the loss of the relationship, and the dreams you had.
People going through a separation or divorce need to be treated with tenderness or sympathy rather than judgement or condemnation, or even rather than offering advice or taking sides.
Being content in all situations doesn’t mean that we necessarily like or approve the situation, but that we trust that God has us right where we are supposed to be and He will provide for my needs.
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.”
Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N
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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J
Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46
Tracie Miles is a national Speaker and Author with Proverbs 31 Ministries. She is the author of four best-selling books,Unsinkable Faith: God-Filled Strategies for Transforming the Way You Think, Feel and Live. (2017), Your Life Still Counts: How God Uses Your Past To Create A Beautiful Future (2014) and Stressed Less Living: Finding God's Peace In Your Chaotic World (2012). Her latest book released in 2018 called Love Life Again: Finding Joy When Life is Hard. Tracie is a contributing author to the popular Zondervan NIV Women’s Devotional Bible, and the Proverbs 31 Encouragement for Today Daily Devotional Book, in addition to being a monthly contributing writer for the Proverbs 31 Ministries Encouragement for Today daily devotions which reach over one million people per day around the globe. In addition to her speaking and writing, Tracie is the Director of COMPEL Training at Proverbs 31 Ministries, has 3 adult children and lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
26 May 2022
163 Daily habits and practices that help you have a good day
00:32:16
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.”
Jayne Patton holds a deep love for the global and diverse body of Christ followers. She believes in crossing over denominational lines to bring the gospel in a way that is powerful and relevant. Her prayer is that God uses her personal presentation style to bring others to a deeper level of understanding of the scriptures. She married her husband Mike in 1999 and together they have 3 children.
In 1996, Jayne graduated from Missouri Baptist University with a B.A. in Business Administration with a minor in Management. She left a lucrative sales career soon after the birth of her first child, and entered into the world of women’s ministry via the local church through facilitating Bible studies, hosting events, speaking locally, and more. Before launching Altered Ministries, she currently holds the position of Women’s Ministry Director for her local church, and has worked with government officials regarding the plight of persecuted Christians worldwide.
Jayne is a popular speaker at events, conferences, banquets, and churches through her inspirational and motivational speaking. Jayne loves to read in her spare time, can always be bribed with Mexican food, and never…EVER…turns down a double-stuffed Oreo. Ever.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
27 Jan 2022
146 Maintaining Hope Despite Chronic Illness and Pain
00:50:42
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.”
Jen Roland is a writer, speaker, coach, and women's ministry leader with a passion for walking alongside others toward wholeness. Through her website, workshops, speaking, and coaching, she helps others implement positive lifestyle practices (e.g. nutrition, movement, mindfulness) and develop a deeper relationship with God. Since her neuropathy diagnosis, Jen's ministry has focused on serving those with chronic pain and illness. She provides them with support and resources to reduce pain, overcome fear and anxiety, and improve their quality of life.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
13 Feb 2020
044 Hope for Marriage Struggles
00:50:10
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."
Pam Farrel, with her husband, Bill, are international speakers, and authors of over 50 books including best-selling Men are like Waffles, Women are like Spaghetti. They are relationship specialists and seek to help people become “Love-Wise.” Pam has experience as a Pastor’s wife and Women’s Ministry Director. Pam is a cheerleader, challenger and coach that believes that "The one who gets wisdom loves life." (Proverbs 19:8) Her new creative Bible studies are Amazon bestsellers: Discovering Hope in the Psalms ;Discovering Joy in Philippians and Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament. When the Farrels are not traveling for speaking, you will find them on their live aboard boat or enjoying their 3 sons, 3 daughters in law and 5 grands. www.Love-Wise.com
11 Nov 2021
135 What it means to live by faith, Unblinded Faith
00:28:13
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.”
Elisa Pulliam is passionate about helping women experience a fresh encounter with God and His Word for the sake of impacting the next generation with Kingdom Hope. Her latest book, “Unblinded Faith: Gaining Spiritual Sight through Believing God’s Word,” is described as “more than a devotional, it’s a tool for growing deep spiritual roots.”
Elisa is the founder of More to Be, a ministry devoted to equipping women with biblical resources, coaching, and mentor training. She also is the owner of the Kaleo Agency, and as a creative strategist, she helps female entrepreneurs, coaches, and writers develop their brand marketing in order to convey their message and maximize their mission with ease.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
27 Feb 2020
046 Trusting God is Faithful in Our Painful Situations
00:28:41
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.”
Gina Latta Kelly is wife to her husband Brian, and mother to her two teenagers, Joy and Joseph. She works as a pediatric physical therapist in an outpatient clinic and also does some contract work in a cyber school system where she lives in south central Pennsylvania. She served as a missionary in Peru, South America prior to getting married. Gina says she still feels as if she left a piece of her heart in Peru with the families she worked with when she was there. Gina loves to be active and breaking boards in TaeKwonDo is one of her favorite ways to spend a Friday night. Gina and her family serve in their church by teaching the 4 and 5-year-old Sunday School class.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
Social Media Links for Host:
For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:
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.
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
Kathy Howard is a treasure hunter who searches for the creamiest chocolate, richest coffee, and cherished stories of faith. She also digs deep into Scripture, mining God’s eternal truths. Kathy has a Masters in Christian Education and has taught the Bible for more than 30 years in a wide variety of venues. Kathy is the award-winning author of 12 books, including “Heirloom” and the “meaty” devotional series “Deep Rooted.” Kathy and her husband, who live in north Texas, have three married children, six grandchildren, and one accidental dog. Find free discipleship resources at www.KathyHoward.org.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
29 Nov 2019
033 Hope for Healing after Spiritual Abuse
00:28:30
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 or teachings, but instead intimidate or get angry, that’s a very dangerous place to be.
To aid in our healing, we have to be willing to ask God, “What was my role in this? Where did I open the door for the enemy to come in? What do I need to take responsibility and repent for?”
God’s way is for us to be teachable and humbling ourselves to his conviction.
Another useful thing to do when you want to ensure that you know truth, is to ask the Holy Spirit “What do you say about this?” The Holy Spirit’s job is to remind us of all truth. But He can’t remind us of the truth if we haven’t already been exposed to it by reading God’s word.
If you have a friend or loved one who is being spiritually abused, pray for them. Because of the brainwashing that takes place, they are not likely to listen to your concerns. You might gift them a copy of Athena’s book because it comes from the perspective of someone else who has been there.
If you’ve been in a position of having been spiritually abused, do not allow it to steal your trust with others. Not all churches, pastors, or spiritual leaders are abusive. You need to find a safe community of believers who believe the truth, and help you get healed from the past abuse, whereas the enemy would like to use this to isolate you further.
Scripture References:
Hosea 4:6, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
Joshua 1:7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do."
Isaiah 30:20-21 “Though the Lord gave you adversity for food and suffering for drink, he will still be with you to teach you. You will see your teacher with your own eyes. Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, ‘This is the way you should go,’ whether to the right or to the left.’”
Recommended Resources:
Full Circle: Coming Home to the Faithfulness of God by Athena Dean Holtz https://amzn.to/37WpiaC
Twisted Scriptures: Untangling 45 Lies Christians Have Been Told by Andrew Farley https://amzn.to/33q1Y1f
The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse: Recognizing and Escaping Spiritual Manipulation and False Spiritual Authority Within the Church by David Johnson and Jeff Van Vonderen https://amzn.to/2Drv6Li
Damaged Disciples: Casualties of Authoritarian Churches and the Shepherding Movement by Ron Burks https://amzn.to/2DsJWRs
“Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N\
“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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J
“Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46
Athena Dean is a publisher, speaker, former radio host and pastor’s wife. For the last 30 years she has worked in the industry, spearheading the independent publishing movement in the Christian publishing market. In 2014 Athena co-founded Redemption Press to fill an author-centered niche in publishing.
She was president of the Northwest Christian Writer’s Association from 2016-2018, is a president’s club member of Christian Women in Media Association (CWIMA), a member of Advanced Writer & Speaker Association (AWSA), and recently retired host of a weekly radio program, “Always Faithful” on AM 630 KCIS, where she shared God’s faithfulness with women across the globe.
Her newest book recounts the story of her twelve-year Job-like experience and the modern day Cinderella story she is now living.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
07 Jul 2022
169 How To Hold Onto a Christian Worldview
00:38:32
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,
Cindy K. Sproles is a writer, speaker, and conference director. She is the co-founder of ChristianDevotions.us and Christian Devotions Ministries. Cindy is a mentor with Write Right Author Mentoring Service and serves on writers conference faculties nationwide. She is a best selling, award-winning author of three novels with the 4th releasing soon.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
28 Oct 2021
133 Health Rules We Need to Break for Our Good
00:44:37
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.”
Amy Connell is an NASM Certified Personal Trainer and has been in the fitness industry almost 15 years. She’s a recovering step counter and an imperfect eater living in God’s perfect grace. Amy encourages women to strive for balanced, sustainable health and appreciate their God-created bodies, no matter what that looks like. She lives in the Houston, TX area with her husband, two always-hungry teen boys, and her stray-turned-princess put bull named Grace.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
10 Nov 2022
187 How to Rest Effectively to Refill and Refuel when Life is Busy
00:37:10
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.”
Marci Seither’s writing career began after her humor article was published in a small-town newspaper over twenty years ago. Since then, she has authored two books and hundreds of articles for local papers as well as Guideposts, Focus on the Family, and Clubhouse Magazine. Her biggest joy, besides being married to John for 37 years and raising six kiddos is spending time with her grandkids in the kitchen.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
25 Sep 2019
024 How Worry, Fear, and Anxiety Cause Us to Lose Our Peace
00:28:35
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 God and receive His peace.
True peace is not the absence of trouble but resting in the sovereignty of God in the midst of it.
We have to choose to focus on the truth, rather than focus on the facts. Facts are compelling, but God’s truth trumps the facts of our circumstances.
We cannot find a single promise of God’s that has ever failed.
Quotables from the episode:
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!
We don’t recognize the power of our words. Our words can instill fear in others.
Fear ultimately comes from trusting the lies of the enemy more than trusting God’s word.
There is no peace apart from God’s presence.
When we will do what He asks us to do, the outcome is His responsibility.
Our circumstances don’t take God by surprise.
We must actively reject and refute the spirit of fear with God’s truth, or else Jesus’s gift of peace might as well be returned “address unknown.”
True peace is not the absence of trouble, but resting in the sovereignty of God in the midst of it.
Scripture References:
2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind.”
Recommended Resources:
“Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N
“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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J
“Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46
Social Media Links:
For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:
To order Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxietys-grip/
To order Hope Prevails: https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-book/
This show is made possible thanks to generous donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support this ministry, you can make a tax deductible donation to Words of Grace and Truth (501c3) by going here: https://give.cornerstone.cc/GraceAndTruthRadioand putting “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” in the box marked “Designations.”
Dr. Bengtson studied neuroscience and is board certified in clinical neuropsychology. She established her own clinical practice in the Dallas area. From her professional and personal life, she recognized a deep lack of understanding of the call to “renew our minds” and the transformational effects a robust understanding of this has on our physical and mental health and outlook.
Dr. Bengtson lives to foster regeneration and renew life in her listeners. She recognizes brokenness in her life and others’ and offers steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places.
Dr. Bengtson authored the award winning “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” and its award winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study.” Her third book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” will be available in September 2019 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and maintains a Monday morning radio show and podcast at GraceandTruthRadio.world. She is a frequent guest on Fox News Radio and speaks at conferences and churches internationally.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
21 Apr 2022
158 Words of Encouragement for Mothers
00:36:12
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.”
Jenny Dean Schmidt is executive director of ChannelMom media, and has hosted ChannelMom radio and podcast for 11 years. Before founding ChannelMom, Jenny had an extensive career in TV news, where she worked as an on-air report, host, producer, and writer for media entities across major U.S. cities.
Jenny has interviewed and posed questions to two U.S. presidents, as well as many other politicians and celebrities. She’s covered high-profile news stories, including the OJ Simpson trial, the Columbine massacre, and a number of presidential campaigns.
Beyond her media career, Jenny is passionate about the important role of today’s mothers, charged with raising up the next generation. Jenny chose to leave her TV career to commit to raising her own children at home. She believes the motherhood role is over overshadowed by popular culture values that glorify celebrities and the celebrity lifestyle.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
14 Sep 2023
231 How to Cope with Loss
00:40:33
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.”
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
Chuck and Ashley Elliott are authors of the book I Used to be ____ and spend much of their time equipping people to build spiritual and relational success. Chuck, as a pastor, and Ashley, as a counselor, have devoted their lives to help people fight negativity and leave a legacy. They earned master’s degrees in counseling, education, and organizational leadership. Chuck and Ashley live in Indiana with their three sons and enjoy spending time outside as a family.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
07 Oct 2021
130 How To Get Unstuck in Life and Move Forward
00:31:20
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.”
Amy is a motivational speaker and an award winning author of Model Behavior: Make Your Career Path Your Calling (Redemption Press, 2019). Amy and her family are passionate about advocacy and she is the host of Support Someone Saturday, a podcast that highlights charities, ministries and non-profits across Chicago and the US. Amy and Eric live in the Chicago suburbs, have been married for over 20 years and are parents to Arianna and Asthton. Amy’s new 40-Day Prayer Journal, Unstuck: Step Into the New released on September 22, 2021. She hopes her family’s story will inspire you to get unstuck and move into the new season God has for you!
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
07 Apr 2022
156 How To Hang On to Threadbare Hope {When Circumstances are Too Hard to Handle}
00:36:10
Episode Summary:
Lisa Appelo and I talk about how to hang onto threadbare hope when our circumstances are too hard to handle. Our guest today speaks from her own personal experience. When her husband died suddenly, Lisa was left alone to walk herself and her seven children through loss and grief. She shares what she learned.
Quotables from the episode:
When life felt incredibly bad, I needed to know life could be good again.
Sometimes we have to let go of the life we wanted and take hold of the life in front of us.
It’s okay to feel our emotions, but they do a poor job telling us the truth.
Utter dependence on God isn’t what we want, but it’s where God designed us to be.
Loss revealed where I had misplaced my hope and I learned to hang onto Biblical hope when my emotions were screaming different.
God does give us too much to handle so that we will learn to depend on him and relinquish the myths of self-control and self-sufficiency.
When we become helplessly dependent on God we will see God is faithful and that He will come through.
I’ve seen that being in a place of helpless dependence on God is the best place to be.
Even in the unknown, we can thank God.
