Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary:  It seems in recent years, people have become more familiar with the terms narcissist or narcissism, especially as a component of abusive situations. While there is a lot of information out there, not all of it is accurate, so I wanted to share my perspective as a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist. We’re changing things up just a bit this week. My friend, Aliene Thompson, founder of Treasured Ministries, and I were recently talking about narcissism, and I asked her if she would join me on the program to help guide the conversation while I share insight from a clinical perspective. So, in today’s episode we’ll be discussing How to Spot the Narcissist in Your Life! Quotables from the episode: Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a clinical disorder. Such individuals have inflated self-importance, arrogance, pride, vanity, lack of empathy & lack of self-awareness. A narcissist is someone who loves themselves most of all. They believe they are the center of the universe and no one else matters. They worship themselves. One in three women are the target of domestic abuse. That accounts for 1.6 million American women between the ages of 16-74. In a narcissistic relationship, the abused begins to question themselves, experiences guilt, shame, loss of self-esteem. If you're in a relationship with a narcissist, you may find yourself feeling devalued, invisible, and even worthless. People with narcissism often have a sense of entitlement and require constant validation and approval. While it’s true that most diagnosed narcissists are men, it’s important to remember that narcissism is a personality disorder that can affect anyone, regardless of gender. Gaslighting is a real phenomenon, and it's a form of emotional abuse. This is when they try to make you question your own reality and memory. Narcissistic personality disorder is a serious mental illness that can be extremely destructive to both the narcissist and those around them. Scripture References: James 1:19-20 “. . . let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” 1 Cor. 13:4-8a "Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;  bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.” Recommended Resources: TEXT START to 88788 or thehotline.org Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 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.) 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 Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award   Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube   Host: Dr. Michelle Bengtson lives to break the grip of anxiety and fear, foster regeneration, and renew life in her readers and listeners. She frequently speaks from John 10:10 “The thief only comes to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full.” From her own personal experience and professional expertise as a clinical Neuropsychologist, she unpacks these words, recognizing in her life and others’ the brokenness that attends life, but also the concrete steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places of life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Have you ever imagined a life without hurry, relentless work, multitasking, or scarcity? In a world that tells us to do more, accomplish more, and be more, what is that doing to us and is that consistent with what God says?  Time management is an industry that capitalizes on time anxiety. We are told that we must be more productive, and we buy countless books and listen to innumerable podcasts—all telling us how to do just that. But time anxiety is not solved by doing more and doing it faster. We must recover a Christian vision of time and take up habits that allow us to inhabit the time God has given us. Join me with Jen Pollock Michel as we talk about Time Anxiety: How you can overcome it to reimagine productivity.   Quotables from the episode: I tried to “crack” the code of pandemic time anxiety. That’s when I realized I had much more to learn about time-faith. Time anxiety is related to time scarcity, death, and mortality. But the time we have is never long enough. Productivity tells us how fast we get things done but not why we do things for. Peace comes when we are rightly oriented to God. God has enough time! Time pressure is usually self-imposed. Time management focuses on the self but often ignores our community or God. Living life well is a slow and steady process. The ideal isn’t productivity but fruitfulness in the character of God. We can gain “more time” by reducing and eliminating distraction. You cannot manage your time but you can manage your attention. Remove the word “productive” from your self-assessment! Time is never a constraint for God. Scripture References: Psalm 90:12 “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Matthew 6:27 “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” James 4:13-15 “Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’”   Recommended Resources: New Year Online Hope Prevails Bible Study In Good Time: 8 Habits for Reimagining Productivity, Resisting Hurry, and Practicing Peace by Jen Pollock Michel  Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson 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   Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jen Pollock Michel: Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Jen Pollock Michel is an award-winning author and speaker. Her fifth book, In Good Time: Reimagining Productivity, Resisting Hurry, and Practicing Peace, releases in December 2022. You can follow Jen on Twitter and Instagram @jenpmichel and subscribe to her Monday letters at jenpollockmichel.com.  