Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary: If you have ever struggled with depression or obsessive or compulsive tendencies, or you have a friend or loved one who has, then today is the perfect show for you. It’s not uncommon to experience depression and OCD, in fact, today’s guest has experienced both. Depression and OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) can present differently for each person. An individual with OCD may struggle to fight the need to check locks on the house before going to bed or as they are leaving to go out. They may have intrusive, irrational thoughts. They may feel that they have to do something to prevent something bad from happening, that truly is not within their direct control although they believe it is. In our culture, people use OCD as an adjective but it is so much worse than that and can be so debilitating. Anxiety falls under the category of anxiety disorders. Frequently, it encompasses irrational fears. Hope-Filled Perspective: God listens. Pray. Be honest with God. Tell Him how you are feeling. Ask for His help. Consider sharing with a trusted friend or counselor who can provide support and objective feedback. Depression and OCD do not have to rule your life. Wes has developed a ministry called PerseveringHope.com where they write about mental health issues, grief, and illness, in an effort to encourage others and spread hope. Quotables from the episode: If you have ever struggled with depression or obsessive or compulsive tendencies, or you have a friend or loved one who has, then this show is the perfect episode for you. Individuals with mental health issues, like depression or OCD, often feel like they are the only one who struggles. This can make it hard to reach out for help, out of fear that they will not be understood. So often we cannot see the struggles that others are dealing with. We, likewise, also try to hide our struggles so that they are not apparent to others. We frequently put pressure on ourselves and begin to think that if we are not perfect, God will not love us. But the truth is that God just loves us for who we are. It doesn’t matter how much we do for Him or how much we fail Him. Having gone through depression and experiencing something like anxiety can develop in us a greater sense of empathy for others’ struggles. If you haven’t gone through depression, or anxiety, or cancer, or other difficult circumstances, it can be difficult to relate and understand what others are experiencing. But when you go through it, your compassion and empathy toward others with similar conditions increases. Mental health issues like depression and OCD are not God’s best for us, nor His desire for us. But we live in a fallen world. Regardless, there is help, hope, and healing available. Because depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder, or anxiety are such isolating conditions, there can be a tendency to think that God doesn’t understand or that He doesn’t care; neither of which are true. So we think we can’t share honestly with God, when the truth is, God already knows anyway. When we can get to the place where we can openly and honestly share with God what we are thinking and feeling, then He can come in and do the work. God cannot take from our closed fists. If someone is struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, but hesitant to seek help, ask yourself “are you really happy with your life the way things are?” If not, it might help to seek professional help.   Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 4:17, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” John 6:37 “Whoever comes to me, I will never drive away.” Romans 8:18 “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Recommended Resources: “The Voice of the Heart” by Chip Dodd https://amzn.to/2MGWmdU “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 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 Wes Harris: https://perseveringhope.com/ https://www.wrhwriting.com/ https://www.facebook.com/WRHarrisAuthor/https://www.facebook.com/Persevering-Hope-1873932435975781/ For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: To order Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxietys-grip/ 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: Wes Harris As a son of a military man, Wes was born in California, lived in Europe as a small child, and attended grade school in Texas. He is a fitness trainer, writer, and owner of an online ministry called Persevering Hope. He writes about living with OCD and depression as a Christian, as well as devotional books. 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 felt prevented from living the life you expected or held back by a disability, then this show is the perfect show for you. We talked with my friend, Carolyn Newell, about living with blindness. Carolyn knows what it is to live with blindness, but she calls her disability a gift from God. So many of us take our sight for granted, so I wanted to hear from her what it’s like to live with blindness in a sighted world, and how she maintained her hope despite the limitation it imposes. Carolyn spoke about the challenges of a blind person: having to rely on organization and her memory, getting disoriented when trying to go places, and needing help but not having offers to have. She spoke about experiencing depression as a consequence of her frustrations; feeling she was incapable of doing things and trying to do more than she could. She called herself “Super Blind Woman” because she tried to do it all. When Carolyn experienced depression, she couldn’t feel God’s presence. But Hebrews 13:5 assured her that God had not abandoned her. She also shares how learning braille taught her how to depend on God. When she was most frustrated, Carolyn prayed scripture back to God. When encountering difficulties because of her blindness, she repeatedly prays, “God, you said in your word that if we have the faith the size of a tiny mustard seed, we can move mountains, and I need you to move that mountain!” Carolyn shared how vital it is that we step out in faith and trust God. Even though we often feel we can’t do something, God can. That may be through