Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

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.

Episode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about the power of forgiveness in health and healing. Our guest is Wendie Pett, who is passionate about motivating people to make fitness and good nutrition part of their daily routine. Her goal is to help others get healthy and healed so they can fulfill their God-given mission. Quotables from the episode: We can’t show up to only be physically fit, but our mind must be fit as well. We often tell ourselves an old story that no longer serves us well. Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the lock to improving our health and wellbeing. We often look to fill a void that only Jesus can fill. Fear of change or feeling vulnerable often holds people back from becoming healthy and whole. We have to dispel the lies we tell ourselves. Be intentional about moving throughout the day. Your body is your best gym. Scripture References: Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! Recommended Resources: 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 Wendie Pett: Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / 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: Wendie Pett, is passionate about motivating people to make fitness and good nutrition part of their daily routine. She teaches the balance of mind, body and spirit through her Visibly Fit™ wellness program. Wendie has a nationally syndicated television program that airs every Saturday on the NRB Network, Upliftv, WLCN, and IBN Television. She contributes weekly on KTIS radio in the Twin Cities as ‘Coach Wendie’ and is a featured columnist in VEGWORLD Magazine, The Christian View, Best Ever You, Refreshed, Vegan Lifestyle, and Diet.com. Wendie is a full-time business owner, a naturopathic doctor, wife, mother, author, speaker, TV host, advisory board member for Christian Women in Media and part-time volunteer. Her business consists of whole-food/plant-based wellness coaching, emotional healing, personal online training, fitness planning, educational and motivational speaking, and creating new products/tools to assist clients along their wellness journey. After a major injury to her shoulder, she resorted to body weight resistance exercises for strength and healing and hasn’t turned back to any other form of training since. She has helped countless others reach their fitness goals without ever compromising their joints, tendons, or ligaments - teaching that Your Body Is Your Gym™! To learn more go to www.wendiepett.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: I don't know about you, but at times my prayer life gets a bit stale. Sometimes, I need to do something to elevate it a little bit and bring new life into my prayers. In this episode, I talk with Janet McHenry about her book, The Complete Guide to The Prayers of Jesus. Janet shares how when she began to walk and pray. It changed her life and it will change yours as well. Quotables from the episode: I began to realize that, you know, that I wasn’t the only one who had prayer needs. I could begin to open up my eyes around me and begin to intercede for others in prayer. I’ve prayer walked around the school campuses, to me that’s a huge focus. I prayer walk around the city offices and our county offices, and I know of lot of those people there as well. You begin to become more invested in your community. I remember walking with an elderly friend of mine, her name was June. She passed away some years ago. But well into her 80’s, she was still walking. One day she said, even in my own block, she said Janet, who lives there, and I said I don’t know and that’s a shame. I will find out. I realized as I was reading through the Bible and marking all these various instances in regard to prayer, that really, He (Jesus) is a prayer mentor. Even the disciples said, Lord, teach us how to pray. They didn’t know how to pray. They believed but they still didn’t know how to pray. I call my life an organic prayer life because it ebbs and flows all day long. Instead of having, thinking like well, I need to have 5 extra minutes today to pray and then check, it’s done. I don’t think it’s done. I think God wants more of us then just 5 minutes of our day. I want the sense that God is glorified because of who I am, not some magic formula prayer that I do once a day. Not some good act, here or there. Not because I may fast, oh my goodness, you know. Jesus simply encouraged us to have time with our Father and to desire that. You know that can be a huge desire of our lives simply to make our life reflective of the Father we love. Jesus embraced the trouble He was in. He still wanted God to be glorified through Him. As hard as that is, I say that’s a really hard prayer because we want the bad stuff to go away. We just want to be blessed. Lord, favor me. Lord, bless me. That was never Jesus’ prayer. He never said that. He said glorify Yourself in my life. I believe that God wants us to pray big. He says, “with man, this is impossible, but all things are possible with God.” I believe that is a teaching related to prayer. He said ask and you receive. He called people to bigger things, so I think that we are supposed to pray big and expect God to show up. In our inadequacies He will be made known and magnified. I have what I call Prayer Walking Eyes. So, as I see needs, I just immediately pray. You can pray and you know that God will hear your prayer and that it is having an effect. You can be a partner with God in the needs for the people around you, your family, the community.   