Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary: On this week's podcast, we're celebrating the 3rd anniversary of Your Hope-Filled Perspective where we offer you a Biblically-based Hope-Filled Perspective. This week, we’re sharing the 6 episodes that you downloaded the most over the past year. To introduce a snippet of each one, I’ll share a bit about what I liked about each episode. I find it interesting that the top 6 episodes of the past year come down to knowing who we are and paying attention to our mindset.  Thank you so much for tuning in each week! Without you, this program wouldn't exist!  And, now for the featured episodes. Quotables from each episode: In episode 115, we talked with Kris Reece about How To Train Your Brain to Trust God. You’ll get to hear a bit about her story and what led her to become so passionate about helping others to train their brain to trust God. Listen to her episode here: How To Train Your Brain to Trust God Kris also shared her 4 step process that shows you how to renew your mind and put an end to toxic thinking: Toxic Thinking: Take Control of Your Thoughts In episode 29, How To Help Someone with Depression, I recorded with my husband, Scott. We cover so many helpful topics including common signs & symptoms, helpful things to do, what to say, and what not to say. Listen to that episode here: How To Help Someone with Depression I have written prolifically about depression on my blog. Just search for “depression” in the search bar. I also include links to resources below. In episode 131, we talked with Erica Wiggenhorn about How to Untangle Yourself from the Fear of Inadequacy. Many people struggle with fear of inadequacy or the imposter syndrome and don’t even know it. Earlier in my career, I certainly did, but I didn’t want to. That’s why I was so grateful for Erica’s wisdom and insight. Listen to that episode here: How to Untangle Yourself from the Fear of Inadequacy. Erica also shares the secret she learned for understanding your worth and recognizing your true value: The Secret to Understanding Your Worth In Episode 116, we talked with Tina Yeager about Hope for Overcoming Shame or Discouragement. I absolutely loved my interview with Tina regarding how to overcome shame or discouragement, because when the enemy can’t defeat us, he tries to discourage us. Tina vulnerably shared from her own personal and professional experiences, so you’d know she knows. Listen to that episode here:  Hope for Overcoming Shame or Discouragement Tina also shared encouragement for those struggling in silence with shame and discouragement, significance and identity issues in this article: Struggling in Silence with Shame and Discouragement In Episode 130, we talked with Amy Joob about How To Get Unstuck in Life and Move Forward. Many people have written to me during the last couple of years, lamenting how stuck they feel, despite their desire to move on to bigger and better things. Amy Joob and her husband faced that same thing during the Covid Pandemic. She shares how they moved forward. Listen to that episode here: How To Get Unstuck in Life and Move Forward Amy also shares how she moved forward from fears and hurts that had kept her stuck here: Are You Stuck? Right Alignment Will Get You Unstuck! In Episode 125, we spoke with Marcia Ramsland about how to keep our life and mind decluttered by Getting Organized and Staying Organized.  I have benefited from Marcia’s wisdom, and so appreciate how simple she breaks down tasks to make them more manageable and sustainable. Listen to that episode here: How To Get Organized and Stay Organized Marcia is an organizing pro, even more so around the holidays! She shared her top 10 Organizing Tips for Fall to Start Your Holidays Off Right I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s anniversary episode. It was so much fun to dive into those episodes that were most popular with our listeners. When we consider that God tells us how important it is to take every thought captive, these six episodes do exactly that. For future episodes, we'd love to know what you enjoy, the guests you've loved, and the topics you'd like us to cover. Resources: Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference 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 How To Help a Depressed Loved One free eBook My new book, available now on Pre-Order: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right 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 About Dr. Michelle Bengtson: Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of the bestselling, multi-award-winning books Hope Prevails and the Hope Prevails Bible Study. Her book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip won the 2020 AWSA Golden Scroll Book of the Year and the 2021 Christian Literary Reader’s Choice Award in four different categories. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective. A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Lisa Appelo and I talk about how to hang onto threadbare hope when our circumstances are too hard to handle. Our guest today speaks from her own personal experience. When her husband died suddenly, Lisa was left alone to walk herself and her seven children through loss and grief. She shares what she learned. Quotables from the episode: When life felt incredibly bad, I needed to know life could be good again. Sometimes we have to let go of the life we wanted and take hold of the life in front of us. It’s okay to feel our emotions, but they do a poor job telling us the truth. Utter dependence on God isn’t what we want, but it’s where God designed us to be. Loss revealed where I had misplaced my hope and I learned to hang onto Biblical hope when my emotions were screaming different. God does give us too much to handle so that we will learn to depend on him and relinquish the myths of self-control and self-sufficiency. When we become helplessly dependent on God we will see God is faithful and that He will come through. I’ve seen that being in a place of helpless dependence on God is the best place to be. Even in the unknown, we can thank God. God doesn’t have a plan B! He already knows how He is going to see you through! The 3 best words you can say to someone going through a difficult time is “You’re not alone.” And they aren’t…even when it feels like they are alone, God is with them and will not forsake them. Even as life feels better now, as I’m used to the pace, weight and isolation of single parenting following loss, I never want to forget I’m utterly dependent on God for wisdom, guidance, provision and so much more. I might be facing a scary future, but I’d learned God’s promises would hold there. We can daily anchor in God’s Word to let Him refocus our perspective, renew our hope and exchange our emotions for His truth. We can remember God’s past faithfulness and His character. We can tender our heart to God so that we don’t waste the suffering. We can look for God’s good hand all around us, which is such a boost to our faith that God is working even in painful circumstances. For the one who feels underwater in circumstances that are too much to handle, I’d tell them to look to God to do what we cannot. We can’t fix a broken heart or force an outcome. But in that place, we can enter a trust relationship God designed for us. We can chisel out idols of control and comfort we’ve polished and learn to trust in the Lord with all our heart.  Scripture References: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. Psalm 46:1 (ESV) “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Deuteronomy 33:26-27 (NIV) “There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides across the heavens to help you, and on the clouds in his majesty. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” Recommended Resources:  Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart by Lisa Appelo, Releases 4-19-22, Pre-Order Now! Free Bible Study and Journal: 100 Days with Christ Trusting God by Jerry Bridges How To Train Your Brain To Trust God – Episode 115 Trusting God In the Storm Why We Can Trust God Even When Life Doesn’t Make Sense Trusting God in Hard Times -7 Lessons Learned Access to Dr. Bengtson’s Hope Vault, a library full of free resources that restore hope, renew minds, and empower you to live in your God-given identity.  Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference 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 Lisa Appelo: Website / Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest / Twitter For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Lisa Appelo is an author and speaker inspiring women to cultivate faith in life’s storms. Ten years ago, Lisa became a sudden widow and single mom to 7. She’s published at many sites including Proverbs 31 Ministries, (in)courage, and Risen Motherhood, and her book Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart releases April, 2022.  As a former litigating attorney, Lisa is passionate about rich Bible teaching. Get your free copy of 7 Days of Hope for Your Shattered Heart at LisaAppelo.com and connect with Lisa on Instagram @lisaappelo. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Jenn Hand and I talk about how to move past fear and say yes to God. What does it look like to say yes to God? We cover what it means to put your yes on the table for God and move from fear stops to faith steps. When we say yes to God, we can move past fear to walk in faith into all He has for us to do.  Quotables from the episode: Putting your yes on the table begins with saying, “I want to say yes to God, but ____.” What is it that stops you from saying yes to God? We want to minister the hope of Christ on the holy ground of suffering. Faith is believing God in the dark for what you heard Him say in the light. Common “fear stops” are fear of rejection, fear of failure, fear of not being enough, etc. We can get so caught up in watching other peoples’ race that we forget to pay attention to the race God has us running. As you put your “yes” on the table for God, consider writing out the word yes on paper, a post-it, even a rock, as a sign and a symbol of your desire to obediently say yes to Him.  Scripture References: Joshua 1:9 ESV “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Isaiah 6:8  ESV “And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” Matthew 28:16 ESV “Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[b] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Recommended Resources:  Subscribe at www.comingaliveministries.com and receive 4 free beautiful scripture lockscreens to help encourage you in your faith steps anytime you use your phone My Yes is On the Table by Jenn Hand Revive & Thrive Women's Conference 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 Guest and Host Connect with Jenn Hand: Website / Facebook / Instagram 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: Jennifer Hand is the Executive director of Coming Alive Ministries. She wishes she could sit down and have a strong cup of coffee with each of you and ask you what makes you come alive? The things that make Jenn come alive are strong coffee (did we mention Jenn loves coffee), Jesus (of course), collecting coffee mugs, missions around the world, and spoiling her nephews and nieces.  