Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary: If you’ve ever felt ambushed by intrusive thoughts, unwanted mental spirals, or the kind of anxious loops that hijack your peace, you’re not alone—and you’re not powerless. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, we’re diving into the intersection of biblical truth and brain science, exploring how God designed your mind, why intrusive thoughts show up, and how to interrupt them with evidence-based strategies and Scripture-anchored truth. Whether you struggle with anxiety, guilt, catastrophizing, or “what-if” thinking, you’ll learn practical, hope-filled tools to renew your mind, reclaim your thought life, and experience the calm your soul has been craving. In honor of mental health awareness month, today we’re going to talk about How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts Through Biblical Truth & Brain Science. Quotables from the episode: You are not at the mercy of your mind. A thought is not a fact. A thought is not a sin. A thought is not your identity. A thought is not your destiny. The amygdala can’t tell the difference between a genuine threat, a hypothetical threat, or a lie masquerading as danger. Romans 12:2 isn’t metaphor, it’s biology: ‘Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.’ You can’t control the first thought, but you can control the next one. Intrusive thoughts thrive in internal chaos; they shrink in stillness. This is just a thought, not a truth, and not a command. You cannot ‘stop thinking’ your way out of intrusive thoughts; you must redirect them. When the body calms down, the amygdala shuts off, and intrusive thoughts lose their volume. You are not losing your mind. You are learning to renew it. Scripture References: Romans 12:2 “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 “Take every thought captive.” Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above.” Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God.” Philippians 4:8 “Whatever is true… think about such things.” Romans 8:6 “The mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace” Psalm 46:1 “God is my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Romans 8:1 “There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you.” 1 John 4:18 “Perfect love casts out fear.” Matthew 6:34 “Do not worry about tomorrow.” Philippians 1:6 “He who began a good work in you will carry it to completion.” Recommended Resources: Free Stress-Response Personality Assessment Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: In the chaos of life—when the bills pile up, when fear creeps in, or even when joy overflows—sometimes the words just don’t come. That’s where prayer steps in, grounding us in God’s presence and reminding us we’re never alone. On this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, in honor of the National Day of Prayer, I’m talking with Tama Fortner, bestselling author of over sixty books, about her newest release Prayers for Each Moment. This powerful book offers heartfelt conversations with God for real-life situations, helping us move beyond scripted words into authentic, soul-deep connection. Whether you’re struggling to pray or simply longing for a deeper rhythm of communion with God, this conversation will meet you right where you are. Quotables from the episode: Prayer is one of the greatest gifts God has given us, yet for many of us, it can also feel like one of the hardest disciplines to practice consistently. Do we have the right words? Are we doing it "enough"? And how do we bring our real struggles and everyday moments before a holy God? Today’s guest, Tama Fortner, award-winning and bestselling author of Prayers for Each Moment: 100 Conversations with God About Real Life and Real Stuff, joins us to remind us that prayer isn’t about performance—it’s about relationship. Together we’ll explore how prayer can be both an invitation and a lifeline, and how it connects our everyday lives to God’s extraordinary love. I've also seen it play out in the lives of others and some of the comments and feedback that I've gotten is an uncomfortableness with prayer. We hear these beautiful public prayers in our churches, in different venues, and they're wonderful, and they're beautiful, and necessary, and needed, but they can also be a little bit intimidating. We get this notion that we have to have the right setting, the right words, that it has to be a certain structure, a certain time of day, and it doesn't. It doesn't. It just has to have a heart that's turned to God. I think that gets it in our way a lot. Prayer is a conversation, and we never want to minimize that we're talking to the God of all creation. We never want to make it an unholy space or lessen the holiness of his invitation, but we also don't have to be intimidated by it. We don't have to figure out exactly the right words. We don't have to have ourselves all cleaned up and perfected before we come to him. So, it's a willingness to reframe prayer as that conversation. And so, we're turning to him maybe with half form sentences in the middle of doing something else. I need God in every moment of my life. And the prayer without ceasing, something that I've come to realize reading some, some books like Brother Lawrence and then just some life experiences is that prayer may not always look like what we think it will look