Scripture Referenced: Matthew 6:9-13 NIV “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’" 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." Matthew 27:46 ESV "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Matthew 19:26 NIV Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”   Recommended Resources: The Complete Guide to the Prayers of Jesus: What He Prayed and How It Will Change Your Life Today The “Why” Prayer 20 Prayers for Anxiety, Worry and Fear to Usher in God’s Peace The Power of Praying in the Courtroom of Heaven Prayer of Trust: The Secret to Emotional Peace How to Use Scripture to Pray through Difficult Emotions – Episode 122 Why Doesn’t God Answer My Prayers? 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 Janet McHenry: 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 / Podcast   About Janet McHenry: including the best-selling PrayerWalk and her newest, The Complete Guide to the Prayers of Jesus: What He Prayed and How It Will Change Your Life Today (Bethany House). A former journalist and educator, she now writes full time from her home in the Sierra Valley, where her husband is a rancher and where they raised their four children. She coordinates the prayer ministries at The Bridge Church in Reno, where she annually organizes a prayerwalk for the schools. Janet enjoys connecting with folks on social media and invites others to contact her through her website, www.janetmchenry.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: We all want a peaceful Christmas, but, “life gets busy.” Sometimes we’re forced to slow down, and guess what? We discover we actually CAN let go of some of the tasks and duties that not only weigh us down, but also steal our peace. Last week, on episode 139 How To Let Go of the Anxiety and Overwhelm of the Holiday Season, we talked about the fact that in order to create a more peaceful holiday season, we need to remember who the source of our peace is. We also started talking about ways to recognize and reduce our expectations of ourselves and others in order to experience less worry and anxiety and more of His peace during the holidays. So often Paul addressed the people in his letters by saying “Grace and peace to you from God our father through Jesus Christ our Lord.” God wants us to experience His peace, But we cannot experience true peace apart from God’s presence.” So much worry, fear, and anxiety are a result of trying to maintain control of things that we cannot control. And we certainly cannot control others’ expectations. If all the holidays preparations are a burden to you, whose expectations are you trying to live up to? Consider sitting the family down to determine what expectations they have. If you didn’t do ____, it wouldn’t feel like Christmas to them. This could mean just sending digital Christmas cards instead of physically mailing cards. Or perhaps you reduce your baking to just baking the family’s absolute favorite treats. Consider lessening the amount of decorating you do to the favorite décor for your family. You might also consider cutting back on the holiday meals to just the favorite dishes or buying a precooked meal to reduce the stress you encounter during the holiday season. Limiting the gift giving not only simplifies things, but helps you be a good steward of what God has given you, and lets you enjoy people over presents. Assess why you do what you do? Is it because you’re trying to live up to someone else’s expectations? Is it bringing you joy or draining yourself of joy? In our gift giving, I think it’s so important to teach our children that Christmas isn’t about them, but about the greatest gift God could ever give in the birth of His son. And it’s great to take a lesson from the wisemen and limit our gift giving to those that are the most special way to communicate our love to each other. We try so hard to set the perfect table, cook the perfect meal, and give the perfect gifts. But one great gift to give others is to release them from our expectations of how they will respond. They will never live up to the expectations in our mind anyway. Another way to maintain peace during the holidays is to choose our focus. It’s crucial that we focus on maintaining our healthy routines during the holidays. Consider continuing to make time for a daily quiet time, getting in your regular exercise, make rest a priority, and eat well. But it’s also important to maintain a nightly routine: review your calendar for the next day or two so you aren’t taken by surprise the next day, record the new tasks that come up that must be completed, consider reading an advent reading or similar devotion each evening before going to bed, and pray thanking God for what He enabled you to do during the day and giving him your cares for all your tomorrows. Another way to choose our focus is to limit technology during the holiday season. It’ll free up your time to get some of the holiday specific tasks completed. Another way to choose our focus is to limit negativity, and negative inputs. Also consider helping those who are alone or are going through a hard time during the holidays. Even when you are feeling down, you’d be surprised how helping others will encourage your own heart and bring a sense of peace to your heart and mind. Quotables from the episode: We cannot experience true peace apart from God’s presence. In our gift giving, I think it’s so important to teach our children that Christmas isn’t about them, but about the greatest gift God could ever give in the birth of His son. Even when you are feeling down, you’d be surprised how helping others will encourage your own heart and bring a sense of peace to your heart and mind. Scripture References: Colossians 3:15 “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.” Isaiah 26:3 “He will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is stayed on thee.” Luke 6:31 “Do to others as you would like them to do to you.” Philippians 4:6-7 “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. THEN