Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

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.

Episode Summary: This is a special episode because it marks our 2-yr anniversary of weekly podcast episodes to offer you a Biblically-based hope-filled perspective. For this episode, I’d like to highlight some of the favorite episodes from the past year or so. It seems like I’ve spent the bulk of my career teaching about the importance of our thoughts and our words, so it’s not really much of a surprise that many of the episodes we’ve aired touch on the importance of our thought life. We’ve talked about how to transform our thoughts and transform our life. We’ve talked about how to overcome grumbling, complaining, and negativity. We’ve talked about the importance of our words in our relationships and how to intentionally use our words to improve relationships. We’ve shared how our thoughts often lead us down the spiral into comparison, and how to stop comparing ourselves to others. We also had a several-week series on how to overcome worry, fear, and anxiety, and we also talked about replacing the lies we’ve believed with the truth of God’s word, and so much more. Quotables from the episode: In episode 43, we talked with Sarah Geringer about How to Change Your Thoughts to Transform Your Life [click here to listen to her entire episode - How To Change Your Thoughts and Transform Your Life – Episode 43]. Sarah struggled with her thoughts for a long time before realizing she could do something about them. She shares a bit about her healing journey. Sarah had so much more to say on the topic of How to Change Your Thoughts to Transform Your Life that I hope you’ll go back and listen to ep. 43, and read her guest blog post [click here to read 3 Easy Ways to Meditate on God’s Word]. In one of my favorite episodes, ep. 64, we talked with Tricia Goyer about the journey she and her family, including her ten children, embarked upon to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and Negativity [click here to listen to her entire episode - How to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and General Negativity – Episode 64]. She shared from her experiences in an effort to guide us on our own journey to overcome negativity in our own lives: Who doesn’t want to let go of Grumbling, Complaining, and Negativity? I know I want to keep my thoughts and words positive and filled with gratitude. If you want to learn more about how to do this, go back and listen to episode 64 [click here to listen to her entire episode How to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and General Negativity – Episode 64] and read her guest blog post [click here to read Nothing to Grumble About]. Paying attention to our words and thoughts is not only important for our own lives, but it’s also important because our thoughts and words have an impact on those around us. Scripture says that our words can bring life or death, blessing or cursing. In episode 55, I chatted with Blythe Daniel and her mother, Helen McIntosh, about How to Improve our Mother/Daughter Relationships [click here to listen to her entire episode How To Improve Mother Daughter Relationships – Episode 55], and not too surprisingly, they shared the importance of our thoughts and words on our relationships with those around us. While we can’t control the actions and responses of others, we can control what we think and what we say. If you want a better relationship with those you care about, I hope you’ll go back and listen to episode 55 [click here to listen to her entire episode How To Improve Mother Daughter Relationships – Episode 55] and read their guest blog post [click here to read The Package of Words: A Gift for Mom] and take to heart the suggestions that Blythe and Helen offered. In episode 77, one of my favorite guests, Heather Creekmore returns to help us understand How to Stop Comparing Ourselves to Others [click here to listen to her entire episode How To Stop Comparing Yourself to Others – Episode 77]. She offers a very real, raw, and at times humorous testimony to the struggle she’s had with comparing herself to others. In this episode, we discuss how we so often seem to live under a “burden of better”…our desire to be a better spouse, a better parent, a better employee, a better friend, and even a better Christian. The advice she offers to help stop comparing ourselves to others, and to relinquish the burden of better might surprise you.” I don’t know about you, but the tendency to compare myself to others keeps trying to rear its ugly head. It only takes a minute on social media or watching those in the pew in front of us in church on Sunday morning to know we don’t measure up. I loved what Heather shared about how we can effectively deal with that. If you ever struggle with the tendency to compare yourself with others, or the burden to be better, I hope you’ll go back and listen to episode 77 in full [click here to listen to her entire episode How To Stop Comparing Yourself to Others – Episode 77] and take the time to read her guest blog post [click here to read Releasing the Ideal Me]. In the past year, we probably did more episodes on worry, fear, and anxiety than any other topic. In the past year I’ve noticed so many more people struggling with worry, fear, and anxiety than ever before. In episode 58, we shared How to Practically Fight Anxious Thoughts and Win [click here to listen to her entire episode How to Practically Fight Anxious Thoughts and Win – Episode 58]. God never meant for us to live enshrouded in a cloud of anxiety or worry. In fact, He offered