Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast Dr. Michelle Bengtson

Episode Summary:
We all want to help. When we hear someone whose been given a devastating diagnosis, we want to try to help make things better. Or, at least make things less bad. But, sometimes, inadvertently, we can say and do things that cause more harm than good. Through my history with cancer and my husband's history with cancer, we've learned a few things. So in this replay of a conversation I had with Amy Connell, I'm going to share some insights that I think you'll find helpful so you can know how best to help a friend with cancer.
This episode not only sheds light on the emotional and physical challenges of cancer but also on how friends can effectively and sensitively be a source of comfort and strength during such trying times.
 
Quotables from the Episode:
Keep your questions to a minimum. (It can be exhausting answering everybody's questions. It's even nicer to listen to an audio text or to read a prayer because I can hold on to that and pull it out again when I'm at a loss for words Don't just throw scripture at them. We want to have the right thing to say, and we want to do something to take their pain away, but we don't know what that is. So we fill it in with a Bible verse.  Ask permission before giving advice. We want to help, but unsolicited advice can sometimes backfire. Consider tangible expressions of your support... something as simple as clean sheets can be deeply meaningful.  
Scripture References:
Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
 
Social Media Links for Guest and Host:
Connect with Amy Connell:
Website / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube
 
For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:
Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube
 
About Amy Connell:
Amy Connell is a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach who is passionate about equipping women to find balanced, sustainable ways of taking care of their uniquely created bodies. Amy helps women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect, and that the reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do. She does this through a variety of platforms, including her Graced Health podcast, books, social media education, and one-on-one coaching.
 
About Dr. Michelle Bengtson:
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is an international speaker, a national and international media resource on mental health, and the bestselling, award-winning author of Hope Prevails, the Hope Prevails Bible Study, Today Is Going to Be a Good Day, and Breaking Anxiety’s Grip. She is also the host of the award-winning podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective.
A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist in private practice for more than twenty years, Dr. Bengtson blogs regularly and offers a wide variety of resources on her website, DrMichelleB.com.
 
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson
 

Episode Summary:
In a world bent on touting certain diets and restrictive eating, our guest, Amy Connell, desires we learn about our core strength. After releasing her book Your Worthy Body, written for women over 40, she had moms approach her saying “I need something like this for my daughters!” 
Her hope is to be a conduit between mom and daughter to help them both foster a healthy relationship with food, exercise and their body so they can grow in their relationship with each other. She does this through her new book Your Core Strength: A Christ-Centered, Diet-Culture-Free book for young women. Today we are going to be talking about How Your CORE Strength can bring freedom and empowerment in your health.

Quotables from the episode:
91% of women report being unhappy with their bodies. Our C.O.R.E. strength refers to our calling, our originality and uniqueness, our relationships with others and with God, and everything that contributes to our holistic well-being in our health journey. Practically speaking, prioritize sleep. We can optimize and manage our overall mental and physical health when we have rested our brain and body. If you have children, model this for them. Spiritually speaking, I cling to 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. If what I’m thinking isn’t of God, then I follow the guidelines I offer in the book. Spot it, Lock it, Speak it. I have to notice the enemy’s lies, lock them away and then speak God’s truth.  
Scripture References:
Romans 12:2 NIV 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.  Genesis 1:29 NIV I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.  Genesis 9:3 NIV Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.  
Recommended Resources: 
Free download of the Introduction and Chapter 1 to Your CORE Strength as well as a 5-minute “Wake Up and Warm Up” video Your CORE Strength: A Young Woman’s Guide to Eating, Exercise and Empowered Health by Amy Connell Your Worthy Body by Amy Connell 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 YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms   Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win  
Social Media Links for Gu

Episode Summary:
Some pro-life advocates mistakenly assume that once a pregnant woman has chosen life for her baby, the battle has been won. However, the truth is that for mothers living in poverty, especially generational poverty, the battle has only begun. These women lack resources, support, finances, and hope. While pregnancy centers succeed in leading women to choose life and providing aid through the baby's first year, impoverished mothers are then left to fight a solitary battle for the life of their child every day. Join me with Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez as we talk about hope for breaking the cycle of generational poverty.

Quotables from the episode:
Our lifesaving efforts should not end with the saved life of the baby. We need to look at the bigger picture of the woman's life and her baby's future and seek to understand her context, the circumstances that make her abortion-vulnerable, and what she needs after she says yes to her baby's life.' Living in poverty does not merely mean struggling to provide basic needs due to a lack of financial stability. It is an all-encompassing condition that affects how a person feels, how they think, how they form relationships, how they function as parents, how they practice self-esteem, how they view their own future and the future of their families, and how others view them. We as the church have the opportunity to tell this woman that there's an option where she can choose life and her dreams as well... When we show her that we are guardians of her dreams and the shepherds of her soul, we show her that we love her, her baby, and their future. They all matter to God and us. Through social service referrals, meaningful relationships, and committed discipleship, we can work with families to help them build a sustainable future... Without the hands on support of committed and caring believers- something my mother and I received- women in poverty aren't able to carve a new path for their families. We need humility and grace to seek to understand what life looks like in this context and in the culture and communities we are serving so that we can approach them with awareness and understanding.  
Recommended Resources: 
Beyond Her Yes: Reimagining Pro-Life Ministry to Empower Women and Support Families in Overcoming Poverty by Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez 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 YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms   Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win  
Social Media Links for Guest and Host:
Connect with Marisol Maldonado Rodriguez:
Website / Instagram Marisol / Instagra