you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” 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 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 / Podcast About Dr. Michelle Bengtson Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, and the author of the bestselling, award winning “Hope Prevails: Insights From A Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression," the award winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” and the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises.” She has been a board certified clinical neuropsychologist for more than twenty years. This doctor knows pain and despair firsthand and combines her professional expertise and personal experience with her faith to help others be all God created them to be. Using sound practical tools, she affirms worth and encourages faith. Dr. Bengtson offers hope as a key to unlock joy and relief—even in the middle of the storm. She and her husband of thirty-two years have two teenage sons and reside in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. She blogs regularly on her own site: http://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com and is on most social media platforms. She is also a popular podcast show host of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” at   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: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: To order Hope Prevails: https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-book/ Website: https://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com Blog: https://drmichellebengtson.com/category/blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrMichelleBengtson Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrMBengtson (@DrMBengtson) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/DrMichelleBengtson/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmichellebengtson/ Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/Drbhopeprevails/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MichelleBengtson Radio Show Host:  http://graceandtruthradio.world/shows/your-hope-filled-perspective/ Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, and the author of the bestselling, award winning “Hope Prevails: Insights From A Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression," the award winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” and the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises.” She has been a board certified clinical neuropsychologist for more than twenty years. This doctor knows pain and despair firsthand and combines her professional expertise and personal experience with her faith to help others be all God created them to be. Using sound practical tools, she affirms worth and encourages faith. Dr. Bengtson offers hope as a key to unlock joy and relief—even in the middle of the storm. She and her husband of thirty-two years have two teenage sons and reside in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. She blogs regularly on her own site: http://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com and is on most social media platforms. She is also a popular podcast show host of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” at https://apple.co/2madPRo 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: What if I told you that you really can let go of the anxiety and overwhelm of the holiday season with some simple ways to create more peace? It’s true. My husband, Scott, and I have been there and we’re sharing some simple changes that will help you celebrate Christmas from a peaceful place. The holidays are a busy time where we experience an increase in stress, commitments, and chaos. But what we really want is to be able to experience the holiday joy while keeping our peace. Helpful Tips to Enjoy the Holiday Season with Peace: Don’t we all desire a more peaceful holiday season? From November first until the decorations come down sometime in January, and then the credit card bills start coming in, stress and anxiety rise and with it, our peace dwindles. What a shame when the reason for the holiday is the celebration of the Prince of Peace. Sometimes we go into the holidays with expectations we have of ourselves, expectations we have of others, and feeling the weight of expectations others have of us. After my mother died, I felt the weight of being the new matriarch of the family, and the pressure to do things the way my mother had done it. But over time, I realized that living up to those spoken or unspoken expectations was stealing my peace and joy during a time when the commercials and Hallmark movies tell us should be the most wonderful time of the year. 1) It’s so crucial that we remember who the source of our peace is. If we were to really understand the nature of God, not only would we not have to worry about peace, but all the other worldly concerns we have would go away. Jesus came not just as our savior, but also the Prince of Peace. In my newest book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises,” one of the chapters talks about “God Is” our peace. We sacrifice our peace when we take our eyes off God and put our focus on the circumstances going on around us. A regular discipline of spending time with God and in His word, will remind us of who we are in Him. During the holiday season before you do any of the holiday tasks, take a moment, stop where you are and mentally go through the list of who you are and who the source of your peace is. When we realize how much God cares for us, and the fact that nothing takes Him by surprise, we can rest in His peace. One way to remember the source of peace, is remembering Jesus only had three years on this earth to complete his heavenly mission, his kingdom