like. Maybe what we've been led or taught or grown up seeing it. It's not always head bowed, and eyes closed and stillness. Sometimes it's going for a walk. Sometimes it's a really quick prayer while you're on the run. But most of all, whether we use words or not in our prayers, it is a heart that's turned toward God, ready to listen, ready to be led. Isn't it wonderful that he is bending down his ear to listen whenever we approach him with a heart of prayer. And I love that we never get a busy signal. You know, I'm not a big one for talking on the telephone, but it can be frustrating when you need to get hold of someone, and you get that voicemail. And you have to wait for a response, but we never have to wait on that response from God, because he is always attentive to our prayers. I don't know what to pray. And I struggled, as you talked about earlier, with some doubts. But there are those verses where the man brings his son to Jesus, to heal, and Jesus says, "Do you believe?" And the man says, "I believe, but help my unbelief." Because even when we're struggling, even when we're doubting, even when we don't know what to pray, as long as we are taking those struggles and doubts to God, oh my goodness, His love and grace meets us in that moment. And our prayers don't always have to have words. God wants to hear from you. God wants to speak into your life. Take a moment, and I know you're busy, so, it doesn't even have to be a moment of stillness, but take a moment and have a conversation with him, and then take one more moment and let him have a conversation with you. Scripture References: Psalm 116:2 NIV “Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.” Romans 8:34 “Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.” Recommended Resources: Prayers for Each Moment by Tama Fortner Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Tama Fortner: Website / Instagram / Facebook / LinkedIn Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Guest: Tama Fortner is an ECPA award-winning and bestselling author with more than sixty titles to her credit, including Everyday Joys Devotional and Simply Christmas. Tama has collaborated with some of the biggest names in Christian publishing to create inspirational books for all ages. But her greatest accomplishments happen in a happy little home on the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee, where she lives with her family and two feisty little pups who are convinced, they’re people too. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Whether you’re battling chronic stress, emotional overload, burnout, or simply the pressures of everyday life, today we’re diving deep into Overcoming Stress with Scripture and Science. We’ll explore what stress does to your brain and body, how to recognize when it’s taking a toll, and—most importantly—God’s proven blueprint for peace, renewal, and rest. If you’ve been craving practical tools rooted in neuroscience and anchored in biblical truth, this episode will speak directly to your heart. Today’s episode is especially timely because April is Stress Awareness Month. And if there is one thing I’ve consistently seen in 30+ years as a neuropsychologist, it’s this: stress is universal, but suffering under it doesn’t have to be. Quotables from the episode: In recognition of stress awareness month, I want to remind you that stress doesn’t simply come from “big problems.” Science shows that your brain can interpret noise, clutter, constant notifications, unresolved emotions, lack of sleep, and even chronic busyness the same way it interprets danger. Chronic stress literally shrinks the brain regions involved in emotional regulation and clarity. But the good news? They can also be strengthened—God built neuroplasticity into your biology. Stress is not a spiritual failure. It’s a signal—an invitation—to lean into God’s design for restoration. God doesn’t offer stress management tips—He offers Himself. Peace isn’t a principle. Peace is a person. God created your brain and body with built-in “calm switches." This isn’t just spiritual—it’s neurological. Meditation strengthens the very brain networks stress weakens. “When your mind stays on Him, your brain rewires toward peace.” Replace Fear Thoughts with Scripture-Based Truth. Science calls this cognitive reframing. Scripture calls it taking thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5). Neuroscience shows that short pauses throughout the day reduce cumulative stress load. Scripture calls this Selah—a holy pause. Stress may be a reality of life, but peace is the promise of God. Don’t just become aware of stress. Become aware of God—right in the middle of it. Scripture References: Psalm 94:19 “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” Exodus 33:14 “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Isaiah 26:3 “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you.” Proverbs 12:25 “Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad.” Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” Recommended Resources: Free Stress-Response Personality Assessment Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Are you weary from constantly striving, juggling endless responsibilities, and living at a pace that leaves you burned out and exhausted? You’re not alone. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by Dr. Portia Preston, a public health expert, two-time TEDx speaker, and author of Hustle, Flow, or Let It Go? Her compassionate, shame-free approach to wellness helps us release hustle culture and create sustainable wellness so we can live with greater balance, peace, and joy. Quotables from the episode: This chronic stress is when I lose connection with myself. That's really the best way I know. Where am I in relation to myself and the things that I value most? If I am being irritable in my relationships, something's off. Because these are people that I love. If you had asked me a decade ago about my experience with burnout, I would have pointed directly to my career. And always feeling like it was on me to provide because who else would do it? But it's only been in recent years when I've found that burnout extends to all facets of my life. Surrender isn't about what you can do. The to-do list narrows our perspective. It's asking us to show up as the person who does these things. So immediately we are taken out of connection with our reality and our capacity. And we've been conditioned to say, well, that's the way that it should be. So, if what I have today doesn't measure up to that, then I'm the problem. And I'm not saying the list is bad. There is a saying that says that we are human beings, not human doings. You were born with worth. That it was a part of you. And it's not something that can be taken away from you. God never designed us to go full speed all the time. And recognizing the rhythm of the seasons frees us to honor time of work and time of rest. Scripture References: Isaiah 30:15 (NLT) “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.’” Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NRSV) “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” Recommended Resources: Hustle, Flow, or Let It Go? A Guide to Shame-Free Wellness That Honors Your Reality and Gives You Life by Portia Preston, DrPH Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Dr. Portia Preston: Website / Instagram Connect with Dr. Bengtson: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Guest: Dr. Portia Preston is a public health expert, two-time TEDx speaker, and founder of Empowered to Exhale. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Michigan, and UCLA, and currently serves as a faculty member at California State University, Fullerton. Through her groundbreaking work, Dr. Preston helps individuals and organizations create a culture of sustainable wellness and performance. Her new book, Hustle, Flow, or Let It Go?, offers a compassionate, shame-free roadmap to releasing hustle culture and embracing wellness that truly honors our unique realities. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Homelessness is often viewed only through the lens of what we see on the surface—tents on sidewalks, individuals holding signs, or people who seem lost in the crowd. Yet behind every face is a story marked by trauma, loss, survival, and a longing for dignity. Today we are pulling back the curtain to look deeper into the emotional, psychological, and spiritual factors that contribute to homelessness, and more importantly, the pathways that lead toward healing, restoration, and lasting hope. Our guest, Baron King, serves on the front lines, offering trauma-informed care, emotional support, and compassionate advocacy to individuals fighting their way out of crisis. You’ll hear what truly makes a difference, how healing begins, and how we can each play a role in restoring hope to those who feel forgotten. Whether you’ve experienced instability yourself or want to better understand how to support those who do, this conversation will open your heart and strengthen your faith in the God who sees, knows, and redeems every story. Quotables from the episode: Too often, homelessness is reduced to statistics, stereotypes, or oversimplified assumptions about personal choices. But for many individuals, homelessness is the culmination of unhealed trauma, mental health challenges, broken systems, and overwhelming life circumstances. Yet, every face is a story, sometimes marked by trauma, loss, survival, even a longing for dignity. To every complex problem, there's a simple answer and it's always wrong. It's rare that somebody presents themselves to our agency and the only reason that they are unsheltered or homeless is because of lack of housing. Perhaps they have physical or psychological disabilities or challenges. Perhaps they're a caregiver of somebody that's dependent and they lack some of these social safety nets that other people have and they don't have. So, it's usually very multifactorial. But I would propose that if any of us were unsheltered for 6, 8, 12 months, that we would be demonstrating signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and despondency. What I've realized is they can't sleep at night, and they come into our facility because they won't get assaulted and they can get sleep. I think one of the things that people really struggle with, and I think that most people probably wouldn't realize this, is a loss of identity. You know, dignity is the first thing people lose when they become homeless. No one, no one chooses to be unsheltered. No one chooses to be homeless. Scripture References: Isaiah 58:10 “If you spend yourselves on behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.” Proverbs 