Jenn founded Coming Alive Ministries in 2012 and loves the honor of traveling nationally and internationally providing the invitation to come alive in Christ through conferences, retreats, written resources and counseling. Jenn has had the joy of serving in over 30 countries and speaking at around 40 ladies events a year. With her Master’s degree in trauma counseling, God has opened a unique door for Jenn to respond after natural disasters around the world, providing trauma counseling and the hope of Christ on the holy ground of suffering. 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:  Jennifer Dukes Lee and I talk about the advantages of slowing down to live life and how the most important things in life take the longest to grow. If you’re ready to make a break from fast-paced living and learn how to adopt a growing slow lifestyle, you won’t want to miss this episode. Quotables from the episode: We are an output-driven society and we forget about the importance of what we take in. In order to live the fullest life by slowing down, pay attention to the things that really matter. Take time to appreciate what God is doing in each season. Most of us don’t appreciate winter, but winter offers the opportunity to rest, to celebrate what we’ve been through, and to heal. Time is our friend, not our enemy, and is to be cherished. God views time differently than we do. We tend to always be in a hurry, but God makes everything beautiful in its right time. Consider adopting habits of the unhurried: like lighting candles at dinner, walking around your gardens, lingering in conversation at the end of a church service. Scripture References: Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart." Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." 1 Corinthians 3:9 "You are God’s field." Recommended Resources: Growing Slow: Lessons on Un-hurrying Your Heart from an Accidental Farm Girl by Jennifer Dukes Growing Slow Bible Study: A 6-week Guided Journey to Un-Hurrying Your Heart by Jennifer Dukes Lee It’s All Under Control: A Journey of Letting Go, Hanging On, and Finding a Peace You Almost Forgot Was Possible by Jennifer Dukes Lee It’s All Under Control Bible Study: A 6-Week Guided Journey by Jennifer Dukes Lee Love Idol: Letting Go of Your Need for Approval and Seeing Yourself through God’s Eyes by Jennifer Dukes Lee and Lisa-Jo Baker The Happiness Dare: Pursuing Your Heart’s Deepest, Holiest, and Most Vulnerable Desire by Jennifer Dukes Lee Revive & Thrive Women's Conference 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 Guest and Host Connect with Jennifer Dukes Lee: Website / Facebook / Instagram 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: Jennifer Dukes Lee lives on the fifth-generation Lee family farm in Iowa, where she and her husband are raising crops, pigs, and two beautiful humans. She writes books, loves queso, and enjoys singing too loudly to songs with great harmony. Once upon a time, she didn't believe in Jesus; now he's her CEO. Find Jennifer at www.JenniferDukesLee.com and on Instagram at @JenniferDukesLee. 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: In this episode, I talk with my friend, Donna Fagerstrom, about how to deal with grief. Donna shares the truths she learned during her own grief journey and in walking with others through the grieving process. We can maintain our hope, because Jesus is our hope, and become an overcomer through the tough times. Quotables from the episode: The gift of mercy is feeling another’s pain as though it were your very own. When we grieve or mourn, it attests to the degree we loved someone or something. After most every loss, we experience grief. The fact that Jesus wept after Lazarus died, knowing He was going to bring him back to life again, modeled the healthy nature and the gift of grief God gave us. We need to give ourselves permission to grieve. When we stuff our grief, it will end up coming out at another albeit less expected and less appropriate time. We don’t grieve like people who don’t know Jesus. Our grief leads to our hope and our hope leads to Jesus. The hope of Heaven is our great comfort. Our hope here is temporal, but our hope in Heaven is for all eternity. There are so many different ways we have experienced grief, loss, and mourning over the past couple of years. Don’t stand in judgment when others grieve…it’s a very individual process. The example of the thief on the cross when Jesus died can comfort us when we don’t know where a loved one will spend eternity. There’s no right or wrong way to grieve—only the best way for you. If you haven’t given yourself permission to grieve, you will just beat yourself up by putting unrealistic expectations on yourself. Don’t let others put their expectations on you for how you should grieve or how long it will take. Be gentle and kind with yourself. In your grief, seek out those who have the gift of mercy and a willingness to listen.  Scripture References: Jeremiah 31:3 "I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow, says the Lord." Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and He saves those who are crushed in spirit." Hebrews 13:5 "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Recommended Resources:  Every Mourning by Donna Fagerstrom Lifted: Encouragement in Hard Times by Donna Fagerstrom Hope in the Mourning Study Bible How To Find Hope in the Midst of Grief – Episode 70 Hope for the Grieving Parent: How to Help a Grieving Friend – Episode 3 Help for the Grief-Stricken: 3 Anchors that Held Me in Grief Hope in Widowhood: How to Help a Grieving Widow – Episode 8 15 Tips to Survive Grief How To Grieve Grieve Well How To Help a Grieving Friend 5 Encouraging Words for Mothers Who Have Lost a Child How To Comfort a Friend Who Has Lost a Child Droplets: Poetry for those in Grief by Anne Peterson Mental Health Resources for Grief in Adults Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference 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 Guest and Host Connect with Donna Fagerstrom: Facebook / Instagram For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Born and raised in West Michigan, Donna Fagerstrom was spiritually impacted by Holland Youth for Christ, surrendering her life to God and full-time ministry.  Donna is a gifted writer, communicator, worship leader and women’s disciple-maker. Her alma mater, Cornerstone University, awarded her the Woman of Influence award in 2010. After serving for 49 years in a variety of life-engaging ministries (Local Church; Seminary; Church Planting and Marketplace Chaplaincy), Doug and Donna have retired to write, coach executive leaders and nurture their family.  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:  In celebration of my birthday month, I’m sharing a personal peek into some of my favorite things. Little things that make life more pleasant. And, some of the things that get me through the hardest of times. I’ve enjoyed getting to know some of you throughout my years of writing and podcasting. I thought it might be a bit fun to let you know a bit about me.  Scripture References: Job 42:5 NLT “I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes”  Recommended Resources:  My favorite large print chronological Bible:  The One Year Chronological Bible NLT, Premium Slimline Large Print My favorite NIV Chronological Bible: The One Year Chronological Bible NIV My favorite study Bible: CSB Life Essentials Interactive Study Bible My favorite Bible highlighter: Sharpie Accent Gel Highlighters, Fluorescent Yellow Faith Over Fear Distressed Trucker Hat - Embroidered Trucker Baseball Hat Today is a good day to have a good day wall art Pray More Worry Less Wall Décor Milk Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel Squares by Ghirardelli Skinny Dipped salted caramel chocolate covered cashews Trident Vibes Ooh La Lemon Sugar Free Gum Hint Water: Peach, Raspberry, Watermelon, and Lemon, Zero Calories, Zero Sugar and Zero Sweeteners Revive & Thrive Women's Conference 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: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube About Dr. Bengtson Dr. Bengtson studied neuroscience and is board certified in clinical neuropsychology. She established her own clinical practice in the Dallas area. From her professional and personal life, she recognized a deep lack of understanding of the call to “renew our minds” and the transformational effects a robust understanding of this has on our physical and mental health and outlook. Dr. Bengtson lives to foster regeneration and renew life in her listeners. She recognizes brokenness in her life and others’ and offers steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places.  Dr. Bengtson authored the award-winning “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression,” its award-winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises,” and her fourth book will be available in May 2022 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and speaks at conferences and churches internationally.  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 talk about how God views joy and how to laugh out loud when life is hard. We all go through difficult times that snatch our very breath, and steal our laughter. My guest, Rhonda Stoppe (the “No Regrets Woman”) has experienced her share of heartache. Today, she’s going to share what she has learned about how God views joy and how to laugh out loud even when life is hard. Quotables from the episode: Fighting for joy by counting our blessings rather than our concerns is key. The Lord knows what is on your horizon and He will equip you ahead of time. When Scripture tells us to “rejoice in the Lord,” it’s not rejoicing in the trial but in the character of God. Joy is different than happiness which depends on our circumstances. Joy is a deep-seeded confidence that my life is in God’s hands. It is the Word of God that will speak to your life when you don’t know what to do or where to go when life is hard. The God of the Bible takes what was meant for evil and produces good. Happiness increases and decreases based on our circumstances and feelings. Rejoicing in the Lord is a constant because we know He is in control. Joy that comes with gratitude is genuine joy.  Scripture References: Nehemiah 8:10 ESV “The joy of the Lord is our strength.” Philippians 4:4-7 ESV “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  Recommended Resources:  Real-Life Romance: Inspiring Stories to Help You Believe in True Love by Rhonda Stoppe Moms Raising Sons to be Men by Rhonda Stoppe If My Husband Would Change, I’d Be Happy: And Other Myths Women Believe by Rhonda Stoppe The Marriage Mentor: Becoming the Couple You Long to Be by Rhonda Stoppe A Christian Woman’s Guide to Great Sex in Marriage by Rhonda Stoppe Desiring God by John Piper When I am Afraid by Edward T. Welch Joni: An Unforgettable Story by Joni Eareckson Tada Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference 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 Rhonda Stoppe: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest 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: Rhonda Stoppe is the NO REGRETS WOMAN. With more than 30 years’ experience helping women build no regrets lives. “I could have listened to Rhonda talk all night, “ is what audiences say about Rhonda’s enthusiastic, humorous, transparent teaching, and zeal as an evangelist.   