assignment. Yet, we never saw Jesus running from appointment to appointment. He walked everywhere, and He walked at the pace God set for Him. We sacrifice our peace because we make a long list of to do’s that we think we must get done each day. We can get caught up in anxiety when we think of all the demands we put on ourselves. Yet Jesus said His yoke is easy and His burden is light. What if we started off the day asking God what HE wants us to do today? We’ve been invited to participate in the ministry of reconciliation. It’s something we get to do. Sometimes the most important thing on our agenda is seeing the people around us. 2) It’s important to assess and reduce our expectations on ourselves and others. We can try so hard to buy the perfect gift, to cook the perfect meal, or set the most elegant dinner table. But we cannot control how others will respond to our best efforts. In the familiar story about Jesus visiting Mary and Martha, I’m grateful that Jesus didn’t say that what Martha was doing wasn’t important. In fact, scripture said that Martha was doing the preparations that needed to be done. But Martha sacrificed her peace by worrying about all the details, whereas Mary kept her peace because she made Jesus her priority. Too often we continue rituals and traditions because we feel like that’s what is expected of us. But when we do, we sacrifice our peace. We want to spend time around the table not focused on the details, but on creating memories for our families to enjoy. Quotables from the episode: To enjoy a more peaceful holiday season, it’s crucial that we remember the source of our peace Sometimes we preach the loudest just by taking time for the person in front of us. To enjoy a more peaceful holiday season, It’s important to assess and reduce our expectations on ourselves and others. Scripture References: Isaiah 9:6 “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Luke 10:40-42 “But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’ ‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’” 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 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 / Podcast Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, and the author of the bestselling, award winning “Hope Prevails: Insights From A Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression," the award winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study,” and the award-winning “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises.” She has been a board certified clinical neuropsychologist for more than twenty years. This doctor knows pain and despair firsthand and combines her professional expertise and personal experience with her faith to help others be all God created them to be. Using sound practical tools, she affirms worth and encourages faith. Dr. Bengtson offers hope as a key to unlock joy and relief—even in the middle of the storm. She and her husband of thirty-two years have two teenage sons and reside in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. She blogs regularly on her own site: http://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com and is on most social media platforms. She is also a popular podcast show host of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” at https://apple.co/2madPRo 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: Danna Demetre and I talk about seeing our health and body from God’s perspective. God wants us to be healthy so we can live out His purpose for our lives. How do we change our mindset so that we can look at our physical body and health and wellbeing as God does? Quotables from the episode: We aren’t defined by an eating disorder, what we eat or what we look like. There’s a misconception that if we are a Christian we should be able to control this. The fear of death made me wonder “what will happen when I die?” and that lead me to find God. Even if you don’t know God, He still knows you. In Christian circles, food seems to be the “acceptable addiction.” We need to stop turning to food to be our comforter instead of Christ. Ask God, “please shine a light in the dark corners of my life on what isn’t healthy.” We need to forget about self-confidence and have Christ confidence. God wants us to be healthy so we can live out His purpose for our lives. We need to spend more time wallowing in grace than in shame. One way of worshipping is by taking care of our bodies. Follow the trail of your persistent negative thoughts and emotions and ask God what He has to say about them and you. Do the right things for the right reason and trust God with the results. Scripture References: Romans 12:1-2 NASB: “Present your body as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. This is your spiritual act of service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJ “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and a sound mind.” Recommended Resources: Revive & Thrive Fall Virtual Women’s Conference Eat, Live, Thrive Diet: a Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up your Midlife Metabolism by Danna Demetre and Robyn Thomson Health Rules We Need to Break for Our Good – Episode 133 How Does Exercise Reduce Stress? Hope for Healthy Living – Episode 65 How To Give Yourself GRACE in Your Health 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 Danna Demetre: Lean Healthy Ageless Website / Eat Live Thrive Diet Website / Facebook / YouTube / 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 / Podcast About Danna Demtre A former registered nurse, Danna Demetre has been a popular retreat and conference speaker for over 25 years. She’s the author of several books to include her latest – Eat Live Thrive Diet – co-authored with Robyn Thomson. Women all over the country are praising their biblical and practical approach to health and weight loss as they discover how to lose weight and improve their health in a way that is realistic and sustainable. Danna and Robyn share weekly posts and videos addressing issues of concern to women covering body, soul and spirit. Their online virtual and live coaching program, Eat Live Thrive Academy, helps women discover a path to victory over unhealthy habits. 