Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary: Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with cancer? Are you wondering how to pray for yourself or a loved one battling cancer? Then stick around, and consider sharing this episode with someone in the battle because today we’re going to be talking about How to pray when battling cancer. My husband and I, as well as today’s guest, Niki Hardy, have all been through this, and we’ve had many friends and loved ones on the cancer journey. Even if you haven’t been given a cancer diagnosis, you know someone who has so I hope today’s episode will encourage you. Quotables from the episode: Life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full, so go live it. I lost my mum and sister to cancer and was then diagnosed. I was determined to survive until that was all I was doing. Eventually, I learned how to thrive, not just survive, and uncover the full life God had for me right in the midst of the pain. Trusting God isn’t something that happens the moment we meet Jesus (so you can stop beating yourself up for not having faith made of steel). It’s a choice we make on the daily. Trusting God isn’t the silver bullet to a world without worry but it is the key to fighting back and moving forward. To help increase our trust in God, we can check out God’s credentials: is He who He says He is, has He done what He said He would do, and am I who He says I am? Don’t go through the cancer journey alone—ask God for help. Choose to hold on and let go: hold onto God and his faithfulness, and let go of the illusion of control to embrace God’s plan. Create a bank of evidence of God’s faithfulness to bolster your ability to trust God: when and where and how has God proved himself faithful to you in the past? Remember those times. The best way to help others on their cancer journeys is through the ministry of presence: don’t try to do or say the perfect thing, just be imperfectly present flaws and all. Scripture References: John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (NIV) Compared with John 16:33  “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (NIV) Recommended Resources:  One Minute Prayers for Women With Cancer by Niki Hardy Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart by Niki Hardy  Listening Guide for the Freshly Diagnosed  Audio: How to Handle Anything Life Throws at You  10 Day Audio Devotion by Niki Hardy 10 Lessons Learned After Being Diagnosed with Cancer The Day I Was Diagnosed with Cancer: 18 Promises to Hold Onto When Crisis Hits   Hope for the Fight Against Cancer Practical Grace: How to be a Friend to Someone with Cancer  Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Niki Hardy: Website / Instagram / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Niki Hardy is an author, speaker, podcast host and cancer Thriver. As the author of Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart, One Minute Prayers for Women with Cancer, and host of the Trusting God Through Cancer Summit and Chemo Chair Prayers podcast, her goal is to help you discover life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full, then go live it.  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Father wounds result when a person’s father is physically absent, emotionally abusive or distant, negative or overly critical character, which can have long-term consequences for an individual. The world is full of women who have been hurt, neglected, rejected, or abandoned by their father. They may feel like every aspect of their life is affected by that broken trust. Even their relationship with God can feel tenuous, but there is hope. Today we’re going to be talking about how to exchange father wounds for God’s perfect love. Quotables from the episode: Father wounds result when a person’s father is physically absent, emotionally abusive or distant, negative or overly critical character, which can have long-term consequences for an individual. Father wounds are essentially any painful impact by the actions of a father. Father wounds can result from absence, neglect, shaming, a critical nature, comparison to others, and more. There are multiple different types of wounds that can be sustained as a result of a father’s behavior or lack thereof. Some of those wounds include trust wounds, affirmation wounds, value wounds, love wounds, and beauty wounds. The first step of healing father wounds comes in acknowledging the wound and resulting pain. The second step is seeking Godly support. The third step is grieving what wasn’t. The fourth step is praying for God to meet you. In order to heal father wounds, we need to come to a place of surrendering our will and our way to God’s and letting go of our expectation for the outcome. You cannot change people, only God can. We have to accept them as they are and decide if we can handle them like that if they never change before deciding if we will remain in relationship. Even though our earthly fathers may not be, our Heavenly Father is affirming, accessible, and patient. Scripture References: Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” 1 John 3:1 “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” 1 Chronicles 5:20 NLT "They cried out to God during the battle, and he answered their prayer because they trusted in him. So the Hagrites and all their allies were defeated." Recommended Resources:  Overcoming Father Wounds: Exchanging Your Pain for God’s Perfect Love by Kia Stephens Free audio message from Kia Hope for the Fatherless – Episode 9 The Heartache of Father Wounds: Three Reasons to Embrace God as Father Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Kia Stephens: Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest / Twitter For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Kia Stephens is the founder of Entrusted Women, which she created to equip Christian women communicators of color. She is the author of the new book Overcoming Father Wounds: Exchanging Your Pain for God’s Perfect Love.. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson     Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  We’ve all heard the term “prodigal child,” and there’s even a popular show called “Prodigal son.” But what exactly constitutes a prodigal child? And perhaps even more important than semantics, how do we win back a prodigal child, teen, or young adult? In this episode, I talk with Laine Lawson Craft about a battle plan to win back a prodigal child, teen, or young adult. Quotables from the episode: In simple terms, a prodigal child is challenged and gets off track despite being raised under the wisdom of God. Don’t give up “in the meantime” when your prodigal child may be mean while you are waiting for God to change their heart and their ways. You may be disappointed, discouraged, and at times hopeless, but don’t give up. Father God was the first prodigal father when Adam and Eve went their own way despite what God warned them against. He understands our feelings toward our prodigal because he had them too. We partner with the Father of all to parent our children! We don’t parent alone. Love is the currency of heaven. God has a great plan for your child and He is the true parent of your child. He formed them into your womb and has plans for them and we can partner with God and trust Him that He will bring them home! Realize today that you are NOT in war with your defiant child you are in war with the darkness and evil of the world!  Once we realize we are not fighting against our child but fighting with Satan, then we can begin to pray and implement spiritual applications to usher in the victory and hope! God will always hear our cry in the battle and will answer us because we trust Him! It is God’s battle if it looks too big that’s ok nothing is too big for God! If you aren’t praying for your child, who is?? Scripture References: 2 chronicles 20:15 ESV ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's. Psalm 78:2-4 "I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old, things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. 1 Chronicles 5:20 NLT "They cried out to God during the battle, and he answered their prayer because they trusted in him. So the Hagrites and all their allies were defeated." Recommended Resources:  The Parent’s Battle Plan: Warfare Strategies to Win Back Your Prodigal by Laine Lawson Craft 5 Warfare Prayers for Prodigal Children 10 Hope-Filled Responses When You Love a Prodigal  Hope for Parents of Prodigal Children How to Treat a Prodigal Child: Rediscover the Jewel  Prodigal Child: Hope and Healing When Your Loved One Has Gone Astray  Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Laine Lawson Craft: Linktree / Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Laine Lawson Craft (www.lainelawsoncraft.com) is an award-winning author, popular media host, and in-demand speaker. The founder and publisher of WHOAwomen magazine (2010-2018), she regularly hosts online challenges and masterclasses as well as Facebook Live events that reach thousands. Her Warfare Parenting podcast encourages parents of adult children. Laine and her husband, Steve, have three children and live in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson     Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Life has a way of altering our course through unexpected detours. But how do you find hope when life takes an unexpected detour that leads to a hard place? How do you continue putting one foot in front of another? Join me with Grace Fox on the podcast. Quotables from the episode: My circumstances made for a perfect storm, and fear could have overwhelmed me were it not for God helping me focus on the truth of His faithfulness. God is faithful no matter what. He doesn’t promise that life will be easy, but He promises to be with us at all times. There are no coincidences when God is in our lives. Crisis or detour places can be some of the places of the richest growth. Detours into unexpected places keep us looking to God to see us through. We may not be able to prevent fearful thoughts, but it’s what we do with the fearful thoughts that matter most. We must choose to embrace joy over fear. We have no promises for what our future holds, but we are promised who holds our future! Having a God-perspective keeps our eyes focused on the One who goes with us into the hard places. It’s helpful to reframe our lives' detours into hard places in terms of learning what God wants us to learn in those hard places. Put into practice Philippians 4:6-7 –- commit all their anxieties and fears to the Lord with thanksgiving for all He has already done. (Giving thanks is vital to experiencing the peace of God that’s promised in this passage). Spiritual treasures hidden in dark places are too precious to miss. Stay alert. *Praise is our