Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk about how to train your brain to trust God. Our guest, Kris Reece, is an expert in this area and will be sharing practical tips with us for learning how to renew our minds, take our thoughts captive and train our brain. Quotables from the episode: God is the one who does the transforming BY the renewing of our mind. Renewing our mind begins with addressing thoughts that are not life-giving. To take our thoughts captive we have to interrogate them to determine where they are coming from. Our thoughts come from one of three places: God (who prompts and convicts), Satan (who pressures and condemns), or us (often from our past experiences) If a thought does not come from God, I don’t want that thought. It helps me to know what the Bible says, and then to put it into my own words so I can apply it to that situation and remember it later. God never gives us more hard work—the enemy does that. God reveals the areas that need renewal, by our reactions to situations. Oversized reactions indicate our internal thought processes. Our reaction is our responsibility. Scripture References: 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.” Ephesians 4:23 “Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.” 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.” Recommended Resources: Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer Who Switched Off My Brain by Caroline Leaf Build a Beautiful Life Out of Broken Pieces by Kris Reece Make it Matter—A Roadmap to Living a Life of Purpose by Kris Reece A Free 5 Day Created With Purpose Devotional A Free Guide “Uncover Your God Given Purpose” 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 Dr. Kris Reece: Website / Facebook / Instagram / 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: Kris Reece holds a Ph.D in Christian Counseling and a Masters Degree in Theology. As a Counselor, Coach, Author and practical Bible Teacher, her passion is to help others defeat life’s devils, grow in their faith, and become everything they were created to be. 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: So many women struggle to call God Father because they have never known a Father that was good. Today’s guest, Tanya Glanzman, struggled in that respect as well until God revealed His vast love for her, and now she knows that she is her Heavenly Father’s daughter. In today’s episode, we talk about what it truly means to embrace our identity as a child of God. Quotables from the episode: When life isn’t stable, God is faithful and unchanging in His love, mercy, and grace. We can always run boldly to His throne of grace. God is sure, steadfast, and unchanging. It is critical to embrace God’s truth and filter every situation through that. Understanding love is the catalyst to trust we are saved and forgiven and chosen to be used by God. Forgiveness is releasing a person from the debt they owe. There’s nothing God calls us to do that isn’t for our good. Precious Daughter, look to your Abba Father for your value and worth - dig into the truth of His Word to discover Who He says you are in and through Christ and who He longs to be for you because of His love for you. Allow the truth of God’s Word to be the filter through which every thought you think flows. When your thoughts do not align with the truth of what God’s Word says, begin to reject the lies that have been offered to you through others and instead replace those lies with the truth that will set you free. Scripture References: Psalm 27:10 NKJV When my father and my mother forsake me, Then the LORD will take care of me  Hebrews 13:8  Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Romans 2:11 KJV For there is no respect of persons with God.  Psalm 147:3 NKJV He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds.  Recommended Resources: My Father’s Daughter: Embracing Your Identity as a Daughter of the King by Tanya Glanzman, LPC Our Identity in Christ is Certain Hope for Living in Our True Identity in Christ Who God Says You Are: 17 Scriptures About Our True Identity Remember Who You Are: 10 Scriptures to Remind You of Your True Identity 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 Tanya Glanzman: Podcast / Website / Twitter / Instagram / Facebook 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: A graduate from Liberty University, Tanya Glanzman, LPC is passionate about helping others live the life of freedom, joy and peace Christ died for them to have. She has experience offering individual, marital, family and group counseling. She works with a variety of populations and issues, specializing in women’s trauma recovery. As a survivor of traumatic childhood abuse, her heart is that every woman would know God as the Healer, Redeemer and Restorer He desires to be for them. She speaks and writes as My Father’s Daughter, offering hope and encouragement wrapped in grace filled truth, with the mission that every woman would know what it truly means to be a Daughter of the King. Her first book, My Father’s Daughter, Embracing your identity as a Daughter of The King, was released on July 30th. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Have you ever experienced financial loss? Or have you ever wondered what you would do or how you would make it if you lost everything you had financially? Today, I talk with Shonda Whitworth who shares a very personal and real testimony of how God brought her through great financial hardship. She learned how to cope when facing bankruptcy and truly experienced what it means to say, “when all you have is God, you’ve got enough.” Quotables from the episode: With bankruptcy, the enemy heaps on shame and uncertainty. The Bible has a lot to say about our finances. When we need financial wisdom, we need to go to His word. When there is more month than money, we have to trust God to be our provider. Trials like bankruptcy and financial crises are a character refinement process. Bankruptcy is a real life example of what Christ has done for us: debt cancellation. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 1:9 “But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God.” Romans 5:3-5 “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.” Recommended Resources: Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven: Petitions for Prisoners and Prison Families by Shonda Whitworth Shadowboxing: The Dynamic 2-5-14 Strategy to Defeat the Darkness Within by Dr. Henry Malone A free downloadable PDF of 8 Prayers to Pray for Your Incarcerated Loved One is available at FortressofHopeMinistries.com 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 Shonda Whitworth: Website / Facebook Shonda / Twitter / LinkedIn Shonda / Facebook Fortress / LinkedIn Fortress / Twitter Fortress 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: Shonda Whitworth writes, teaches, and speaks at conferences and retreats to share the hope of healing and restoration we have in Jesus. After her son landed in state prison, she realized the hardships families of prisoners encounter. She and her husband, Eldon, founded Fortress of Hope Ministries, a nonprofit organization that offers hope to families affected by incarceration. Shonda transparently shares her testimony of living with a son in prison at ShondaWhitworth.com and FortressofHopeMinistries.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 would be hard pressed to find anyone right now who isn’t going through a hard time, just have experienced a hard time, or headed into a hard time. Yet hard times often challenge our joy. In today’s episode, we talk with guest, Heidi McLaughlin, who experienced several hard times in a row and yet shares with us how she learned to discover joy in the midst of hard times. Quotables from the episode: God is a God of an “upper-story.” Don’t try to figure God out—trust that He has your situation figured out. People often come into our lives to act as sandpaper to us—helping refine our rough edges. Don’t despise the deserts and fires of life. It’s in the fire that our priorities change. We have to plant that which we want to experience in life. If we want companionship, we must be a companion to others. If we want kindness, we must be kind to others. Joy is the portal of heaven. Scripture References: 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 NIV “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” Colossians 2:7 NLT Let your roots grow down into him, and draw up nourishment from him, so you will grow in faith, strong and vigorous in the truth you were taught. Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving for all he has done. Recommended Resources: Fresh Joy: Finding Joy in the Midst of Loss, Hardship, and Suffering by Heidi McLaughlin Sand to Pearls: Making BOLD Choices to Enrich Your Life by Heidi McLaughlin Beauty Unleashed by Heidi McLaughlin Restless for More: Fulfillment in Unexpected Places by Heidi McLaughlin You CAN Have Joy! The Fight For Joy Joy is a Gift From God 8 Ways to Find Joy in Life 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: Connect with Heidi McLaughlin 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 Heidi McLaughlin: Heidi McLaughlin’s passion is contagious as she inspires her audiences to grasp the truth that there is nothing more beautiful than a woman who knows she is loved. Heidi speaks all over North America and overseas and is an award-winning author. She has written several books, Study Guides and hundreds of articles and blogs. Her upcoming book is called FRESH JOY! Heidi has been widowed twice and is the mom and step-mom of a blended family of 5 children and 12 grandchildren. Heidi has experienced much tragedy but has learned how to recapture her JOY. 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 our identity is in Christ and not a reflection in the mirror. My guest, Carol Chisolm, calls herself a survivor after suffering many years with alopecia, an autoimmune disorder that results in hair loss. She coined the phrase “I have alopecia, but it doesn’t have me” to remind herself that her identity is in Christ and not a reflection in the mirror. She has a real passion for helping others understand that we are God’s workmanship and not defined by our physical flaws and imperfections. This episode discusses how our perceived flaws or imperfections limits our effectiveness and the hope we have for overcoming them. Quotables from the episode: God can’t use us if we’re fearful. How can God get the glory if others never know our struggles? If we make obedience to God more important than our comfort, then we will be blessed. Too often we allow our flaws to control us so that we can neither be productive nor fruitful. Look at yourself in the mirror and own it, flaws and all. Half the battle is owning what we have while the second half is declaring that it doesn’t own us. Without acknowledging our flaws, we can’t seek help. Trust God to cover and carry you, imperfections and all. Scripture References: Psalms 139:14 (KJV) “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Romans 8:28 (NLT) “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Isaiah 46:3-4 (NLT) “’Listen to me, descendants of Jacob, all you who remain in Israel. I have cared for you since you were born. Yes, I carried you before you were born. I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.’” Recommended Resources: Our Identity in Christ is Certain Who God Says You Are: 17 Scriptures About Our True Identity Remember Who You Are: 10 Scriptures to Remind You of Your True Identity 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: Connect with Carol Chisolm: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Youtube 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 Carol Chisolm: Carol is a school teacher, but has a passion for ministry. She is a singer, songwriter, musician, recording artist, and author, who currently lives in Melbourne, Florida. She calls herself a survivor after suffering many years with alopecia, an autoimmune disorder that results in hair loss. She coined the phrase “I have alopecia, but it doesn’t have me” to remind her that her identity is in Christ and not a reflection in the mirror. She has a real passion for helping others realize we not defined by our imperfections and flaws, but that God wonderfully makes us. Carol’s latest single, “Wonderfully Made” is available on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, and Amazon Music. You can also follow her on Facebook every Wednesday for “Wednesday Worship” and for her upcoming show “One-derfully Made”, which will broadcast live every Tuesday. 