prayer, or it might come by asking others for help. If you are struggling with some kind of limitation, Carolyn recommends that you pray and read the word of God and that is where we get our strength. Carolyn learned that she can do many of the same things that others do, she just has to do them differently. But God is the one we need to depend on more than ever. God has a purpose for our trials that we may not see at the time, but will come to appreciate as a gift, just as Carolyn does with her blindness. Quotables from the episode: Organization and memory are essential for anyone with visual impairment. When I lose something, it’s in those moments that I will pray and ask Jesus to help me. A guide dog can help expand a blind person’s independence. If I wasn’t blind, my life wouldn’t be free of frustrations, they would just be different. One of the greatest struggles being blind is that no one seems to know to offer help. It’s okay if we get upset or disappointed with God, but we don’t want to stay in that place. Some of the days we think are going to be the worst days of our lives open up the door for so much more. It’s fine to have the attitude that you can do it all, but the reality is that it doesn’t work. None of us can do it all. When you strive for perfection you are setting yourself up for a fall. When you take that fall, you feel worthless and incapable. Those feelings of hopelessness lead you right down the slippery slope to depression. That is where the enemy wants us to go. With depression, we have to remember to take our thoughts captive. If they are not Godly thoughts that we should be having or that God wants us to have, and they are coming from the enemy or from our flesh, then we need to remove those thoughts from our mind because our emotions respond to our thoughts. We have an enemy who is trying to attack us. That is called spiritual warfare. And it is war: it is not easy! God wants us to come to Him and to ask for what we need. He does not want us dependent on ourselves; He wants us dependent on Him. We need to give everything, small things and big things, to the Lord and believe that He will meet our needs. If it’s in His will, and we believe Him, He’ll do it! When you learn to step out in faith, assuming that everything is okay even though you can’t see it, then that’s how we all need to trust God. Trusting God is so vital. You’ve got to step out in faith in everything you do. God is the one we need to depend on more than ever. Scripture References: Hebrews 13:5, “Be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, ‘I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.’” Philippians 4:13, “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” Recommended Resources: “Eyes of Faith: Winning the Battle Between Our Feelings & Our Faith” by Carolyn Newell https://amzn.to/33AHPGc “Loved Back to Life” by Sheila Walsh https://amzn.to/2qnk6v4 “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/carolyndalenewell/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/amountainofaith YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC126VS7qlK8MFwJgdyiqCQQ LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyndnewell/en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolyn.newell.142 For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: To order Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxietys-grip/ 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/ This show is made possible thanks to generous donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support this ministry, you can make a tax deductible donation to Words of Grace and Truth (501c3) by going here:  https://give.cornerstone.cc/GraceAndTruthRadio and putting “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” in the box marked “Designations.” Guest: Carolyn Dale Newell is a speaker and author of four books. Carolyn knows what it is to live with blindness, but she calls her disability a gift from God. She shares her stories of vulnerability and conquered fears in a vast buffet of topics suitable for retreats or conferences. She is accompanied by her beautiful guide dog, Iva, a black lab who is adored by all. Carolyn resides in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia with her husband, Tim. She loves reading, pizza, and discovering new independence with Iva. 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 or someone you love have ever struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts and wondered if there is help and hope, this is the perfect episode for you to listen to, as we explore how laughter is good medicine. My guest, Dave Ebert, shares how he grew up under a harsh, military father who was physically ill after serving in the military. As an adolescent, Dave became depressed, and then sought out to release some of that depression by entertaining others through wrestling. Ultimately, Dave began a career in improv comedy to help encourage others and give them hope where they are. Dave offers his hope-filled perspective for dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts, as well as practical easy tips that someone can begin to implement today. Quotables from the episode: The enemy will whisper in our ears that we are worthless, but that’s a lie. Too often, we inappropriately assume our value comes from what we do instead of whose we are. We can take comfort by looking at some of the biblical greats like King David, Elijah, Job, and Paul, who all went through bouts of depression. When a group of strangers laugh together, suddenly they are no longer strangers because they have all admitted something about themselves. “Laughter is a tangible evidence of hope.” Michael Jr. Laughter makes you more open to receiving from someone else. Laughter can also heal. As parents, we need to be having conversations with our children about depression and suicidal thoughts, not only to stave off their attempts but to also equip them to help friends and classmates. The number of emergency room admissions for suicidal thoughts and attempts has doubled in our adolescent population from 2015-2019. Kids are spending more time online and less time building real relationships. We’ve got to be monitoring