19:17 “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Baron King: Website CHATT Foundation / Facebook / Instagram / Podcast Connect with Dr. Bengtson: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Guest: Baron S King, LPC, NCC, is the current President and Chief Executive Officer of The CHATT Foundation, formerly the Chattanooga Community Kitchen, a non-profit corporation serving the homeless community in the greater Chattanooga region. Prior to that Mr. King served as the CEO of Liberty Ministries, Inc., a large non-profit serving men and women inside state and county prisons of Pennsylvania and those upon release in residential transition programs. Prior to that, Mr. King served as the Director of Health and Counseling services, Clinical Director, and Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Cairn University in southeastern PA. Mr. King holds a BS degree in Theology, a MS in Clinical Psychology, and has an extensive background in Organizational Leadership and Development. Mr. King is passionate about providing services and support to underserved people groups and providing pathways to self-sustainability. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: If you’ve been doing “all the right things” but still feel depleted, disconnected, or out of balance, this episode is for you. In honor of World Health Day, Your Hope-Filled Perspective takes a compassionate look at whole-person health—addressing the deep connection between mental wellness, physical vitality, and spiritual nourishment. Through faith-based insight and practical application, you’ll be encouraged to move beyond survival mode and toward sustainable, Christ-centered well-being that honors how God designed you to live. Today we’re marking World Health Day by talking about something that sounds simple but is anything but—How to Care for Your Whole Self: Biblical and Brain-Based Health for Mind, Body, and Spirit. Quotables from the episode: We often try to fix one area of our lives in isolation. We focus on our spiritual life but ignore our emotional health. Or we tend to our bodies while our thought life runs unchecked. But God designed us as integrated beings, and when one area is suffering, the others are usually affected too. Some early mental and emotional signs include: Increased irritability or emotional numbness Difficulty concentrating or remembering Racing or repetitive negative thoughts Losing interest in things that once brought joy Feeling overwhelmed by decisions that used to feel manageable These aren’t character flaws—they’re signals from your nervous system. And spiritually, those same signals often show up as disconnection. You might notice prayer feels harder, Scripture feels flat, or you’re more reactive than reflective. Sometimes we label that as a “faith problem,” when it’s actually exhaustion or emotional overload. Or you find yourself pushing through fatigue, telling yourself, “I’ll rest later,” without realizing later never comes. Ignoring the body’s signals doesn’t make us more faithful—it often makes us more fragile. Spiritually, we often confuse endurance with faithfulness. We forget that Jesus regularly withdrew to rest, pray, and recalibrate. If the Son of God needed rhythms of restoration, so do we. When you notice the slide, the goal isn’t to fix everything—it’s to create safety and regulation. Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is eat a balanced meal, drink water, or get some sleep. Sleep deprivation alone increases anxiety, depression, and emotional reactivity. Caring for your body is not separate from caring for your soul. We don’t heal by striving—we heal by abiding. Whole health isn’t about doing more—it’s about listening better. To your body. To your mind. To the Spirit of God within you. Scripture References: 3 John 1:2 (NASB) “Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.” Proverbs 4:20–23 (CSB) “My son, pay attention to my words; listen closely to my sayings. Don’t lose sight of them; keep them within your heart, for they are life to those who find them, and health to one’s whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life.” Recommended Resources: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel: Website / Instagram / Facebook Connect with Dr. Bengtson: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Co-Host: Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Have you ever noticed how Easter morning feels light and bright? It’s not necessarily because the sunrise seems extra colorful or because the church lilies release their fragrance. It’s because something shifts inside us and whispers, “Hope is still alive.” This hope isn’t fragile and it doesn’t evaporate when bills pile up or when anxiety keeps you awake in the night or when the ache you prayed would be gone is still there. We’re talking about resurrection hope, the nitty gritty kind that Jesus bought for us the moment he walked out of the tomb. Easter has everything to do with the battles happening in our minds and emotions. Today, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about the kind of hope that transforms us. It’s not pastel colored nor is it a once-a-year kind of hope, but an everyday hope. Quotables from the episode: Jesus didn’t just rise for the world; he rose for you. Resurrection isn’t only a historical and theological event. It’s a