Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary: In this episode, I talk with Elisa Pulliam about how we can know Jesus better, gain insight and wisdom through believing God’s word, and what it truly means to live by faith, Unblinded Faith. Quotables from the episode: “Unblinded Faith is both for those who have never met Jesus before and want to know, who is God and how do you get to know Him, and what is His truth. But I think there’s too many of us that as believers that live blinded, we don’t see by faith what God has for us. And so, it was kind of a, two pillars, is the best way to describe it.” “I was trying to live out the hope of Christ, the story of Christ, the promises of God, without allowing them to apply to everything I had already been through in my past…” “My life has been built upon the principles of what I call trap and transform. So, trap is ‘take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ’ which is 2 Corinthians 10:5 and then transform is Romans 12:2, ‘be transformed by the renewing of your mind.’” “How do we get ourselves into God’s Word and have a deeper desire to have a fresh encounter with God every day, not just for the past but for the now and the future?” “I began to realize that the foundational principles of God’s sovereignty, His faithfulness, His kindness, His anger, His wrath, all of it, was shaped through the 18 years that we lived at the boarding school and because of that many of the truths that I was drawn to write about had stories that were related to those years where we lived there.” What can a reader expect when she reads this book? “That people would not walk away feeling like they knew me better but that they knew Jesus better.” How is this devotional different from others? “My hope would be that it creates a pattern for women to end Unblinded Faith and say, hey, I can continue to do this on my own in the Word. And at the same time, it provides a tool for when they’re feeling flat, and distant from God and they feel lost, they can pull it out and say I’m going to go through this again and she what God has for me next time” “You don’t get spiritually connected to God if you don’t connect with God” “I would like to see women walk away and realize that they’ve seen Him move in their life in a new way that they wouldn’t have seen, because they weren’t previously looking.” Scripture Referenced: 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.” Romans 12:2 “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Recommended Resources: Unblinded Faith: Gaining Spiritual Insight Through Believing God’s Word by Elisa Pulliam  Impact Together: Biblical Mentoring Simplified by Elisa Pulliam  Brave Together: Devoted to God and Each Other by Elisa Pulliam  Journey to Freedom: A Bible Study on Identity for Teen Girls by Elisa Pulliam Meet the New You: A 21-Day Plan for Embracing Fresh Attitudes and Focused Habits for Real Life Change by Elisa Pulliam Holy Whole: Guiding You Into Wellness Through Wholehearted Devotion to God by Elisa Pulliam  Do You Struggle to Believe God? Revive & Thrive Online Women's Conference Trusting God through Cancer 1  Trusting God through Cancer 2 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 Elisa Pulliam: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book HopePrevails /  Website  /  Blog  / Facebook / Facebook Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn /  Instagram  / Pinterest / YouTube   Guest: Elisa Pulliam is passionate about helping women experience a fresh encounter with God and His Word for the sake of impacting the next generation with Kingdom Hope. Her latest book, “Unblinded Faith: Gaining Spiritual Sight through Believing God’s Word,” is described as “more than a devotional, it’s a tool for growing deep spiritual roots.” Elisa is the founder of More to Be, a ministry devoted to equipping women with biblical resources, coaching, and mentor training. She also is the owner of the Kaleo Agency, and as a creative strategist, she helps female entrepreneurs, coaches, and writers develop their brand marketing in order to convey their message and maximize their mission with ease. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Every year the holidays bring stress, chaos, and disorganization when one considers all the additional to-do’s added to our already over-crowded days and schedules. Today we’re going to be talking about how to get organized and simplify your holidays with holiday pro, Marcia Ramsland.   Quotables from the episode: Getting organized is something that can be learned and will save you time, give you focus, and mental clarity. It’s always too early to start preparing until it’s too late to begin! So start your holiday preparations now. Part of what makes our holidays stressful is the fact that we already fill our days 24x7, then have to add more to our schedules for the holidays Simplifying our holidays and our lives starts with decreasing our expectations The problem with the poverty in the world is not God’s provision but our distribution.  Scripture References: Proverbs 13:4 “The sluggish crave and have nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.” Proverbs 14:1 “A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.” Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”   Recommended Resources: 8 Week Online course: “Simplify Your Holiday Season” to take the stress out of the holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Simplify Your Holiday Season by Marcia Ramsland  Simplify Your Holidays: A Christmas Planner to Use Year After Year by Marcia Ramsland  Simply December Devotions by Marcia Ramsland  Ways to Create a More Peaceful Holiday Season – Part 1 ep 35 Ways to Create More Peace During the Holidays – Part 2 ep 36 How to Stress Less at Christmas ep 88 Simplify Your Space: Create Order & Reduce Stress by Marcia Ramsland  Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay That Way by Marcia Ramsland  Organizing Your Workspace for a Productivity Boost (Instant Insights) by Marcia Ramsland  Simplify Your Time by Marcia Ramsland  Free Time Tracker: Marcia’s Famous 168 Hour Time Tracker (scroll down to the Better Homes and Gardens magazine cover) Revive & Thrive Online Women's Conference Trusting God through Cancer 1  Trusting God through Cancer 2 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 Marcia Ramsland: Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn / Website   For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book HopePrevails /  Website  /  Blog  / Facebook / Facebook Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn /  Instagram  / Pinterest / YouTube   Guest: Marcia Ramsland is well known as The Leading Online Organizing Coach, a Business Productivity Expert, and author of the Simplify Your Life: Get Organized and Stay that Way book series, which has sold over 100,000 copies. Marcia is a nationally recognized media guest appearing in Woman’s Day and Real Simple magazines, the Wall Street Journal, and Martha Stewart radio. Marcia believes anyone can become more organized – even you – with the Motivation, Momentum, and Mastery which she provides in her Online Courses and Fast Track Coaching! 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: Amy Connell and I talk about health “rules” we’ve heard but need to be broken for our good! Not all health rules are healthy. Amy is a personal trainer on a mission to help women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect. Your body is worthy of being taken care of! The reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do.   Quotables from the episode: Am I taking care of my body the way God wants me to? Perfection will enslave us when it comes to taking care of our bodies. There are certain health “rules” we’ve all heard that need to be broken, for our good. Our mindset is our fall back when things don’t go right, so we have to have an appropriate mindset about our health and wellness. I’m taking care of my body so I can do what God calls me to do. When it comes to health and wellness, something is better than nothing. We tend to self-sabotage ourselves with respect to our health and wellness through perfectionism, all or nothing thinking, and trying to do too much at once. The moment we become slave to our to-do list, it becomes detrimental to our well-being. Working towards better health is NOT a waste of time even when we don’t lose weight. Your body is worthy of being taken care of. There is no perfect body! Scripture References: 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.” Galatians 1:10 NIV “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”   Recommended Resources: Your Worthy Body: Find Freedom in Health by Breaking All the Rules by Amy Connell The Joy of Movement by Dr. Kelly McGonical, Ph.D. How To Give Yourself GRACE in Your Health Hope for Healthy Living – Episode 65 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: To connect with Amy Connell: Website / Instagram / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube   Guest: Amy Connell is an NASM Certified Personal Trainer and has been in the fitness industry almost 15 years. She’s a recovering step counter and an imperfect eater living in God’s perfect grace. Amy encourages women to strive for balanced, sustainable health and appreciate their God-created bodies, no matter what that looks like. She lives in the Houston, TX area with her husband, two always-hungry teen boys, and her stray-turned-princess put bull named Grace.   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: Niki Hardy and I talk about thriving not just surviving when life falls apart. Niki has faced times of loss, grief and cancer and discovered how to live well when life falls apart. She shares what God taught her through her experiences. One thing she learned is you can breathe again and thrive! Quotables from the episode: Too often we want God to give us revelation, when what we really need is realization. Often our beliefs limit us through personalization, permanence, and pervasiveness. The abundant life isn’t in the future waiting for us. God gave us to enjoy right now. Don’t wait for life to improve to live it fully. Live life to the full today. In times of suffering, lean in, not lean away. Too often we act as if heaven is pie in the sky, but the truth is we can have cake on our plate while we wait. God not only loves you, He likes you. Scripture References: John 10:10 NIV I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Psalm 62:1-2 Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. Recommended Resources: Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart by Niki Hardy Listening Guide for the Freshly Diagnosed Audio How to Handle anything Life Throws at You 10 Day audio devotion Grab a couple of free chapters of her book HERE Register for her FREE Trusting God Through Cancer Summit HERE Trials that Strengthen our Faith Two Essential Tips for Navigating Life’s Trials When Things Seem Hopeless What To Do When Trials Come Storms of Life: You’re Meant To Go Through, Not Camp Out There 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: To connect with Niki Hardy: 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: Niki Hardy is an author, speaker, podcast host, and lover of hot buttered toast. As the author of Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart and host of the podcast Chemo Chair Prayers, her goal is to help you discover life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full, then go live it. 