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Most Bible-believers are not Bible-readers. Many Christians believe that the Bible is the Word of God, but never actually read it. Or they may read bits and pieces, one verse or passage at a time but struggle to apply it to their lives. There are so many reasons why this is true, but it is possible to start today. Even if a person has never read a complete chapter for themselves, God’s Word is readable and do-able. Join me with Wendy Speake for how to love God’s word.   Quotables from the episode: Most Bible-believers are not Bible-readers. There are so many reasons why this is true, but it is possible to start today. Even if a person has never read a complete chapter for themselves, God’s Word is readable and do-able. Culture offers up quick fixes that leave us unsatisfied and still hungry for fulfillment. God’s word fills us up, but creates a thirst for more of Him. Don’t mistake reading God’s Word for Studying God’s Word. They are not the same. As you begin your quiet time each day, do you come hungry to hear from the Lord? God is not confusing or far off — He is near and abiding. And His Word is living and active… and applicable too! Most of us spend our days shoving food and other fillers into the hurts and holes of our lives. But nothing works to make us whole (or holy) other than our Bibles. Pinpointing what it is we are turning to, in lieu of turning to God in the pages of His Word, can help us to lay that thing down for a short season and turn instead to the only thing that can satisfy and sanctify us! Pinpointing and laying down all of the false-fillers is a lot like laying down false-idols. And once the throne is vacant it is a JOY to invite the rightful King to take His place. I’ve also become aware that all the scrolling and eating and movie watching and shopping can all fall under the umbrella of consuming… ingesting… gobbling… eating. And I know that the more I ingest things that won’t ever satisfy the less I turn to God’s Word — the only thing that can! I want to hunger and thirst for God and His righteousness and His Word more than anything else! First and foremost every day! But the other stuff gets in the way. No book has ever been written, nor ever will be, that holds the power to sway a human heart toward the Word of God more than the Bible itself. Pinpoint what it is you turn to when you are worn out or overwhelmed, then lay it down and pick up your Bible. In Matthew 11:28 Jesus extended this invitation, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” When we stop pushing all the stuff into our lives and bring Him back into the center of our lives… he gives us His rest and His joy and a very real sense of His loving nearness! “We are not powerless to change when we hold a Bible in our hands, for that Bible holds the power to change us.” The book will come to an end, but the Word of God never ends. It is the only thing able to satisfy hungry hearts.   Scripture References: Psalm 34:8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.  Psalm 119:103 How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”   Recommended Resources: 7-Day Today is Going to be a Good Day Challenge Help for When You're Feeling Blue (FREE) Webinar New Year Online Hope Prevails Bible Study Wendy will be leading an online community through The 40 Day Feast during Lent 2023, which starts on February 22nd. You can find out more and sign up at wendyspeake.com/feast  The 40-Day Feast: Taste and See the Goodness of God’s Word by Wendy Speake  The 40-Day Sugar Fast by Wendy Speake The 40-Day Social Media Fast by Wendy Speake Triggers: Exchanging Parents’ Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses by Wendy Speake Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson 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   Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Wendy Speake: Website / Feast Book / Facebook / Instagram Order  Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube   Guest: Wendy Speake is author and host of The 40-Day Sugar Fast, The 40-Day Social Media Fast, along with the companion resource, The 40-Day Fast Journal. Her newest book, The 40-Day Feast, invites readers to get hungry for God’s Word then equips them to taste and see how good it is. Wendy is also co-author of the popular parenting books, Triggers: Exchanging Parents’ Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses and Parenting Scripts.  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  It’s the time of year when we assess what we’ve accomplished over the past year, and begin to think about goals and changes for the new year. Some people make New Year’s resolutions. Others create vision boards. Pam Farrel and I share two ideas for how to start your new year off right! Quotables from the episode: The acronym for FOCUS is Follow One Course Until Successful. Whereas new year’s resolutions are usually me-focused, when we choose a word of the year, or a word of focus, we remain God-focused throughout the year. In choosing your word of the year: 1. Look back; 2. Look ahead; 3. Look to God and His word; 4. Look around; and 5. Look for helps and tools As you choose your word of the year, ask the clarifying question, “What will help me become more like this ____ a year from now?” Our mindsets significantly impact how our days and years go. Let’s set up next year for success with the FREE 7-Day Today is Going to be a Good Day Challenge! If the new year is a difficult time for you, or you face the winter blues following the holidays, let me encourage you at the FREE Help for When You're Feeling Blue Webinar! If you or someone you know struggles with the blues, or a more significant case of depression, consider participating in the Online Hope Prevails Bible Study so we can support you!  