best defense when the unexpected catches us off guard. Darkness descends and wind screams around us but remembering and declaring that God rules over every detail fills us with calm. The darker our circumstances, the more important it is to practice gratitude! Scripture References: Philippians 4:6-7 NLT “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:26-27 NLT “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.27 And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers[a] in harmony with God’s own will.” Psalm 23:1 NLT “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” Recommended Resources:  Fresh Hope for Today by Grace Fox  Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Grace Fox: Website / Facebook / Instagram For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Grace Fox is a career missionary and, together with my husband, co-direct International Messengers Canada, a sending agency with about 300 staff in 31 countries.  Her passion is to connect the dots between faith and real life by helping others learn to love, understand, and apply God's Word. She and her husband, Gene, live on a sailboat in British Columbia. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Have you ever hit rock bottom in your life? Perhaps received a life-threatening diagnosis? Or lost the one person who kept your feet on solid ground? How do you carry joy and sorrow in the same breath? How do we handle the rock bottom experiences in life? Today we’re going to be talking about how to handle life’s rock-bottom experiences.  Quotables from the episode: Home is where we are together, but God’s word is a home that can’t be taken from us. We can’t live off old manna. Rock bottom is that place where we feel out of faith, and yet we discover that God is faithful. When we endure trauma, it’s like a bear that is no longer chasing you, but it feels like it is. God’s not afraid of our questions. One-third of the Psalms are lament, which is getting honest with God about what’s hard, and opening the door to let the comforter come in. Grieving is an internal process, where mourning is a public display of loss. Mourning entails risk because we open our lives to others who may or may not handle our pain well. Prayer positions us in a place where God can bring healing. Scripture References: Matthew 27:46, CEV “Then about that time Jesus shouted, ‘Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?’ which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you deserted me?’” Isaiah 60:20, ESV “Your sun shall no more go down, nor your moon withdraw itself; for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended.” Isaiah 54:10, NIV “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you.” Recommended Resources:  Dark Clouds and Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegrp When Mountains Crumble by Danita Jenae Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Danita Jenae: Website / Instagram Danita / Instagram CompanionInSorrow / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Danita Jenae is a young mom and recent military widow learning to carry both joy and sorrow in the same breath. As an author, speaker, poet, and artist, she walks alongside the broken-hearted, offering practical and creative ways to lead a Spirit-led life at danitajenae.com and @CompanionInSorrow. To help you find your way in sorrow, Danita invites you to grab your free copy of her Find Your Footing Grief Guide at WhenMountainsCrumble.com. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  If you have ever been a victim of spiritual abuse or you know someone who has, you're in the right place. I talk with my guest, Jill Monaco, about how to find freedom from spiritual abuse. What is it and how can you find freedom so you can heal? Quotables from the episode: One incident of spiritual abuse made me desensitized to it so it happened again and again. Spiritual abuse uses a relationship, the Bible, or spiritual authority to manipulate and control people. A relationship can start off Biblically based then become manipulated over time. One example of spiritual abuse is when someone in authority makes themselves look better at your expense. Spiritual abusers don’t allow themselves to be held accountable but you have to be. Listen to your discernment given to you by the Holy Spirit—if something feels off, consider that it is. Abuse is using authority or the Bible to manipulate people into doing things. Jesus took me out of ministry so I could heal from spiritual abuse. The healing process from spiritual abuse looks different for everyone. To begin the process of healing from spiritual abuse, first forgive your abuser, and second, focus on being in God’s presence. You have one heart. If you harden it towards others, you also harden it toward God. Despite a history of spiritual abuse, keep hoping for the next thing. Remember, God is greater than the greatest enemy in your life. Scripture References: Ephesians 3:20 NIV “Now to him who is able to do immeasurable more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” Isaiah 61:1-4 NIV “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 NIV “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” John 8:36 “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”  Recommended Resources:  The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. The Freedom Coach Model by Jill Monaco 25 Signs of Spiritual Abuse Free class Living Free Audio Class with Workbook  3 Things I Learned from 12 Years of Spiritual Abuse and Manipulation Hope for Healing after Spiritual Abuse – Episode 33  Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jill Monaco: 1:1 Freedom Coaching / Overcoming Audio Series / Freedom Challenge / Podcast / Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Jill Monaco is the founder and CEO of Jill Monaco Ministries, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that has a passion to encourage people to pursue the presence of God and find freedom in Christ.  