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 the tie between self-sufficiency and our fear of inadequacy. My guest today is Erica Wiggenhorn who knows what it’s like to live under the shadow of the imposter syndrome, but who has learned how to untangle herself from the fear of inadequacy and let God be enough for her. She shares how she did it. Quotables from the episode: Early on in my faith walk, I cried out, “Jesus, how am I supposed to follow you if I don’t understand you?” We have multiple barometers of success, but if it isn’t based in what God says about us, we will continue striving until we are exhausted. The imposter syndrome is when you feel like a fraud or a fake and are waiting to fail and be rejected. When we feel like an imposter, inwardly we isolate and that creates a setup for great loneliness. Rather than striving, we have to rest in who God is and who He says we are. When I face circumstances in this life that are overwhelmingly huge I will know for a fact that I’m not enough and I’m not supposed to be God is enough. When I stop striving to be enough to everyone and in everything and allow God to be enough, I surrender in trust over to Him. When I make peace with my limitations, I find peace in my relationships. No human can thwart a divine plan. God’s plan doesn’t rest on our performance but on His promises. God is faithful to fill in our gaps. Our limitations provide an invitation for His limitless power. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 3:5 NASB “Not that we are adequate in ourselves so as to consider anything as having come from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God. Exodus 3:11 ESV But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharoah and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV 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 of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon Me.  Recommended Resources: Free eBook set The Busy Woman’s Bundle to Grow Closer to God Letting God Be Enough: Why Striving Keeps You Stuck and How Surrender Sets You Free by Erica Wiggenhorn Unexplainable Jesus: Rediscovering the God You Thought You Knew by Erica Wiggenhorn An Unexplainable Life by Erica Wiggenhorn The Unexplainable Church by Erica Wiggenhorn Who God Says You Are: 17 Scriptures About Our True Identity Finding Your Identity in Christ: 20 Truths from God’s Word Lies We Believe vs. Truths From The Bible About Our Identity – Episode 100 Our Identity in Christ is Certain Hope for Living in our True Identity in Christ – Episode 38 Remember Who You Are: 10 Scriptures to Remind You of Your True Identity Revive and Thrive Summit 1 Revive and Thrive Summit 2 Revive and Thrive Summit 3/4 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 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 Host and Guest: To connect with Erica Wiggenhorn: 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: Erica Wiggenhorn is an award-winning author and the founder of Every Life Ministries, bringing you the truths of Scripture to transform your life. By digging deeply into God’s Word, Every Life Ministries encourages you to discover your unique purpose, accept God’s promises, and live by His power. Erica is the author of three Bible studies released by Moody Publishers: An Unexplainable Life, The Unexplainable Church, and Unexplainable Jesus: Rediscovering the God you Thought You Knew. Her latest release Letting God be Enough: Why Striving Keeps You Stuck and How Surrender Sets You Free just hit the shelves. Erica’s first trade book through Moody Publishers examines Moses’ fear of inadequacy and how God invites Moses to rest in his identity and God’s sufficiency. Erica serves on the women’s ministry leadership team for her church and regularly teaches in various venues. She’s also taught women in the Arizona State Prison system, and overseas. She loves to bring God’s Word to anyone who’ll listen whether it’s a large women’s conference, a church women’s retreat, or her own kitchen table. A graduate and post-graduate of Azusa Pacific University, Erica lives in Phoenix with her husband, Jonathan, and their four children only two of which are human, and the others furry and adorable. You can connect with her and find out more about her ministry at ericawiggenhorn.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: Amy Joob and I talk about how to get unstuck in life and move forward into the season God has for you. Amy Joob and her husband found themselves stuck in the recent pandemic and made the successful transition into a new path for their careers and ministry. She shares what she learned in the process. Quotables from the episode: One of the keys to getting unstuck and moving forward is to be humble and accept help. Give yourself permission to grieve your losses. Getting unstuck requires being willing to change and adapt, in faith. When you’re really feeling stuck, consider a time of fasting and prayer. Getting unstuck often requires being intentional and willing to do something completely different. Getting unstuck requires us to surrender to God’s will and His way. Loss of favor in an old place of position may be a sign it’s time to step into the new. In the midst of pain, invite Jesus in to meet you in your pain. Scripture References: Psalm 73:23-24 NLT “Yet, I still belong to you; you are holding my right hand. You will keep on guiding me with your counsel; leading me to a glorious destiny.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Recommended Resources: Amy’s new 40-Day Prayer Journal, Unstuck: Step Into the New by Amy Joob Model Behavior: Make Your Career Path Your Calling by Amy Joob The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson Fasting by Jentezen Franklin Fasting Edge by Jentezen Franklin The New Era by Lana Vawser Revive and Thrive Summit 1 Revive and Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 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 Host and Guest: To connect with Amy Joob: Website / Facebook / Instagram / 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: Amy is a motivational speaker and an award winning author of Model Behavior: Make Your Career Path Your Calling (Redemption Press, 2019). Amy and her family are passionate about advocacy and she is the host of Support Someone Saturday, a podcast that highlights charities, ministries and non-profits across Chicago and the US. Amy and Eric live in the Chicago suburbs, have been married for over 20 years and are parents to Arianna and Asthton. Amy’s new 40-Day Prayer Journal, Unstuck: Step Into the New  released on September 22, 2021. She hopes her family’s story will inspire you to get unstuck and move into the new season God has for you! 