Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

248 Behind the Reflection: Unmasking the Causes of Body Image Issues

January 11, 2024
00:00 47:16
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Episode Summary:  

Did you know according to a 2022 Good Housekeeping study, 87% of respondents have been on a diet with the purpose, at least in part, to change their weight or shape. Meanwhile, only 6% of respondents strongly agreed that they feel generally happy with their bodies, and a sobering 17% said they'd be willing to shave a year or more off of their lives in exchange for their ideal body.

Many women know that God created their bodies and called them “good” but have a hard time truly believing it. Bombarded by images of the “ideal” body, diet culture, and anti-aging marketing, many find themselves on a never-ending quest to change their bodies. More than ever, we are bombarded with intense pressure to meet culture's elusive standards of beauty. And while we know theoretically that God loves and accepts you for what's on the inside, is that really enough to free a gal from the nonstop stress of body improvement?

It's time to stop comparing, start living, and find the rest that comes when you entrust your self-image to the Savior. Today we’re going to talk about: Behind the Reflection: Unmasking the Causes of Body Image Issues.

Quotables from the episode:

  • Diets have a 95% failure rate.
  • Too often we make our bodies an idol and then are left unsatisfied and frustrated.
  • Joy, peace, and worth come from Jesus, not our body.=
  • Too often, Christian women believe we aren’t good enough, and that we are letting God down.
  • Culture now talks about “my truth” but too often that doesn’t agree with God’s truth.
  • In our world’s economy, beauty is a commodity, but the true question is what are we making our heavenly treasure?
  • When we compare ourselves to others, the underlying message is that “God has robbed you” of something good.
  • Our fascination and concern with aging often comes from the fear of becoming irrelevant, unloved, and no longer necessary.

 

Scripture References:

  • 1 Timothy 4:4 “For every creation of God is good, and nothing that is received with thanksgiving should be rejected, because it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.”
  • Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”

 

Recommended Resources: 

 

Social Media Links for Guest and Host:

Connect with Heather Creekmore:

Website / Facebook / Instagram/ YouTube

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

Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube

Guest:

Heather Creekmore writes and speaks hope to thousands of women each week, inspiring them to stop comparing and start living. The host of the popular podcast, Compared to Who?, she has been featured on dozens of other shows and podcasts as well as on Fox News and HuffPost. She was a contestant on the hit Netflix bake fails show Nailed It. Heather and her marine-fighter-pilot turned pastor-husband, Eric, have four children and live in Austin, Texas.

 

Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

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

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Meet Your Host
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is a hope concierge! She is a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist, international speaker, and award-winning author dedicated to offering hope, healing, and practical tools for mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. As the host of the top-rated podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective, she combines her professional expertise with biblical truth to empower listeners to overcome anxiety, depression, and life’s challenges through faith.

A trusted voice in Christian mental health, Dr. Bengtson is the bestselling author of Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey through Depression and Breaking Anxiety's Grip. With over 30 years of clinical experience, she has helped countless individuals find lasting freedom from fear, stress, and discouragement.

Dr. Bengtson is a frequent media guest on platforms such as Focus on the Family, Life Today, and Moody Radio. Her writing and resources have been featured on outlets including Crosswalk, iBelieve, and Salem Media, equipping believers to embrace God's promises in every season.

Connect with Dr. Bengtson at DrMichelleBengtson.com, where she shares faith-based encouragement, expert insights, and free resources for cultivating a hope-filled life.
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