Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary: With the Coronavirus outbreak, the world is facing astronomical amounts of worry, fear, and anxiety. In episode 50, we discussed ways of defeating anxiety during a crisis like the Coronavirus. In this episode, Scott and I discuss more practical tips to exchange worry, fear, and anxiety for peace during a crisis. Trusting God is key! Quotables from the episode: It’s important not to run on our feelings, during times of crises, but rather, to stand on truth. Instead of saying, “I have to” we can shift the perspective and say “I get to…” For example, instead of I have to stay in the house for the next two weeks or longer you say, I get to spend quality time with my family. Let’s take this opportunity to do some new things, to look at the situation from a new perspective, to consider our feelings and how our feelings are often grounded in the lies that we believe. The truth is, God is still in control. Fear is really the emotional response to either a real or a perceived imminent threat, something that might happen right away. Anxiety is really an abnormal or overwhelming sense of apprehension in anticipation of a future event that may or may not ever happen. Worry is thinking about a problem or fears over something that could happen. Worry is our thoughts about an unknown future. My concern is that when we allow anxiety, worry, fear to rule and reign in our heart and our mind, we lose the chance to respond rationally, and we lose our peace. God tells us in His Word, be anxious for nothing; do not worry about tomorrow; do not be afraid. God knows what's going on in the world today. I believe that what has allowed us to get through these recent circumstances is being able to look back and recognize where God has been faithful each and every time before. Peace really comes from living in the present and remembering what has already been accomplished in the past, to assure us of our future. We tend to approach life thinking, “Show me, then I'll trust you.” But God tells us to “trust Him, then he'll show us.” Trusting God really takes the responsibility for the outcome off our shoulders and places it on God’s. How do we trust God? T-Take God at His Word (Numbers 23:19) R-Rest in His presence and promises (Matthew 11:28-30) U-Understand the outcome doesn’t depend on us S-Acknowledge that God is Sovereign (Psalm 84:11) T-Turn to the testimony of previous experiences (Revelation 12:11) An attitude of gratitude when we recognize all that God has already blessed us with amazing blessings makes it easier to trust Him. God inhabits the praises of his people. Find ways to praise Him during this time. Recommended Resources: Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promisesby 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 Depressionby Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Studyby 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: We’ve been doing a series on the podcast recently of episodes all related to helping defeat anxiety during times of crisis. Given what so many of us have been experiencing with the current crisis and the disruption of anything normal, it would be natural to realize that our children’s lives are being significantly impacted as well, and this may breed worry, fear, and anxiety. This episode is about how to help a teenager with anxiety during a crisis. Join me as I interview my teenager, Bryce. We discuss ways that help us understand worry, fear, and anxiety in our teens and children and what we and they can do about anxiety. For many of our children, the Coronavirus is the first major crisis they have ever had to face, at least on such a global level. This episode is unique in that I have the opportunity to interview a teenager to help understand their perspective and what they might be doing to try to manage the emotional impact that crises have on them. While this episode was recorded during the COVID19 pandemic, the truths contained therein are applicable regardless of the situation prompting a child’s anxiety. Quotables from the episode: Coronavirus didn’t take God by surprise, and He promises He knows the plans He has for us: to prosper us and not to harm us, plans for a hope and a future! Scripture References: Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Matthew 6:34 “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” 1 Peter 5:7 “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” 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 HopePrevails /  Website  /  Blog  / Facebook / Facebook Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn /  Instagram  / Pinterest / YouTube   About the Host About Dr. Bengtson Dr. Bengtson studied neuroscience and is board certified in clinical neuropsychology. She established her own clinical practice in the Dallas area. From her professional and personal life, she recognized a deep lack of understanding of the call to “renew our minds” and the transformational effects a robust understanding of this has on our physical and mental health and outlook. Dr. Bengtson lives to foster regeneration and renew life in her listeners. She recognizes brokenness in her life and others’ and offers steps we can take as we walk with Christ through the thin places. Dr. Bengtson authored the award-winning “Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” and its award-winning companion “Hope Prevails Bible Study.”  