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 talk to author Kelly Balarie about how to train your mind to conquer challenges, defeat doubt, and live victoriously in a world where we have a very real enemy and we must always be battle ready. Quotables from the episode: “A simple girl who loves Jesus and who is just fighting on her own to figure out all of this with God and to learn these battle lessons.’ “We know God is the one who validates us.” “Our thoughts are everything. Our thoughts really are our life. If our thoughts go off kilter, our life goes off kilter which is what I was experiencing.” "We are all in a fight to receive God’s best for ourselves.” “It’s easy to make an idol out of an outcome.” “I don’t need an outcome to define who I am. I’m fully loved, I’m adored, I’m chosen, God is with me, God is using me.” “You have to go into the discovery with God. He wants to unveil to you who you really are. And so that’s the joy, that’s really what our joy is.” “I’ve got to find out the strategies, and the weapons and the tools and the insights and the wisdom and the new thoughts so that rather than letting myself be hit by the enemy all the time, and just sucker punched behind my house, I’m going to learn how to respond on offense rather defense, proactively rather than reactively and with my every emotion.” “It’s not impossible to live victoriously, we can do it. It’s a fight but God equips us with peace to do it.” “I need to adjust my game a little and so this book helps us all to get into the right game so that we can really live victoriously.” “I am at peace; I am not anxious; I am strong; I am believing what I never have before, and this is real.” “We get our mind in line with Jesus; we become Battle Ready. “ “The truth is all the power belongs to God and all the grace is His so He loves us when we do and He loves us when we don’t. right. And humility is not what we do for God or how much we give to others, yea, like that might be a by-product of humility but true humility is saying, I love you so much Jesus, I love you so much God, I want to be with you and receive from you.” “Let’s focus on what matters. Let’s get after the real depths of what brings contentment to our hearts.” “It’s time now, ladies, for us to rise up like we never have before. You know what, it’s time, it’s time for us to believe for who God says we are; it’s time for us to love like we never have; it’s time for us to know how much God loves us.” Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  Recommended Resources: Battle Ready: Train Your Mind to Conquer Challenges, Defeat Doubt, and Live Victoriously by Kelly Balarie Fear Fighting: Awakening Courage to Overcome Your Fears by Kelly Balarie Rest Now: 7 Ways to Say No, Set Boundaries, and Seize Joy by Kelly Balarie Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award How To Fight Fearful Thoughts and Win 5 Battle Tools to Help in Hard Moments How to Effectively Fight Fearful Thoughts Ask Dr. B: How To Combat Fearful Thoughts How to Control Worry, Fear, and Anxiety to Keep Your Peace Fear or Faith: You Choose Your Rx: 40 Scriptures that Combat Worry, Fear, Anxiety and Panic 5 Truths to Defeat Fear Social Media Links for Host and Guest: To connect with Kelly Balarie: Website / Facebook / Twitter For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Kelly Balarie is a speaker, blogger, and author of the books Fear Fighting, Battle Ready, and Rest Now. She comes alongside women to help them live wholeheartedly, rather than in uncertainty, fear, and doubt. When Kelly is not writing, she is chilling at the beach with her husband, a latte, and two young children who rightfully demand she build them awesome sandcastles. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: In this episode, I talk with Karisa Moore about finding hope after losing a loved one to suicide. Karisa lost her oldest son to suicide in 2014. As a mental health professional, this is a topic we don't talk about enough. When we don't talk about it, the enemy uses that to keep us isolated, feeling alone, and in despair. Quotables from the episode: Even when we are in our darkest days and have no idea what to pray, we can take comfort knowing God’s spirit intercedes for us. If you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, consider joining a support group, attending Grief Share classes, and getting Biblical counseling. Grief is a dance we don’t want, but we can grieve with hope. Shock is a gift, a cushion to help us process our loss. There is power and a gift in the differences in how we each grieve. If you’re in the pit of depression and don’t want to get up, determine your “non-negotiables,” those things you promise yourself you’ll do despite your feelings. Scripture References: Romans 8:34-35, NIV: “Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died--more than that, who was raised to life--is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” Hebrews 11:1, KJV: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Ephesians 6:10-12 ESV: “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Recommended Resources: Broken Butterflies: Emerging Through Grief, A Suicide Survivor’s Poetic Journal by Karisa Moore Suicide Risk in Children and Teens The Sadness Behind Suicide Hope for Recovery for Suicide Attempt Survivors – Episode 49 Hope When You Have Thoughts of Suicide – Episode 22 Hope When a Suicide Attempt Feels Like the Only Option Hope after a Failed Suicide Attempt – Episode 21 Teenage Suicide: The Girl in the Hoodie 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: To connect with Karisa Moore: Website / Facebook / Twitter For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Karisa Moore speaks on the unspeakable as a result of her oldest son’s suicide. She embraces life alongside her husband and two living children by taking hikes, photography, and sharing great stories. Karisa is the author of Broken Butterflies: Emerging Through Grief, A Suicide Survivor’s Poetic Journal, and a blogger at Turning the Page on Suicide. 