mental and emotional revolution. The power that resurrected a dead body is the same power God places in our inner world to bring back to life hope, peace, and joy when they feel gone. Yet Christians often live like Easter is a spiritual anniversary, not their present reality. Easter isn’t a bandage. It’s a breakthrough and it announces the defeat of our mental and emotional battles. Resurrection hope doesn’t promise me an easy life, but it does promise me God’s presence, which settles my anxious heart. That reminds me that resurrection hope means the darkness is not permanent. But the empty tomb is God’s megaphone saying, “Shame doesn’t get to define you.” Jesus didn’t walk out of that grave dragging your failures behind him. Every disappointment is just Friday and every breakthrough is Sunday. Easter is not a holiday we recognize once a year. It’s the reality we live in, and it transforms every inner battle, not by removing struggle, but by giving us a power greater than the struggle. Scripture References: Romans 8:11, NIV “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.” 2 Corinthians 12:10 “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong” 2 Corinthians 2:3-5 reminds us, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.” Isaiah 43:19, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Romans 8:11, “And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.” Recommended Resources: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel: Website / Instagram / Facebook Connect with Dr. Bengtson: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Co-Host: Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Have you ever wondered how you would respond if life completely unraveled in an instant? My guest today, Sheryl Ramstad, knows that reality all too well. After surviving a catastrophic plane crash with less than a 1% chance of survival, she could have easily given in to despair. Instead, she chose to rise—reclaiming her life, reinventing her future, and redefining what it means to live with purpose. From the ashes of tragedy, Sheryl’s story shines as a powerful testimony of resilience, grit, and the sustaining grace of God. Most of us will never experience the devastation of a plane crash, but all of us face moments when life feels shattered beyond repair. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m joined by Sheryl Ramstad—a woman who not only survived the unthinkable but has gone on to thrive. With perseverance, faith, and courage, she rebuilt her life, pursued new careers, climbed one of the world’s highest mountains, and continues to inspire others to press forward no matter the odds. Her journey is a living reminder that hope can rise from despair and that our greatest challenges can become the very places God’s strength shines brightest. Quotables from the episode: What would you do if your life changed in an instant, and nothing looked the way you thought it would? Sheryl survived a catastrophic plane crash with less than a 1% chance of survival, she could have easily given in to despair. I can only imagine doctors walking in and saying, you have less than a 1 % chance of survival. So, what role did faith and determination play in you beating those odds? It was everything, Michelle. My faith was what carried me through. When I was in the hospital, instead of asking “why me?”, I would ask “what next?” And the Lord always had an answer for me. And that became my future question that I'd always ask, what's next, Lord? I had been thinking that the hospital would be the end of my journey, but it wasn't. It was only the beginning. It was a years-long journey, seven major surgeries. I would give others the advice that it's when it's bigger than you when your recovery is bigger than you When your life is out of control, when you feel like you just don't have a place to turn, turn your attention to the Lord and read your Bible and ask for the Lord's help. Ask Him to walk beside you, surround yourself with people who are faithful, who can help you in those times of doubt, who can lift you up and encourage you. And that's what got me through. Sheryl, my listeners know that I've written a book "Sacred Scars," resting in God's promise that your past is not wasted, and your story begs the question, "Because you have lived with both the physical scars from the burns as well as emotional scars, how have you embraced your scars as part of your story rather than as setbacks?" I've, it's turned my life into one of purpose, Michelle. It's given me direction, I focused on service over survival, tried to encourage others, and that's been my goal. How did you hold onto your hope during that process? - Well, I knew I wasn't in it alone. I reached out to others, in particular people who I knew had faith, and would ask them, "What's next?" They wouldn't have the answers, but then I'd ask the Lord, and I'd see a path that made no sense to me at the time, but that I felt called to follow. And I can't explain that calling, Michelle other than to say it was a still small voice inside of me. I would give others the advice that it's when it's bigger than you when your recovery is bigger than you When your life is out of control, when you feel like you just don't have a place to turn, turn your attention to the Lord and read your Bible and ask for the Lord's help. Ask Him to walk beside you, surround