Her third award-winning book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises,” released in 2019 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and is a frequent guest on Fox News Radio and speaks at conferences and churches internationally.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Everyone will fight challenges and trials at some point in their life, and at the time of this recording, the world is facing the Coronavirus outbreak, and with that has come astronomical amounts of worry, fear, and anxiety. In this episode, we discuss ways to defeat anxiety during a crisis like the Coronavirus. This may be the first real crisis our children have had to face in their lifetimes, and it’s important for us to remember that they will take their cues for how to respond to crisis from watching and listening to us. In today’s society, our ready access to news and information can fuel anxiety. In our current situation, we need time to absorb this, but that is made difficult because the information is changing day by day, or sometimes hour by hour. It’s important not to run on our feelings, during times of crises, but rather, to stand on truth. Quotables from the episode: We need to absorb this. Anxiety comes because we want to know it all. We want to control it all. We want to influence it all…but we can’t. Our feelings are really just the outward manifestation of the thoughts we believe. We may not be able to control the situation, but we can choose our response to the situation. Scripture References: Exodus 20:2 “I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery.” Romans 8:28 “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.”  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: To order Hope Prevails: https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-book/ Website: https://drmichellebengtson.com/ Blog: https://drmichellebengtson.com/blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrMichelleBengtson Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrMBengtson (@DrMBengtson) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichellebengtson/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmichellebengtson/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drbhopeprevails/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MichelleBengtson Radio Show Host: http://graceandtruthradio.world/shows/your-hope-filled-perspective/ Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you’ve ever had suicidal thoughts, have survived an attempted suicide, suffered the loss of a friend or loved one to death by suicide, or experienced depression or anxiety. Join me with my guest, Veronica Sites, as we talk about Hope for Recovery for Suicide Attempt Survivors. The Bible tells us in Psalm 34:18 that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” If you are feeling broken-hearted, crushed in spirit, or perhaps, hopeless, stay with us and listen to the conversation between a board certified clinical neuropsychologist and a first response crisis chaplain. More importantly, we are two individuals who have been there. My guest, Veronica Sites, is a first response crisis chaplain. She grew up in a family of first responders. Sadly, she lost a family member to death by suicide. Afterward, the experience caused a shift in how she responded in those situations. Experiencing tragic life experiences brought her to the point where she began to believe some lies that took her down the path to attempt to end her own life by suicide. When she woke up she told a friend, “The Lord is going to use this for His glory. You just watch.” That is what has happened!. She now serves as a first response crisis chaplain and tries to educate others about suicide prevention. The word success, commit, failed, and complete are dangerous words with respect to suicide. When God brings us through a suicide attempt is not a failure. The enemy will use those words to make the individual feel shame. Success is not in death. Success is in who we are in Christ, and how will we respond. To commit, means a crime against humanity. God says thou shalt not kill. It is better to say that someone died by suicide or attempted to die by suicide in order to help with healing. We have to recognize the power of our words and use them in a sensitive manner. Peer support is so important in recovery for survivors and suicide attempt survivors.  