Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

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.

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.