She’s committed to fulfill the Titus 2:4 commission by mentoring, teaching and writing books that are inspiring, grounded in Scripture and easy to read––like you're visiting with a friend over coffee.   Rhonda is the author of 6 books and appears on numerous radio programs including: Focus on the Family, Family Life Today and Dr. James Dobson’s FamilyTalk, & hosts The No Regrets Hour. She’s an evangelist and speaker at women’s events, College Women’s Chapel, Pastor’s Wives Conferences, MOPs and Homeschool Conventions. Sharing the gospel at her NoRegretsWoman Conference is her sweet spot. Rhonda is a regular contributor for Crosswalk and many other magazines. Rhonda ministers alongside her husband Steve, who for 20 years has pastored First Baptist Church of Patterson, California.  They live out their own Real Life Romance writing books and speaking at their No Regrets Marriage Conferences, but their favorite ministry is their family. They have four grown children and 10 grandchildren. To learn more about Rhonda’s speaking topics, watch her teaching and to book Rhonda for your next event visit: NoRegretsWoman.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: In this week’s episode, I talk with BJ Garrett about recovering from trauma from sexual abuse and the mistakes in the past. She shares that no matter what you’ve done or what has been done to you, healing is available in Jesus Christ. Love changes everything. Quotables from the episode: If you have a secret burden, find a safe person to tell. A friend, a counselor, a pastor, etc. If we allow our pain to turn into purpose, God will never waste it. God will take the ugliest of the ugly and make it beautiful. Forgiveness doesn’t mean reconciliation or saying that what someone did was okay, but that they no longer hold you emotionally hostage to their behavior. We forgive because we’ve been forgiven. We are commanded to forgive ourselves. When we don’t, it’s like telling Jesus that His death on the cross wasn’t good enough for us. When we allow God to turn our pain into purpose, the trauma triggers become less and less. Love changes everything. As long as Satan keeps you silenced, he remains in control. Telling the secret is the first step to releasing you from Satan’s bondage. I fail, I learn, I do better. I fail, I learn, I do better. No matter what you have done, no matter what has been done to you, there is hope and healing through Jesus Christ. Scripture References: Psalm 147:3 NIV "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Revelation 12:11a "They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony." John 4:39 "Many of the Samaritans from town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony." Recommended Resources: Unwanted No More by BJ Garrett Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference 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 BJ Garrett: Website / Facebook / Instagram For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: BJ Garrett is the award-winning author of Unwanted No More from Exploited to Embraced by God. BJ is an energetic speaker, passionate about telling her life story of overcoming a life full of abuse and bad decisions, loves serving on the mission field and serves as the Executive Director for Christ-centered Abortion Recovery & Education (CARE)  Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary:  Today we’re talking about Persevering in Prayer for Difficult Relationships. We all have those prickly, difficult people in our lives that challenge us. Lyli Dunbar and I talk about three types of difficult people and how we can set boundaries with and pray for the difficult people in our lives. Quotables from the episode: I have chosen to view difficult relationships as my mission field instead of my battlefield.  I have what I refer to as my “Holy Spirit Hit List” of difficult people that God has called me to love and pray for. 3 Types of Difficult People: the bulldozer who has a lot to say but doesn’t listen well to others, the party all the time who causes chaos and wants you to clean up their messes, and the Eeyore/complainer who lacks teachability and progress but just wants to whine and complain. God got a hold of my heart and reminded me that it’s His kindness that leads to repentance – not my nagging.  We are to be the hands and feet of Jesus in others’ lives but be aware of false burden bearing. Your job is not to change difficult people but to love them. But we have to let go of the disease to please. Difficult people tend to carry a lot of pain around in them. Be intentional; create margin and space around the interactions with difficult people, pray up before you engage, and do something fun to decompress or debrief after interacting. I made a conscious decision to choose love and fight for redemption in these relationships, and I’ve seen how persevering love makes a powerful difference. Jesus washed the feet of Judas even knowing what Judas would ultimately do to him. I can either offer God my all today, or I can keep making excuses and miss out on seeing Him at work in my life. I don’t want to live a lukewarm life. I want to kindle a vibrant faith and keep a holy fire ablaze in my heart. I want to say YES to freedom in Christ and NO to bondage and defeat. When you go home after an interaction with a difficult person, and think about the interaction