God doesn’t have a plan B! He already knows how He is going to see you through!
The 3 best words you can say to someone going through a difficult time is “You’re not alone.” And they aren’t…even when it feels like they are alone, God is with them and will not forsake them.
Even as life feels better now, as I’m used to the pace, weight and isolation of single parenting following loss, I never want to forget I’m utterly dependent on God for wisdom, guidance, provision and so much more.
I might be facing a scary future, but I’d learned God’s promises would hold there.
We can daily anchor in God’s Word to let Him refocus our perspective, renew our hope and exchange our emotions for His truth.
We can remember God’s past faithfulness and His character.
We can tender our heart to God so that we don’t waste the suffering.
We can look for God’s good hand all around us, which is such a boost to our faith that God is working even in painful circumstances.
For the one who feels underwater in circumstances that are too much to handle, I’d tell them to look to God to do what we cannot.
We can’t fix a broken heart or force an outcome. But in that place, we can enter a trust relationship God designed for us.
We can chisel out idols of control and comfort we’ve polished and learn to trust in the Lord with all our heart.
Scripture References:
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.
Psalm 46:1 (ESV) “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Deuteronomy 33:26-27 (NIV) “There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides across the heavens to help you, and on the clouds in his majesty. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.”
Access to Dr. Bengtson’s Hope Vault, a library full of free resources that restore hope, renew minds, and empower you to live in your God-given identity.
Lisa Appelo is an author and speaker inspiring women to cultivate faith in life’s storms. Ten years ago, Lisa became a sudden widow and single mom to 7. She’s published at many sites including Proverbs 31 Ministries, (in)courage, and Risen Motherhood, and her book Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart releases April, 2022.
As a former litigating attorney, Lisa is passionate about rich Bible teaching. Get your free copy of 7 Days of Hope for Your Shattered Heart at LisaAppelo.com and connect with Lisa on Instagram @lisaappelo.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
10 Oct 2024
287 How to Overcome Shame and Find Healing After Abuse
00:26:40
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Karen DeArmond Gardner opens up about the deep shame she experienced as a victim of domestic abuse in her thirty-year marriage. She shares the painful journey of living through abuse and the healing after abuse that transformed her life. Karen explains the key factors in her healing process, including how God replaced her pain and shame with sacred scars, giving her a powerful testimony of restoration and hope.
Quotables from the episode:
Some of our greatest areas of ministry comes out of our greatest areas of pain.
I survived a thirty-year abusive marriage. I’ve been out 19 years, and it’s easier for me to talk about now becomes there comes a time when there’s been enough healing that it’s more about remembering than reliving the experience that happened.
I experienced force of control, the threat of violence to control, to manipulate, and to gaslight so I would do what he wanted, how and when he wanted.
Often, domestic abuse doesn’t involve hitting.
I believed as a Christian that God hates divorce, so I thought this was my cross to bear and that I was called to suffer through it for Jesus.
I didn’t know I could leave. People often asked, “Why did you stay?” Because I didn’t know I could leave and I was terrified of my husband who was in law enforcement, and I knew his capabilities.
Instead of asking someone “why did you stay?” The better question is, “Why would he abuse his wife whom he supposedly loves?” Put it back on the one who caused the harm rather than the one who endured the harm.
I didn’t want this to be my story. The shame was so powerful. I was a good Christian girl, so rather than share the shame of my story, I buried it. It was like putting a Band-Aid on a bullet wound and being unable to stop the bleeding.
When I chose to leave, the aftermath was just as hard. Back then we didn’t have the resources that we have today. So there was the trauma of an abusive marriage, but then there was the aftermath in the healing.
None of us would say “Oh I want to marry an abuser.” Being a Christ follower did not prevent me from experiencing abuse.
When I left, shame covered me like a scratchy wool blanket and people could see it. I couldn’t look anyone in the eye and I didn’t want to be seen. When I realized no one wanted to know my story of pain, I internalized the shame and I put on a mask. You would see the absolute ugliness if I let you in, so I didn’t show you my real self.
Shame has a look and a sound and how we behave. Shame affects how we talk and behave.
Shame comes from the enemy and from the abuser. So, a lot of the shame we carry isn’t even ours.
With His death, Jesus shamed the enemy with the cross. So, we can put the shame back on the enemy where it belongs.
I changed churches over time and started attending a church where I was taught that I could heal from this experience. For me, it started with reading “Mending the Soul.”
About a decade later, I went through a period of grieving over something else and I realized I had never grieved my pain or losses before. That propelled my healing. So I always recommend grieving while you heal.
God doesn’t have a cookie-cutter way of healing. If you can go to therapy, do that. Nothing gets wasted in your healing journey.
In my healing journey, I realized who God really is, and who I really am.
God says to call unto Him and He will come to us.
Trauma is a liar. It distorts who God is. He is so much kinder, so much more loving, so much more gentle, but yet, God is a lion, He is my protector, He is my body guard.
It is encountering God in those dark, painful places that we learn who God really is to us and for us.
Frequently, the sacred scar that comes out of these painful wounds is greater intimacy with God, knowing Him deeper, it’s understanding the fullness of His character.
Anger is part of the healing process. God can handle that anger! Anger is not the primary emotion—it’s the secondary. There is something else that is going on.
Scripture References:
Romans 2:4 “It is the kindness of God that leads to repentance.”
Isaiah 45:3 NIV “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.”
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
Karen DeArmond Gardner is a certified advocate who provides emotional support for domestic abuse survivors. Walking with survivors in the aftermath of domestic, as they discover how to reframe what is normal and real as they process their pain and trauma. Learning how to move from hopelessness to hope and from death to life through mentoring and inner healing.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
19 Jan 2023
197 How To Spot the Narcissist in Your Life
00:52:57
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.”
Dr. Michelle Bengtson lives to break the grip of anxiety and fear, foster regeneration, and renew life in her readers and listeners. She frequently speaks from John 10:10 “The thief only comes to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full.”
From her own personal experience and professional expertise as a clinical Neuropsychologist, she unpacks these words, recognizing in her life and others’ the brokenness that attends life, but also the concrete steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places of life.
22 Jul 2021
119 Hope for Healing from Domestic Abuse
00:48:51
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!”
Karen DeArmond Gardner is a thirty-year survivor of domestic abuse and an advocate for women who’ve experienced abuse and divorce. She is a certified trauma advocate and facilitates Mending the Soul and inner healing through HeartSync. Karen blogs at AnotherOneFree.com. Karen and her second husband Tom are co-owners of a private security company and reside in Texas.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
08 Aug 2024
278 How to Heal and Find Hope After an Incarcerated Child’s Trauma
00:29:01
Episode Summary:
In this episode, I chatted with Shonda Whitworth, who shared about her wounds, her pain, and now her sacred scars after walking through a most devastating experience when her son was incarcerated. What the enemy tried to use to quiet and shut Shonda down, God has now used to bring her into a greater aspect of her calling.
Quotables from the episode:
When they said “Your son has been arrested for aggravated assault,” I went numb and didn’t know how to respond because the person they were describing on my phone was not the son I knew.
I grabbed hold of Romans 8:28. At the time, that verse just felt overused to me, like a Bible verse Band-Aid. But I held my Bible and declared that this was God’s Word, and asked Him to make it real for me.
This was one of the last things I ever expected to happen. I raised him in the way he should go, taught him the word, took him to Sunday School, and taught him about God. I didn’t expect him to depart from his upbringing and it just devastated me.
I was hopeful things would turn around, but that’s not what happened. I was looking for a miracle ending.
We take either the fight or flight response, and I took the flight response. I just wanted to hide in my cave. I didn’t want to be seen in social situations and wanted to hide from conversation about our children.
The depression and anxiety were overwhelming. It knocked me down. I went dark for a while and retreated for a season.
The enemy brings shame, guilt, regret, and fear.
I felt like I was wearing a big “F” for mother of a felon. The depression and anxiety came from listening to all the lies about myself. I was operating with a double-mind.
In prison, my son began experiencing freedom that doesn’t depend on a location. Scripture says, “where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” He began operating in freedom as he started growing in his relationship with the Lord.
I thought, “Isn’t this ironic? Here I am living in the free world, but all these bars of fear, guilt, shame, condemnation were keeping me captive in my own home. But my son who is in prison is experiencing freedom!”
The amazing thing is that when I did share about what I was experiencing, I got nothing but compassion, the opposite of what the enemy convinced me I would experience.
It gets better as healing comes in layers.
One thing that was so helpful in my journey was having a reason to get up every day.
The more I share my story, the more I put myself out there, the more healing comes; the more I have courage, and the more my confidence builds.
When we experience shame, we want to stay in the dark where no one can see us because with shame comes embarrassment. We fear “if others find out, what will they say? Will they reject me? Will they abandon me? Will they gossip about me?”
But when we take what’s in the dark and bring it out into God’s healing light, rarely is it as bad as we think it’s going to be and it brings healing.
My husband and I started a ministry to other families with family members incarcerated. By me opening up and sharing our story, it’s helping other people find hope, to find healing, and to encourage them not to give up on this side of eternity.
Every life is valuable, and we can see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Even those who are in prison, their life is invaluable. Everyone has a purpose whether it’s inside prison walls or outside prison walls.
The more I tell my story, the more it silences that accusing voice that comes against us from the enemy. When we open our mouths and testify what Jesus has done for us, the more it silences the enemy who accuses us.
Jesus came to set the captives free and that includes you.
Never give up. Always pray and never give up!
Speaking out the Word of God gives us courage and hope and reminds us that everyone has a purpose and not to quit on your purpose.
John 15:16 reminds us that Jesus has chosen us. You are chosen. You are not forsaken. You have a purpose. Don’t quit!
We are all imperfect and in need of a Savior. The cross levels the playing field.
Scripture References:
Romans 8:28 NKJV “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
2 Corinthians 3:17 “Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Luke 18:1 “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.” NLT
Psalm 27:13 NIV “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.”
Revelations 12:11 NIV “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”
John 15:16 NIV “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”
Recommended Resources:
A free downloadable PDF of 8 Prayers to Pray for Your Incarcerated Loved One is available at FortressofHopeMinistries.com
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
Shonda Whitworth’s expertise as an author span two decades, from articles to her most heart-wrenching book, Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven: Petitions for Prisoners and Prison Families. She is a writing and self-publishing coach who nurtures authors visions from manuscript to the marketplace. Discover more at ShondaWhitworth.me.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
17 Aug 2023
227 Relationship Pain: Finding Hope & Healing for Wounded Hearts
00:49:20
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?’”
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
Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
24 Feb 2022
150 Recovering from Trauma and the Mistakes of Our Past
00:37:27
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."
BJ Garrett is the award-winning author of Unwanted No More from Exploited to Embraced by God. BJ is an energetic speaker, passionate about telling her life story of overcoming a life full of abuse and bad decisions, loves serving on the mission field and serves as the Executive Director for Christ-centered Abortion Recovery & Education (CARE)
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
20 Jul 2023
223 How to Meditate on the Word of God | Benefits of Meditation
00:37:13
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.
Jodie Niznik has served in various roles in vocational ministry for more than twelve years, including Pastor to Women. Her calling and passion is to equip people to create space for God in their lives and take another step in their journey with Jesus. She does this through writing, teaching, and her Scripture meditation podcast, So Much More: Creating Space for God. Jodie has been married to Tim for over twenty-five years. They have two adult daughters, Taylor and Billie, and a very poorly trained Yorkie-poo. Jodie loves a great adventure, especially in the mountains, and so frequently laments that the Lord has called them to live in hot and flat Dallas. However, she does love the community around her, so this seems to make up for the lack of cool mountain air. She also loves a great cup of coffee, is a pencil snob, and during the pandemic discovered she had a green thumb. You will frequently find her in her office drinking said coffee, staring in awe at her growing plants, or journaling prayers with one of her favorite pencils.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
05 Mar 2020
047 Hope and Healing for Humans Trafficked, Exploited and Abused
00:39:57
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 recognize that they are being abused, frequently because it’s all we know. Or we downplay our own situation thinking it isn’t as bad as someone else. But the truth is, what hurt you, hurt you…regardless of what anyone else is going through. Once we become aware of it, we need to take care of our pain.
If we grow up with relationships that aren’t loving or that are abusive, we often get involved later in unloving or abusive relationships because it’s all we know. What we experience feels normal for us until we are shown something different.
It takes quite an awareness and it’s hard for those in an abusive situation to see it on their own, but others can help them. Check your relationships and ask, “Am I control of the decisions I make, or is someone else making those decisions for me?” “Am I fearful of standing up for myself or voicing my desires or opinions?”
Frequently we mistake love because we listen to others’ words rather than paying attention to their actions.
Ask yourself if there is anyone in your life, who you know loves you, who are speaking to you about concern they have about your relationships? Open up your mind to the possibility that if this sounds familiar, then ask those around you who you trust, “You know I just want to be sure that I’m as healthy as I can be, and that I’m seeing the situation for what it is, and I’m wondering what you see?”
If you are feeling like you don’t have a safe person, I promise you, the Lord is safe. If you sit still with Him in the quiet and listen, He will speak in your heart. There will be thoughts in your mind that you didn’t think of…those thoughts are from the Holy Spirit. You are not alone…God is there.
If your gut is saying, “Could it be?” Then that’s enough reason for some exploration.
Love requires a choice. If God had made everyone to love him, we would all be robots. Because He gives us choice, there are some who choose evil. In the midst of the most difficult situation, we live in a broken world with people who make poor choices, but He is still present with us. He wants us to choose love, and for those who don’t choose love, God will ultimately hold them accountable for their actions, and they will have to answer to Him.
God wants a relationship with us so badly, but He won’t force us to stay there with Him, yet He always has open arms waiting for us to come back to Him.
What about submission? Isn’t a wife supposed to submit to her husband? The Lord tells us to submit to one another, so we cannot always focus on the woman. God says the man’s responsibility is to love his wife like Christ loves the church. When he does that, then a woman would willingly submit to her husband if she knew he would die for her. Submission is an act of the will, that we choose to do to someone else. If someone demands that we submit, then they are attempting to get us to yield to evil. Submission is an act of will that we choose to offer.
There is healing available. Trauma can affect us on so many levels. But there is healing and hope through counseling, through ministries. The pain and emptiness and fear you feel doesn’t have to stay there. God can remove even the trauma from our brains. The hope is that there is healing, and that there are relationships who do not desire to manipulate but instead to truly love you.