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: Lori Wildenberg and I talk about hope for helping your child overcome anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation. Lori almost lost her daughter to death by suicide and shares with us what she’s learned. Our passion often comes from our own hurts and trials. Her daughter suffered from anxiety, depression and a failed suicide attempt. They now help others either prevent or work through really hard circumstances. Quotables from the episode: Even those parts of our lives that are messy and embarrassing can be used by God to help others. Resiliency is a human quality. While hope is a supernatural quality made up of something greater than us. Yet we need both hope and resiliency. Comparison, competition, and instant gratification are all hope busters. Delayed gratification, connection to others, humor, and a proper perspective are all hope builders. If you suspect your child is suffering from anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation, ask them if they are thinking of hurting themselves, so you don’t have to ask ‘Why didn’t they tell me?’ Scripture References: Hebrews 6:19 (NIV) We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. John 16:33 (NIV) I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.  Recommended Resources: Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression, or Suicidal Ideation by Lori Wildenberg Messy Journey: How Grace and Truth Offer the Prodigal a Way Home by Lori Wildenberg 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: To connect with Lori Wildenberg: Website / Author Facebook Page / Facebook Community Moms Together / Facebook Group Moms Together / Instagram Lori / Instagram Moms Together / Podcast 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: Helping families create connections that last a lifetime is Lori Wildenberg’s passion. Lori, wife to Tom, mom of 4, and Mimi to 1, shares her stories of failures and successes, in her books and talks, to encourage and equip parents. As a licensed parent and family educator, she leads the Moms Together Facebook group and page and co-hosts the Moms Together Podcast. The Wildenberg home is nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. 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: Lori Wildenberg and I talk about hope for parents who have a prodigal child or whose child is making decisions we wouldn’t wish for them. We have a vision of where we hope our children will go and how we hope they will follow the Lord. We hope they live a life that is God’s best for them. What do you do when the person you love, a sibling, or child has stepped off the expected path? How do you build the bridge and keep connections going in the midst of a prodigal situation? Quotables from the episode: We are to raise our kids according to who God created and gifted them to be. Sometimes when we or our kids veer off the expected path, God will use that as a spiritual journey to ultimately strengthen our/their faith and our/their relationship to Him. Instead of asking why our prodigal child went their own way, instead ask God, “how should I respond to this situation?” It’s important that we teach our children that behaviors have consequences, but those consequences are not tied to our love for them. Our love is unconditional. When you have a prodigal child, always keep working on building a bridge in that relationship, and keep respect in that relationship in order to keep the relationship open. When you have a prodigal child, ask God “do you want me to chase after them or continue waiting while you’re at work in them?” Scripture References: Psalm 37:3-5, 23-24 NLT “Trust in the Lord and do good. They you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you…The Lord directs the steps of the godly He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.” Proverbs 22:6 ESV “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Psalm 118:5-6, 17, 29 NLT “In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?...I will not die; instead, I will live to tell what the Lord has done…Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Recommended Resources: Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression, or Suicidal Ideation by Lori Wildenberg Messy Journey: How Grace and Truth Offer the Prodigal a Way Home by Lori Wildenberg 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: To connect with Lori Wildenberg: Website / Author Facebook Page / Facebook Community Moms Together / Facebook Group Moms Together / Instagram Lori / Instagram Moms Together / Podcast 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: Helping families create connections that last a lifetime is Lori Wildenberg’s passion. Lori, wife to Tom, mom of 4, and Mimi to 1, shares her stories of failures and successes, in her books and talks, to encourage and equip parents. As a licensed parent and family educator, she leads the Moms Together Facebook group and page and co-hosts the Moms Together Podcast. The Wildenberg home is nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. 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.