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 only get one life to live, and we don’t want to take it for granted. In this episode, my friend, Tracie Miles, and I talk about how to find joy when life is hard, how to trust God in difficult times, how to live life unbroken and how to reclaim your life and your heart after difficult circumstances like separation and divorce. Tracie is an author, speaker, and Director of COMPEL training for Proverbs 31 ministries. She has walked through several difficult valleys in recent years and took the time to share not only the journey she has been on, but how she learned to cope and find joy again. Quotables from the episode: To learn to trust God more, we have to open our eyes to watching Him work around us. Often, it’s in the looking back that we see God was faithful, even when we can’t feel it in the moment. God doesn’t put a timetable on our grief. One of the stages of grief is acceptance. It doesn’t mean we like what has happened but we accept that God will use it in His perfect plan. It’s okay to feel anger when you’ve been mistreated, but we want to ask God to free us of anger so bitterness and resentment don’t take root in our hearts. The end of your marriage is not the end of you. Ask God for spiritual eyesight to see His hand at work in your life. Scripture References: Psalm 46:1-2 God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Isaiah 41:10 “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Recommended Resources: Living Unbroken: Reclaiming Your Life and Your Heart after Divorce by Tracie Miles Love Life Again: Finding Joy When Life is Hard by Tracie Miles Unsinkable Faith: God-Filled Strategies for Transforming the Way You Think, Feel and Live by Tracie Miles Your Life Still Counts: How God Uses Your Past To Create A Beautiful Future by Tracie Miles Stressed Less Living: Finding God's Peace In Your Chaotic World by Tracie Miles How Testimonies in the Bible Bolster Your Faith During Hard Times Trusting God in Hard Times -7 Lessons Learned 5 Tips to Cope with the Hard Times Never Alone: 15 Bible Verses When You Feel Alone 10 Scriptures for When You Need Strength 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 Tracie Miles: Website / Facebook / Facebook Community / Instagram / 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 / Podcast About Tracie Miles Tracie Miles is a national Speaker and Author with Proverbs 31 Ministries. She is the author of four best-selling books, Unsinkable Faith: God-Filled Strategies for Transforming the Way You Think, Feel and Live. (2017), Your Life Still Counts: How God Uses Your Past To Create A Beautiful Future (2014) and Stressed Less Living: Finding God's Peace In Your Chaotic World (2012). Love Life Again: Finding Joy When Life is Hard released in 2018. Tracie is a contributing author to the popular Zondervan NIV Women’s Devotional Bible, and the Proverbs 31 Encouragement for Today Daily Devotional Book, in addition to being a monthly contributing writer for the Proverbs 31 Ministries Encouragement for Today daily devotions which reach over one million people per day around the globe. In addition to her speaking and writing, Tracie is the Director of COMPEL Training at Proverbs 31 Ministries, has 3 adult children and lives in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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: Christine Trimpe and I talk about preparing our hearts for the advent season and the Christmas holiday. My guest is a former casual Christian who is now passionate about God’s word and just released a book about how we can seek joy through the gospel of Luke as we prepare for the advent season. Quotables from the episode: Advent is the great expectation and anticipation for the birth of our Savior You can do anything hard for 21 days, so let’s expand it to 24 days and intentionally celebrate the advent season The gospel of Luke shows us how relatable Jesus is to us Scripture References: Luke 2:19 “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” Hebrews 12:1–3 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Luke 24:52–53 Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God. Recommended Resources: Seeking Joy through the Gospel of Luke: A Christmas to Calvary Advent Countdown by Christine Trimpe Free Bonus Chapters of Seeking Joy through the Gospel of Luke Weight-Loss Hero: Transform Your Mind and Your Body with a Healthy Keto Lifestyle by Christine Carter 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 Christine Trimpe: Website Christine Trimpe / Website Joyful Keto Life / YouTube / Instagram / Twitter / Facebook Christine Trimpe / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast About Christine Trimpe: Christine Trimpe is a former casual Christian who is now passionate about Christ, coffee, and connecting one-on-one with you for some joy-centered conversation. Christine’s transformation story and victory over obesity and chronic illness of her body, mind, and spirit will inspire you to strengthen your own joy-fueled adventure with Jesus. She’s been where you’ve been, where you are, or where you want to be through seasons of trials, tribulations, and triumphs. Whether you need physical, emotional, or spiritual healing, she encourages you to delight in God’s Word daily for lasting life transformation to step up and into God's calling in your 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.