If you are feeling guilt and condemnation, that does not come from God. Instead, God offers opportunity. That opportunity might be for healing, and for you to understand your true identity in Christ.
Reach out: Reach out to organizations who are willing to be your advocate. Reach out to the National Trafficking Hotline. Reach out to a counselor or a pastor.
Scripture References:
Isaiah 61:1- 4: “He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners…so they will be called oaks of righteousness…they will rebuild the ancient ruins, they will raise up the former devastations…the desolations of many generations.
I Corinthians 2:9 – “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has the mind conceived all that God has prepared for those that love Him.”
Revelation 12:11 – “They overcame…by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.”
If you are in a trafficking situation, the National Trafficking Hotline number is 888-373-7888.
If you are in a situation of domestic violence or rape in Tarrant County, contact the Women’s Center hotline that is answered 24/7 at 817-927-2737.
General counseling is also offered at the Women’s Center. For more info on that you can call 817-927-4000.
If you desire ministry for heart wounds you want the Lord to heal you are welcome to message me at https://transformteaminternational.org/contact/. That form will send me an email. Just please put HELP in the subject line so it won’t slip by me. If our ministry is able to help you, we will. If not, we have plenty of excellent resources where we can refer you.
Brenda Harkins is a believer in seemingly impossible possibilities. As a Mediator, Coach, Minister, Author and Speaker, Brenda works to clear the way for people to walk in the fulness God has prepared for them. She believes in the dreams God has put in each heart and takes joy in helping people fulfill those dreams by helping dismantle roadblocks and build super highways to their Destiny.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
10 Jun 2021
113 Financial Stress: How To Cope When Facing Bankruptcy
00:44:36
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.”
Shonda Whitworth writes, teaches, and speaks at conferences and retreats to share the hope of healing and restoration we have in Jesus. After her son landed in state prison, she realized the hardships families of prisoners encounter. She and her husband, Eldon, founded Fortress of Hope Ministries, a nonprofit organization that offers hope to families affected by incarceration. Shonda transparently shares her testimony of living with a son in prison at ShondaWhitworth.com and FortressofHopeMinistries.com.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
22 Aug 2024
280 How to Find Purpose in Pain After a Hemorrhagic Stroke
00:26:57
Episode Summary:
My guest today suffered a hemorrhagic stroke at the age of 29, and then subsequently developed epilepsy. I speak with Lori Vober about how God has taken her painful wounds and fashioned them into beautiful sacred scars, teaching her that every trial we face provides us with unique opportunities we might not have otherwise encountered.
Quotables from the episode:
With the right perspective, attitude, and perseverance, we can stay unstuck and keep moving forward even with our difficulties.
Some of our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of pain and woundedness.
My journey took me through pain physically, mentally, and emotionally but God had me in the palm of his hand because he not only saved my life but he started me on my faith journey long before the stroke so I had a firm foundation to stand on and I learned more and more about how to depend on him.
He gives us a choice regarding how we are going to look at our painful wounds, and I’m so grateful that allowed me to go through the fire but also to become closer to him.
When we go through trials, we can either lean into God or we can run the other way. But he’s not going to chase us. He wants us to willingly come to him.
When things are going well, I have a tendency to think, “I’ve got this, God. I’ll let you know when I need help!” But when I go through the trials that seem so dark, that’s when I hold onto every nugget that the Lord has given me over my life.
Trials offer opportunities. Too often, we begrudge the trials and don’t dig in to look for opportunities and don’t consider things outside our box.
Perseverance ends up yielding the blessing of God’s mercy and compassion.
Perseverance has definitely been required. No one clued me in that 21 years down the road I would still have a disability.
Grief and loss have also been part of the equation but didn’t hit me right away, but rather, has been a journey that I’ve had to go through over time. But it has helped me to recognize the importance of processing grief and loss in order to move forward.
Sometimes we associate grief and loss with the death of a loved one, but grief and loss also occur when we lose our functioning or lose our dreams.
God gives us so many mini-miracles, and when God doesn’t give you the dream of your heart, we have to be okay with that and thank him for all the other mini-miracles He has provided. If He had granted me the full desires of my heart, I would not have had the blessing of the journey that has led me to where I am today.
We need to let God be God and still trust him.
I woke up paralyzed on one side. I can walk, but I do so with a limp. I have physical pain. I’m still actively engaged in therapy. But He keeps giving me amazing opportunities.
God can handle our anger…He knows about it anyway.
When I finally expressed my frustration and anger to God, it was as if He was saying, “now we can deal with it and get somewhere.”
Vulnerability is so important, but we can do so honestly in a positive way.
I’ve learned so much through my own need for emotional support, that was never really met, how to support others.
When we are vulnerable in our suffering, it gives other people permission to be honest and vulnerable about their situation too.
We’re all going to go through something painful, embarrassing, shameful, but in the hands of a redemptive God, he can bring about a beautiful sacred scar.
We have to give grace to ourselves as well as to our friends and family members who aren’t sure how to help because they haven’t gone through it themselves and truly don’t understand.
Every challenge, every trial that we go through is part of His master plan and purpose for us, it’s just a matter of us getting out of the way of our plans and saying, “Yes, God, I understand that this doesn’t fit into my plan, but it does fit into yours.” We have to be willing to look at how our situation fits into God’s master plan.
I have a tendency to make my plans and want God to fit in it, but we need to surrender to His perfect plan.
God is the only thing that is going to get you through painful situations. Our true hope is in God. The One who created us and the One who is waiting for us at the end of this earthly life is the only One who truly matters.
Scripture References:
James 5:11 “As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”
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
Lori Vober suffered a hemorrhagic stroke at age twenty-nine, and then developed epilepsy from the stroke. She is a survivor, overcomer, connector, and passionate about sharing hope with others. With the right perspective, attitude, and perseverance, we can stay unstuck and keep moving forward. Even with her difficulties, Lori and her husband, Dainis, were able to become adoptive parents to a sibling group of three. Lori’s journey and books can be found at www.lorivober.com.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
15 Aug 2019
018 Exciting News! Breaking Anxiety’s Grip New Book Release
00:16:27
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
“Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N
“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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J
“Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46
Social Media Links for Host:
For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:
Dr. Bengtson studied neuroscience and is board certified in clinical neuropsychology. She established her own clinical practice in the Dallas area. From her professional and personal life, she recognized a deep lack of understanding of the call to “renew our minds” and the transformational effects a robust understanding of this has on our physical and mental health and outlook.
Dr. Bengtson lives to foster regeneration and renew life in her listeners. She recognizes brokenness in her life and others’ and offers steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places.
Dr. Bengtson authored the award-winning “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” and its award-winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study.” Her third book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” will be available in September 2019 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and maintains a Monday morning radio show and podcast at GraceandTruthRadio.world. She is a frequent guest on Fox News Radio and speaks at conferences and churches internationally.
For more, find her at www.DrMichelleBengtson.com
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
Air Date: August 15, 2019
12 Jul 2019
013 Hope When Our Loved One is Terminally Ill or Requires Hospice Care
00:28:33
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 lies rather than the truth about the situation, and those lies can haunt them into adulthood.
Please don’t tell your little children that the patient went to sleep, because everyone goes to sleep every night, but that can cause fear that they will go to sleep and never wake up. Tell them the truth.
Look for Jesus. He promised that He will never leave us or forsake us. He is there in the room with your loved one. If they are staring at someone, ask them what they see. If a patient indicates they are seeing something, encourage them to ask. God gives them glimpses of heaven to prepare them to leave this world and enter the next world. The only struggle they have is leaving this world and leaving their family members behind.
It’s okay to cry. Tears are liquid prayers.
Some of the signs and signals that we can see if we look for them, are God’s way of comforting them so they are not afraid of leaving this world. But patients and their loved ones often experience fear at the thought of death. But God is not going to let them go through this alone.
Tell your friend or loved one that you love them, that you will miss them, but that will be okay. Patients often hold on longer because they fear their loved ones won’t be okay in their absence.
Sometimes there are no words. Sometimes words aren’t necessary, but your presence always matters. Don’t be afraid to laugh—laughter is good medicine.
To the loved ones of a terminally ill patient, let them know that you are going to be there for them. Let them know that their feelings are normal, and that what they are going through is normal. Let them know that there is no time span cut off for grief. Share your fond memories of them and their loved ones.
A new normal will develop although it doesn’t happen quickly. Nothing seems normal anymore, but that will change over time. The intense grief will lessen, but you will still miss your loved one. Even Jesus wept when Lazarus died, which gives us permission to grieve.
If you are mourning or grieving, it is not a lack of faith. It just attests to how much you love them, and how much it hurts to go on without them. It’s a hard battle in your own soul to know that they will be better off, even if it means you have to let go.
To the one with a terminal illness, take every moment to love on your loved ones that you have. Even with a terminal illness, it can be a blessing to give you a chance to make amends. Love them. Know that Jesus is with you. He is going to be with you in this process and be with you on the other side.
To the loved ones of terminally ill patients, if you are both believers, you will see your loved one again. It’s hard, but you will see them again. God is faithful—He will mend your heart. He won’t erase your memories, but He will mend your heart.
Not even death can separate us from the love of God.
Scripture References:
Deuteronomy 31:6 “So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
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.”
Romans 8:38-39 says “And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Zephaniah 3:17 says, “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.”
Recommended Resources:
Crossing the Creek: A Practical Guide to Understanding the Dying Process by Michael Holmes (no amazon link)
Living at the End of Life: A Hospice Nurse Addresses the Most Common Questions by Karen Whitley Bell, RN https://amzn.to/32qeqPA
Changing the Way We Die: Compassionate End of Life Care and The Hospice Movement by Fran Smith, Sheila Himmel, and Joan Halifax https://amzn.to/32nlyfq
“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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J
“Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46
Guest: Shelley Sisson, retired hospice and palliative care nurse
Shelley was a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse for 12 years and worked all over the United States, but mostly in Oklahoma and Central Texas. She retired and moved back to Oklahoma. She still has a passion for all things hospice and what it provides to patients and their families.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
01 Sep 2022
177 How To Look at Pain as a Gift
00:42:05
Episode Summary:
Have you ever thought about how to look at pain as a gift? Is it possible? In this episode, I talk with Tera Bradham DeNeui, a swimmer who had her sights on the Olympics until injury and chronic pain entered her life, changing the path God had for her. If you suffer with chronic pain, you won’t want to miss her hope filled message.
Quotables from the episode:
When you can’t hold on anymore, you have to trust that God is still holding on to you.
Lord, complicate my life with a holy complication.
My discipline with swimming led to my discipline in spending time with God in my daily quiet time.
We are socialized to believe questioning God indicates a lack of faith. But in reality, asking God questions shows our trust and faith in God.
If you find God in your suffering, and prove Him to be faithful, you will likely never walk away from Him.
Your pain has a tendency to close you in and decreases your vision.
Because we cannot turn off our pain, it forces us to look to God.
Freedom is being able to live outside our circumstances and know that our pain doesn’t define us.
God’s heart in suffering holds us in our suffering and redeems it.
Because Jesus suffered, He understands our suffering.
God heals people in the way that brings Him the most glory.
While we may long for God to heal us physically, the ultimate healing is in our hearts.
Scripture References:
Jeremiah 33:6-9 (Tera's life promise) “Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security. I will bring Judah and Israel back from captivity and I will rebuild them as they were before. I will cleanse them from all the sin they have committed against me and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against me. Then this city will bring me renown, joy, praise, and honor before all nations on earth that hear of all the good things I do for it; and they will be in awe and will tremble at the abundant peace and prosperity I provide for it.”
Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV) “Heal me and I will be healed. Save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.”
2 Corinthians 6:3-10 (NIV) “We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry may not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance, in troubles hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights, and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, good report and bad report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many people rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.”
Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV) “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Tera Bradham DeNeui is an author, speaker, and podcast host. She loves to talk to animals like they're humans, curl up with a great book in an equally great blanket, and help others see God's faithfulness amidst their suffering. Her journey has led her across the world to deliver messages of empowerment and purpose. Tera writes and leads the Heal Ministry from her home in Vancouver, Washington.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
26 Mar 2020
050 Defeating Anxiety During a Crisis like Coronavirus
00:30:40
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.”
245 From Sugar Fix to Soul Shift: The Spiritual Impact of the 40-Day Sugar Fast
00:51:41
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.”
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
Wendy Speake is author and host of The 40-Day Sugar Fast, The 40-Day Social Media Fast, along with the companion resource, The 40-Day Fast Journal. Her newest book, The 40-Day Feast, invites readers to get hungry for God’s Word then equips them to taste and see how good it is. Wendy is also co-author of the popular parenting books, Triggers: Exchanging Parents’ Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses and Parenting Scripts.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
27 Jun 2024
272 How God Turns Our Deepest Wounds into Sacred Scars
00:37:36
Episode Summary:
In this episode, I wanted to share with you what brought me to the place where I knew this book was needed, where I knew God was calling me to share my own sacred scars, why I’ve written the book Sacred Scars for you, and what I hope you’ll get out of it.
Quotables from the episode:
Sometimes our wounds come at the hands or wounds of others; sometimes we behave in a way that causes or contributes to our wounds; and sometimes there is no obvious explanation for them. But the hope that we have in Jesus is that when we will take our painful wounds and surrender them to the creator of the universe, the very One who knit us in our mother’s womb, we can experience a redemptive scar, a beautiful sacred scar in place of our wounds when we allow God to heal what has hurt us.
The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms is about how we hold onto our faith while we are waiting on God for our healing.
Sacred Scars picks up where The Hem of His Garment left off.
Sacred Scars is for those who think, I’ve gone through something so bad that it disqualifies me from living the abundant life that Christ came to give; I’ve gone through something so bad or I’ve done something so bad that it disqualifies me from being loved and valued; or I’ve gone through something so bad that it disqualifies me from service to God.
Sacred Scars was written for that reader, to assure them that there is nothing they have gone through that is beyond the hands of a redemptive God.
Jesus never gave up, so as a child of God, it’s not in my DNA to give up. The thing that drives me the most is that I’m just not going to let the enemy have that much satisfaction.
The lies of the enemy is what produces guilt, shame, regret, remorse, isolation, fear. As long as he can take us there because of the wounds that we’ve gone through, as long as we listen to those lies, we will live a defeated life, but Jesus came so we can have victory.
The only way to experience that victory is to recognize the lies of the enemy and to determine that I’m willing enough to feel the pain to get healing.