over and over, you probably need to set some boundaries in that relationship. Stubborn hearts soften as we step forward with open hearts and arms outstretched. Love triumphs every time. In praying for difficult people, incorporate scripture such as Acts 6:18-20 in your prayers for them. Scripture References: Colossians 3:12-15 (NLT): “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Proverbs 10:12 (NLT):  “Hatred stirs up quarrels, but love makes up for all offenses.” Ephesians 4:2 (NLT):  “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.” Acts 26:18-20 (NLT): “…to open their eyes, to they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people, who are set apart by faith in me…I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that all must repent of their sins and turn to God—and prove they have changed by the good things they do.” Recommended Resources: Boundaries by John Townsend and Henry Cloud Safe People: How to Find Relationships that are Good for You and Avoid Those That Aren’t by John Townsend and Henry Cloud How to Have That Difficult Conversation by John Townsend and Henry Cloud Who’s Pushing Your Buttons by John Townsend and Henry Cloud 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 Lyli Dunbar: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest  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: Lyli Dunbar’s burning passion as a writer, speaker and Biblical life coach is to fuel a wildfire faith in the weary hearted. She starts every weekday by digging into the Word verse by verse with thousands of women as a writer for Proverbs 31 Ministries’ First 5 App and Love God Greatly. A fireball at heart, Lyli is energized by singing karaoke in the car with her husband, reading 12 books at a time, and cooking Cuban food for a full house. Stop by lylidunbar.com to grab faith fuel for your day or connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you’ve ever struggled in marriage or have friends or loved ones who struggle or maybe you just want to learn better how to love-wise, you’ve found the right episode! I talk with Relationship Specialist, Pam Farrel, not just about loving the mate God gave us but also about how to love well. Quotables from the episode: Sometimes wisdom breeds willingness to change. The Farrels encourage a confident covenant, which are rules of engagement during disagreements. Don’t be interested in just solving a marital problem, but also fall in love with that person again. Men are like waffles, women are like spaghetti. Women move from one issue to many different issues, but then tie it all up together, like spaghetti while men like to keep individual issues in separate boxes, and resolve each box before moving on to another box. Men park in their boxes, often not thinking about anything, while women misinterpret their silence. In olden days, you pulled together because you had to just to survive. So emotional needs were not high on the list at that point. Today we have a different view of survival and includes “Am I feeling satisfied? Am I feeling peaceful? Am I feeling fulfilled?” If our spouse isn’t making us happy, we mistakenly believe someone else out there will. We live in a social media driven society, where we only get to see others’ highlights, and people don’t see the real work that has to be done, and how God meets our needs to pull us through. Valentine’s Day is like a double-edge sword. For singles and widows, get a plan in place before Valentine’s Day. There are many around you who are feeling the same way.  Ways to encourage your spouse: Let your spouse you know you admire them. Commend your spouse in front of their friends or colleagues. Warm-up to an idea by asking questions for more details of their idea. Let you know you are praying for them. Enthusiastically embrace one of their opinions. It only takes one breakthrough. You’re only one breakthrough away from a stronger relationship. The last thing we should do when we’re struggling in our relationships is to isolate. We need community and the support of others. Scripture References: Proverbs 19:8 “The one who gets wisdom loves life.” 1 John 4:19 “We love each other because he loved us first.” Ephesians 4:2-3 “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Recommended Resources: Men are Like Waffles, Women are Like Spaghetti: Understanding and Delighting in Your Differences by Bill & Pam Farrel Discovering Joy in Philippians: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher  Red-Hot Monogamy: Making Your Marriage Sizzle by Bill and Pam Farrel Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide 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: Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter / Website 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: Pam Farrel, with her husband, Bill, are international speakers, and authors of over 50 books including best-selling Men are like Waffles, Women are like Spaghetti.  They are relationship specialists and seek to help people become “Love-Wise.” Pam has experience as a Pastor’s wife and Women’s Ministry Director. Pam is a cheerleader, challenger and coach that believes that "The one who gets wisdom loves life." (Proverbs 19:8) Her new creative Bible studies are Amazon bestsellers: Discovering Hope in the Psalms ; Discovering Joy in Philippians and Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament. When the Farrels are not traveling for speaking, you will find them on their live aboard boat or enjoying their 3 sons, 3 daughters in law and 5 grands.  www.Love-Wise.com 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.