yourself with people who are faithful, who can help you in those times of doubt, who can lift you up and encourage you. And that's what got me through. Scripture References: Jeremiah 32:27 “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?” Luke 18:27 “The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.” Recommended Resources: Living Life Full Throttle: Surviving, Serving, and Summiting by Sheryl Ramstad Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Sheryl Ramstad: Website Connect with Dr. Bengtson: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Guest: Sheryl Ramstad is a burn survivor, former criminal trial attorney, and Minnesota Commissioner of Corrections who rebuilt her life after a devastating plane crash. Now a nurse practitioner with a doctorate in nursing, she brings a unique perspective to conversations about trauma, reinvention, and public service leadership. Above all, she treasures her role as a mother to three adult children, and grandmother to several littles. She resides in Minneapolis with her husband, Lee. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: In a world that pulls our attention toward stress, exhaustion, and discouragement, many of us wonder how to cultivate joy on the days when life feels overwhelmingly heavy. What if joy is not something we wait for but something we intentionally build into our minds and our spirits even during difficult seasons. Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I share how we can experience joy as a steady anchor rather than an unpredictable emotion, using both biblical truth and the latest neuroscience research to guide us. Quotables from the episode: Some days feel like a battle from the moment our feet hit the floor. Yet the Bible describes joy not as the absence of hardship but as a powerful spiritual resource that strengthens us from the inside out. We are talking about cultivating joy on difficult days. Not the easy days. Not the days when everything goes right. We are talking about the days when joy feels far away, and our circumstances feel like they are pressing in on every side. God never intended joy to be reserved only for ideal circumstances. One of the first things we need to understand is that joy and happiness are not the same. Happiness depends on what happens around us. Joy depends on the unchanging character of God within us. When we intentionally focus on what is true and life-giving the brain becomes better at recognizing hope even in hard situations. We can train our minds to recognize God’s presence and goodness even on difficult days. And most people do not realize that chronic stress suppresses the parts of the brain responsible for joy, connection, creativity, and problem solving. Joy is not built on our feelings. Joy is built on our confidence that God is in control even when life is not. Joy may begin as a flicker, not a blaze. Scripture References: James 1:2-4 “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Isaiah 26:3 “God will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are stayed on Him because they trust Him.” Psalm 94:18-19 “When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your unfailing love, LORD, supported me. When anxiety was great within me your consolation brought me joy.” Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He takes great delight in you. He rejoices over you with singing.” Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” Recommended Resources: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel: Website / Instagram / Facebook Connect with Dr. Bengtson: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Co-Host: Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: What if you could go back 10 years? Have you ever wished you could go back ten years and whisper something life-changing to your younger self? In this week’s episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective podcast, in recognition of my birthday this week, we’re diving into the 10 powerful truths I wish I had known a decade ago—biblical insights, neuroscience-backed wisdom, and lessons God taught me through some of the hardest seasons of my life. If you have ever wrestled with self-doubt, carried the weight of other people's expectations, feared what others think, or wondered whether God was really working behind the scenes, this episode will speak straight to your heart we are going to talk about rest, resilience, purpose, identity, joy, boundaries, emotional freedom, and how God faithfully redeems every part of our story. If you want to encouragement, clarity, or a fresh start anchored in scripture and science you're in the right place. Quotables from the episode: Breathe. God is not disappointed in you. Rest is not a reward for finishing the work, it’s part of the process of work. Rest is not a luxury. Rest is obedience. Rest is not weakness. It’s worship. Hardship is never wasted. Trying to live for the approval of people rewires the brain to depend on external validation. You are already approved. Joy is not circumstantial. Joy is relational. Joy is the awareness of God’s presence with us. They’re not thinking about you nearly as much as you think they are. You don’t have to be the strong one all the time. Let others in. God was working all along. Silently. Slowly. Faithfully. Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.