what they are watching and what is coming into their hearts and minds. Social media, such as the Netflix program “13 Reasons Why,” is glorifying suicide in our children. Your hope-filled perspective: you are made in God’s image. God created emotions. It’s okay to feel them. Don’t add to your misery by condemning yourself for the feelings you have. Be honest with God about them—He knows everything anyway. Be around people, and let people in. It’s important, especially when you are feeling depressed and suicidal to hear other voices besides the enemy’s voice in your ear. Be around those who will support you and love you. Get involved in church. Be around other believers who can encourage you. It’s okay to not be okay, but it’s not okay to stay there. If Jesus Christ, the son of God, thought you were important enough to die for, who are you to disagree. To make a change today: 1) Don’t stay in the dark physically. Open the blinds and shutters. 2) Do something. Take a walk around the block. 3) Be honest with God. Tell Him how you feel. Scripture References: Psalm 27:13, “I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.” Proverbs 17:22 “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Romans 8:28 God works all things together for good, for those who love Him and have been called according to His purpose. Psalm 34:18, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Job 8:21 “He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.” Recommended Resources: “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 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: To connect with Dave Ebert: Gifts for Glory Ministries – www.facebook.com/giftsforglory Gifts for Glory Ministries – www.twitter.com/Gifts4Glory HaHaMen Improv – www.facebook.com/wellversedcmdy PureFest – www.facebook.com/PureFestChicago Dave@gifts4glory.com   For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: To order Hope Prevails: https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-book/ Website: https://www.DrMichelleBengtson.com Blog: https://drmichellebengtson.com/category/blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrMichelleBengtson Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrMBengtson (@DrMBengtson) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/DrMichelleBengtson/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmichellebengtson/ Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/Drbhopeprevails/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MichelleBengtson Radio Show Host: http://graceandtruthradio.world/shows/your-hope-filled-perspective/   Guest: Dave Ebert Dave Ebert was born in Chicago but grew up in the south in Virginia and West Virginia. Dave always entertained the people he was around, but that knack for entertaining went from fun to a defense mechanism to keep people from seeing his internal war with depression and suicide. Using entertainment and humor as a way to keep people away, as well as to try to make sure others didn’t feel the same as he did, Dave spent many years hiding his depression. Finally, God reached Dave and Dave set out to pursue God in earnest. Now, Dave uses the comedy, allowing God to redeem the scars of depression, to minister to others through improv. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you have ever experienced worry, fear, or anxiety, then this is the perfect episode for you! We’ve spent the last couple of weeks discussing worry, fear, and anxiety in part to celebrate the release of my new book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” which is now available at retailers near you and online. If you didn’t get to listen to either of the two previous week’s episode, I would encourage you to go back and listen to Episode 23 and Episode 24 because we had a great discussion about what exactly is worry, fear, and anxiety, where do they come from, what role trust in God plays, and how we increase our trust in Him. Today we really want to focus on what we can do about anxiety. Too many books tell you not to worry or not to be anxious, but they don’t tell you how. Today I want to talk about how we fight against worry, fear, and anxiety. Perfectionism is rooted in anxiety. Stress is mostly a self-inflicted wound. We put unrealistic expectations on ourselves that even God doesn’t put on ourselves. We worry, stress, and try to problem solve about every possible eventuality, which robs us of our peace and joy in the moment, and we can never get that moment back. Now it’s not always a self-inflicted wound. But our response to difficult situations inflicts the greatest stress. Even in the most unfortunate situations, we can choose to trust God through it. It’s a matter of taking every thought captive. We have to overcome worry, fear, and anxiety by seeing it as the battle it is. John 10:10 says that “The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy…” That thief comes to steal our joy and kill our peace. 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us “For God hath not given you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and of sound mind.” So, God is showing us that worry, fear, and anxiety are rooted in the spirit of fear. Our enemy brings that on us. But He’s also showing us that He has given us the weapons of power (the same power that raised Christ from the dead), Love (perfect love that casts out fear), and a sound mind (the mind of Christ) to fight the battle against worry, fear, and anxiety. We are given power through the Name of Jesus, through the Word of God, through the Cross, through Jesus’s blood, and so much more. God’s love is another powerful weapon. The enemy doesn’t have access to God’s love. God’s love is good and trustworthy. As Christ-followers, we have been given a sound mind because we have been given the mind of Christ. The same mind that fought the enemy in the wilderness. We have access to the Holy Spirit whose job it is to remind us of all truth. If you’ve accepted Christ as your savior, you have a new bloodline. Peace is not a thing; peace is a person. We long for peace, but peace can always be with us because God is peace and He is always with us. Recognize that worry, fear, and anxiety exist. We cannot battle what we don’t know exists. Recognize that those negative thoughts aren’t yours. Keep in mind that our emotions are the outward manifestation of the thoughts we believe. There are no more powerful prayers than scripture prayers. Quotables from the episode: Stress is mostly a self-inflicted wound. Peace is not a thing; Peace is a person. Recognize that worry, fear, and anxiety exist. We cannot battle what we don’t know exists Recognize that those negative thoughts aren’t yours Keep in mind that our emotions are the outward manifestation of the thoughts we believe There are no more powerful prayers than scripture prayers. If you’ve accepted Christ as your savior, you have a new bloodline Our feelings are the outward manifestations of the thoughts we believe. Scripture References: John 14:27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; but I have come that they might have life and have it to the full.” 