Proverbs 17:17 says “A brother is born for a time of adversity.” And “Just as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen the minds of each other” (Proverbs 27:17). When a brother stumbles, we are called to come alongside and pick them up and run the race with them. Recognize that relationships are going to change because trust has been broken after a suicide attempt. Every relationship becomes shaken, including their relationship with themselves and the Lord. Recent research has found that suicide has to be dealt with in the church because it still remains an elephant in the room. We must be bold and courageous and enter into the conversation. We can’t always refer out to mental health if they aren’t addressing the spiritual foundation or else it won’t be a full continuum of care that is addressed. When it comes to suicide, you would much rather ask an individual “Are you thinking about hurting yourself or committing suicide?” than you would have to ask the question “Why didn’t they say anything?” or “Why didn’t I ask them?” It’s okay to ask God how we are to get through our most difficult circumstances. When God’s children submit to Him, He will often send us back to give others hope. We must be so very careful of the words we speak. When we speak things like “I can’t do this anymore,” we forfeit in the spiritual, and give the enemy an open door to bring havoc into our lives. The enemy takes just a seed of truth and twists it to try to deceive us. That is why it is so crucial that we truly know the truth of God’s word. Use the truths of God’s word. Meditate on scripture, listen to praise and worship. When the stinking thinking sets in, speak it out and ask the Lord to unpack it like a trunk. He has given us power, love, and a sound mind. Quotables from the episode: The Lord never wastes a hurt. God transforms pain that was meant to be destructive into something that can be productive for His namesake and the healing of others. People don’t necessarily want to die…they just want the pain to end. You are the temple of the living God. We can always trust the Lord, even when we don’t know what the outcome is going to be. 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. Proverbs 17:17 says “A brother is born for a time of adversity.” Proverbs 27:17 “Just as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen the minds of each other.” Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." 2 Timothy 1:7 "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and (self-discipline. NIV), (NASB - discipling / sound judgement) Romans 12:2 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Recommended Resources: TALK Suicide Hotline (800) 273-8255 Suicide Text Line: 741-741  https://www.crisistextline.org/textline Hope Line Suicide Prevention Network (800) 784-2433 Elijah App –helps people struggling to reach their support system with one text 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 https://drmichellebengtson.com/i-have-a-confession-im-a-christian-and-i-was-suicidal/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/the-sadness-behind-suicide/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/suicide-theres-another-way/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/yes-christians-get-depressed-there-is-hope/  https://drmichellebengtson.com/this-thing-called-depression-signs-and-symptoms/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/10-verses-of-hope-for-when-you-are-down-or-depressed/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/15-ways-to-help-depressed-husband-wife/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/dear-patient-now-i-understand/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/5-promises-from-god-to-the-patient-i-didnt-meet/ Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Veronica Sites  Website: https://www.conflictresolutionspeaker.com/ FaceBook https://www.facebook.com/conflictresolutionspeaker/ Twitter link https://twitter.com/VeronicaSites Pinterest link https://www.pinterest.com/veronicasites/ Vimeo link https://vimeo.com/veronicasites Youtube link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPDc6__zg_pGKmRlhJL_m0Q? For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: To order Hope Prevails: https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-book/ Website: https://drmichellebengtson.com/ Blog: https://drmichellebengtson.com/blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrMichelleBengtson Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrMBengtson (@DrMBengtson) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichellebengtson/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmichellebengtson/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drbhopeprevails/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MichelleBengtson Radio Show Host: http://graceandtruthradio.world/shows/your-hope-filled-perspective/ Guest: Veronica Sites is a chaplain, motivational speaker, and life coach. Military Gold families have given her the nick name of “The Happy Chappy.” Ministry care ranges from the womb (as a mentor to expectant moms) to the tomb, and coming along side individuals on some of life’s hardest days. Her passion is helping people in places of pain and penetrating hearts with hope and help to empower those seeking freedom and how to navigate traumatic events. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk with my guest, Shonda Whitworth, who found herself in the worst of situations…the kind of situation no parent ever wants to experience. She received a call that her son had been arrested and charged with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon under the Texas Law of Parties. She shares not only her heartache but what the Lord has taught her through it, how her prayer life has changed, and the hope available for parents of incarcerated children.  