In over 30 years in private practice, I’ve had thousands of people come into my private practice ashamed to share their deep, dark secret because they feared I would reject them or abandon them or give them a strange look like, “I can’t believe what you just said.” But nothing surprises me anymore.
What I found, is that when people will share that secret that they are so embarrassed and ashamed of, it doesn’t hold power anymore. Once they bring it out into the light, the enemy loses.
Wounds are open assaults either on the body or the mind. They are those things that have been injured, abraded, or infected and leave us in a state of pain. When we are wounded, we need healing.
I love what God does: in the physical body, when you get a scratch or a burn, or an infection, your body automatically sends cells to try to produce collagen to produce a scar. This book is focusing on scars, because once we have a scar, that wound, that painful experience (whether it’s physical, emotional, relational, spiritual) doesn’t hold the same pain that it did when it was an open wound.
When we will take our wounds to God and let Him heal the wounds, because He’s such a good and redemptive God, He will bring beautiful sacred scars as a reminder not just of the pain we’ve gone through, but of the healing that’s taken place if we’re willing to go on that healing journey.
God never pries our heart or our hands open. He’s always waiting for us to say, “Okay, Lord, I’m ready.”
Too often, we’re afraid of the pain of the unknown more than we are the pain of the current discomfort of our injured situation.
If you will step out and entrust your pain to God, He can bring a beautiful sacred scar.
We’re all familiar with physical scars but I think it’s also important to recognize that we all carry invisible scars from emotional wounds, relational wounds, spiritual wounds, grief or loss.
I mistakenly thought that being a doctor would protect me or insulate me from depression or any other mental health disorder, but it doesn’t. Neither does being a Christian.
The Lord taught me that there was a spiritual root to depression. Previous to that, I had been addressing the physical, the emotional, and the mental, but not the spiritual, because I didn’t know there was one.
What initially felt like forced rest, I hated, but over time, on bed rest, I came to appreciate that time because it was like my cocooning time alone with God. I didn’t want that time to end.
She said to me, “Thank you. Thank you for sharing out of your pain, so that I would know that I’m not alone and that if you could make it through your ordeal, I can too.” That is a beautiful sacred scar for a physically and emotionally devastating time in my life. But that is the essence behind the message of Sacred Scars.
Having gone through depression, I thought that disqualified me from any future ministry for the Lord but He was the one who prompted me to share with others. Sacred scars are when God takes our most devastating circumstance, that we think discounts us or disqualifies us, primarily because we are listening to the lies of the enemy who is the accuser of the brethren and the father of lies, but if we will bring it into the light, into God’s truth, we will realize that what looks impossible to us is not impossible for the God of the universe.
I pictured Jesus in his resurrected body as whole without scars, but the Lord showed me the passages where Jesus appeared to his disciples he had his scars in his hands and feet.
Jesus kept his scars and they served such a redemptive purpose. His scars prove that he was who he said he was and that he had done what he said he would do.
That was such a lightbulb moment for me because I felt like God said, “Just as I have redeemed Jesus’s scars, your scars will have a redemptive purpose too.”
Now I look at scars differently because scars attest to the healing that has taken place and our scars are an opportunity to share with others the goodness and faithfulness of God.
More than anything, what I want you to know is that those things in your past that you are so ashamed of, embarrassed of, feel guilty about or remorseful, that cause you to isolate and hide from other people, those are the very things that God wants to come in and heal and show you that he not only wants to but is capable of bringing beauty for your ashes and sacred scars for your wounds.
What you have to recognize is that we have to be willing to feel the pain to heal it, and we have to be willing to step forward and say “I want that healing” because God isn’t going to pry it out of our hands or our hearts, but if we will surrender to Him, He will bring a redemptive purpose for your wounds and beautiful sacred scars.
Scripture References:
John 16:33 NIV “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
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
Carolyn Freeman is the Founder and President of Impact Coaching Ministries. She’s a Certified Professional Life Coach, author, speaker, former nurse and counselor. Her life verse is Jeremiah 29:11. She calls it a privilege and joy to walk with others into God’s healing just as others walked with her into healing, wholeness, and a whole new purpose and passion.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
14 Nov 2019
031 You are Loved by God
00:28:31
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 those scriptures out loud over our lives and our situation which cause us to look to other things or other people. When we do it faithfully and consistently, God will use it to change us.
When you have the perspective of God sitting on the throne of your heart, it helps you love everyone better. If we don’t truly know how much God loves us, then we can’t give that kind of love away. We love out of the overflow of our heart, so that means our heart must first be filled up with the knowledge of how much He loves us.
The reason God loves you so much is because you are His: a child of God. We are blood-bought children of the One True God. That is our identity. When we carry the identity around that we are lavishly loved by the God of the universe, and He lives inside of us, that empowers us.
No matter what you’re walking through right now, God is living inside of you and He promises He will never leave us or forsake us. Instead, He is living inside us to help equip us and teach us.
Jesus came to save us, despite all our faults. If we were perfect that would make His sacrifice for us worth nothing.
Scripture References:
1 John 3:1 “Consider the kind of extravagant love the Father has lavished on us … He calls us children of God. It’s true, we are His beloved children.”
1 John 5:12 “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.”
1 John 4:4 “You, dear children are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”
“Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N
“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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J
“Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46
Wendy is a wife, mother, author, Bible teacher, attorney, and the Biblical Content Specialist for Proverbs 31 Ministry’s Online Bible Studies. Her heart's desire is to help women fall in love with God's Word. To learn it, pray it, and know with confidence they can tackle any problem life presents through it. Wendy has authored four books, Hidden Joy in a Dark Corner, Living So That, I Know His Name, and her newest book, I Am Loved: Living in the Fullness of God’s Love. Wendy has been a featured guest on Oprah Radio, The 700 Club, Family Life Today with Dr. Dennis Rainey, Revive Our Hearts with Nancy Leigh DeMoss, and Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman. Wendy lives with her husband, Monty, in Charlotte, North Carolina and loves most when her two children, Lauren (26) and Bo (20), come home to visit and fill their home with lots of love and laughter!
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
21 Oct 2021
132 Thriving Not Just Surviving When Life Falls Apart
00:41:43
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.
Niki Hardy is an author, speaker, podcast host, and lover of hot buttered toast. As the author of Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart and host of the podcast Chemo Chair Prayers, her goal is to help you discover life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full, then go live it.
29 Sep 2022
181 How To Identify Toxic Friendships
00:32:05
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.
Mary DeMuth is an international speaker and podcaster, and she’s the novelist and nonfiction author of more than 40 books, translated into five languages. She loves to help people re-story their lives. She lives in Texas with her husband of 29 years and is the mom to three adult children. Find out more at marydemuth.com, or be prayed for on her daily prayer podcast prayeveryday.show. For sexual abuse resources, visit wetoo.org.
03 Jun 2021
112 Discovering Joy in the Midst of Hard Times
00:47:27
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.
Heidi McLaughlin’s passion is contagious as she inspires her audiences to grasp the truth that there is nothing more beautiful than a woman who knows she is loved. Heidi speaks all over North America and overseas and is an award-winning author. She has written several books, Study Guides and hundreds of articles and blogs. Her upcoming book is called FRESH JOY!
Heidi has been widowed twice and is the mom and step-mom of a blended family of 5 children and 12 grandchildren. Heidi has experienced much tragedy but has learned how to recapture her JOY.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
25 Jun 2020
063 Former Model Shares: the Myth of Perfection {and What She Found to be Much More Satisfying}
00:49:12
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.”
Jennifer Strickland is a former international model, TEDx speaker, author, wife, mother of three, and the founder of a non-profit called U R More, that helps women and girls discover their value, identity, and purpose.
Jen has written seven books and studies teaching women and girls their true worth, including Girl Perfect, More Beautiful Than You Know, Beautiful Lies, and 21 Myths (Even Good) Girls Believe About Sex. She holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and a master’s degree in writing with an emphasis in biblical studies.
In her earlier days, Jen worked for 15 years as a professional model, appearing in Vogue, Glamour, and Cosmopolitan. She was featured in ads for Converse Tennis Shoes, Oil of O’lay, Mercedes Benz, Eddie Bauer, and Jordache; and at the height of her career, she walked the runways of Europe for Giorgio Armani and represented Barbie for the 35th anniversary of the doll. But Jen learned beauty is more than what meets the eye when she discovered what she looked like in God’s eyes.
Hosted By: Scott and Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
13 Jul 2023
222 God's Calling On Your Life: Walking In Outrageous Obedience
00:28:52
Episode Summary:
Do you ever wonder about God’s calling on your life? What does the Bible say about God’s calling on your life? What does it mean when God is calling you? In this episode, I talk with Rachelle Starr. At the age of 23, she God called her to share the hope of Jesus to women in the adult entertainment industry. This led her to love people through their pain and her pain as she walked out God's calling on her life in outrageous obedience. You won’t want to miss this episode!
Quotables from the episode:
One of the best things my parents did for me was to teach me who Jesus was and what he did for me.
Learning about God’s calling on your life begins praying for purpose and the people God wants you to reach. Ask God and invite him in to speak to you about your calling.
In pursuing your God-given calling, consider prayer and fasting as well as silence and solitude to hear God’s voice and receive his direction.
Pray and ask God to give you eyes to see who God wants you to minister to.
Fear, inadequacy, and doubt freeze us from living out our call.
Outrageous obedience is about living out the great commission.
When you come up against darkness, you become grateful for the salvation Jesus died for you to have.
Stepping out in faith and doing something that the world says is crazy can be extremely hard and scary. But it’s important to remember that if God calls us to something, He also equips us.
Outrageous obedience to God is rooted in a relationship with Him. Sometimes we over-complicate things. If you are daily soaking in the Word and spending time with your Heavenly Father, He will guide your steps.
It is God’s faithfulness (and not our own!) that fuels our calling.
The best thing you can do is just take it one step at a time. Before I did anything, I simply prayed.
Because our faithful God goes with you, you can be a light where it’s dark.
You ARE good enough. When God calls you, he also equips you.
Scripture References:
Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV) The Great Commission: “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Isaiah 61:1-3 (ESV) The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.
1 John 4:19 (ESV) “We love because he first loved us.”
Matthew 28:18-20 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 17:20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
Esther 4:14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Rachelle Starr founded Scarlet Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to sharing the hope of Jesus with women in the adult entertainment industry. Rachelle also leads a gospel-centered career development program where women can receive employment and job skills while discovering their God-given gifts and talents. Rachelle and her husband, Josh, have two boys and reside in Louisville, Kentucky. Learn more at scarlethope.org and by following @rachellestarr.co on Instagram.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
13 Aug 2020
070 How To Find Hope in the Midst of Grief
00:36:15
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.”
Anne Peterson is a Christian poet, speaker, and published author of 15 books and numerous articles. She has written for Christianity Today, Today’s Christian Woman, as well as other publications. She has also written Bible studies for christianbiblestudies.com. Currently she is a regular contributor to crosswalk.com, and a writer for their couples devotionals. Since 1995, Anne’s poetry has been sold through gift stores and online in both the U.S. as well as other countries. Married for 44 years to her husband Michael, they have two grown children, as well as four grandchildren here and one in heaven.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
16 Jul 2020
066 What Would You Do if You Only Had 10 Days to Live?
00:30:44
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 rare form of cancer and were told to get our affairs in order because he was not expected to live. I remember during that time that it really caused me to reassess how I would live each day, not knowing if it was our last. Today we are going to talk to Robin and see what impact that devastating news had on her and how her life is different for it today.
Quotables from the episode:
I’m not that I'm anything special but my Savior is.
God, thank you for this gift of a new day. I've done nothing to deserve it. This has been just a pure gift on your part.
It's easy to approach God like he's a vending machine. I want this and this and this and this. But God wants us to participate with him.
Scripture References:
James 1:2-4 says 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
Romans 8:28 God works all things together for good.
Hebrews 13:5, where I will never leave you nor forsake you.
Matthew 28:20 “… And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Luke 12:4-7 “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. … Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
2 Corinthians 1:4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
Be grateful in everything--even the bumpy rides ... is Robin Luftig's mantra while either writing for non-fiction readers or speaking to audiences on healing after tragedy. She's an award-nominated columnist for great magazines such as Leading Hearts, CBN.com, and many more. She is the author of two books, Learning to Bloom Again (a journey of healing after divorce) and God's Best During Your Worst and will soon be launching her first novel, Ladies of the Fire in late 2020. She is a leader in Word Weavers International, a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA). She lives near Harrisburg Pennsylvania with her best pal/hubster and has five grown children and two grandbabies.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
28 Dec 2023
246 Resolution Revolution: Rethinking New Year’s Goals
00:28:04
Episode Summary:
Tired of setting New Year's resolutions that lead to disappointment? Learn why resolutions might be setting you up for failure and discover a powerful alternative that focuses on grace, self-discovery, and partnering with God for lasting change. Say goodbye to the resolution trap and embrace a transformative journey into the New Year! In this podcast replay, Scott and I discuss a hope-filled alternative to New Year’s Resolutions! You won’t want to miss it!
Quotables from the Episode:
One of the problems with New Year’s resolutions is that they largely depend wholly on us. Too often we exclude God from the picture or the process.
Resolutions short-circuit the process of discovery of what’s really important to you, or to God. Consider instead, giving yourself a concept to consider and use January to think about why that is appealing to you, and keep in mind the ultimate goal and how you want to achieve that.
If we focus less on a specific goal, and more on the overarching theme that is driving the resolution, then we can have more grace with ourselves.
Another problem with setting resolutions is that too often when we achieve those resolutions, we realize it’s “not all that and more.” We often find out that reaching that goal hasn’t fundamentally changed us and we still feel like we have missed out.
Too often when people mess up and miss our resolution within days or weeks, we settle in a place of failure instead of recognizing God’s grace.
One alternative to New Year’s resolutions is to focus on one word or theme for the word and embrace the discovery of what God wants to teach us throughout the year. Such words or themes often require us to look beyond our circumstances to see how God will work or change us in the process.
We go into the New Year with ourselves…we haven’t fundamentally changed, and the turn of the calendar is already imprinted with who you are. So if you haven’t made the changes before, you’ll have to do more than change the calendar to make such changes. But including God in the process lets us ask “God, what is it you want to do in me, through me, and around me?” and partner with Him in that.
Another alternative to New Year’s resolutions is to believe in, operate in, and appropriate God’s promises (i.e. worry less about pleasing others, and focus more on doing what pleases God).