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: Many parents have suffered the pain that ensues when they’ve had a prodigal child. In this episode, we talk about how to gain hope and healing when your loved one has gone astray. My guest today is Judy Slegh, who experienced having a prodigal child and is going to share what she learned through that experience. Quotables from the episode: Our emotions reveal our thoughts. Do not harden your heart towards your prodigal—God hasn’t. As we forgive, it releases baggage and we can receive hope for our prodigal. God sees our prodigal from their full potential. We should too. A declaration is a statement speaking God’s heart for our situation and our agreement with that. Declarations are from the heart of God. Declarations can overcome distance. God sets us up to win—but we choose whether to move closer to God or further away. Focus on who your prodigal was before they walked away. Vulnerability is being courageous. God is doing everything He can to bring your prodigal back. Scripture References: Malachi 4:6a “He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents” Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Job 1:10 “You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does.” Isaiah 61:1-5 “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the LORD’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory. They will rebuild the ancient ruins, repairing cities destroyed long ago. They will revive them, though they have been deserted for many generations. Foreigners will be your servants. They will feed your flocks and plow your fields and tend your vineyards.” Recommended Resources: 20 Life Changing Declarations to Speak for My Prodigal Situation e-book. Downloadable through www.restoringtheruins.com Help! I Have a Prodigal by Judy R Slegh Declarations that Empower Us by David Crone Forgiveness by Rodney Hogue Sozo: Saved, Healed and Delivered by Dawna DeSilva and Teresa Liebscher 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: Connect with Judy Slegh: Website / Instagram / Facebook / Facebook Group / 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 / Podcast About Judy Slegh: Judy R. Slegh is passionate in helping others get free of emotional baggage through healing prayer. Writing her first book, Help! I Have a Prodigal, she combined her personal experiences with a prodigal son with the healing prayer tools she uses as leader of Nephros Ministries. She found it a joy to speak into her biology student’s lives for seventeen years and now brings hope to the imprisoned through leading a birthday card ministry called Affirming You. Being a Minnesotan, she enjoys kayaking on lakes and rivers as well bird watching and biking with her husband Daryl. 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 about finding hope when it feels like you’re losing your mind. My guest today, Sheryl Turner, is a delivered drug addict, stage four cancer survivor and former widow. Once a hopeless dope fiend, she is now a dopeless hope-fiend. Quotables from the episode: God wants you to accept forgiveness. Love covers a multitude of sins over our lives. When we feel trapped by the sins of our past, it helps to 1) Stop, 2) Confess it to God, and 3) Believe we are forgiven. Your ideas may be good but not best – look for HIS best for your life. Instead of doing, doing, doing, let God lead the way. Scripture References: Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is no condemnation for those that are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 2:4 “Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance” Isaiah 61:3 says, “to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes the oil of joy instead of mourning, a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” Psalm 37:4 says “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and he will do this.” Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Recommended Resources: It’ll Be Okay: Finding God When Doubt Hides the Truth by Sheryl Giesbrecht Turner The Bondage Breaker by Dr. Neil T. Anderson Victory Over the Darkness by Dr. Neil T. Anderson The Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer 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: Connect with Sheryl Giesbrecht Turner: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / 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 Sheryl Giesbrecht Turner: Sheryl Giesbrecht Turner is a hope addict. She believes God can help anyone who will dare to trust Him. Once a hopeless dope fiend, she is now a dopeless hope-fiend. Sheryl believes God can help anyone exchange any hurt for hope. A dynamic teacher and motivating leader, Giesbrecht Turner is a delivered drug addict, stage four cancer survivor and former widow. Through these and other life altering challenges, she has allowed God move her to a deep faith, trust and dependence. Her non-profit, From Ashes to Beauty, Inc reaches out to the underserved: widows, orphans, homeless, and helpless through the Bakersfield Rescue Mission and The Blessing Corner and world-wide through ministry partners. 