Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary: What we focus on grows and impacts the quality of our day for better or for worse. We’ll talk about the neurological reason why this happens! And, we’ll discuss how to improve your day with some simple steps on how to focus on God instead of problems. Quotables from the episode: If we are not careful our minds will rule for us. God tells us to stay close to the vine (John 15:4), be transformed (Rom 12:2) and the stories of sowing and reaping (Luke 8).  Before we decide what to focus on, we have to start with the end result. So often I have to ask myself, “What is the goal?” What do I want? Peace, joy, favor…the good stuff. It’s possible to focus on God, not our problems. There is a difference between focusing on facts as opposed to truth. Simple steps for focusing on God.   Scripture References: 1 Timothy 4:13 Until I get there, focus on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them. Philippians 4:8-9 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Luke 6:45 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. Recommended Resources: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, available for Pre-Order Now! How Gratitude and Thankfulness Help Us Have a Good Day – Episode 161 How God’s Promises to His People Help Them to Have a Good Day – Episode 160 How to Have a Good Day by Starting Your Day with God – Episode 159 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life  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 Social Media Links: 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:  Are you wondering how gratitude and thankfulness could help us set ourselves up to have a good day? God commands us to come to Him with thanksgiving, but what difference does it make? I’m here to tell you, it changes everything. In this episode, we’ll talk about why they’re important how the positive impact they have on your well-being and stress level. Quotables from the episode: Gratitude is an emotion expressing an appreciation for what one has as opposed to what one wants. Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what one receives—tangible or intangible—as they acknowledge the goodness in their lives. Remember that being grateful is about appreciating what one has, as opposed to what one wants. Being thankful or thanking someone often implies you are acknowledging your thanks for something that someone has given you. Gratitude helps make us happier, builds positivity, fosters sleep and relaxation, helps increase productivity. It leads to a less self-centered and materialistic life. Gratitude also improves our health and mental health, and helps improve relationships. A grateful person experiences a higher level of positive thoughts like love, happiness, and lower stress level. When we practice gratitude in life, we are creating a happy and less competitive life around ourselves, therefore, our overall well being increases. There are several ways to express gratitude and thankfulness. Scripture References: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:11-13 “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Recommended Resources: Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, available for Pre-Order Now! Pre-Order Bundle of Bonus Gifts for Today is Going to be a Good Day Book Release How to Have a Good Day by Starting Your Day with God – Episode 159 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life  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 Social Media Links: 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: In today’s episode, we are talking about how God’s promises to his people help us have a good day. There are very few things we can depend on in this world, but we can depend on God to keep His promises, and because of that, we can have a good day despite our circumstances. Quotables from the episode: People change their mind, and they break their promises, but God is not a man and he cannot lie, so he cannot break his promises. A promise is of no more value than is the ability of the one who makes it to carry through. It also includes willingness to do so. There are over 1000 promises from God to his people. God supplies every need we have and His grace is sufficient for us. God promised his children won’t be overtaken by temptation. God promised victory over death and that all things work together for good. He promised love and forgiveness for those who believe in Jesus. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 1:20 “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.” Romans 4:13, 16 "For the promise that he should be heir of the world, was not to Abraham or his seed through the Law, but through the righteousness of faith. . . therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed."  Genesis 22:18 "And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice".  Acts 13:32-33 says: "And we declare unto you glad tidings how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again." Philippians 4:19 "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus". Jude v24 "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present your faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy." Acts 2:32 "This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we are all witnesses." 1 Corinthians 15:3,4 "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures." 1 Corinthians 15:57 "but thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."  Recommended Resources:  Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, available for Pre-Order Now! Pre-Order Bundle of Bonus Gifts for Today is Going to be a Good Day Book Release How to Have a Good Day by Starting Your Day with God – Episode 159 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life  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 Social Media Links: 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:  Have you ever gone through really difficult circumstances, and just craved a good day? A really good day? Many years ago, that’s what I longed for. In this episode, I’ll share what I’ve learned about how to have a good day by starting your day with God. When we start our day with God, He will be on your mind throughout the day, and that helps make every day a good day! Quotables from the episode: The course of our day will be directly impacted good or bad, dependent on whether we start our day with God. The Bible warns how to start our day (Psalm 118:24; Psalm 103:1; Ephesians 6:11; Lamentations 3:22-23; Matthew 5:16) Let’s talk about how do I pray to start a day: Thanksgiving; wisdom and guidance; protection; believing he works all things for good. There’s a 5-minute morning routine that makes a huge difference on whether I have a good day or not. Scripture References: Psalm 42:8 But each day the LORD pours his unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing his songs, praying to God who gives me life. Recommended Resources:  Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, available for Pre-Order Now! Pre-Order Bundle of Bonus Gifts for Today is Going to be a Good Day Book Release 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life  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 Social Media Links: 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: As a mother, do you ever struggle with comparison? Or do you look at other moms and wish you could be “amazing” like them? Do you ever wonder about your God-given purpose in life?  I’ve been there. That’s what Jenny Dean Schmidt of Channel Mom and I are talking about in this episode…words of encouragement for mothers. Quotables from the episode: I came to Christ through motherhood; it was then that God showed me that my former work in the “spotlight” was a false light compared to His light in my life, as His child, and as a mother with children of my own. Very soon after my son’s birth, God allowed me to lose my high-profile job in television. Because it felt like losing my religion, identity, honor and self-worth, I sunk into a postpartum depression for a year-and-a-half. The place of humility is a great place to be. It is there that we are shaped, blessed, and perfected. Mom’s preserve life, teach life, correct life, and sacrifice their lives. Moms do what Jesus asked us to do each and every day, and in serving their families, they are the most Christ-like. As I missed the accolades and attention I got when I was on TV, God revealed to me how we honor people on our screens who are not necessarily doing anything good for the world (and, often, giving us bad news) and yet we don’t honor the women charged with raising up His children. I saw this as a travesty, that mothers don’t know their own value because the world does not affirm it. God called me to encourage moms through the media and support them through outreach. God proves Himself throughout history and throughout our lives. Personally, I can say that He has never failed me. His love saves us daily. Scripture References: Proverbs 3:5-6 “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.” Exodus 3:14 “I Am Who I Am.” Romans 8:28 “And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, and who are called according to His purpose.” Recommended Resources: Mom, You’re Amazing by Jenny Dean Schmidt 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 10 Minute Turnaround Courses: 10 Minutes a Day Unlocks the Secrets to Change Your Life  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 Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jenny Dean Schmidt: Website / Facebook Channel Mom / Facebook Mom You’re Amazing / 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: Jenny Dean Schmidt is executive director of ChannelMom media, and has hosted ChannelMom radio and podcast for 11 years. Before founding ChannelMom, Jenny had an extensive career in TV news, where she worked as an on-air report, host, producer, and writer for media entities across major U.S. cities.  Jenny has interviewed and posed questions to two U.S. presidents, as well as many other politicians and celebrities. She’s covered high-profile news stories, including the OJ Simpson trial, the Columbine massacre, and a number of presidential campaigns. Beyond her media career, Jenny is passionate about the important role of today’s mothers, charged with raising up the next generation. Jenny chose to leave her TV career to commit to raising her own children at home. She believes the motherhood role is over overshadowed by popular culture values that glorify celebrities and the celebrity lifestyle.  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: 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.