Something that we often forget in making our New Year’s resolutions is that we often forget that when Jesus died on the cross, He declared that all those things that are the focus of our resolutions “is finished.” Greed, gluttony, selfishness, procrastination, (fill in the blank________) is finished because we have inside us the same power that raised Christ from the dead. We try to do things in our own strength, but nothing is impossible with God. So if we go into the New Year, recognizing what Christ accomplished for us on the cross, and has already declared what His will is, then when we are focused on His will, He will help us make the necessary changes.
One way to usher into the New Year is to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, as a way of remembering what Christ did for us, and how we want to change to be more like Him. And we can take this time to offer thanksgiving for all God has done in, and through, and for us this past year.
May you experience a New Year blessed by Him.
Scripture References:
Colossians 3:23 “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.”
John 19:30 “When Jesus had tasted it, he said, ‘It is finished!’ Then he bowed his head and released his spirit.”
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Isaiah 43:19 “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.”
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
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
30 Nov 2023
242 Recognizing God Moments in Our Lives Turns an Average Day into Extraordinary
00:40:39
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)
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
Pastor Kragt holds a doctorate and master’s degree in Christian Counseling and Psychology from the Carolina University of Theology in Stanley, North Carolina. He does private consulting and assists several churches in Hastings, Michigan. He served as a Chaplain for 18 years.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
05 Nov 2020
082 The Miracle Man Shares Hope
00:31:22
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."
Unbeknownst to either of them, at the age of 12, Jay Straub was put on a path by his best friend that would lead him to fulfill the wildest dream he could have ever imagined. Fourteen years later, Jay would be a pilot, becoming a captain, for what is today the largest airline in the world. That path started with his first flying lesson at the age of 12, followed by his first flying job at the age of 18, which progressed to flying for several corporations and culminated with being hired at American Airlines at the age of 26.
In that career, Jay experienced two inflight emergencies that he gives God the credit for in his survival, followed by the grand crescendo, an on the job injury that ended Jay’s career and would have ended his life were it not for the power and grace of God. In the almost two decades since that event, Jay has spent a good deal of his life traveling to parts of the world speaking and giving the glory to his Lord, his Redeemer, Jesus Christ. He and his wife Letha both take joy in that.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
20 May 2021
110 Prodigal Child: Hope and healing when your loved one has gone astray
00:33:07
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
Judy R. Slegh is passionate in helping others get free of emotional baggage through healing prayer. Writing her first book, Help! I Have a Prodigal, she combined her personal experiences with a prodigal son with the healing prayer tools she uses as leader of Nephros Ministries. She found it a joy to speak into her biology student’s lives for seventeen years and now brings hope to the imprisoned through leading a birthday card ministry called Affirming You. Being a Minnesotan, she enjoys kayaking on lakes and rivers as well bird watching and biking with her husband Daryl.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
27 Oct 2022
185 Raise children to have a strong foundation in Jesus
00:34:37
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.
Lee Ann hosts the award-winning Raising Christian Kids podcast, which can be found on all major platforms, including CounterCultureMom.com, Pray.com, and Edifi.app. Raising Christian Kids is a five to ten-minute podcast that equips and empowers parents, grandparents, teachers, and all who are raising the next generation to have a strong foundation in Jesus. Lee Ann also has an informative webinar presentation that highlights her research and biblical knowledge in this area. “It is first about the salvation of the children and then about the preservation of Christianity.” There is truth to the adage, “The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world!”
Lee Ann is an award-winning Christian children’s author and Executive Producer of the new animation series Sea Kids, which can be seen on Trinity Broadcasting Network, Pure Flix, Right Now Media, and SeaKidsTv.com.
Lee Ann Mancini received a B.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies from Regent University, a Master’s degree in Theological Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (Trinity International University), and two Master’s degrees from Knox Theological Seminary in Biblical and Theological Studies and Christian and Classical Studies.
She is a professor at South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary teaching Apologetics, Romans, Ministerial Ethics, Prison Epistles, and The Bride of Christ. She holds a board position with South Florida Bible College & Theological. She also holds a board position with the Alexandrian Forum, under the tutelage of Dr. Warren Gage Th.M., J.D., Ph.D., an organization seeking to bring a greater understanding of the Bible by hosting annual Typology Conferences in South Florida dedicated to the theme of Christ as the center of scripture.
Her God-given mission and desire are to serve all who are raising the next generation of Christians by preparing the soil to be rich from the womb to age three in which to plant the seeds that grow deep roots from ages four to ten.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
09 Jan 2020
039 A More Hope-Filled Alternative to New Year's Resolutions
00:28:05
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 for us on the cross, and has already declared what His will is, then when we are focused on His will, He will help us make the necessary changes.
One way to usher into the New Year is to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, as a way of remembering what Christ did for us, and how we want to change to be more like Him. And we can take this time to offer thanksgiving for all God has done in, and through, and for us this past year.
May you experience a New Year blessed by Him.
Scripture References:
Colossians 3:23, “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.”
John 19:30, “When Jesus had tasted it, he said, ‘It is finished!’ Then he bowed his head and released his spirit.”
Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Isaiah 43:19, “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.”
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.”
Tracy Steel graduated from Kansas State University with a BS in interior design in 1998 and has a master’s degree in biblical and theological studies from Phoenix Seminary. As a project designer, Tracy created and coordinated the design and space planning of commercial spaces for clients such as Bank One, Wells Fargo, Express Scripts, DHS, and Lockheed Martin. Moving from one type of interior design to another, Tracy then worked in full-time youth ministry, serving as the director of female students at Scottsdale Bible Church. God’s true design for Tracy now involves improving the interior space of the hearts and minds of women around her. Currently stationed in Washington, DC, this military wife and mother of two enjoys linking up with other bloggers, leading Bible studies at her local church, and speaking at various moms’ groups and women’s ministries events nationwide. She is also the author of Images of His Beauty, a 10-week Bible study for young women that focuses on identity, overcoming and healing through Christ, and bearing the image of Christ.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
02 Jan 2020
038 Hope for Living in our True Identity in Christ
00:28:31
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 really say…”
When we begin hearing those thoughts, we can pause and ask “What is the source of this?” If God is not the source, and the message is not spoken with love, then we can know it’s not the truth.
We need to pay attention to our thoughts. The lies we’ve believed become automatic thoughts. Go to God’s word to find the truth, and be honest with friends when you’re having trouble remembering the truth so they can speak truth to you.
Taking every thought captive is an act of war. It’s okay if it’s a battle. It is hard work.
It’s easy to fall prey to the imposter syndrome because as long as we’re on this earth, there’s a gap between our real self and our ideal self. We know deep down in our hearts that we are not all we are made to be. And we think that’s our responsibility to make that happen on earth.
Scripture says that He who began a good work in you will see it through to completion. That takes the weight off our shoulders because God is the one who is responsible for doing that work.
We’re often prone to asking “Who do I think I am?” In the Bible when Moses argued with God and tried to convince God that he wasn’t up to the task God was calling him to do, God didn’t answer with a reassurance of who Moses was, He answered with a reassurance of who God was. God basically told Moses, and us, not to focus on who we are, but instead focus on who God is.
Sometimes it comes down to us trusting God. We can have an honest dialogue with God and admit “I don’t know if I can trust you, God, but I want to.” God says that when you seek Him with your whole heart, you will find Him.
Start by looking not at what has to happen but at what strengths you already possess. What characteristics of God show up in your life? What are some of the skills God has given you? And who is God asking you to serve in this season of your life? Put those three things together, and those overlapping circles in the middle of those three is probably your God-given sweet spot.
These Bible Verses describe how God sees you. They will help you see yourself as God sees you.
God says you are created in His image. (Genesis 1:27) “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
God says you are a loved child of the Most High God. (John 1:12) “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”
God thinks you are beautiful. (Song of Solomon 4:7) “You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you.”
When God looks at you, He sees the righteousness of Jesus. (2 Corinthians 5:21) “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
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.”
Genesis 1:27, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
John 1:12, “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God."
Song of Solomon 4:7, “You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you.”
2 Corinthians 5:21, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Holley Gerth is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of You’re Already Amazing as well as several other books. She’s a follower of Jesus, wife to Mark and mama to Lovelle. She loves encouraging the hearts of women and you can connect with her at www.holleygerth.com.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
01 Jul 2021
116 Overcoming Shame or Discouragement
00:42:45
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.’”
Award-winning author, speaker, licensed counselor, and life coach, Tina hosts the Flourish-Meant podcast and publishes Inkspirations Online, a devotional for writers.
Yeager also serves on the Christian Authors Network board, as a mentor with Word Weavers International, and as an active member of AWSA.
Come visit her for a virtual cup of java online at tinayeager.com. Beautiful Warrior: Finding Victory over the Lies Formed Against You helps women identify and fulfill their potential as they discover Christ-centered significance.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
13 Oct 2022
183 How To Heal from Sexual Trauma and Violence
00:39:16
Episode Summary:
Latest statistics indicate that about 20% of Americans have experienced attempted or completed rape. That is over 430,000 American victims each year, 1 rape every 73 seconds. Yet only 5 out of 1,000 rapists go to jail. What has led to tolerance of sexual violence and trauma? Why is this the most underreported and under-prosecuted crime in this nation? Why are so few perpetrators held accountable? What can we do to end sexual violence, compassionately meet the needs of victims and show perpetrators that we take this crime seriously? Our guest, Lisa Saruga, is going to share how to heal from sexual trauma and violence.
Quotables from the episode:
Not everyone who is the victim of sexual assault is a survivor. This title is used to empower victims, but some victims carry a burden of trying to live up to that title. Do the hard work of surviving.
God doesn’t forget our experiences. He wants to heal us, but we have to be open to the work that healing entails. God didn’t purpose for you to be abused, but he can use all things for his purpose.
I have learned to trust God, his timing, and his faithfulness. He showed me in a powerful way that when we are working to chip away at walls that stand in the way of healing, we have no idea what kind of powerful work he is doing on the other side of that wall.
Often justice doesn’t look like we think it should, but God is just!
Only 2.5% of all rapists go to jail.
Sadly, in our justice system, if there is no conviction of a perpetrator, there is no protection of the victim.
While God does not purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use our trauma for his purposes if we let him. Sometimes he is up to great things when we don’t even sense that he remembers our trauma.
I encourage victims to find a support network and talk about the experience. Hiding it away on a back shelf in our brain does not work forever.
If you’ve been the victim of sexual assault, you first have to decide what is right for you. Some people want to report the assault, but others don’t because of the resulting blaming and shaming. But definitely seek a support system to walk you through the healing process. Know that it takes hard work to be a survivor.
We all experience bad things in our life. We can heal from trauma with appropriate help, but tragedy results when we don’t heal from the trauma.
Scripture References:
Romans 8:28 (NLT) And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
2 Corinthians 1:4 (NLT) He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
Psalm 27:13 (NLT) Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living.
Recommended Resources:
Lisa’s Journal: Writing a Bright Future (Upside Down and Inside Out) and the white gel pens are available in her shop at LisaSaruga/Shop
Lisa is a licensed professional counselor, keynote speaker, author, and legal and ethical specialist. She specializes in therapy for victims of sexual violence. Her own story resulted in the reopening of her thirty-five-year cold case, when someone finally reported the identity of the man who wore a ski mask when he assaulted Lisa as a freshman in college. The man was never arrested because of archaic laws and loopholes that protect perpetrators over victims. Lisa regularly meets with legislators to advocate for laws to protect victims of sexual violence. She believes that, although God doesn’t purpose for us to experience trauma, he can use every event in our lives for his purposes.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
24 Sep 2020
076 Hope from a Recovering Adult Child of Alcoholic Parents
00:45:17
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.”
Laura is a multi-published, multi-awarded author and dancer. Her two nonfiction books “Dolores, Like the River” and “Jesus in Shorts: Twenty-five Short Stories of Life-Changing Jesus Moments” are among her many published works. With a passion for helping others see their worth and value through the lens of Jesus, she shares stories of God’s love and lessons in her journey of almost seven decades as a writer, dancer and teacher. Through her monthly blog, “Livin’ What You’re Given” she speaks with humor and authenticity into the truth that we are valuable and have purpose at every age and every stage. She also has been published in “Chicken Soup for the Soul” as well as many online Christian publications. As she shares stories in written word and dance, she encourages others to find healing and inspiration for their life’s purpose in the Risen Christ. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, and proud native of Colorado who lives in Montrose, Co with husband Keith. She holds an MA in storytelling through creative movement from Regis University.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
16 Mar 2023
205 How To Win Back a Prodigal Child
00:39:28
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."
Laine Lawson Craft (www.lainelawsoncraft.com) is an award-winning author, popular media host, and in-demand speaker. The founder and publisher of WHOAwomen magazine (2010-2018), she regularly hosts online challenges and masterclasses as well as Facebook Live events that reach thousands. Her Warfare Parenting podcast encourages parents of adult children. Laine and her husband, Steve, have three children and live in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
24 Jun 2021
115 How To Train Your Brain To Trust God
00:42:26
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.”
Kris Reece holds a Ph.D in Christian Counseling and a Masters Degree in Theology. As a Counselor, Coach, Author and practical Bible Teacher, her passion is to help others defeat life’s devils, grow in their faith, and become everything they were created to be.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
28 Jul 2022
172 How To Overcome Adversity
00:39:57
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.
Dr. Mel has a unique 35-year concurrent background in church ministry, writing, publishing, counseling, and education. She holds a Doctorate of Ministry in Pastoral Care and Counseling and is on-staff in her local church, wearing multiple hats as the Pastoral Assistant. She is an award-winning author who has written four books penned under her name, is a contributing writer to several books including the (August 2021) DaySpring release “Sweet Tea for the Grieving Soul”, contributes to several online magazines including CBN and Inspiration Ministries, has served as a ghostwriter for ministry leaders, and coached dozens of published authors. Mel passion for equipping and teaching has led her to found a local ACW Chapter, teach at Writers Conferences, as well as Bible courses.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
29 Aug 2024
281 How to Find Your True Worth in Christ: Overcoming Lies and Embracing God’s Truth
00:24:44
Episode Summary:
In this episode, I talked with former runway model, Jennifer Strickland. Jennifer shared how she suffered emotional and spiritual wounds when she allowed others’ opinions of her to determine her worth and value. Through her journey, she discovered the importance of finding the true source of her worth -- in Christ. Now, she ministers to other women who need to know this life-changing truth as well.