Scripture References: Isaiah 43:19 For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland. Ephesians 4:21-24 Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him,  throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception.  Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.  Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. Recommended Resources: 7-Day Today is Going to be a Good Day Challenge Help for When You're Feeling Blue (FREE) Webinar New Year Online Hope Prevails Bible Study The Power and Process of A Word of the Year  Looking for Your Word of the Year Downloadable Worksheet This Could Be Your Best Year Discovering Good News in John: a Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E. Jones, and Karla Dornacher Discovering Joy in Philippians: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher Discovering Hope in the Psalms: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher Men are Like Waffles, Women are Like Spaghetti: Understanding and Delighting in Your Differences by Bill & Pam Farrel Red-Hot Monogamy: Making Your Marriage Sizzle by Bill and Pam Farrel  Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson 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 Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Pam Farrel: Website / Discovering the Bible Series / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order  Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Pam Farrel is an international speaker, author of 57 books including bestselling "Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti" translated into over 15 languages. Her newest creative bible study, co-authored with Jean E Jones and Karla Dornacher, is Discovering Good News In John: A Creative Bible Devotional Study Experience,  an Amazon #1 bestseller.  Pam and her husband, Bill, together run Love-Wise, and Proverbs 19:8 ministries to equip, enrich and encourage people in their most vital relationships. Pam's favorite role is being Mom to 3 sons, 3 daughter-in-love’s and Nana to her 5 grands and two new grand babies soon to arrive. Pam and Bill make their home on a live aboard boat docked in Southern California so she also loves biking, a beach walk, kayaking or a paddleboard adventure.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Every year at this time, we enter into the holiday hustle and bustle, and All. The. Things. The tree, the shopping, the decorating, the wrapping, the baking, the parties…I’m so grateful to a perfect God for the gift of Christmas Hope. Without the birth of Jesus, we would have NO HOPE. In this episode, we talk about Christmas Hope. I’m going to share my grown-up Christmas list, pray a blessing, and offer 3 valuable resources to start your new year off well. Quotables from the episode: Without the birth of Jesus, we would have NO HOPE. Over the recent years, I’ve found that what I truly desire for Christmas can’t be wrapped and placed under a tree. This year, what I wanted more than anything for Christmas was peace for my family and peace for my heart. That calm assurance that comes from being content where you are, with who you are, and who you are with. I remembered the simplicity of the very first Christmas that didn’t meet anyone’s expectations except God’s. Jesus came in a manger without a party or fanfare. No one expected this to be the entry of a king. This Christmas and throughout the entire year, all I want is a little more of Jesus for myself and others, and to deepen our love for Him. What a joy to know there is a safe place to come and share our inner most desires and our deepest needs. And as we thank God for the answers, He promises peace to guard our hearts and minds. May you experience all the blessings of God as you pursue Him with your whole heart, mind, and soul. Out of my love and gratitude for you, I want to offer you three resources to look forward to in the new year: Scripture References: Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT): “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. TELL GOD what you need, and thank him for all he has done. THEN you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (emphasis mine) Recommended Resources:  The 7-Day Today is Going to be a Good Day Challenge  Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue The first everOnline Hope Prevails Bible Study  Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide  Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube   Host: Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Have you ever thought about the fact that God doesn’t need us to accomplish things in this world, but that he offers the opportunity for us to partner with him? Have you ever pondered what partnering with God means, or how to go about it? In this episode, I chat with Kim Avery about partnering with God in the nitty, gritty details of business and life. Quotables from the episode: I took a long, hard and honest look at my business and my client’s businesses and had to ask myself these questions: if our business partner is the Almighty, all-knowing, all-providing God why don’t our businesses look any different than the businesses of those who don’t know God? More than that, we don’t we look any different than entrepreneurs who don’t know God? We are just as hurried, worried, and stressed as they are. We try to do things for God, but the invitation is to have God with us. That’s a totally different game