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and of sound mind.” John 16:33 “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Recommended Resources: “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 Social Media Links: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: To order Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxietys-grip/ 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/ About Dr. Michelle 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 book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” will be available in September 2019 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and maintains a Monday morning radio show and podcast at GraceandTruthRadio.world. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you have ever experienced worry, fear, or anxiety, then this is the perfect episode for you! Last week we announced the release of my new book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” which is now available at retailers near you and online. If you didn’t get to listen to last week’s episode, I would encourage you to go back and listen: https://drmichellebengtson.com/what-difference-between-worry-fear-and-anxiety-episode-23/ because we had a great discussion about what exactly is worry, fear, and anxiety, and where do they come from. Today we’re going to talk about the role that our trust in God plays and how we sacrifice our peace. Worry, fear, and anxiety overlap but they are not identical. Worry is thinking about problems or fears; thinking about an unknown future that creates anxious feelings. It’s really our thought processes. Fear is an emotional response to a real or perceived threat. Anxiety is the anticipation of a future threat. But all three of these start in our mind! The enemy can use our words to instill fear in others. For example, parents will say things to their children trying to protect their children but their words can cause their children to experience fear. Our fear really comes down to not trusting God completely. T-Take God at His Word           -fear ultimately comes from trusting the lies of the enemy more than trusting God’s word. So we must consciously decide to trust what God has said in His word. R-Rest in His Presence           -God doesn’t expect us to do everything right. There is no peace apart from God’s presence. If we will take time and spend time in His presence, the rest of the day goes better, and our thoughts will be more centered on Him, and we will be more at peace. U-Understand that the outcome doesn’t depend on us           -God asks that we will believe, that we will trust, that we will have faith. When we will do what He asks us to do, the outcome is His responsibility. S-Accept that God is Sovereign           -Our circumstances don’t take God by surprise. He already knows about them and what He is going to do about them. His ways are good, His plans for us are good—even when we go through pain. T-Turn to the Testimony of Previous Experiences           -we can look back both in our own experiences as well as others’ experiences and see God’s faithfulness which makes it easier to trust God. Jesus came to give us peace, not as the world gives, but in a way that only He can give. He already gave that gift. So when we get wrapped in worry, fear, and anxiety, we are rejecting His gift of peace.   Once we recognize worry, fear, and anxiety operating in our lives, we have to reject it and choose to trust God and receive His peace. True peace is not the absence of trouble but resting in the sovereignty of God in the midst of it. We have to choose to focus on the truth, rather than focus on the facts. Facts are compelling, but God’s truth trumps the facts of our circumstances. We cannot find a single promise of God’s that has ever failed. Quotables from the episode: Worry, fear, and anxiety overlap but they are not identical. Worry is thinking about problems or fears; thinking about an unknown future that creates anxious feelings. It’s really our thought processes. Fear is an emotional response to a real or perceived threat. Anxiety is the anticipation of a future threat. But all three of these start in our mind! We don’t recognize the power of our words. Our words can instill fear in others. Fear ultimately comes from trusting the lies of the enemy more than trusting God’s word. There is no peace apart from God’s presence. When we will do what He asks us to do, the outcome is His responsibility. Our circumstances don’t take God by surprise. We must actively reject and refute the spirit of fear with God’s truth, or else Jesus’s gift of peace might as well be returned “address unknown.” True peace is not the absence of trouble, but resting in the sovereignty of God in the midst of it.  Scripture References: 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind.” Recommended Resources: “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 Social Media Links: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: To order Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxietys-grip/ 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/ This show is made possible thanks to generous donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support this ministry, you can make a tax deductible donation to Words of Grace and Truth (501c3) by going here:  https://give.cornerstone.cc/GraceAndTruthRadio and putting “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” in the box marked “Designations.” 