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 talk about hope for breaking the cycle of dysfunctional mother daughter relationships. My guest, Phylis Mantelli, experienced mother wounds and went on to break the cycle of mother daughter dysfunction with her own children. She always says, “We are not a perfect family, but a bonded family.” She’s here today to share hope and the lessons she learned with us. Quotables from the episode: Trauma feels normal and tries to convince you that you don’t deserve better. In order to change, you have to believe in something bigger than you. We have to take our parents off a pedestal and look at them as normal people with real hurts, faults, and strengths. Just because our loved ones are broken doesn’t mean we have to stay broken. Look at the things that are not working for you anymore. Write down in a journal the things you would want to start changing in your life. Take one thing, pray and ask what you can start doing today to start making those baby steps. There is always a hope and a promise for better days. However, it is up to us to take ACTION on it! Praying specifically each day is important, asking God to show you is important, but actually moving in the direction He leads you on is key. Forgiveness in unhealthy families is possible when you have a God who shows you the way. It is possible to change things you have grown up learning or seeing in destructive ways. Scripture References: Proverbs 3:5-6 HCSB “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths.” Jeremiah 29:13 HCSB “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” Isaiah 41:10 HCSB “Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand.” Recommended Resources: Unmothered: Life With a Mom Who Couldn’t Love Me by Phylis Mantelli “The Five Tips for Setting Boundaries” Free Download 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: Connect with Phylis Mantelli: Facebook / Website / Instagram / Pinterest / LinkedIn / Podcast FB Page 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 Phylis Mantelli: Phylis Mantelli is a speaker, blogger, coach and co-host of the Podcast “24 Carat Conversations” with Phylis and Rhonda. She is the author of the book Unmothered: Life With a Mom Who Couldn’t Love Me. She has been married for 31 years and has two grown daughters. She is the grandmother of one adorable grandson and has a granddaughter on the way. She loves to read, walk in her garden and occasionally will break out in dance while cooking in the kitchen! 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 how to have hope when prayers go unanswered. Samantha Morgan returns to share more of her journey through infertility, an adoption that fell through, an international adoption, foster parenting, and a domestic adoption. Through the very real, hard circumstances, God taught her how to wait on Him as she was waiting for Him to answer her prayers. Quotables from the episode: I thought God was punishing me, but really, He was drawing me to Him, to learn how to trust Him more. God can handle our anger, our disappointment, our questions. He would rather we be honest and open with Him—He knows what we think anyway, but He wants us to share with Him. You don’t see purpose in the waiting period, until it’s over and you look back. It’s okay to not be in control. God wants to take that burden for you. Our faith doesn’t move or impress God—His plan for our lives is already in motion. Scripture References: Romans 8: 26-27 NIV “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.” Hebrew 11:1 NIV “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for, and assurance about what we do not see.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” Hebrews 10:23 NIV “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” Romans 8:26-28 NIV “In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Recommended Resources: Miraculously My Own: One Woman’s Incredible Journey of Infertility, Faith, and Adoption by Samantha J. Morgan 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 Samantha Morgan: 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 / Podcast About Samantha Morgan: Author and speaker, Samantha J Morgan is an infertility survivor and adoptive mom. Her passion is to support and connect those struggling during difficult times. Living in Southern Missouri with her husband and two great kids, she’s the girl next door who loves sharing how God has shaped her life and created a motherhood story far beyond what she could have imagined. 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 about hope for healing after infertility and adoption. My guest, Samantha Morgan, is going to share her testimony after enduring infertility, an adoption that fell through, foster parenting, and the beautiful ways God used her disappointments for good, weaving a beautiful tapestry that she never could have imagined. Quotables from the episode: Adoption is rooted in pain from both sides. Giving my infertility to God allowed me to get out of His way so He could do what only He could do. Infertility brings with it all the emotions of grief. Infertility is not your fault, and it’s not a punishment for something you did or didn’t do. I had to ask myself, do I want to be pregnant, or do I really want to be a mom? Scripture References: Romans 8: 26-27 NIV “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.” Hebrew 11:1 NIV “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for, and assurance about what we do not see.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” Recommended Resources: Miraculously My Own: One Woman’s Incredible Journey of Infertility, Faith, and Adoption by Samantha J. Morgan 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 Samantha Morgan: 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 / Podcast About Samantha Morgan: Author and speaker, Samantha J Morgan is an infertility survivor and adoptive mom. Her passion is to support and connect those struggling during difficult times. Living in Southern Missouri with her husband and two great kids, she’s the girl next door who loves sharing how God has shaped her life and created a motherhood story far beyond what she could have imagined. 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.