Quotables from the episode: When tragedy comes, God’s word has to be inside of us in order to come out of us during those hard times. You have to know what you believe before a crisis hits, because when it does you have a split second before you fall back on what you really do believe. Only God can make something good come out of a good situation. And He promises that in His word. We can take a situation that the enemy tries to shame us for, and say “No!” to his taunts and jeers because the Bible says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:1) God used the most unlikely people and the most difficult circumstances to fulfill His promises. For example, God used Samson even though he wandered off, but God ultimately used him for good. We need to pray for those who are in prison as if we were in prison ourselves. Appealing to the courtroom of heaven is praying. God is judge of all. The enemy is our accuser. Because Jesus died on our behalf, we can enter the courtroom of heaven at any time. But the enemy doesn’t like we can petition our Father for those things that are rightfully ours. The blood of Jesus covers our sin when we come to the Father and repent and confess. We may not have a loved one in prison, but the enemy so often holds each of us in our own prisons through worry, fear, anxiety, depression, discouragement, shame, sin, etc. Confession and repentance sets us free! Jesus already paid the price for every sin we have or will ever commit, but it is up to us to go to our Heavenly Father, the only one worthy of judging us, to repent and confess our sin so that he will declare us not guilty. And that sets us free. Scripture References: Romans 8:28 NLT "And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them." Hebrews 4:16 NLT "So, let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most." Romans 15:13 NLT "I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." Recommended Resources: Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven by Shonda Whitworth A free downloadable PDF of 8 Prayers to Pray for Your Incarcerated Loved One is available at FortressofHopeMinistries.com 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 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: It is so easy for us to go about our daily life oblivious to the hurt and pain and bondage of others around us. But human trafficking, exploitation, and abuse are happening to people in our own cities and neighborhoods. In this episode, my guest, Brenda Harkins, and I talk about this troublesome issue, and how victims can find hope and healing. Quotables from the episode: So many of us have no idea that trafficking happens right here in the United States, and in our own cities. There are over 300,000 trafficked victims in the United States. California is the most trafficked state, and Texas is second. Within Texas, Houston is the most trafficked city, and Dallas/Ft. Worth is the second most trafficked city in Texas. Once it gets on your radar, you begin noticing girls/women with a more controlling adult who won’t let them speak for themselves, and they avert their eyes. As parents, we need to be having discussions with our children to help safeguard them. We must talk about it. We must explain the dangers of social media, and trusting strangers…even those who seem extremely interested and friendly. People pose as people they are not. They need to know never to give personal information out online. People are sent into schools to befriend those who may not have friends, and then they will groom them until the children believe they are truly their friend, but their real intentions are otherwise. We must talk to our children about the reality of this, and we must be involved enough to know our children’s friends and their families. We all have an Egypt, a wilderness, and a promised land. With Egypt we think of the slavery of the Israelites, but it was a place that saved their lives because during a famine it was a place they could get food.  Often, in our lives, what starts out as a safe place, can become a place where we are trapped or in bondage (like addictions, or unhealthy relationships). The Israelites left Egypt and were about to enter a place of freedom, when they stepped into the wilderness which was unfamiliar to them. Sometimes the unfamiliar can seem worse than what we know because we don’t know what to expect. The wilderness experience is where we can come alongside and tell others that we are with them and they do not have to walk their journey alone, as they walk toward their Promised Land. Too often, we become comfortable in our discomfort because it’s what we know, and we fear the unknown because we don’t know how to navigate that. But we don’t have to know how to navigate that if we are trusting our heavenly Father. There is often a relationship between being trafficked, exploited, or abused, and those never knew the love of their earthly parents. The enemy manipulates people into believing that others can be trusted who will violate that trust. People in abusive situations don’t always recognize that they are being abused, frequently because it’s all we know. Or we downplay our own situation thinking it isn’t as bad as someone else. But the truth is, what hurt you, hurt you…regardless of what anyone else is going through. Once we become aware of it, we need to