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 book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” will be available in September 2019 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and maintains a Monday morning radio show and podcast at GraceandTruthRadio.world. She 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: If you have ever experienced worry, fear, or anxiety, then this is the perfect episode for you! [tweet this] Anxiety is considered “the common cold of mental illness.” So many people experience worry, fear and anxiety, and they’ve come to accept it as part of their life just like we accept the common cold: as if it is inevitable and it’s going to happen. As a society, we’ve come to expect worry, fear, and anxiety as a part of our life. But that’s not God’s way, God’s plan, or God’s intent. Worldwide, over 7.3% of the population suffers from an anxiety disorder. That amounts to one out of 13 people, or 264 million people. And that is just those who are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. That doesn’t account for the millions who never seek treatment, or those who have subclinical but still problematic levels of worry, fear, and anxiety. Even if you don’t struggle with worry, fear, or anxiety, you have a loved one, friend, or co-worker who does struggle. Worry, fear, and anxiety overlap but they are not identical. Worry is thinking about problems or fears; thinking about an unknown future that creates anxious feelings. It’s really our thought processes. Fear is an emotional response to a real or perceived threat. Anxiety is the anticipation of a future threat. But all three of these start in our mind! Worry, fear, and anxiety rob us because they take our focus away from all the good God is doing in us and through us and for us, and focus on all the lies of the enemy, then we can’t focus on all the good things going on for us now while we are busy problem solving for all the potential future eventualities. There are chemical, hereditary, and life experience contributors but those are not the true CAUSE of anxiety. In 2 Timothy 1:7, God shows that the spirit of fear is the cause of anxiety. It started back in the Garden of Eden with Adam, Eve, and the serpent. They experienced shame after they took the serpent’s bait. Shame was the result of their fear of God. Our thoughts can change our brain chemistry. So if we accept fearful thoughts, that can change our brain chemistry, and produce anxiety. Recognize those thoughts aren’t even your own thoughts! John 10:10 says “The thief comes only to steal, and kill and destroy…” The enemy is out to steal our joy, kill our peace, and destroy our identity. Our worry, fear, and anxiety comes because we don’t really trust God. When we recognize we haven’t been fulling trusting God, all we have to do is repent, and ask Him to help us and He will! Quotables from the episode: God says that worry, fear, and anxiety are not our portion—peace is! Worry, fear, and anxiety overlap but they are not identical Worry is thinking about problems or fears; thinking about an unknown future that creates anxious feelings. It’s really our thought processes Fear is an emotional response to a real or perceived threat Anxiety is the anticipation of a future threat But all three of these start in our mind! “Worry stole my joy. Anxiety stole my peace. Fear stole my present as it projected into my future.” Scripture References: 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given you the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind.” John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy; but I have come that they might have life and have it to the full.” Recommended Resources: “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 Social Media Links: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: To order Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: https://drmichellebengtson.com/breaking-anxietys-grip/ 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/ This show is made possible thanks to generous donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support this ministry, you can make a tax deductible donation to Words of Grace and Truth (501c3) by going here:  https://give.cornerstone.cc/GraceAndTruthRadio and putting “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” in the box marked “Designations.” About Dr. Michelle 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 book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” released on September 17, 2019 (Revell). She blogs at DrMichelleB.com and maintains a Monday morning radio show and podcast at GraceandTruthRadio.world. She 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: If you have ever experienced depression or anxiety or suffered the loss of a friend or loved one to death by suicide, then today is the perfect show for you. September 8-September 14, 2019 is National Suicide Prevention Week in the United States of America, so I wanted to devote this episode to discussing suicide prevention. This is also the week before my newest book, “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” releases in all major retailers. Because those who get to the point where they consider suicide as a viable option are often overcome with anxiety, it seemed only fitting that we would have an episode that would cover both issues. Scripture tells us in Psalm 34:18 that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” If that is you today, as one who is feeling broken hearted, crushed in spirit, or perhaps, hopeless, I hope that you will stay with us and listen to our conversation today between a board certified clinical neuropsychologist and a first response crisis chaplain, but more importantly, as two individuals who have been there. My guest today, Veronica Sites, is a first response crisis chaplain. She grew up in a family of first responders. And sadly, she lost a family member to death by suicide. This experience caused a shift in how she responded in such situations. But she also experienced some tragic life experiences which brought her to the point that she began to believe some lies that took her down the path to attempting 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.” And that is what has happened, as she now serves as a first response crisis chaplain and she tries to educate about suicide prevention. 