us His peace. In this episode, we tackle how to exchange our worry, fear, and anxiety with God’s peace. Episode 58 was just one of several episodes where we dived deep into overcoming worry, fear, and anxiety. If this is something you struggle with, or you know someone who does, I hope you’ll take the time to go back and listen to the entire episode [click here to listen to her entire episode How to Practically Fight Anxious Thoughts and Win – Episode 58], read the associated blog post [click here to read What Can I Do When I Worry or Become Anxious About the Future?], and maybe even the other episodes about where worry, fear, and anxiety come from and what we can do about them. The last snippet I want to highlight today is from episode 100. I loved that episode—not just because it was a milestone 100th episode, and not just because it aired on my birthday week, but because I spend the better part of my career teaching others to recognize The Lies We Believe versus the Truth of God’s Word [click here to listen to her entire episode Lies We Believe vs. Truths From The Bible About Our Identity – Episode 100]. This has not always been easy for me, and it’s something I still have to put into practice, but when we can do this, so many other things in our life fall into place. In episode 100, we gave many more examples than we could show in that short snippet. I would encourage you to go back and listen to the episode in its entirety [click here to listen to her entire episode Lies We Believe vs. Truths From The Bible About Our Identity – Episode 100], read the associated blog post [click here to read Finding Your Identity in Christ: 20 Truths from God’s Word], see which lies you resonate with, and then hear what God’s truth is in response. I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s anniversary episode. There were so many good episodes that I had a hard time narrowing it down to just a few. I’d love to hear what your favorite episodes have been, as well as who you think could offer a Biblically-based HFP that you’d like to hear on the podcast! If something in this episode resonated with you, or you think it’d be an encouragement to others, would you consider sharing it with others who may need a jolt of hope today? Each week we offer you multiple free resources in the form of podcasts episodes, blog posts, social media posts, and memes. It would mean the world to me if you would subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and then rate and review it to help others be able to find a Biblically-based Hope Filled Perspective. Until next week, may you have a hope-filled week! Recommended Resources: How To Change Your Thoughts and Transform Your Life – Episode 43 How to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and General Negativity – Episode 64 How to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and General Negativity – Episode 64 Nothing to Grumble About How To Improve Mother Daughter Relationships – Episode 55 The Package of Words: A Gift for Mom How To Stop Comparing Yourself to Others – Episode 77 Releasing the Ideal Me How to Practically Fight Anxious Thoughts and Win – Episode 58 What Can I Do When I Worry or Become Anxious About the Future? Lies We Believe vs. Truths From The Bible About Our Identity – Episode 100 Finding Your Identity in Christ: 20 Truths from God’s Word 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 Christine Carter: Website / Instagram / Facebook / 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 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, Christine Carter of Weight Loss Hero and I talk about her weight loss journey and the hope we have for a healthy body, mind and soul. In order to achieve lasting change in our bodies, we must first transform our minds. We can also take control of areas of our lives, like fear, that are holding us back from change. Through Christine’s business, she coaches people looking to sustain a healthier lifestyle. Her own weight-loss journey of 150+ pounds has been highlighted on multiple media sites, including fitnessmagazine.com, thetodayshow.com, and popculture.com. Quotables from the episode: Our feelings are not facts. Society says we have to tuck it in, but we need to address our thoughts and feelings. You can lose weight and still feel empty. Don’t eat your feelings. Sin feels like a hug at first until it doesn’t let go. Fear holds people back from change. Surrender means leaning into Jesus. Self-sabotage comes from the voices in our head. Scripture References: Philippians 4:13 “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” Recommended Resources: Weight-Loss Hero: Transform Your Mind and Your Body with a Healthy Keto Lifestyle by Christine Carter Eat, Live, Thrive Diet: A Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism by Danna Demetre and Robyn Thompson Dr. Colbert’s Hormone Health Zone: Lose Weight, Restore Energy, Feel 25 Again! by Don Colbert Dr. Colbert’s Keto Zone Diet: Burn Fat, Balance Appetite Hormones, and Lose Weight by Don Colbert Hope for Healthy Living How to Give Yourself Grace in Your Health 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 Carter: Website / Instagram / Facebook / 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 Christine Carter: Christine Carter is the founder of Weight Loss Hero based in Frisco, TX. Through her business she coaches people looking to sustain a healthier lifestyle. Her own weight-loss journey off 150+ pounds has been highlighted on multiple media sites, including fitnessmagazine.com, thetodayshow.com, and popculture.com. Christine encourages her Weight Loss Hero tribe daily and teaches from the core principle that in order to achieve lasting change in your body you must first transform your mind. 