when we make God our CEO. I’m so thankful to be learning that God really does care about all the details of my life and that He is available and waiting to help me with it. As Christ-centered entrepreneurs, God wants us to be bold, humble, joyful, peace-filled, so that what overflows out of us onto others will be consistent with His character. Partnering with God in prayer doesn’t have to be complicated, fancy, or heroic. Instead it can be BRIEF: Business-Related: Abandoning our default mindset of if it’s going to be, it’s up to me, we invite God into our daily work, seeking his supernatural presence, purposes, and power. Relevant: Exchanging our typical global requests, “Bless this business, Lord,” for our granular reality, such as “Help me to be humble and self-forgetful in today’s meeting with Bob,” we ask God to work in and through every specific attitude, activity, and engagement of each particular day. Inside out: Shifting our prayer focus from a results-only orientation, we pray in cooperation with the way God most likes to work—from the inside out: In us In our relationship with him In our relationships with others In our relationship with our business The results our work has in the world   Expectant: Acknowledging that God is always at work, even when things are not what we’d hoped, each day we watch for his moment-by-moment movement, trust his promises, and celebrate his answers. Frequent: No longer compartmentalizing our relationship with him to discrete times of the day, we practice the presence of God throughout each day, ceaselessly interacting with him as we partner with him to change the world. We all have a head knowledge that God is for me, but we need to take God’s grand principles into our small, granular reality. The failure rate in small business is so high because we need to shift our focus to what God is doing in us rather than because of us. Failure comes when our contribution outpaces our character. We live in a largely unchurched world, so as entrepreneurs, God gives us the opportunity to reach those who might not otherwise be reached because they don’t set foot in a church. When we are not trusting God with every aspect of our business, and instead default to worry and hurry, we are essentially being a functional atheist, because we are believing God will not provide. Start super small with very specific requests that you know God also wants for you, then walk expectantly through your day watching for how He is at work. It’s a treasure hunt and a grand adventure. Scripture References: Jeremiah 33:3 NASB ‘Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.’ Isaiah 28:16 ESV “Whoever believes shall not be in haste.” 2 Corinthians 9:8 NASB "And God is able to make all grace overflow to you, so that, always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed;" Recommended Resources:  The Prayer Powered Entrepreneur by Kim Avery www.prayerquiz.com Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide  Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Kim Avery: Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube   Guest:  After leaving her career as a counselor to become a Professional Life Coach, Kim also became an accidental entrepreneur. Coaching was in its infancy then, so it took her years of trial and error and training to create a path to success. Since that time, she’s made it her goal to help other Christian coaches and entrepreneurs shorten and streamline the business building process.  Kim is now a successful business coach, Vice-President of Marketing at the Professional Christian Coaching Institute, co-host of the Professional Christian Coaching Today podcast, author of The Prayer Powered Entrepreneur: 31 Days to Building Your Business with Less Stress and More Joy.  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Do you long to feel a closer connection to God? To discern His voice, experience His peace, and live in His joy? Erica Wiggenhorn and I talk about how to experience God’s faithfulness when surrounded by uncertainty, how to reignite our hope instead of losing heart, and how to realize the call of God, reawakening our purpose when we experience revival in our own hearts. Quotables from the episode: Revival is a personal heart cry before God, asking Him to meet us in our desperation and brokenness. We tend to doubt our beliefs and believe our doubts because of distraction, and as a result, God feels far away. Doubt can be the doorway to intimacy with God. Revival brings us to God who can do anything and is always doing the best for us. The enemy’s desire is to cause us to doubt God’s character. There is no intimacy without first an investment of time. Faith is always intermeshed with fear. What we see as punishment, like God saying no to a request, may actually be God’s protection for us. Scripture References: Ezekiel 11:19-20 “I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from then their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 20:42 “Then. You will know that I am the Lord, when I bring. You into the land of Israel, the land I had sworn with uplifted hand to give to your ancestors.” Recommended Resources:  The Unexpected Revival: Experiencing God’s Goodness Through Disappointment and Doubt by Erica Wiggenhorn Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide  Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Erica Wiggenhorn: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / YouTube For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Erica Wiggenhorn is an award-winning author and the founder of Every Life Ministries, bringing you the truths of Scripture to transform your life. By digging deeply into God’s Word, Every Life Ministries encourages you to discover your unique purpose, accept God’s promises, and live by His power. She loves to bring God's Word to anyone who’ll listen, whether it’s a large women’s conference, a church women’s retreat, her own kitchen table, or across your computer screen with her teaching series or YouTube Channel.  