take care of our pain. If we grow up with relationships that aren’t loving or that are abusive, we often get involved later in unloving or abusive relationships because it’s all we know. What we experience feels normal for us until we are shown something different. It takes quite an awareness and it’s hard for those in an abusive situation to see it on their own, but others can help them. Check your relationships and ask, “Am I control of the decisions I make, or is someone else making those decisions for me?” “Am I fearful of standing up for myself or voicing my desires or opinions?” Frequently we mistake love because we listen to others’ words rather than paying attention to their actions. Ask yourself if there is anyone in your life, who you know loves you, who are speaking to you about concern they have about your relationships? Open up your mind to the possibility that if this sounds familiar, then ask those around you who you trust, “You know I just want to be sure that I’m as healthy as I can be, and that I’m seeing the situation for what it is, and I’m wondering what you see?” If you are feeling like you don’t have a safe person, I promise you, the Lord is safe. If you sit still with Him in the quiet and listen, He will speak in your heart. There will be thoughts in your mind that you didn’t think of…those thoughts are from the Holy Spirit. You are not alone…God is there. If your gut is saying, “Could it be?” Then that’s enough reason for some exploration. Love requires a choice. If God had made everyone to love him, we would all be robots. Because He gives us choice, there are some who choose evil. In the midst of the most difficult situation, we live in a broken world with people who make poor choices, but He is still present with us.  He wants us to choose love, and for those who don’t choose love, God will ultimately hold them accountable for their actions, and they will have to answer to Him. God wants a relationship with us so badly, but He won’t force us to stay there with Him, yet He always has open arms waiting for us to come back to Him. What about submission? Isn’t a wife supposed to submit to her husband? The Lord tells us to submit to one another, so we cannot always focus on the woman. God says the man’s responsibility is to love his wife like Christ loves the church. When he does that, then a woman would willingly submit to her husband if she knew he would die for her. Submission is an act of the will, that we choose to do to someone else. If someone demands that we submit, then they are attempting to get us to yield to evil. Submission is an act of will that we choose to offer. There is healing available. Trauma can affect us on so many levels. But there is healing and hope through counseling, through ministries. The pain and emptiness and fear you feel doesn’t have to stay there. God can remove even the trauma from our brains. The hope is that there is healing, and that there are relationships who do not desire to manipulate but instead to truly love you. If you are feeling guilt and condemnation, that does not come from God. Instead, God offers opportunity. That opportunity might be for healing, and for you to understand your true identity in Christ. Reach out: Reach out to organizations who are willing to be your advocate. Reach out to the National Trafficking Hotline. Reach out to a counselor or a pastor. Scripture References: Isaiah 61:1- 4: “He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners…so they will be called oaks of righteousness…they will rebuild the ancient ruins, they will raise up the former devastations…the desolations of many generations. I Corinthians 2:9 – “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has the mind conceived all that God has prepared for those that love Him.” Revelation 12:11 – “They overcame…by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.” Recommended Resources: “Crossing Over: Living Your Purpose on Purpose” by Brenda Harkins Courageously You e-book by Brenda Harkins is available free here:  https://brendaharkins.com/courageously-you-ebook/ If you are in a trafficking situation, the National Trafficking Hotline number is 888-373-7888. If you are in a situation of domestic violence or rape in Tarrant County, contact the Women’s Center hotline that is answered 24/7 at 817-927-2737. General counseling is also offered at the Women’s Center.  For more info on that you can call 817-927-4000. If you desire ministry for heart wounds you want the Lord to heal you are welcome to message me at https://transformteaminternational.org/contact/. That form will send me an email. Just please put HELP in the subject line so it won’t slip by me. If our ministry is able to help you, we will.  If not, we have plenty of excellent resources where we can refer you.  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 Brenda Harkins: Website / Facebook Brenda / Facebook Arukah Houses / LinkedIn Brenda 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: Brenda Harkins is a believer in seemingly impossible possibilities.  As a Mediator, Coach, Minister, Author and Speaker, Brenda works to clear the way for people to walk in the fulness God has prepared for them. She believes in the dreams God has put in each heart and takes joy in helping people fulfill those dreams by helping dismantle roadblocks and build super highways to their Destiny. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you have ever experienced an unforeseen trial and wondered how God could possibly use it for good, then this episode is the perfect show for you. I talk with my guest, Gina Kelly, about how God can use the absolute worst circumstances in our life for good and for His glory. My guest today experienced a significant tragedy as a young child that threatened her life. Doctors expected her to either die, or to have significant brain injury and to never walk or talk again. You’ll want to hear her story and what she learned about God’s faithfulness. Even in our most difficult circumstances, God can use them to comfort others who are going through difficult trials. During those times, God will show us how He can be trusted. Children can be so cruel to other children who are different in some way, but when we can maintain our faith in God, they will come to see that and admire it. And God will bring circumstances in our lives to help us value our own differences. Furthermore, God will use our differences for His glory. God truly does give beauty for ashes, and what the enemy intends for harm, God will use for good. Sometimes God uses our adversity to help us learn that He can be trusted. Ultimately God has to be our source of hope, and our source of peace, and our source of confidence. The enemy is defeated by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony. So our testimony has the power to impact the lives of others. Quotables from the episode: God is big enough and patient enough to handle our reactions to our trials. Healing often starts when others love on us and speak truth into our lives. God will use our differences for His glory. God truly does give beauty for ashes, and what the enemy intends for harm, God will use for good. Sometimes God uses our adversity to help us learn that He can be trusted. Scripture References: Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” Philippians 4:6-7, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Recommended Resources: 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 The Faithfulness of God Our God is Greater God Will See You Through Trusting God in Hard Times -7 Lessons Learned About Gina Kelly Gina Latta Kelly is wife to her husband Brian, and mother to her two teenagers, Joy and Joseph. She works as a pediatric physical therapist in an outpatient clinic and also does some contract work in a cyber school system where she lives in south central Pennsylvania. She served as a missionary in Peru, South America prior to getting married. Gina says she still feels as if she left a piece of her heart in Peru with the families she worked with when she was there. Gina loves to be active and breaking boards in TaeKwonDo is one of her favorite ways to spend a Friday night. Gina and her family serve in their church by teaching the 4 and 5-year-old Sunday School class. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Social Media Links for Host: 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   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you have ever struggled with depression or loved someone who struggles, then today is the perfect show for you. Today we’re going to be talking about how my guest was able to break the bonds of depression, and wants to offer that same hope to you. So many people suffer with depression in silence because they are ashamed to share their pain. Many who struggle with depression wear a protective mask as a protective barrier, but it can really weigh you down. So much of social media portrays a perfect life when really things were falling apart behind the scenes. Nobody wants to admit that they are depressed. Most often depression starts months or years before we recognize it for what it is.  And depression often turns us into someone we, nor our friends and family members recognize. Some who are depressed get to the point of feeling helpless and hopeless, which is a tool of the enemy of our soul, making us believe that suicide is the only way out of the pain. God can use others to speak life and wellness into our lives. Their testimony of overcoming life’s darkest circumstances can lend us hope. God wants to be all we need. Sometimes we have to get so desperate or even flat on our back that the only place we can look is up and trust God in the hardest of times. Unforgiveness can contribute to depression. We need to forgive those who have hurt us, otherwise bitterness and resentment build up and contribute to depression. Forgiveness isn’t denying what has happened but it is saying, “God you are in a better place to deal with the situation” and allowing God to redeem the situation. It releases us from carrying that burden.  