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: Will your anchor hold in the storms of life? In this episode, we’re talking about how to stay anchored in a storm and flourish instead of sink. Joining me is my friend, Cynthia Cavanaugh, author of Anchored: Leading Through the Storms. Quotables from the episode: We need to give permission to others to share their struggles. Be careful not to be married to ministry instead of your spouse. We need to listen more than we talk. Offering spiritual platitudes never helped anyone. You don’t have to agree with someone to validate their emotions. God says, “Do you trust me? I am enough.” We need to prepare before the storm so we don’t capsize in the storm. Don’t try so hard to be someone who makes everyone else happy. Just be who God created you to be. Live Bold: Trust Jesus, step out in faith, and take risks with God. Scripture References: Mark 4:35-41 “As evening came, Jesus said to is disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, ‘Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?’ When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Silence! Be still!’ Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, ‘Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?’ The disciples were absolutely terrified. ‘Who is this man?’ they asked each other. ‘Even the wind and waves obey him!’” Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” Psalm 37:1-7 “Don’t worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong. For like grass, they soon fade away. Like spring flowers they soon wither. Trust in the Lord and do good. Then 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. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun. Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act.” Isaiah 43:2-3 “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” Recommended Resources: Anchored: Leading Through the Storms by Cynthia Cavanaugh Live Bold: A Devotional Journal to Strengthen Your Soul by Cynthia Cavanaugh and Andrea Tomassi Fierce Convictions: Extraordinary Life Of Hannah More by Karen Swallow Prior You’ll Get Through This by Max Lucado 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 Cynthia Cavanaugh: Website / Facebook / 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 Cynthia Cavanaugh: Cynthia Cavanaugh is the author of multiple books and the award-winning author of Anchored: Leading Through the Storms and Live Bold: A Devotional Journal to Strengthen Your Soul with Redemption Press. In addition to writing and teaching, she is a freelance editor for new authors, providing content coaching and cooperative rewrites for Redemption Press along with working as a strategic marketing coach. When she is not writing or speaking, you can find her playing games with her grandkids or watching a true-to-life movie with her hubby at home in the far corner of the Pacific Northwest. A little tea and chocolate make her smile. 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, Suzie Eller and I discuss some truths that just might change everything you thought you knew about joy. I so relate to my guest today because she has experienced one incredibly painful trial after another, and yet through it, she has come to savor the sweet aroma of her Savior walking with her in those trials. Quotables from the episode: After a year of sorrow, I began to search for biblical joy. I found 6 surprising truths that helped me redefine joy, keep joy, and live joy. Biblical joy isn’t a feeling…it’s a knowing. Biblical joy is tied to God’s goodness over our life. Joy is consciously walking into God’s love and care. We have a choice to make: we can turn away from God or turn to Him. While we may not always be able to “choose joy,” we can choose the SOURCE of our joy. We don’t have to limit ourselves to experience either joy or sorrow, but rather, give ourselves permission to experience joy AND sorrow. God is not disappointed by how we feel. Those feelings are indicators. He not only created us to feel, but cares about how we feel. Know that joy is for you and it’s not tied to your circumstances. Scripture References: John 16:22 NIV Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. John 15:11 NIV I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. Romans 8:27-29 MSG He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God isworked into something good. God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. Recommended Resources: Joy Keeper: 6 Truths that Change Everything You Thought You Knew About Joy by Suzie Eller You CAN Have Joy! The Fight For Joy! From Joy-Immune to Joy-Full! Are You Seeking Joy? How to Raise Teenagers With Confidence and Joy 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: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Joykeeper Book 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 Suzanne Eller: Suzanne (Suzie) Eller is a bestselling author, Intl. speaker, and co-host of the popular More Than Small Talk podcast. She has been featured on numerous TV and radio programs. She lives in NW Arkansas with her husband Richard, and is mom to her grown children and “Gaga” to six littles. 