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Do you ever get in a rut with your Bible study? Have you ever wondered “how can I make my Bible study more creative?” Or perhaps, “what’s the most effective way to study the Bible for me?” You won’t want to miss this week’s episode. My friend Pam Farrel and I will talk about how to make our Bible study time more creative! By the time the podcast is over, you’ll want to grab a copy of one of her Bible studies so you can start reaping the benefits! Quotables from the episode: Creative Bible study helped me memorize scripture better. You can’t think of your problems while you’re in the midst of being creative. Creative Bible study slowed me down to help me pause to ponder God’s word. The most effective way to study the Bible is whatever method gets you engaged and consistent. Hope is waiting expectantly for God to show up and show off for your good and for His glory. The good news is the gospel of Jesus Christ. Good=beautiful, best, bountiful, and blessed Scripture References: “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 “…I [Jesus] came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]” John 10:10 AMP  Recommended Resources:  Discovering Good News in John: a Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E. Jones, and Karla Dornacher Discovering Joy in Philippians: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher Discovering Hope in the Psalms: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher Men are Like Waffles, Women are Like Spaghetti: Understanding and Delighting in Your Differences by Bill & Pam Farrel Red-Hot Monogamy: Making Your Marriage Sizzle by Bill and Pam Farrel  Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide  Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Pam Farrel: Website / Discovering the Bible Series / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Pam Farrel is an international speaker, author of 57 books including bestselling "Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti" translated into over 15 languages. Her newest creative bible study, co-authored with Jean E Jones and Karla Dornacher, is Discovering Good News In John: A Creative Bible Devotional Study Experience,  an Amazon #1 bestseller.  Pam and her husband, Bill, together run Love-Wise, and Proverbs 19:8 ministries to equip, enrich and encourage people in their most vital relationships. Pam's favorite role is being Mom to 3 sons, 3 daughter-in-love’s and Nana to her 5 grands and two new grand babies soon to arrive. Pam and Bill make their home on a live aboard boat docked in Southern California so she also loves biking, a beach walk, kayaking or a paddleboard adventure.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  We're approaching that time of the year again where the stress and overwhelm of the holiday season can take our emphasis off the reason for the season. We're sharing a replay of a popular podcast episode with Marcia Ramsland, the Holiday Pro. She shares how we can get organized and simplify our Christmas holidays. And the good news is, we can start now! Quotables from the episode: Getting organized is something that can be learned and will save you time, give you focus, and mental clarity. It’s always too early to start preparing until it’s too late to begin! So start your holiday preparations now. Part of what makes our holidays stressful is the fact that we already fill our days 24x7, then have to add more to our schedules for the holidays. Simplifying our holidays and our lives starts with decreasing our expectations. The problem with the poverty in the world is not God’s provision but our distribution.    Scripture References: Proverbs 13:4 “The sluggish crave and have nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.” Proverbs 14:1 “A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.” Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”   Recommended Resources:  8 Week Online course: “Simplify Your Holiday Season” to take the stress out of the holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Simplify Your Holiday Season by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Holidays: A Christmas Planner to Use Year After Year by Marcia Ramsland Simply December Devotions by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Space: Create Order & Reduce Stress by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay That Way by Marcia Ramsland Organizing Your Workspace for a Productivity Boost (Instant Insights) by Marcia Ramsland Simplify Your Time by Marcia Ramsland Free Time Tracker: Marcia’s Famous 168 Hour Time Tracker Ways to Create a More Peaceful Holiday Season – Part 1 ep 35 Ways to Create More Peace During the Holidays – Part 2 ep 36 How to Stress Less at Christmas ep 88 Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide  Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Marcia Ramsland: Website / Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Marcia Ramsland is well known as The Leading Online Organizing Coach, a Business Productivity Expert, and author of the Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay that Way book series, which has sold over 100,000 copies. Marcia is a nationally recognized media guest appearing in Woman’s Day and Real Simple magazines, the Wall Street Journal, and Martha Stewart radio. Marcia believes anyone can become more organized – even you – with the Motivation, Momentum, and Mastery which she provides in her Online Courses and Fast Track Coaching!  