She is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) life coach with the International Coach Federation and a Certified Master Christian Life Coach (CMCLC) and Mentorship Coach with the International Christian Coach Institute. Jill has developed Freedom Coaching®, a model that blends hearing God, prayer, and coaching tools.  Her first book, The Freedom Coach Model® went to #1 on the Amazon bestseller list. One of her greatest joys is consulting coaches as they establish and grow their business through her program Freedom Business Coaching.  As a Bible teacher, podcaster, and speaker, Jill is known for captivating audiences with her high-energy, humorous approach to life’s serious issues. Her faith-filled and transparent stories encourage listeners to become all that God has created them to be.  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  A God-designed life doesn’t start when you say “I do” or when you get engaged or even when you meet “the one.” It’s been happening as long as you’ve been alive—even if you’re still single and wish you weren’t. Hannah Schermerhorn knows what it is like. She was months away from getting married when her wedding was called off. She feared being single again, but in the following years, God taught her many hard lessons that transformed her bitterness into authentic joy. Today we’re going to talk about how to live a single life without feeling lonely.   Quotables from the episode: A person’s identity is not that they are single but that they are loved by God. That means that God has a plan for them and is allowing them to be single right now for a reason. That means God is always with them and they are never alone. A lifetime is a long time to be married to the wrong person. We often believe the enemy’s lies about our seasons of singleness, but lies usually come out of the fears we have. Baggage is anything you carry around with you from your past that negatively impacts your present or your future. In your singleness, take comfort that God is currently working not only in you, but is also preparing your mate for marriage. Your “season” of singleness is going to be a tiny piece of your existence in comparison to an eternity of happiness with God. Singleness and non-singleness are equal according to God! Marriage is not an achievement that makes one more qualified as a human being; it is simply a different and equally important life path. God sees you in your heartache and pain. In your triggers and anxiety. You do not need to hold on to them alone.  God is with you and will help you as you take those first steps to unpack the baggage you have been carrying with you. We can acknowledge that the difficult feelings are there, but it is our choice whether we let them overtake our lives or give them to God and let Him fill us with joy and confidence. The world doesn’t expect singles to be happy, so when Christian singles can enjoy their life as is, it is a great evangelism tool!   Scripture References: Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.     1 Corinthians 7:8 Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do. Jeremiah 31:3 I have loved you with an everlasting love.   Recommended Resources:  A Single Life to Live: Stop Waiting for Your Life to Begin & Thrive Where God Has You Today by Hannah Schermerhorn Hannah Schermerhorn Resources Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win   Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Hannah Schermerhorn: Website / Instagram / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Hannah Schermerhorn is an author and speaker who lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with her cat, Fritz. Her recent book, A Single Life to Live, is written to encourage and uplift singleness. It comes out February 14, 2023. Learn more at www.hannahschermerhorn.com. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Are you tired of dieting? Feeling weak and tired? Are you tired of the dieting yo-yo of losing weight only to gain it back again and more? What do you do when you hate dieting? Today we’re talking about help for disordered eating. My guest has been there, understands, and offers hope, help, and healing for the diet-weary soul. Quotables from the episode: Disordered eating comes from an unhealthy relationship with food. Disordered eating isn’t as much about the food as it is about what we think about food. You can be free from disordered eating, shame, a negative body image and an unhealthy relationship with food NOW. God is not a God of chaos, but of order. When people struggle with disordered eating, they tend to have black and white thinking especially as it relates to food. You can cultivate a healthy relationship with your body today and not wait for the thinner one you will have in the future. Dieting works from the outside in while God’s