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: 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. 2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. Recommended Resources: “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 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/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you have ever felt hopeless, helpless, or worthless, if you have ever felt like giving up the fight and ending it all, then today is the perfect show for you. If you’ve ever considered attempting suicide or lived following a failed suicide attempt, you’ll want to hear our guest’s story in this episode. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I talk with my guest, Rob Decker, who shares very candidly about his failed suicide attempt, and how he has found hope for a better life.  Rob shares his story about growing up in a dysfunctional home, watching his parents model poor choices with drugs and alcohol, his own history of substance abuse, and finally culminating in a failed suicide attempt. Then Rob shares how, despite his upbringing and his own poor choices, he has found hope and is living a joy-filled, hopeful life, and how you can too. Quotables from the episode: If you have ever felt hopeless, helpless, or worthless, if you have ever felt like giving up the fight and ending it all, then today is the perfect show for you. If you’ve ever considered attempting suicide or lived following a failed suicide attempt, you’ll want to hear our guest’s story in this episode. Even when our earthly parents reject or abandon us, God is our Heavenly Father and He will take care of us. God is our Father, and because of that, we can know everything will be okay. Christ still heals today, and He could simply touch us and heal us, but sometimes we learn more through the process and become closer to Him as a result. Despite the difficult circumstances we go through, the only way we can find freedom is to forgive. So often God uses our trials, our tribulation, our childhood, our experiences to help someone else. Find your peace in God and know that He has a purpose for your life. He has great things planned for your life. He will carry you through the trials. Find your hope in Him. He won’t let you down. The best decision you can make is to make Jesus Christ your Lord. It’s also important to make the decision to take care of yourself. Exercise, eat right, get enough rest, surround yourself by like-minded individuals who really care about your well-being, and do things that bring you joy. Scripture References: Psalm 27:13 “I would be in despair if I did not believe I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans for a future and a hope.” Psalm 40:1-3 “I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.” Recommended Resources: 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/ “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Rob Decker: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/Decker_Ro Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rob.decker.589 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/ This show is made possible thanks to generous donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support this ministry, you can make a tax-deductible donation to Words of Grace and Truth (501c3) by going here:  https://give.cornerstone.cc/GraceAndTruthRadio and putting “Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson” in the box marked “Designations.” Guest: Rob Decker Rob experienced a failed suicide attempt that led to a relationship with God. He suffered through many years of sadness, anger and confusion and fed that with drugs, alcohol and bad relationships. To God’s glory, his eventually turned into a story of forgiveness, understanding and love. Rob desires to inspire, encourage and give hope to those who are experiencing similar battles. 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: As a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist, not a day goes by that I don’t have to address the importance of rest with my patients struggling from medical and mental health disorders ranging from ADHD to post-concussion syndrome. As a society that is now driven to better and faster technology, rest has become a lost art, but no less fundamentally important to our physical emotional, cognitive, and spiritual well-being. God granted us both time and the model of rest for our good, yet we’ve come to treat it as a weakness or a punishment. If you have ever felt worn out, weary, and longing for more, then today is the perfect show for you. In this episode, Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith and I talked not just about the importance of rest, but about the different types of rest (and some of them might surprise you). As a neuropsychologist, I’m frequently interviewed about what we can do to help our physical and emotional well-being, and Dr. Dalton-Smith and I talked about the importance of rest to help us be more productive and more creative. We think we can accomplish more by doing more and skimping on rest, but the opposite is true. Quotables from the episode: Often, obeying God’s command to rest takes a step of faith. When God gives us a command to rest, it is for our good. It is opening up room for something better. But so often we are unwilling to trust Him in that process. We keep trying to grab on to the small blessings, but it keeps Him from giving us the really big one coming our way. We tend to treat rest as if that’s an indulgence. Sometimes God has to take us to the place where we are at the lowest of the low in order for us to hear His voice. When we are so busy, and not taking time to adequately enter His rest, the business drowns out His voice from our ears We can get so busy that we have a religious relationship with God but no true personal