For more information or a free consultation visit her website www.organizingpro.com. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson     Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Christmas time can be so stressful. Would you like to experience calm in the midst of the holiday chaos? What if I told you that you could enjoy a more simple Christmas and, in doing so, reconnect with the real reason we celebrate the holiday? Join me with Tama Fortner as we talk about how to have a Simple Christmas. Quotables from the episode: “Simple Christmas” is the book I wish someone had written for me when my children were little, before I had all these life experiences under my belt. So many things about “how Christmas is supposed to be” just didn’t work for my family. I want to give moms permission to chart their own course, while also providing some thoughts to draw them closer to God and His Son.  It’s important to learn to be more thoughtful and intentional about what we allow into our life and our family time, especially at the holidays. Just because we’ve always done this or everybody does that, doesn’t mean it’s right for us this year. As you launch into this holiday season and start filling up calendars and to-do lists, ask yourself three questions: Does it make me smile? Does it make my loved ones smile? (Because aren’t those the things that makes us mamas smile?) And, most importantly, does it make God smile? When you filter everything through these three questions, the things that really matter quickly rise to the top.  If a holiday tradition is no longer working for your family, kick it to the curb! The need to keep up with what everyone else is doing is overwhelming. Give yourself permission to simplify, to let some things go to savor the most important things this holiday. Recognize that as a child or daughter of God, you are loved regardless of what you do, how perfectly wrapped the gifts are, or how beautiful the holiday table is. When you reach yours or others’ expectations for yourself, the bar moves, the level increases, and you’re under more stress to continually be doing even more. Always start with reading the Bible! That is where God talks to us, where His will, His way, and His peace are found. Quiet time can be hard to carve out for moms, so I suggest that quiet time doesn’t have to look “perfect”—with a cozy chair, coffee, Bible, and an hour of uninterrupted silence. Sometimes quiet time is a state of mind that we carry with us into the chaos. And sometimes it has to be snatched up in a moment here and there. So keep a Bible with you always. I love an actual paper Bible, but apps on the phone are so convenient to soak up a verse waiting in carpool or whenever you have a moment.  When we start our day off in the word, and allow Him to set our intentions, we will get done what HE deems important for the day, and we will feel more at peace. Jesus’s ministry was centered around interruptions. When we allow ourself to be interrupted and look for the possibility in those interruptions, we will find the people in need and what they need, so that we’re accomplishing God’s to-do list for the day. Let other moms be good at what they are good at without the need to compare yourself to them. You’ll shine in the areas that you are good at. Consider what it is that you want at the end of the holiday season, and then your to-do list will begin to reflect what you ultimately desire. Scripture References: Luke 2:19 (NIV) — Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV) — You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Luke 1:47–48 (NIV) — My spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. Acts 17:28 (NIV) -- For in him we live and move and have our being. Recommended Resources:  Simply Christmas: A Busy Mom’s Guide to Reclaiming the Peace of the Holidays: A Devotional by Tama Fortner Christmas is Coming by Tama Fortner Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids by Sarah Young, adapted by Tama Fortner 100 Things God Loves About You: Simple Reminders for When You Need Them Most by Tama Fortner Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide  Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Tama Fortner: Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Tama is an ECPA award-winning author with more than forty titles to her credit. She is the writer behind the bestselling Indescribable for Kids series with Louie Giglio, as well as a number of books in the Jesus Calling children’s line, including the wildly successful Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids, which has sold more than 1,000,000 copies to date. Tama has collaborated with such well-known authors as Max Lucado, Rebekah Lyons, and Emily Ley to create inspirational books for all ages.  Tama has been working as a freelance writer, ghostwriter, and editor for more than twenty-five years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from University of the Cumberlands and a master’s degree from Appalachian State University. Tama and her husband have two children who are growing up much too fast for their mama’s liking. They live on the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee, where they enjoy sampling new restaurants, watching old movies, and eating lots of popcorn with far too much butter and salt. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson     Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.