Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

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.

Episode Summary:  Join me with guests Mark and Jill Savage as we discuss how to rebuild trust and rebuild your marriage after cheating. Marriage is hard on the best of days, but when infidelity and temptation enter in, it makes it very painful. You won't want to miss this enlightening episode as Mark and Jill share hope from their personal experiences. Quotables from the episode: After infidelity, you don’t want to go back to life as normal. Even after cheating, with two willing people, marriage can become restored and stronger. The one who broke the trust has the biggest impact on how fast trust will be rebuilt. If you don’t heal wounds in an inappropriate way, it will leak out at an unfortunate time. The question after enduring cheating and infidelity is, “Lord, how do you want to use this to grow me?” Scripture References: Romans 8:5-6 ESV “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.” Philippians 4:13 NLT “For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.” Isaiah 41:13 NIV “For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”  Recommended Resources:  Rebuilding Trust Course The Wait Is Not Wasted Course No More Perfect Marriages by Mark and Jill Savage FREE Rebuilding Trust Guide Revive & Thrive Fall Virtual Women’s Conference Trusting God Through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God Through Cancer Summit 2 Ten Minute Turn Around Courses with Tina Yeager 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 Jill Savage: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Tiktok / 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: Jill Savage is an author and speaker who is passionate about relationships. She has been called one of today’s most exciting female speakers.  Her honest, engaging communication is strengthened by her ability to make her audience laugh while they learn. Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books including Empty Nest, Full Life, Real Moms ... Real Jesus, the best-selling No More Perfect Moms, No More Perfect Kids, Better Together, and No More Perfect Marriages. Jill and her husband, Mark, live in Illinois and have five children and eight grandchildren. You can find Jill online at www.jillsavage.org. 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 recent years, I’ve encountered more and more people who suffer with chronic illness and pain. It’s not something anyone ever desires, and it can significantly limit our quality of life. Join me with friend and coach, Jen Roland, as we talk about maintaining hope despite chronic illness and pain. Quotables from the episode: Increased pain can produce increased anxiety and fear, but we have to know God still provides through it all.  In following God in and despite the pain, we get to experience how He provides for His children. We may not ask for a chronic illness or chronic pain, but we can decide to champion it well. How we think negatively about pain can become a stronghold, but our divine weapon is the Word of God. I will not grieve losses that have not yet happened. Pain is a gift—it alerts us of what is going on in our body. Because I am seeking God in the midst of my pain, He will use it for good. In the midst of pain, we will find peace when we look forward to the cross. To purposely steward your pain, you might try distracting yourself with healthy things (like taking pretty photos) and shift your thoughts to what is pure and praiseworthy. Natural methods of pain control that have helped me include distraction, movement, scripture, anti-inflammatory diets, and deep breathing. God doesn’t promise to answer why He has allowed pain in our lives, but He does redeem it. Even with broken pain-filled bodies, God is making us new on the inside.  Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NLT “That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are quite small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.” Recommended Resources: 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 Jen Roland: 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: Jen Roland is a writer, speaker, coach, and women's ministry leader with a passion for walking alongside others toward wholeness. Through her website, workshops, speaking, and coaching, she helps others implement positive lifestyle practices (e.g. nutrition, movement, mindfulness) and develop a deeper relationship with God. Since her neuropathy diagnosis, Jen's ministry has focused on serving those with chronic pain and illness. She provides them with support and resources to reduce pain, overcome fear and anxiety, and improve their quality of life. 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: The majority of people carry around a vision, a call, and idea—like a woman who is pregnant, at different stages, birth needs to happen! Sometimes we need to dream, make plans and take steps forward. Annette Trucke shares how to step out of your comfort zone with the freedom to pursue your God-given dreams. Quotables from the episode: I would say the majority of people carry around a vision, a call, and idea—like a woman who is pregnant, at different stages, birth needs to happen! We all wait for things to be just-so or we never step out of our comfort zone. We worry too much about what others may think, or we just don’t think we can clear the hurdles. Measuring risk helps people to see what they already have or can do, what they will need to obtain, the risk and if they are willing to take them, and the rewards of pushing through. I learned to walk with others through grief, realizing it is one area where it really helps to walk with someone who has been through it and still remains in it, to a large extent. We all light up when we are doing that thing or things that we are designed for—that which is in our DNA, experiences, education, God-given gifts and dreams and fits into our lives. Comparing ourselves to others, lies we believe, self-doubt, and thinking we aren’t qualified keeps us from pursuing our dreams. We can’t rely on others to validate our dreams but God will when He is the one who gives them to us. Sometimes we feel we need permission to follow our God-given dreams but God grants us permission. Emboldening people to move forward and seeing them have the joy doing so, is priceless. When we go through difficult times in life that demand all our energy, it’s okay to put our dreams on the back burner as long as we don’t give up on them or forget about them. Joy comes in moving forward with our God-given dreams. Creativity is grown and stretched. Our best thinking and creative thought requires time. Time to be alone away from the sights and sounds, the pulls and pushes of everyday life. And, do not be afraid to dream. One mistake I see people make is they to try wait for the perfect time and to be ultra-prepared to move forward in any fashion. I say dream, make some plans, and take some steps forward. Scripture References: Revelations 12:11 And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony, And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die. Isaiah 48:6b “Now I will tell you new things, secrets you have not yet heard.” Isaiah 43:19 NIV See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Ephesians 3:20 “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Recommended Resources: Audacious Consulting’s Dream Launching Manual: Steps to Realizing Your Future by Annette Trucke Living Sabbath Virtual Retreat Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 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 Annette Trucke: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Annette Trucke lives in Eugene, Oregon amid the lavish and lush beauty of the Pacific Northwest. A writer, creative, and speaker she shares hope as a precious commodity. Her life message is to creativity challenge people to dare to dream and bring them to fruition. Her joy is found in creative thought, the outdoors, and notably, God and people—most especially her family, precious friends, and new faces God brings along to connect with daily. 