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 how to find hope when things aren’t always as they seem. My guest, Lori Boruff, has been at the place where she felt hopeless, but then found the true source of hope, and has learned that even when life is difficult, things aren’t always as they seem. Quotables from the episode: I know hope because I’ve known what it was to be hopeless. Sometimes hope isn’t really lost, it just gets buried under the emotional rubble. We often think our way is best, but God’s way is blessed. Scripture References: Romans 15:13 NIV “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.” Colossians 1:21-22 MSG “You yourselves are a case study of what he does. At one time you all had your backs turned to God, thinking rebellious thoughts of him, giving him trouble every chance you got. (22) But now, by giving himself completely at the cross, actually dying for you, Christ brought you over to God’s side and put your lives together, whole and holy in his presence. You don’t walk away from a gift like that!” Recommended Resources: Hope In The Ruins – A Rescue and Recovery Plan For Hearts In Crisis by Lori Boruff Cell 121: Learning To Never Give Up on Yourself or Your Loved Ones in the Toughest Moments of Life by Rusty Boruff 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: Website Lori Boruff / Website OneEighty / Facebook Lori Boruff 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 Lori Boruff: Lori Boruff knows the power of hope because she experiences it. With a well-kept secret of rape for 23 years, two sons once on difficult paths, and a recent cancer diagnosis – she discovered the right tools to find hope in the ruins. Lori is a trusted, certified life-coach, transformational speaker, author and co-director of the Christian Communicators Conference. Lori’s passion is to connect, comfort and change lives with the power of hope through Jesus Christ. 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: This is my birthday week, and in this episode, I wanted to give back to you, our faithful listener. I share what was the impetus for my daily social media “Today is a good day…” devotions. With age often comes wisdom. In this episode, I decided to focus on the lies that we often believe, and truths from the Bible about our identity. Quotables from the episode: As long as God is still on His throne, today is a good day for a good day. The lies we believe about ourselves limit us from fulfilling God’s calling for our lives. What matters most is knowing what God says about us and believing that over the lies of the enemy. If we weren’t imperfect we wouldn’t need a Savior. The worth of something is determined by the price we are willing to pay for it. Jesus thought we were so worthy that He paid the price of His life for us. There is nothing we can do to earn God’s love. Scripture References: Jeremiah 31:3 The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.” Isaiah 53:5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. 2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. Ephesians 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace. Ephesians 1:5 God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together - spirit, soul, and body - and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. Song of Solomon 2:16a My beloved is mine and I am his. Ephesians 1:5-6 “having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He [a]made us accepted in the Beloved.” 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. 1 Corinthians 15:57 “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Psalm 139:14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.  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 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 what it looks like to jump out of our comfort zone, have faith and dare with God. My guest today, is Kate Battistelli, mother of DOVE and GRAMMY award-winning Christian recording artist Francesca Battistelli, and author of The God Dare. Quotables from the episode: A “God Dare” is always too big for us—we can’t do it on our own without God’s help. The impossible is God’s zone. A “God Dare” often makes no earthly sense. It’s only after the fact that we can look back and see the dots connected. God will equip you for whatever He calls you to. Scripture References: Hebrews 11:1 “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.” Genesis 15:5-6 “Then the Lord took Abram outside and said to him, ‘Look up into the sky and count the starts if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!’ And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith.” Recommended Resources: The God Dare by Kate Battistelli Growing Great Kids by Kate Battistelli 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 Kate Battistelli: Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest / 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 / Podcast About Kate Battistelli: Kate Battistelli is living proof God can and will use anyone if they’re willing. Kate experienced infertility, miscarriage, an abortion at age 18, and four failed adoption attempts, which all wreaked havoc in her life. Back in the ‘80’s, Kate had a life-changing experience as a young actress in New York City, going from understudy to starring as Anna in the Broadway National Tour of The King and I opposite Yul Brynner for more than 1,000 performances. Kate and her husband laid down their careers and the Broadway theatre in answer to their first “God dare” and moved out of New York City and into a life of homeschooling and a home business. As their daughter Francesca grew and began expressing her gifts in music and songwriting, they realized there was a far bigger purpose in leaving their careers than they could’ve imagined. Kate is the mother of DOVE and GRAMMY award-winning Christian recording artist Francesca Battistelli. 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.