relationship There are seven types of rest: physical rest (active and passive) mental rest (the easiest way to know you don’t have it is when you lie down to go to sleep at night but you can’t turn your brain off) emotional rest (rest that comes from being able to be very truthful and authentic; being able to say what you mean without having to censor your words) spiritual rest (breaking away from a religious relationship with God and focusing on intimacy with God; spending time in His presence to worship Him) social rest (understanding which people are draining in your life, and which ones are more life giving and make you feel better just by being around them; social rest is rest from the presence of others) sensory rest (taking breaks from sensory stimulation like the tv, radio, lights, being touched) creative rest (comes from allowing yourself the space to appreciate beauty) People often need to make a mindset shift: rest is really about restoration. Jesus perfectly modeled rest for us. He frequently pulled away for a time to rest. He modeled that even in ministry, it’s okay to set aside time to rest. Rest seems like it should be a simple process but so many people struggle with fatigue and insomnia because we don’t realize exactly what kind of rest we need. The type of rest you need, may not be the type you think you need. You can be a constant producer of a lot of goodness in your life, without ever taking time to taste the sweetness of the things you’re producing. Taking a Sabbath is difficult for so many because they cram so much into their life that it would be overwhelming to think of taking an entire day off each week, but if they could even start with an hour or a couple of hours and get used to that, then they might get to the point where they can take an entire day of Sabbath rest. Most of us need to start thinking of rest as a lifestyle. Rest actually helps you be more productive, because your joy level stays up, your energy levels stay up. Emotional rest is when you longer feel the need to perform. To take time to rest during the day, take time to analyze how your body feels throughout the day. Get up every 60-90 minutes and move around to make sure you aren’t staying in the same position for long periods of time. Incorporate physical rest by assessing whether or not you are experiencing any pain or discomfort in your body. Do some stretches or close your eyes for a few moments to alleviate eye strain. Bring something beautiful or encouraging into your physical space with you. We have a choice to make. Matthew 11:28 says “come to me all who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest.” It’s an invitation. Once you choose to accept that invitation, Jesus will carry that burden for us. Scripture References: Isaiah 30:15 This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.  Hebrews 4:11 So let us do our best to enter that rest. But if we disobey God, as the people of Israel did, we will fall. Matthew 11:28-30 MSG “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Recommended Resources: Free rest assessment at https://ichoosemybestlife.com/quiz/rest-quiz-test/ Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity by Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith https://amzn.to/346V4j8 https://drmichellebengtson.com/embracing-his-rest/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/when-god-commands-rest/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/6-lessons-learned-doctor-orders-more-rest/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/3-lessons-learned-from-a-period-of-rest/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/risking-rest/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/trust-and-rest/ “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 Social Media Links for Host and Guest: To connect with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith: Website: https://ichoosemybestlife.com/ Twitter Handle: https://twitter.com/DrDaltonSmith Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/DrSaundraDaltonSmith Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/drdaltonsmith/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drdaltonsmith/ 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: Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith Saundra Dalton-Smith is an author, speaker, and board-certified internal medicine physician. She has an active medical practice in Alabama (near the Birmingham area). She received her B.S. in Biochemistry at the University of Georgia and graduated with honors from Meharry Medical College in Nashville. She has been an adjunct faculty member at Baker College and Davenport University in Michigan teaching courses on health, nutrition, and disease progression. Dr. Dalton-Smith is a national and international media resource on the mind, body, spirit connection and a top 100 medical expert inGood Housekeeping Doctors’ Secrets. She has been featured in many media outlets including Women’s Day, Redbook, First For Women, MSNBC, and Prevention. She is the author of Set Free to Live Free and Come Empty (winner 2016 Golden Scroll Nonfiction Book of the Year and 2016 Illumination Award Gold medalist). Her newest release is Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity, including ground-breaking insight on the seven types of rest needed to optimize your productivity, increase your overall happiness and live your best life. She has shared her tips on merging faith and medicine with over 16,000 health care professionals to encourage the current and next generation of doctors to treat the whole person. Learn more about Dr. Saundra at https://ichoosemybestlife.com/. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: We all struggle with pain from our past. Places where brokenness continues to cut deep into the fabric of our soul.  If you have ever felt stuck, and really, no matter where you are on the path to wholeness, our discussion today will comfort, equip, and challenge you to keep pressing forward, past brokenness to healing.  