There are times we may have to forgive repeatedly. Sometimes forgiveness is a process over time. Jesus offered me forgiveness freely. When our view of God changes, our life will also change. Our view of God affects our mental health whether it is a false view of God or a right view of God. So often when circumstances are hard, we can accuse God and assume He doesn’t care about us or love us, but that is a false view of God. You might consider praying three things: 1) that you’d have an accurate perception of God, 2) that he would show you his perception of you, and 3) that he would help you have the same perception of yourself that he has of you. For families who have a depressed loved one, even if you don’t understand depression, just listen because you play an important role in your loved one’s healing. You don’t have to have the answers or try to fix the situation. Just offer to be there for them and go through the journey with them. Know you are not alone. Even though you feel alone, God is with you, God sees you, He loves you, He cares about you, and you are not the only one to feel that way. There is hope. When you don’t know what else to do, cry out to God. Admit your need for Him. Quotables from the episode: Most often depression starts months or years before we recognize it for what it is. Depression often turns us into someone we, nor our friends and family members recognize. Sometimes forgiveness is a process over time. Scripture References: Job 33:28 “God has delivered me from going down to the pit, and I shall live to enjoy the light of life.” Psalm 42:5 “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.” Psalm 30:5b “…weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” Recommended Resources: “Finally Free: Breaking the Bonds of Depression without Drugs” by Patty Mason  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 Patty Mason: Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Website For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest Patty Mason: A wife, mother, grandmother, author, national speaker, and founder of Liberty in Christ Ministries, Patty Mason has shared her story of God’s redeeming grace and deliverance from depression before numerous audiences, in several books, blogs, and magazines, such as Lifeway’s “Living More,” as well as radio and television programs, including American Family Radio, Moody Radio, and The 700 Club. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you have ever had marriage struggles or have friends or loved ones who struggle in their marriage, or just want to improve your marriage, then today is the perfect show for you. In this episode, my guest, Pam Farrel, and I discuss how to thrive, not just survive, in marriage. Relationships are hard, but marriage is on an entirely different level. And sometimes the things we loved about our fiance’ is the same thing that we grow to dislike or resent in marriage. But Pam will discuss how to grow our love for our mate. Quotables from the episode: Sometimes wisdom breeds willingness to change. The Farrels encourage a confident covenant, which are rules of engagement during disagreements. Don’t be interested in just solving a marital problem, but also fall in love with that person again. Men are like waffles, women are like spaghetti. Women move from one issue to many different issues, but then tie it all up together, like spaghetti, but men like to keep individual issue in separate boxes, and resolve each box before moving on to another box. Men park in their boxes, often not thinking about anything, while women misinterpret their silence. In olden days, you pulled together because you had to just to survive. So emotional needs were not high on the list at that point. Today we have a different view of survival and includes “Am I feeling satisfied? Am I feeling peaceful? Am I feeling fulfilled?” If our spouse isn’t making us happy, we mistakenly believe someone else out there will. We live in a social media driven society, where we only get to see others’ highlights, and people don’t see the real work that has to be done, and how God meets our needs to pull us through.Valentine’s Day is like a double-edge sword. For singles and widows, get a plan in place before Valentine’s Day. There are many around you who are feeling the same way. Ways to encourage your spouse: Let your spouse you know you admire them. Commend your spouse in front of their friends or colleagues. Warm up to an idea by asking questions for more details of their idea. Let you know you are praying for them. Enthusiastically embrace one of their opinions. It only takes one breakthrough. You’re only one breakthrough away from a stronger relationship. The last thing we should do when we’re struggling in our relationships is to isolate. We need community and the support of others./ Scripture References: Proverbs 19:8 “The one who gets wisdom loves life.” 1 John 4:19 “We love each other because he loved us first.” Ephesians 4:2-3 “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Recommended Resources: Men are Like Waffles, Women are Like Spaghetti: Understanding and Delighting in Your Differences by Bill & Pam Farrel Discovering Joy in Philippians: A Creative Devotional Study Experience by Pam Farrel, Jean E Jones, and Karla Dornacher  Red-Hot Monogamy: Making Your Marriage Sizzle by Bill and Pam Farrel Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest:  Connect with Pam Farrel: Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter / Website For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube   Guest Pam Farrel: Pam Farrel, with her husband, Bill, are international speakers, and authors of over 50 books including best-selling Men are like Waffles, Women are like Spaghetti.  