Quotables from the episode:
We all have pain and hurt, and if we aren’t careful and don’t get healing, that is what the enemy uses to hold us back, to think that we are not worthy to be used by God, that we are not worthy of love and acceptance.
Sometimes, those things are things that have happened to us. Other times, they are things that we have made a conscious decision to participate in.
But I’m here to tell you that your past is not wasted. And that thing that you think is so shameful, embarrassing, or disgraceful is often exactly what God wants to use to encourage others and to help you grow.
I was 22 years old when I lived in Milan and was modeling on the runway. A particular man came into my life as a father figure and he saw that I could be a top model. That began a long journey in my life of believing that I was what man said about me.
The lens that agents and photographers saw me became the lens through which I saw myself. If they said I was beautiful, I believed it, but if they said that I was ugly or anorexic then I believed that.
This particular relationship became toxic for me spiritually. I really believe that the enemy worked through this man to plant some really poisonous lies in my heart.
When I didn’t make the choices that he wanted me to make, he told me I was disposable, so I allowed man to determine my value.
On the spiritual side of things, when I discovered Jesus, it drove me into a deep study of who was man? The word of God says, “do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save…but if you put your trust in God it will be like a well-watered garden.”
It was the destructive lies that I heard from my interaction with this man that led me to write many of the messages I write now which helps women understand what’s going on with them when they allow a good man or a bad man to give them their identity, value, or worth.
I carried the lies I believed about man determining my identity even into my marriage even after I became a Christian. So, if my husband said anything, even if he was trying to help me, I became very defensive and fearful based on what he said. I had to heal from those lies.
I had to wallpaper my mind with truth. I had to forgive. It was very difficult for me to forgive a couple of particular people in the modeling industry for how they impacted my life, but when I did, I could then filter what other people were saying to me through a lens of wholeness.
I had to do that healing work first before I could receive from Godly men, like my husband or father figures in a healthy way. I could receive constructive criticism or correction without believing it had anything to do with my identity.
The enemy often plants lies in our childhood before we are mature enough to identify them as lies. The longer and more frequently we hear them, the more they become imbedded. It takes a lot of time and willingness to go deep and ask, “what lies have I believed?”
Healing is a process and if we will take those wounds to God, he can take them, heal them, and turn them into beautiful sacred scars.
The key to healing is always honesty.
For me, healing began with writing my story, speaking my story, and identifying the patterns that were going on.
I also believed that I was only as valuable as what I saw in the mirror or what I saw in other girls. That continued into my ministry as social media was throwing other people in my face, whereas when ministry was one on one with me and another girl, I never thought about that or played the comparison game.
I had to learn to celebrate other women and continue running in my own lane and do it well.
It’s a matter of dealing with the memories, assessing the lies and replacing them with the truth of what God says about us.
I am his ambassador, I am his daughter, I am the apple of his eye. He never takes his eye off of me. I am loved by him every single day. His grace is sufficient for me.
We have to stand on his truth and then walk in it. Confession and repentance is so important. The power of being honest about our sin is unmatched.
Once we get honest about our struggle, is the first step, and then replacing it with truth of who we are.
Culture today talks about “my truth” but that is just more deception from the enemy because there is only one truth and it is God’s truth based on what he has already spelled out and told us in his Word.
You are already loved, accepted, and adored by the God of the universe!
Scripture says that the heart is deceitful above all else, and we rely on “our truth” that is deception.
What I admire about your ministry is that you are taking a very painful wound from your teen and young adult years, and using it to minister to other women, as a beautiful sacred scar because you can say, “I’ve been through this. I know the lies you’re believing. But let me share with you what I’ve learned on my journey.”
God showed me my scars served a redemptive purpose by allowing me to get to the bottom of the well where things were so dark and so destructive for me. I was suicidal, I was using drugs and alcohol. I was starving myself. I hated myself. God allowed me to get to a place of total darkness.
At that point, when I began reading God’s Word for the first time, and Christians invited me to church, I began to see that the lies the world tells us about beauty, worth, purpose, “my truth” means nothing. It’s such a shallow wide ocean that you drown in real quick.
But his love is endlessly deep. You can dip your toe into the word of God the rest of your life and stay endlessly refreshed.
It’s a lifelong walk of saying society is not going to define me, media is not going to define me, but God is going to be the one to define me and fill me up.
We need to turn every day to the Lord and say, “I need you to fill me up. I need your wisdom today. I’m not going to find it in me.
If something devastating has happened to you, or if you’ve made poor choices, you are not too far gone for the God of the universe to reach down into that pit and say, “Let me show you a different way and let me not only bring you out of it but redeem it for good and for my glory.”
When it seems impossible, remember God is the God of the impossible so let him do the seemingly impossible in your life.
The hope filled perspective is that God will shine his light into the depths of your dark sea, but you have to choose to swim after it. God sold everything he had for you, and that was his son, Jesus. Jesus is the light of the world. So, when he wants to shine that light on the beautiful person you are, but you have to be honest and let him wash you with his spirit to be able to reveal who you are really intended to be.
When you’re in that very painful place, that sand of adversity, let it shape you more into his likeness.
Scripture References:
Psalms 25:20 NIV “Guard my life and rescue me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.”
Psalms 146:3 NIV “Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.”
Jeremiah 17:9 NIV “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.”
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
Jennifer Strickland is a former international model, TEDx speaker, author, wife, mother of three, and the founder of a non-profit called U R More, that helps women and girls discover their value, identity, and purpose.
Jen has written several books and studies teaching women and girls their true worth, including Girl Perfect, More Beautiful Than You Know, Beautiful Lies, and 21 Myths (Even Good) Girls Believe About Sex. She holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and a master’s degree in writing with an emphasis in biblical studies.
In her earlier days, Jen worked for 15 years as a professional model, appearing in Vogue, Glamour, and Cosmopolitan. She was featured in ads for Converse Tennis Shoes, Oil of O’lay, Mercedes Benz, Eddie Bauer, and Jordache; and at the height of her career, she walked the runways of Europe for Giorgio Armani and represented Barbie for the 35th anniversary of the doll. But Jen learned beauty is more than what meets the eye when she discovered what she looked like in God’s eyes.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
02 May 2024
264 How To Find Hope in God’s Promises in the Midst of Depression
00:30:18
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:
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, and Breaking Anxiety’s Grip. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective.
A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
11 Apr 2024
261 How Your CORE Strength Can Bring Freedom and Empowerment in Your Health
00:43:21
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
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
Amy Connell is a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach who is passionate about equipping women to find balanced, sustainable ways of taking care of their uniquely created bodies. Amy helps women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect, and that the reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do. She does this through a variety of platforms, including her Graced Health podcast, books, social media education, and one-on-one coaching.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
04 Jan 2024
247 Navigating SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder: Unveiling Hope for a Brighter Tomorrow
00:34:24
Episode Summary:
Experiencing the post-holiday blues is a common phenomenon. Once the holidays are over, we often feel deflated and can’t find our joy. Join me with Scott on this podcast replay as we talk about SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder or commonly known as the winter blues. We share tips and resources that will make a difference and help mitigate its effect.
Quotables from the episode:
There is a diagnosis called SAD “Seasonal Affective Disorder” which often happens to people during the winter months when it is often dark, gloomy, and less sunlight during the day. The lack of sunlight does contribute to seasonal affective disorder which is a form of depression during the winter months.
ALL depression is significant. But often we experience a let-down following the holidays which contributes to mild, post-holiday blues. And frequently we experience expectations that aren’t met during the holiday season that leave us feeling inadequate or unappreciated or devalued which can leave us feeling down after the holidays are over.
To make matters worse, not everyone experiences a merry Christmas, which can make going into a new year even more difficult.
Grief and depression are NOT the same thing, but often, those who are grieving also experience a bout of depression.
We serve a God who is rich in mercy and grace, but so often we don’t extend the same grace and mercy to ourselves or others.
I’m grateful for the Biblical greats who we can read about who have struggled with depression. Just like David or Elijah. David often cried “why so downcast oh my soul?” and in the next moment he was praising God.
“Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” was written to encourage others who are struggling with the blues or a more significant case of depression. It’s the kind of book I wish I had had when I was depressed.
If you are experiencing a change in mood, a change in appetite, energy, or sleep, and have been experiencing such changes for more than a couple of weeks, you may be experiencing SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder, the blues or a more significant depression. But that is not something to be ashamed of. And you need to know you are not alone.
There isn’t a magic bullet for depression. It’s something we have to walk through. But God walks with us and can bring us through it.
There is no right or wrong experience of depression. Everyone’s experience is different, and it can change from time to time. Not everyone who is depressed feels down all the time…many experience depression as irritability, agitation, or anger.
Overcoming SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder, depression or the blues is a process. You didn’t become depressed overnight and it won’t go away overnight. But small baby steps will make a difference.
To help mitigate the effect of SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder or the post-holiday blues:
Plan one thing each day that you enjoy. (i.e. take a bubble bath, read for 15-20 minutes) Write it in your day planner. It prioritizes self-care. If you don’t take care of yourself, you have nothing left to pour out to others. When we feel depressed, we can feel like we have nothing left to look forward to, especially after the holidays, but this can give us something small to look forward to.
Instead of listening to the news, listen to calming music or text a friend to give yourself an emotional holiday for a few minutes. Sometimes when you are the one experiencing the blues or depression, you want others to reach out to you. It’s easy to believe the lie that no one understands or cares. But be the one to reach out to someone else. Start the dialogue. Don’t let yourself give in to the enemy of your soul who wants you to isolate. (Karl Meninger gave the advice to get up off the couch, go out their door, go across the railroad track and find someone else to help because when we invest in others it brings joy. Today we don’t even have to go across the railroad tracks…we can text, email, or share with others through social media).
Establish a set bedtime. This allows your brain to replenish it’s naturally occurring neurotransmitters that we often take medication for. A consistent bedtime is crucial.
Enjoy a balanced diet with an emphasis on sufficient protein. Without protein, your brain cannot think clearly or regenerate those naturally occurring neurotransmitters.
Just 10-15 minutes of exercise can make a positive difference in our mood. Many people who are depressed don’t feel like they have any energy. But the less you do, the less energy you will have. If you start with 5 minutes of exercise a day, you will get more energy and you can extend that to 10 minutes a day, and then 15 minutes, etc. Find some form of exercise that you enjoy, that will help you continue with it even when you don’t feel like it. You might also consider exercising with a friend. That helps with accountability, as well as the social aspect which can help our mood.
Pay attention to the thoughts you have. Our feelings are the outward manifestation of the thoughts you believe. Scripture tells us to take every thought captive. That means pay attention to your thoughts and ask if they agree with what God says. If they do not, you must replace those thoughts with the truth of God’s word.
When you read God’s word and come across scriptures that really hit you in the heart, write them down and repeat them out loud. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Then when you need them, the Holy Spirit will remind you of those truths, but he can only remind us of those things we’ve already known.
Consider listening to our other podcast episodes about depression.
If you have experienced any of the signs and symptoms of depression mentioned above, for more than a couple weeks, consider consulting with your general practitioner to rule out any contributing medical condition, or to see if depression is the cause of such symptoms.
If any and all medical conditions have been ruled out, and depression deemed to be the reason for your struggle, consider seeking out the advice and wisdom of a mental health practitioner for ongoing support.
Scripture References:
Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Psalm 30:5 Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.
2 Corinthians 5:17 “faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.”
Recommended Resources:
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK [8255]) is a United States-based suicide prevention network of 161 crisis centers that provides a 24/7, toll-free hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. After dialing 1-800-273-TALK (8255), the caller is routed to their nearest crisis center to receive immediate counseling and local mental health referrals. The Lifeline supports people who call for themselves or someone they care about. https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
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
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
02 Jul 2019
010 Hope after Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
00:28:31
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 the patient is often unaware of their own deficits.
Neuropsychologists, rehab psychologists, and health psychologists help the patient and family members adjust to such changes.
We would encourage traumatic brain injury patient to reach out to other professionals for help such as rehab psychologists, good speech pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and good behavioral medicine psychologists and therapists.
Brain injury recovery continues well after two years. Don’t grow impatient or lose hope, because it is likely that things will continue to improve.
Frustration is normal in the recovery process. It is natural to feel irritable and overwhelmed during recovery. Feel free to take breaks as the frustration grows but go back at it and don’t give up on it. Those who do the best are those who will persevere through it.
Those who maintain a combination of perseverance and optimism experience the greatest hope.
Sometimes it is a matter of learning something new. Many traumatic brain injury patients move on to new and different roles, jobs, and vocations. There can be a lot of change. We all need a way to contribute, even if that is different from how a traumatic brain injury patient previously contributed to society.
About 50% of traumatic brain injury patients may go through a major depressive disorder, and even more will experience what is called an adjustment disorder. It is very common for people who have experienced any major medical condition (e.g. stroke, heart attack, organ transplantation, cancer, etc.) to experience some change in their mental health.
Sometimes respite care is a very helpful component of treatment for traumatic brain injury patient caregivers to be able to continue helping others. You must take care of yourself first. Giving yourself permission to take breaks and utilize resources can help you remain effective in the longer run.
It can be difficult for a caregiver to not take it personally after caring for someone with a traumatic brain injury patient may take out their frustration on those who are caring for them. It’s helpful to step outside of it and realize that they aren’t personally attacking, but reacting out of their own frustration.
Part of taking care of ourselves includes getting enough rest, eating right, and when able getting physical exercise.
There are many dimensions of wellness: relationships, physical abilities, emotional well-being, cognitive wellness, vocational satisfaction, etc.
Keep pursuing, keep trying, keep going after your hopes and dreams, and do not give up!
Scripture References:
Jeremiah 30:17 “I will give you back your health and heal your wounds, says the Lord.”
“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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J
“Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46
Guest: Dr. Lori Terryberry-Spohr, Director of Rehabilitation Programs at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
09 Apr 2020
052 Practical Ways to Exchange Worry, Fear and Anxiety for Peace During a Crisis
00:28:26
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.
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.”
Jill Monaco is the founder and CEO of Jill Monaco Ministries, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that has a passion to encourage people to pursue the presence of God and find freedom in Christ.
She is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) life coach with the International Coach Federation and a Certified Master Christian Life Coach (CMCLC) and Mentorship Coach with the International Christian Coach Institute. Jill has developed Freedom Coaching®, a model that blends hearing God, prayer, and coaching tools.
Her first book, The Freedom Coach Model® went to #1 on the Amazon bestseller list. One of her greatest joys is consulting coaches as they establish and grow their business through her program Freedom Business Coaching.