healing operates from the inside out. We will have no peace when we give the shamer access to our mind and our soul. Being free has nothing to do with a number on the scale and most of us need to be free enough to treat our body well before we focus on losing weight. Women struggle with these issues no matter what they weigh. It has nothing to do with numbers, it is all about how we think. God heals us from the inside out! Become familiar with their own story, process it with the Lord and maybe a counselor, and then begin to combat shame with the Word of God. Shame is insidious and colors everything we think and perceive. You are already loved as you are, regardless of what the scale says. Scripture References: Be very careful about what you think, because your thoughts run your life (Proverbs 4:23 NCV). For they have treated the brokenness of the daughter of My people superficially, Saying, ‘Peace, peace,’ when there is no peace (Jeremiah 8:11) God does not view things the way people do. People look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7b NET) Recommended Resources:  Still Becoming: Hope, Help, and Healing for the Diet Weary Soul  by Laura Acuna Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win   Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Laura Acuna: Website / Instagram / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Laura Acuña is a speaker, author, podcast host and coach. A graduate of Liberty University, she earned a degree in Christian Counseling and a minor in Biblical Studies. Married to Pat, the two are the parents of three sons, and one daughter-in-love. They became first-time grandparents to Evelyn Grace (finally a girl!) in July 2021. Laura challenges her sisters to grow up to become spiritually and emotionally mature. Her new book Still Becoming: Hope, Help and Healing for the Diet-Weary Soul released in December, 2022. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Have you ever felt the sting of rejection with that sense of betrayal and disappointment that breaks your heart? Did you know there’s a positive side to rejection that we can use as an opportunity and a tool to cope with rejection? Jessica Van Roekel is back to share about 4 lenses that you can use to reframe and cope with rejection. We talk about what rejection is, how to know when we’ve experienced it, and learn how God uses rejection to redirect, refine, and restore us. Quotables from the episode: Rejection in its simplest form means “no” or a turning away from. Rejection can fee like betrayal, disappointment, with no expected escape. There are 4 different lenses through which we can positively view rejection: 1) Humble Awe, 2) Mutual Delight, 3) Trustful Dependence, and 4) Aligned Surrender The ground is level at the foot of the cross. God uses rejection to redirect us, refine us, and restore us. Brokenness is sometimes the way to healing. God takes the charred places in our life and makes it beautiful again. When we experience rejection, we need to S.T.O.P. S-Shift our focus T-Trust God is faithful and true O-Observe ourselves, our thoughts, others, and God’s word P-Proceed by faith into forgiveness In the positive, we can reject bitterness, resentment, and revenge to be more mature. To help our children with their fears of rejection, we need to create a culture where its okay to fail in your own home. And remind your kids who they are in Christ, made on purpose for a purpose. Scripture References: Deuteronomy 7:6 NIV “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”  Recommended Resources:  Recommended Resources:  Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win   Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jessica Van Roekel: Website / Instagram / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Jessica is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Have you ever struggled with rejection? Rejection shows up every day in the world and it’s up to us to change the way we respond to it and address it. Join me as I talk with Jessica Van Roekel about how to overcome rejection. Quotables from the episode: I believe wholeheartedly that we experience struggles so that God can use us to help others. Rejection is a thread that runs through our personal lives and all throughout society. Perfectionism is a shield against joy. There are four types of rejection: Perceived, Actual, Unintentional, Intentional We allow others’ opinions too much room in our lives. I’ve discovered that rejection shows up every day in the world and it’s up to us to change the way we respond to it and address it. By welcoming his grace into their lives, others can know hope, joy, peace, forgiveness, and transformation. In order to break the cycle of rejection, we have to break it from the inside out. I discovered rejection is a tool God gives us to use in our Christian growth so that I can put off the thought patterns and behaviors that don’t honor him. Rejection proofing is not the goal, having the right perspective about rejection is. Scripture References: Deuteronomy 7:6 NIV “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” Recommended Resources:  Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win   Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jessica Van Roekel: Website / Instagram / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Jessica is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.