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: My guest, Susan Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, and I talk about how to help our children establish good health and eating habits. Susan is a certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services lead her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans. Quotables from the episode: 1 in 4 children in the United States are clinically obese. 13% of children aged 2-5 suffer from obesity; 20% of children 6-12 years old are obese. Children who have increased weight in kindergarten are four times more likely to be obese in 8th grade. Obesity in our children leads to Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. Most of our processed foods have stripped the nutrients out of our foods and contributed to the obesity crisis. 85-90% of our corn, wheat, oat, and soy products have been genetically modified. Scripture References: Ephesians 5:18 “Don’t drink too much wine, for many evils lie along that path be filled instead with the Holy Spirit and controlled by him.” Use the specific scripture you chose to bind the strong man every time he tempts you. Write this verse on an index card and memorize it. James 4:7 (NIV) “Submit yourself to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.” There is a secret to resisting the devil—you must first submit yourself to God. How in the world do you do that? In my experience, you no longer do your will but God’s will by submitting your life to him. Luke 10:19 Jesus told his disciples, “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy.” If you are a disciple of Jesus you can accept the authority he gave you. In the book of Acts, the apostles healed and worked miracles in the name of Jesus. Using the name of Jesus is key to binding the strong man of addiction because then you operate under Jesus’s authority. Recommended Resources: 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates by Susan Neal Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates by Susan Neal Healthy Living Journal by Susan Neal Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1 by Susan Neal Eat God’s Food: A Kid’s Guide to Healthy Eating by Susan Neal Solving the Gluten Puzzle by Susan Neal Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference How Does Exercise Reduce Stress? How To Give Yourself GRACE in Your Health Health Rules We Need to Break for Our Good – Episode 133 Hope for Healthy Living – Episode 65 Weight Loss Journey: Hope for a Healthy Body, Mind, and Soul – Episode 104 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 Susan Neal: 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: Susan U. Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, is an author, speaker, and certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services led her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans. Her award-winning Healthy Living Series includes: 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates Healthy Living Journal (awarded “2019 Best Inspirational Gift Book”) Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1 Her latest publication is Solving the Gluten Puzzle. 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 going to be talking about how to improve your health and weight. We’ll talk about root causes of health issues and different ways we can maximize our health through what we eat. We talk with Susan Neal, RN, MBA, MHS who is a certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services led her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans. Quotables from the episode: 50% of Americans have a chronic illness or diagnosis. 42% of Americans are obese. Root causes of disordered eating include candida overgrowth, food addiction, and stress eating. Ways to improve our health including removing triggers, get accountability, and get dopamine through activities other than eating sugar (a hug, singing, walking in nature, etc.) Look at your plate. If most or all of it comes from the garden or ranch, you’re probably eating pretty healthy. Scripture References: Ephesians 5:18: “Don’t drink too much wine, for many evils lie along that path be filled instead with the Holy Spirit and controlled by him.” Use the specific scripture you chose to bind the strong man every time he tempts you. Write this verse on an index card and memorize it. James 4:7 (NIV): “Submit yourself to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.” There is a secret to resisting the devil—you must first submit yourself to God. How in the world do you do that? In my experience, you no longer do your will but God’s will by submitting your life to him. Luke 10:19: Jesus told his disciples, “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy” If you are a disciple of Jesus, you can accept the authority he gave you.\ In the book of Acts, the apostles healed and worked miracles in the name of Jesus. Using the name of Jesus is key to binding the strong man of addiction because then you operate under Jesus’s authority. Recommended Resources: 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates by Susan Neal Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates by Susan Neal Healthy Living Journal by Susan Neal Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1 by Susan Neal Eat God’s Food: A Kid’s Guide to Healthy Eating by Susan Neal Candiquiz.com GlutenIntoleranceQuiz.com Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference How Does Exercise Reduce Stress? How To Give Yourself GRACE in Your Health Health Rules We Need to Break for Our Good – Episode 133 Hope for Healthy Living – Episode 65 Weight Loss Journey: Hope for a Healthy Body, Mind, and Soul – Episode 104 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 Susan Neal: 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: Susan U. Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, is an author, speaker, and certified health and wellness coach whose background in nursing and health services led her to seek new ways to educate and coach people to overcome health challenges. Her passion and mission are to improve the health of Americans. Her award-winning Healthy Living Series includes: 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates Christian Study Guide for 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates Healthy Living Journal (awarded “2019 Best Inspirational Gift Book”) Healthy Living Series: 3 Books in 1 Her latest publication is Solving the Gluten Puzzle. 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.