As a Bible teacher, podcaster, and speaker, Jill is known for captivating audiences with her high-energy, humorous approach to life’s serious issues. Her faith-filled and transparent stories encourage listeners to become all that God has created them to be.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
25 Mar 2021
#102 Biblical Joy: Finding, Keeping, and Living in God’s Joy
00:40:39
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.
Suzanne (Suzie) Eller is a bestselling author, Intl. speaker, and co-host of the popular More Than Small Talk podcast. She has been featured on numerous TV and radio programs. She lives in NW Arkansas with her husband Richard, and is mom to her grown children and “Gaga” to six littles.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
25 Jan 2024
250 Unmasking the Unexpected: A Guide to Coping with Unforeseen Events
00:37:22
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.”
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
Jillian Benfield is a former journalist and news anchor. She holds a broadcast journalism degree from the University of Georgia. As a freelance writer, her essays about living an unexpected life have appeared on sites such as TODAY, Good Morning America, Yahoo! News, and ABC News. Jillian regularly advocates for the full inclusion of people with disabilities in her writings, community, and as a part of the National Down Syndrome Congress's National Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition. Jillian and her husband, Andy, and their three children make their home on Florida's Space Coast.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
06 Feb 2020
043 How To Change Your Thoughts and Transform Your Life
00:38:23
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 about God’s character? What does it tell me about what to do? What does it tell me about how I can help other people?
Quotables from the episode:
It’s crucial that we pay attention to the thoughts we are having, and the words we are speaking.
Our emotions are the outward manifestations of the thoughts we believe. But we must take the time to monitor the thoughts we believe.
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.”
Romans 12:1-2 “And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 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.”
Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace, those who are steadfast because they trust in you.”
Romans 8:1 “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.”
Sarah Geringer writes about finding peace in God’s Word at sarahgeringer.com. She is also on the writing teams for Encouragement for Today, Woman 2 Woman Ministries, A Wife Like Me and Devotable. Sarah also writes for Hope-Full Living, a quarterly publication for senior citizens. When she’s not reading over 100 books per year, Sarah enjoys prayer walks, gardening, baking, painting and playing the flute. She lives in her beloved southeast Missouri with her husband and three children.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
18 Aug 2022
175 Reinvent Yourself after Empty Nest
00:41:35
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.”
Jill Savage is an author and speaker who is passionate about relationships. She has been called one of today’s most exciting female speakers. Her honest, engaging communication is strengthened by her ability to make her audience laugh while they learn.
Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books including Empty Nest, Full Life, Real Moms ... Real Jesus, the best-selling No More Perfect Moms, No More Perfect Kids, Better Together, and No More Perfect Marriages. Jill and her husband, Mark, live in Illinois and have five children and eight grandchildren. You can find Jill online at www.jillsavage.org.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
02 Aug 2019
016 Hope for Healing from Physical and Domestic Abuse
00:28:31
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 dangerous time for an abuse victim, is when they are trying to leave. Talk with a counselor, a pastor, a friend, or someone you trust. Make a plan, and then get out to safety.
Scripture References:
Psalm 9:9 “The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’”
Psalm 63:8 “I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.”
Psalm 18:2 “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”
Recommended Resources:
Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No To Take Control of Your Life by Cloud and Townsend https://amzn.to/2SorqAi
“The Gift of Fear” by Gavin De Becker https://amzn.to/31cHOXM
“Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption” by Laura Hillenbrand https://amzn.to/2YD0bn9
“One Call Away” by Brenda Warner https://amzn.to/2MElzGa
“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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J
“Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46
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.
For some, after going through trials or traumas, it can be easy to have a victim mindset. But the truth is we are victorious because of Christ. Jesus died, but because He was raised again, He defeated everything we would face and the enemy’s power over us. We are set free by His love.
Our job is to get our mind on the same page as God’s word. It is very powerful when our mind gets in line with the mind of Christ.
Out of God’s abundance, He offers us the opportunity to have a “buffet mindset.” He gives lavishly and we never have to worry that He will run out without us getting our fill. The abundant nature of God gives us everything we need, so we don’t need to hoard, or store up, or compete with others.
Taking a “mind vacation” can allow us time to ask God for His perspective. A time distance can give us greater ability to see things more objectively. Sometimes we need to create space from our incidents or blow up moments and what God would have us do. Because of that distance, we can give ourselves time and a fresh ability to interpret a situation. The mind vacation frees us up from being too heavily critical of ourselves and adopting a more Godly perspective of our situation.
There is freedom in knowing we don’t have to be perfect to be accepted and loved by God. Our greatest advances will come not be defending ourselves but by laying it down and receiving God’s perspective.
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 with my righteous right hand.”
Recommended Resources:
“Battle Ready: Train Your Mind to Conquer Challenges, Defeat Doubt, and Live Victoriously” by Kelly Balarie https://amzn.to/31xt721
“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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J
“Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46
140 Focusing on What’s Important to Reduce Holiday Stress
00:28:47
Episode Summary:
We all want a peaceful Christmas, but, “life gets busy.” Sometimes we’re forced to slow down, and guess what? We discover we actually CAN let go of some of the tasks and duties that not only weigh us down, but also steal our peace.
Last week, on episode 139 How To Let Go of the Anxiety and Overwhelm of the Holiday Season, we talked about the fact that in order to create a more peaceful holiday season, we need to remember who the source of our peace is. We also started talking about ways to recognize and reduce our expectations of ourselves and others in order to experience less worry and anxiety and more of His peace during the holidays.
So often Paul addressed the people in his letters by saying “Grace and peace to you from God our father through Jesus Christ our Lord.” God wants us to experience His peace, But we cannot experience true peace apart from God’s presence.”
So much worry, fear, and anxiety are a result of trying to maintain control of things that we cannot control. And we certainly cannot control others’ expectations. If all the holidays preparations are a burden to you, whose expectations are you trying to live up to?
Consider sitting the family down to determine what expectations they have. If you didn’t do ____, it wouldn’t feel like Christmas to them. This could mean just sending digital Christmas cards instead of physically mailing cards. Or perhaps you reduce your baking to just baking the family’s absolute favorite treats. Consider lessening the amount of decorating you do to the favorite décor for your family. You might also consider cutting back on the holiday meals to just the favorite dishes or buying a precooked meal to reduce the stress you encounter during the holiday season. Limiting the gift giving not only simplifies things, but helps you be a good steward of what God has given you, and lets you enjoy people over presents.
Assess why you do what you do? Is it because you’re trying to live up to someone else’s expectations? Is it bringing you joy or draining yourself of joy?
In our gift giving, I think it’s so important to teach our children that Christmas isn’t about them, but about the greatest gift God could ever give in the birth of His son. And it’s great to take a lesson from the wisemen and limit our gift giving to those that are the most special way to communicate our love to each other.
We try so hard to set the perfect table, cook the perfect meal, and give the perfect gifts. But one great gift to give others is to release them from our expectations of how they will respond. They will never live up to the expectations in our mind anyway.
Another way to maintain peace during the holidays is to choose our focus. It’s crucial that we focus on maintaining our healthy routines during the holidays. Consider continuing to make time for a daily quiet time, getting in your regular exercise, make rest a priority, and eat well.
But it’s also important to maintain a nightly routine: review your calendar for the next day or two so you aren’t taken by surprise the next day, record the new tasks that come up that must be completed, consider reading an advent reading or similar devotion each evening before going to bed, and pray thanking God for what He enabled you to do during the day and giving him your cares for all your tomorrows.
Another way to choose our focus is to limit technology during the holiday season. It’ll free up your time to get some of the holiday specific tasks completed.
Another way to choose our focus is to limit negativity, and negative inputs.
Also consider helping those who are alone or are going through a hard time during the holidays. Even when you are feeling down, you’d be surprised how helping others will encourage your own heart and bring a sense of peace to your heart and mind.
Quotables from the episode:
We cannot experience true peace apart from God’s presence.
In our gift giving, I think it’s so important to teach our children that Christmas isn’t about them, but about the greatest gift God could ever give in the birth of His son.
Even when you are feeling down, you’d be surprised how helping others will encourage your own heart and bring a sense of peace to your heart and mind.
Scripture References:
Colossians 3:15 “Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.”
Isaiah 26:3 “He will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is stayed on thee.”
Luke 6:31 “Do to others as you would like them to do to you.”
Philippians 4:6-7 “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. THEN you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, and the author of the bestselling, award winning “Hope Prevails: Insights From A Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression," the award winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” and the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises.” She has been a board certified clinical neuropsychologist for more than twenty years. This doctor knows pain and despair firsthand and combines her professional expertise and personal experience with her faith to help others be all God created them to be. Using sound practical tools, she affirms worth and encourages faith. Dr. Bengtson offers hope as a key to unlock joy and relief—even in the middle of the storm. She and her husband of thirty-two years have two teenage sons and reside in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. She blogs regularly on her own site: http://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com and is on most social media platforms. She is also a popular podcast show host of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” at
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, and the author of the bestselling, award winning “Hope Prevails: Insights From A Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression," the award winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” and the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises.” She has been a board certified clinical neuropsychologist for more than twenty years. This doctor knows pain and despair firsthand and combines her professional expertise and personal experience with her faith to help others be all God created them to be. Using sound practical tools, she affirms worth and encourages faith. Dr. Bengtson offers hope as a key to unlock joy and relief—even in the middle of the storm. She and her husband of thirty-two years have two teenage sons and reside in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. She blogs regularly on her own site: http://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com and is on most social media platforms. She is also a popular podcast show host of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” at https://apple.co/2madPRo
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
07 Sep 2023
230 How To Recover from Grief and Embrace Life
00:46:27
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.”
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
When Susan Duke’s teenage son was tragically killed, she found herself staggering through the painfully dark and unfamiliar valley of grief. As she faced the most profound challenge of her life, there were moments Susan questioned everything she’d ever believed—even her faith.
Through enormous struggle and determination, Susan eventually found the pathway out of the “valley of the shadow” of grief. By GRIEVING FORWARD —taking small, practical steps to face and process her grief, and by refusing to allow loss to keep her from embracing life—Susan experienced God’s healing and restoration. As a survivor of unspeakable grief, her life is the evidence that there is life and purpose beyond loss.
In this deeply personal and compassionate guide, Susan candidly shares the insights she’s learned on her journey toward healing. “It’s hard to see God’s perspective when your heart has been plowed by pain,” she writes. “But broken fields are where seeds of hope grow best.” Though she still copes with loss, Susan also lives with incredible joy. To all who grieve desperately, she assures: Hope is alive. Healing will triumph. Here’s how.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
11 May 2023
213 Adult Children: How To Parent When They Choose a Different Path
00:30:30
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.
Mary DeMuth is an international speaker, a podcaster, and the author of over forty books, fiction and nonfiction, including The Day I Met Jesus. Through God’s healing, Mary has overcome a difficult past to become an authentic example of what it means to live a brand-new story. She loves to help others “re-story” their lives through the books she writes. Mary lives in Texas with her husband of 30 years and is Mom to three adult children.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
19 Aug 2021
123 Hope for moving from brokenness to Victorious Living
00:42:11
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!
Amy Elaine Martinez is an inspirational speaker, radio show host, and gifted teacher. Her ministry is devoted to helping women with heart-shattered lives become whole again in Christ. She lives part time in both beautiful Castle Rock, CO and historic Guthrie, OK.
Married 27 years to the love of her life, David, Amy Elaine is mom to Gabriel (22) and Sidney (25) and daughter-in-love, Riley. She’s also a dog mom to an Australian Shepherd, named Maverick.
Her heart’s desire is to see women walk in wholeness and develop an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Living the victorious life is one of the major themes of her ministry.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
20 Jun 2024
271 How To Overcome Wounds from a Husband’s Pornography Addiction
00:26:38
Episode Summary:
With one in five mobile searches being for pornography, it may be more prevalent than you think. Jody Allen shares her story, her pain, her wounds, and her sacred scars that resulted from her husband’s addiction to pornography. Tune in as Jody offers hope and strategies for overcoming the deep wounds caused by porn addiction.
Quotables from the episode:
Pornography can create emotional, relational, and spiritual wounds.
I felt betrayed because I was living with someone who’s behavior was inconsistent with who he was.
I lived a constant cycle of regret, apology, relapse, and feeling unimportant which created emotional wounds.
Nothing can prepare a person for the breakup of the family.
When God didn’t answer my prayers the way I wanted him to answer, that brought about spiritual wounds. Because when the God of the universe, the one who hates divorce, doesn’t answer your prayers in a way that is consistent with his will and pro-marriage, it leads to disappointment.
One in five mobile searches is actually for pornography.
My husband’s pornography addiction caused me so much shame.
We answered all the “what if” questions, and came to the conclusion that we would ultimately be okay if we trusted God.
Guilt, shame, and condemnation does not come from our Heavenly Father but from the Father of Lies.
Shame made me believe that people were judging me and left me feeling like I wasn’t good enough.
The wound is the open painful place that is festering and hurts so bad. But once we have a scar, it doesn’t hurt as much. It’s the place where healing has taken place. It doesn’t mean we forget the pain of the wound, it just means that it doesn’t have the same hold on us.
As part of my role as a women’s ministry leader, I didn’t feel I could expect other women to share their story if I wasn’t willing to share my own story. Those hard years were preparation for my future ministry.
The enemy wants to isolate us from others to shut us up.
Satan is an equal opportunist. He is so sly and wants us to believe in any area of sin that “just once” doesn’t matter.
We don’t have to squeak by. We don’t have to get to the other side of our pain and just survive. We can thrive. We can get to the other side of our pain and heartache and flourish. Pain doesn’t have to win. Pornography doesn’t have to win. Divorce doesn’t have to win.
Let us take the best things from our time of pain and suffering…maybe it’s a fresh perspective, new skills, or a fresh start. If we know Jesus, we have the potential to get to the other side of our heartache and be whole and even be happy on the other side of it.
Scripture References:
Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind.”
Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
Exodus 12:36 “The Lord caused the Egyptians to look favorably on the Israelites, and they gave the Israelites whatever they asked for. So they stripped the Egyptians of their wealth!”
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
Jody Allen serves as the Director of Women’s Ministry at her church, where she offers hope and a dose of humor to women in her church and community. Ten years in ministry has allowed her the opportunity to teach workshops, lead small groups, speak at women’s events, and walk alongside women in crisis. Jody’s goal is to point women to Jesus in a relatable and authentic way.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
29 Jun 2023
220 Embrace the Benefits of Waiting Upon the Lord
00:38:33
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.”