My guest, Jennifer Watson, author of Freedom! The Gutsy Pursuit of Breakthrough and the Life Beyond It https://amzn.to/2KRuPpv shares her story as a pastor’s wife and women’s ministry leader who has battled depression, anxiety, brokenness, and insecurities. Quotables from the episode: We all struggle with pain from our past. Places where brokenness continues to cut deep into the fabric of our soul. If you have ever felt stuck, then this is the episode for you to listen to.  [click to tweet] no matter where you are on the path to wholeness, our discussion today will comfort, equip, and challenge you to keep pressing forward, past brokenness to healing. [click to tweet] You can’t ask someone for direction when they’ve never been where you are going. Sometimes we need to seek the input of counselors, or mentors, or those who are more spiritually mature to help us heal and move forward with our lives. Freedom in a holy confidence to be able to walk in who God created you to be. There is a holy confidence in how God wants to use us. There is a military definition of breakthrough that says it’s the advancement beyond enemy territory. Can’t you just imagine stomping through enemy territory, and not just going up to it, but going beyond it to take back what has been stolen. People have a natural tendency to retreat from pain. But truly, you have to feel it to heal it. You can try to stuff the pain down and ignore it, but if you do, it will come back at an inopportune, unexpected time later. The enemy wants us to remain stuck in our brokenness. He wants us to be fixated on our problems instead of the promises of God. We have to be intentional about not going into hiding anymore, and facing our issues head on, no matter how painful, no matter how long it takes. We have to remember that God is so much bigger than our situations. No matter what battle we are facing, we are not facing it alone. God repeatedly says in His word that He will never leave us, and in fact, in Exodus 14:14, it says He will fight for us, if we will just be still. Where do your thoughts go? A couple indications that we’ve become stuck in a broken place and haven’t moved forward is when we find our conversation always returning to the event, or the person, or the offense, or when we start rehearsing conversations in our mind that we wish we’d had with the person who hurt us. When we focus on problems instead of promises of God, we get stuck. We all need to have those trustworthy people in our life who will not coddle us, but speak truth into our lives when what they see in our lives is not lining up with God’s truth. But they have to be a safe, selected few. Not everyone can fill that role. God wired us to have a deep need for connection, so we need others in our lives. So we want to know others and we want to be known. The only way we can do that is by being vulnerable and sharing the broken parts of our stories; the part of our stories that aren’t quite healed yet. Women have a strong tendency to compare themselves to others, including comparing how bad their situation is to another’s. Sometimes we don’t need others to have the right words to say or to be able to fix our situation, we just need others to be present in our pain. But we are so uncomfortable with silence and pain, that we say things to cover up our discomfort. That’s exactly what happened with Job. His friends came and sat with him in silence for a week, to grieve with him. And they didn’t get in trouble until they started to speak. We can’t look to other people and expect them to be able to heal our hurts or fix our brokenness. Only God can do that. Something that can help us when we are in the middle of the mess, is reminding ourselves that whatever we are going through is temporary—it won’t last forever. It’s also powerful to focus on the Problem Solver rather than the problem itself. Another way to move beyond our brokenness is to take a “negativity fast” where we don’t allow ourselves to talk about the negative things or complain about things in our lives. Interrupting negativity with praise, and positivity and all of the good things that God has done for us, is a game changer. What we need to remember is that even when we don’t see it, God is working out all things for our good. We can bank on His promises so that our problems don’t get to steal the spotlight. Scripture References: John 14:27 ISV “I’m leaving you at peace. I’m giving you my own peace. I’m not giving it to you as the world gives. So don’t let your hearts be troubled, and don’t be afraid.” John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy; but I have come that they might have life and have it to the full.” Genesis 50:20, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Recommended Resources: Freedom! The Gutsy Pursuit of Breakthrough and the Life Beyond It. By Jennifer Watson https://amzn.to/2KRuPpv https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-the-beginning-of-freedom/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/walking-in-freedom/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/do-your-part-let-god-do-the-work/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/what-ails-you-when-you-need-gods-healing/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/bible-verses-hope-when-you-need-healing/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/10-scriptures-when-you-need-healing/ https://drmichellebengtson.com/the-pain-in-change/ “Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson https://amzn.to/2ZSTP4N “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 https://amzn.to/2zB0e7J “Hope Prevails Bible Study” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award https://amzn.to/2yMdN46 Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jennifer Watson: Website: https://www.jenniferreneewatson.com/ Instagram: instagram.com/jenniferwatson FB: facebook.com/jenniferreneewatsonwriter Twitter: https://twitter.com/JreneeWatson 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: Jennifer Watson Jennifer Watson is the author of Freedom! The Gutsy Pursuit of Breakthrough and the Life Beyond It https://amzn.to/2KRuPpv. Jennifer is a pastor’s wife, mother of two teenage daughters, and national speaker. Jennifer has been in full-time ministry for twenty years and is passionate about investing in others. 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.