They are relationship specialists and seek to help people become “Love-Wise.” Pam has experience as a Pastor’s wife and Women’s Ministry Director. Pam is a cheerleader, challenger and coach that believes that "The one who gets wisdom loves life." (Proverbs 19:8) Her new creative Bible studies are Amazon bestsellers: Discovering Hope in the Psalms ; Discovering Joy in Philippians and Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament. When the Farrels are not traveling for speaking, you will find them on their live aboard boat or enjoying their 3 sons, 3 daughters in law and 5 grands.  www.Love-Wise.com   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you have ever struggled with your thought life or wondered what it means to transform your thought life, then today is the perfect show for you. Join me with my friend, Sarah Geringer, as we talk about how to change your thoughts and transform your life. Paying attention to our thought life is important! As a neuropsychologist, I can tell you we have between 50-70,000 thoughts a day. That’s a lot of taking thoughts captive but so worth it. God’s word is the ultimate truth. While other books can help us, there is no comparison to the power of God’s word to change us into someone more like Him. The answer to all our problems lies within Scripture. God said in His word that He has already given us everything we need for life and godliness. We can break the stronghold Satan has put on our lives by using Scripture. Jesus was the son of God and the son of man, He was the word and He chose to use the ancient scriptures to counter Satan’s attacks. When we come up against anxiety-provoking situations, or worrisome thoughts, or feelings of insecurity, we can come against them with scripture. God would love nothing more than to give us His peace in exchange for our anxiety. It’s crucial that we pay attention to the thoughts we are having, and the words we are speaking. We can be condemning ourselves with our own words. As we read our Bible, it’s helpful to ask three questions: What does this verse tell me about God? What does this verse tell me about myself? What does God want me to do with this information for others (personal application)? So many of our thoughts are careless thoughts because we don’t pay enough attention before we have them. By being intentional about examining our thoughts and asking God to search our minds and hearts, God will teach us things we weren’t previously aware of. We need to also be careful about the shows we watch and the music we listen to, because we’re putting information into our minds that do not mesh with the truth of God’s word. As you examine your thoughts, you’ll be surprised by all the things God wants to reveal to you. Our emotions are the outward manifestations of the thoughts we believe. But we must take the time to monitor the thoughts we believe. It’s too easy to get caught up in our emotions and believe them and let them influence us in nonproductive ways. God’s word is our anchor, our guide, the one true thing when so much of what we encounter is not true. Whatever our thought life struggles are, is where Satan is likely to strike. That’s where we are most vulnerable to believing his lies. Any of these places are weak places in our stress.  A stronghold is any area where Satan has a hook in a certain area to try to distract you, make you more miserable, and make you less effective for God’s kingdom. Christian meditation is thinking about God’s word, taking scriptures and mulling over them. What does it tell me about God’s character? What does it tell me about what to do? What does it tell me about how I can help other people? Quotables from the episode: It’s crucial that we pay attention to the thoughts we are having, and the words we are speaking. Our emotions are the outward manifestations of the thoughts we believe. But we must take the time to monitor the thoughts we believe. Scripture References: Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Romans 12:1-2 “And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 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.” Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace, those who are steadfast because they trust in you.” Romans 8:1 “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.” Recommended Resources: “Transforming Your Thought Life: Christian Meditation in Focus” by Sarah Geringer 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: You can follow Sarah on social media here: Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest / YouTube / LinkedIn / Goodreads 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: Sarah Geringer writes about finding peace in God’s Word at sarahgeringer.com. She is also on the writing teams for Encouragement for Today, Woman 2 Woman Ministries, A Wife Like Me and Devotable. Sarah also writes for Hope-Full Living, a quarterly publication for senior citizens. When she’s not reading over 100 books per year, Sarah enjoys prayer walks, gardening, baking, painting and playing the flute. She lives in her beloved southeast Missouri with her husband and three children. 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.