Carol McLeod is a best-selling author and speaker who encourages and empowers women with passionate and practical biblical messages mixed with her own special brand of hope and humor. Her commitment to reach women "by any means available" has resulted in a thriving social media presence, 2 top podcasts, an inspiring television program, and even her own mobile app. Carol's 15th book, Meanwhile: Meeting God in the Wait, examines the life of Joseph of the Old Testament and what it means to truly wait well. Her best-selling book, Rooms of a Mother's Heart, won the 2022 Director's Choice Award from the Blue Ridge Writers Conference. In 2021, Carol was honored to receive Oral Roberts University's prestigious “Alumna of the Year” award for distinguished service to God.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
04 Nov 2021
134 How To Get Organized and Simplify Your Holidays
00:43:48
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
Marcia Ramsland is well known as The Leading Online Organizing Coach, a Business Productivity Expert, and author of the Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay that Way book series, which has sold over 100,000 copies. Marcia is a nationally recognized media guest appearing in Woman’s Day and Real Simple magazines, the Wall Street Journal, and Martha Stewart radio. Marcia believes anyone can become more organized – even you – with the Motivation, Momentum, and Mastery which she provides in her Online Courses and Fast Track Coaching!
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
24 Nov 2023
241 How to be Grateful: Make Time for Gratitude and Change Your World!
00:30:40
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.
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
Michele Howe is the author of more than two dozen books and has published over 2500 articles and reviews on parenting, women’s issues, and the empty next. Some of her books include Empty Nest: What’s Next?, Parenting Children without Losing Your Mind, and Finding Freedom and Joy in Self-Forgetfulness.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
07 Jan 2021
091 Hope for Transforming our Body, Mind, Heart and Soul
00:42:44
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)
Christine Trimpe is a worship leader, writer, speaker, and joy seeker. Christine journeyed recently through an amazing life transformation of body, mind, heart, and soul. God flipped her cravings, blessed her with massive weight loss, but most importantly, redeemed her daily walk with Jesus. Now He’s calling her to inspire, motivate, and encourage others to pursue their best health: physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Her transformation story and social media links can be found at ChristineTrimpe.com.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
14 Dec 2023
244 Reclaim Your Christmas: Practical Tips for a Stress-Less Holiday Season!
00:45:13
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…”
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
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
10 Dec 2020
087 Looking For Love in All the Wrong Places
00:31:09
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.
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. Today she lives in western NC with her husband. They enjoy spending time with their two grown daughters and their grandchildren.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
15 Feb 2024
253 How To Find Your Natural Prayer Style and Unleash Your Prayer Potential
00:35:00
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.”
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
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
Janet McHenry and her rancher husband Craig live in the Sierra Valley, where they raised their four kids. She is a national speaker and the author of 27 books, including the bestselling PrayerWalk, The Complete Guide to the Prayers of Jesus, and her new release, Praying Personalities. Janet directs the prayer ministries at The Bridge Church in Reno and serves on the California leadership team for the National Day of Prayer. The leader of the hundreds-strong Bible Girls and a prayerwalker, Janet has helped others foster a hope-filled, purposeful lifestyle built on prayer and God's Word for more than two decades.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
20 Apr 2023
210 Living Purposefully: Paying Attention to the Right Things
00:35:05
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.
Paul Angone is one of the nation's most trusted and sought after voices to young professionals, people going through change and transitions, and those looking to live more intentional lives. The best selling author of 101 Secrets for Your Twenties, and 25 Lies Twentysomethings Need to Stop Believing, Paul is a dynamic keynote speaker at universities, corporations, and churches nationwide.
Paul is an organizational consultant with a master’s degree in organizational leadership, a keynote speaker, and a millennial influencer who specializes in helping companies attract, retain, develop, and harness the best strings of the millennial and Gen Z generations. He lives just outside Denver Co with his wife Naomi, and their four children.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
17 Oct 2024
288 How to Move Forward After a Broken Engagement and Heal from Painful Trials
00:16:55
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.
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
Georgia Shaffer, is an author, PA licensed psychologist and a Professional Certified Coach. In 2023, the International Christian Coaching Association chose her as the Christian Coach of the Year. She has written 6 books including A Gift of Mourning Glories: Restoring Your Life after Loss and Taking Out Your Emotional Trash. Georgia offers individual and group coaching online including ReBUILD After Divorce https://georgiashaffer.com/rebuildmembership, a community for Christian women struggling to begin anew after a shattered marriage. www.georgiashaffer.com.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
12 Sep 2024
283 How To Hold On To Hope When Your Child Becomes a Prodigal
00:18:32
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.
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
Laine Lawson Craft (www.lainelawsoncraft.com) is an award-winning author, popular media host, and in-demand speaker. The founder and publisher of WHOAwomen magazine (2010-2018), she regularly hosts online challenges and masterclasses as well as Facebook Live events that reach thousands. Her Warfare Parenting podcast encourages parents of adult children. Laine and her husband, Steve, have three children and live in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
20 Feb 2020
045 Hope for Freedom from Depression
00:39:06
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 episode:
Most often depression starts months or years before we recognize it for what it is.
Depression often turns us into someone we, nor our friends and family members recognize.
Sometimes forgiveness is a process over time.
Scripture References:
Job 33:28 “God has delivered me from going down to the pit, and I shall live to enjoy the light of life.”
Psalm 42:5 “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.”
Psalm 30:5b “…weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”
A wife, mother, grandmother, author, national speaker, and founder of Liberty in Christ Ministries, Patty Mason has shared her story of God’s redeeming grace and deliverance from depression before numerous audiences, in several books, blogs, and magazines, such as Lifeway’s “Living More,” as well as radio and television programs, including American Family Radio, Moody Radio, and The 700 Club.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
02 Apr 2020
051 Helping a Teenager with Anxiety during a Crisis
00:30:31
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.”
Dr. Bengtson studied neuroscience and is board certified in clinical neuropsychology. She established her own clinical practice in the Dallas area. From her professional and personal life, she recognized a deep lack of understanding of the call to “renew our minds” and the transformational effects a robust understanding of this has on our physical and mental health and outlook.
Dr. Bengtson lives to foster regeneration and renew life in her listeners. She recognizes brokenness in her life and others’ and offers steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places.
Dr. Bengtson authored the award-winning “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” and its award-winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study.” Her third award-winning book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises,” released in 2019 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and is a frequent guest on Fox News Radio and speaks at conferences and churches internationally.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
28 May 2020
059 Celebrating the One Year Anniversary of YHFP: The Importance of “Your” Pt 1
00:18:00
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.
167 How to Maintain Hope while Waiting on the Salvation of a Loved One
00:34:54
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?"
Bunny Yekzaman is a child of the King, a wife of 42 years, mother of 4 & grandmother of 8. She is a disaster relief chaplain, and works as an Enrichment specialist for a nursing home. Her passion is sharing God’s love & truth with a faith in His faithfulness to His promises. She lives with hope for her lost family and friends and finds it her calling to pray in faith for them.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
21 Jan 2021
093 Spiritual Warfare is Real
00:40:16
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.’”
Cheryl Lutz has an infectious laugh, and smiling is her favorite! She is a trained and experienced Speaker, Lay Counselor, and founder of the ministry, Securely Held. Her passion is helping others realize Christ firmly holds them amid spiritual warfare. She is married to her pastor and best friend (who has transitioned to a full-time teaching ministry), has four adult children, a bonus son by marriage, and is Mimi to her oldest daughter's dog and youngest son's cat.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
29 Oct 2020
081 Hope for Finding Your Purpose
00:48:43
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.”
Dr. Marina is a Keynote speaker, Life coach, Master Coach, worship leader, songwriter and award- wining author for her first book Appetite for Worship. She is the editor and chief of Mega Women Magazine. Dr. Marina has recorded three worship albums, In the Glory, Synchronized, and Encounter with Worship. She is the Director of iCultiv8 LLC life coaching services. Dr. Marina has been married for thirty-six years to Renny McLean, they have three adult children, Maranatha, Caleb and Zoe, and she resides in Texas.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
28 Jan 2021
094 Hope for Discovering Joy in the Midst of Pain
00:50:29
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.”
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. Adria has an accounting degree from Western Kentucky University. She and her husband, Erik, live in Northern Virginia and have three children: Katie, Blake, and Anthony.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
12 Jan 2023
196 How to Overcome Time Anxiety and Reimagine Productivity
00:30:03
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.’”
Jen Pollock Michel is an award-winning author and speaker. Her fifth book, In Good Time: Reimagining Productivity, Resisting Hurry, and Practicing Peace, releases in December 2022. You can follow Jen on Twitter and Instagram @jenpmichel and subscribe to her Monday letters at jenpollockmichel.com.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
09 May 2024
265 How To Overcome Parent-Child Relationship Problems: Tackling the Emotional Minefield
00:40:00
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.
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
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
16 Feb 2023
201 How To Live a Single Life without Feeling Lonely
00:41:42
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.
Hannah Schermerhorn is an author and speaker who lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with her cat, Fritz. Her recent book, A Single Life to Live, is written to encourage and uplift singleness. It comes out February 14, 2023. Learn more at www.hannahschermerhorn.com.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
14 Apr 2022
157 The Best of Year 3 - Who We Are and Mindset
00:39:17
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.
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.
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.
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.
In Episode 130, we talked with Amy Joob about How To Get Unstuck in Life and Move Forward. Many people have written to me during the last couple of years, lamenting how stuck they feel, despite their desire to move on to bigger and better things. Amy Joob and her husband faced that same thing during the Covid Pandemic. She shares how they moved forward.
In Episode 125, we spoke with Marcia Ramsland about how to keep our life and mind decluttered by Getting Organized and Staying Organized. I have benefited from Marcia’s wisdom, and so appreciate how simple she breaks down tasks to make them more manageable and sustainable.
I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s anniversary episode. It was so much fun to dive into those episodes that were most popular with our listeners. When we consider that God tells us how important it is to take every thought captive, these six episodes do exactly that. For future episodes, we'd love to know what you enjoy, the guests you've loved, and the topics you'd like us to cover.
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
30 Jul 2020
068 How To Overcome Overwhelm
00:35:49
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.”
Patty writes, speaks, and coaches to encourage your heart, to share effective and transparent parenting tips, and to walk alongside you as you grow as a woman and a mom. Her writing is conversational and approachable. She shares from the heart to the heart. Patty and her husband have two boys aged 11 and 18 and a foster daughter who is now 21.
Patty loves coffee dates with friends, ministering to women, escaping into a good book, kayaking on the ocean, and taking spontaneous road trips. Her home and table are an intentional place of welcome.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
29 Jul 2021
120 When Healing after Domestic Abuse, God Will Meet You
00:33:26
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.
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.”
Karen DeArmond Gardner is a thirty-year survivor of domestic abuse and an advocate for women who’ve experienced abuse and divorce. She is a certified trauma advocate and facilitates Mending the Soul and inner healing through HeartSync. Karen blogs at AnotherOneFree.com. Karen and her second husband Tom are co-owners of a private security company and reside in Texas.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
23 Nov 2021
137 How To Find Joy When Life Is Hard
00:35:57
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.”
Tracie Miles is a national Speaker and Author with Proverbs 31 Ministries. She is the author of four best-selling books, Unsinkable Faith: God-Filled Strategies for Transforming the Way You Think, Feel and Live. (2017), Your Life Still Counts: How God Uses Your Past To Create A Beautiful Future (2014) and Stressed Less Living: Finding God's Peace In Your Chaotic World (2012).Love Life Again: Finding Joy When Life is Hard released in 2018. Tracie is a contributing author to the popular Zondervan NIV Women’s Devotional Bible, and the Proverbs 31 Encouragement for Today Daily Devotional Book, in addition to being a monthly contributing writer for the Proverbs 31 Ministries Encouragement for Today daily devotions which reach over one million people per day around the globe. In addition to her speaking and writing, Tracie is the Director of COMPEL Training at Proverbs 31 Ministries, has 3 adult children and lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
11 Jun 2019
002 Hope for Depression Part 2: How to Fight Depression
00:28:29
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 lie?
God never wastes our pain. In fact, He uses our pain for good.Depression is not from God. That is not His best for you. He desires for you to be in health and good mental health.
Scripture References:
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him, should not parish but have everlasting life.”
Romans 5:6 “When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.”
Jeremiah 31:3 “I have loved you with an everlasting love.”
John 8:36 “So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.”
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.”
John 8:32 “you will know the truth, ad the truth will set you free.”
Recommended Resources:
If you wonder how to fight depression, the very best resource is the Word of God, The Bible.
“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
Guest: Dr. Michelle Bengtson, Board Certified Clinical Neuropsychologist, Author, International Speaker
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
27 Aug 2020
072 When an Atheist Finds Jesus
00:43:33
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.”
Stephanie Rousselle has lived the last two decades on three continents, four countries and five cities. This former atheist, now on fire for Christ, is a wife, mom, podcaster, public speaker, writer, and women’s ministry director. And completely, 100% French. She thrives on Bible-centered inspirational writing and speaking, and dark chocolate. She loves few things more than a good laugh, especially at herself, because she understands that grace is real, and life is short. She wants to inspire others to see that God is beautiful. “God’s glory. Our delight” is her motto!
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
06 May 2021
108 Dysfunctional Mother Daughter Relationships: Hope for Breaking the Cycle
00:46:35
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.”
Phylis Mantelli is a speaker, blogger, coach and co-host of the Podcast “24 Carat Conversations” with Phylis and Rhonda. She is the author of the book Unmothered: Life With a Mom Who Couldn’t Love Me. She has been married for 31 years and has two grown daughters. She is the grandmother of one adorable grandson and has a granddaughter on the way. She loves to read, walk in her garden and occasionally will break out in dance while cooking in the kitchen!
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
02 Dec 2021
138 Seeing Our Health and Body from God’s Perspective
00:55:45
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.”
A former registered nurse, Danna Demetre has been a popular retreat and conference speaker for over 25 years. She’s the author of several books to include her latest – Eat Live Thrive Diet – co-authored with Robyn Thomson. Women all over the country are praising their biblical and practical approach to health and weight loss as they discover how to lose weight and improve their health in a way that is realistic and sustainable.
Danna and Robyn share weekly posts and videos addressing issues of concern to women covering body, soul and spirit. Their online virtual and live coaching program, Eat Live Thrive Academy, helps women discover a path to victory over unhealthy habits.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
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