Episode Summary: 
Join me with Melissa Heiland as we talk about an important but sensitive topic: what is sexual abuse, and how we can offer hope for sexual abuse survivors. 
In the US, 10% of all children experience some form of sexual abuse before they turn 18. These numbers are likely low since sexual abuse is underreported. The victims are most likely to be female (75%), but these numbers are rapidly changing as boys are increasingly the targets of molesters. A whopping 90% of the children who are abused know their abuser which often points to a family member, teacher, scout leader, or coach.
With an American sexually assaulted an average of every 68 seconds not enough attention is given to the survivors. Most feel a sense of shame, confusion, and condemnation. They think, how could this have happened to me? But God still has a plan for your life despite the abuse. 
While sexual abuse within the Catholic Church has been well publicized, evangelical churches have started to draw up policies and abuse reforms the problem is not the sole dominion of it any single church or institution. Can happen anywhere, in families, in schools, and even in church organizations survivors of abuse hear a lot of messages that condemn, confuse, and wound. This should never happen but often does. 

Quotables from the episode:
God still has a plan for your life despite the abuse. Your hopelessness in the present does not change God's plan for you to prosper and give you a hope for the future. After experiencing sexual abuse, it’s important to separate the lies we’ve believed from God’s truth. Your experience of sexual abuse does not determine who you are. God calls you loved, worthy, and accepted.  
Scripture References:
Isaiah 61:7 “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.” Romans 12:19 “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: ‘it is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”  
Recommended Resources: 
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 No Shame: A Devotional for Survivors of Sexual Abuse by Melissa Heiland 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 YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms   Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win  
Social Media Links for Guest and Host:
Connect with Melissa Heiland:
Website
 
For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:
Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s G

Episode Summary:
Dr. Michelle Bengtson joins David Robison of LifeToday to explore the challenging journey of maintaining faith during periods of waiting for healing. Drawing from her personal struggles and professional insights as a neuropsychologist, Dr. Bengtson shares about the emotional, physical, and spiritual pain that tests our faith. Through her new book, "The Hem of His Garment," she offers hope, encouragement, and practical advice to those navigating the complexities of pain and waiting. Join us as we discuss the importance of pressing into faith, the biblical examples of those who waited on God's timing, and how we can find strength and hope in the midst of suffering. This is a replay of a LifeToday interview.
Quotables from the Episode:
"In our pain, we have a choice. We can either retreat from God and blame Him, or we can lean in and continue to enact our faith, waiting for His healing in His perfect time and way."  "God never withholds anything good from His children. If my physical healing today was in my best interest, I know He would do it."  "Walking by faith sometimes comes by crawling by faith."  "Getting out of bed or just breathing, sometimes, that is victory." "God can handle our honesty. It's our flesh speaking, but it's honest and it's real."  "The pain of childbirth is so great... But when you get the joy that comes out of it, it makes it all worthwhile."  Scripture References:

The story of the woman with the issue of blood who touched the hem of Jesus' garment and was healed, illustrating the journey of faith and waiting for healing. [No specific verse cited, but the story is found in Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48, and Matthew 9:20-22.]  
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 YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms   Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win  
Social Media Links for Guest and Host:
Connect with David Robison of LifeToday:
Website / Facebook / Instagram
For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:
Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube
 
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

Episode Summary: 
All moms worry, right? Motherhood tempts many moms to worry, especially about the wellbeing of their children. Are they breathing? How can I keep them healthy? What if they don’t make friends at school? But for moms who experience anxiety, worry quickly elevates into debilitating overwhelm, fear, and doubt. This can make normal tasks of motherhood overwhelming and joy-less. Courtney Devich and I share the truth about anxiety in motherhood and how to overcome overwhelm and fear.
 
Quotables from the episode:
Many moms believe the adage, “I’m a mom, it’s my job to worry.” If not addressed, anxiety will dictate your decisions. My experience with mental health issues drew me closer to God. Anxiety does not mean that moms can’t experience joy in their parenting!= God’s going to support you and take care of you if you feel like you’re slipping into the depths of your anxiety. If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression as a mom, have honest conversations with your spouse about how to best support you.  
Scripture References:
Psalm 94:19 NIV When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.  1 Peter 5:7 NIV Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.  Psalm 56:3 NIV When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.  
Recommended Resources: 
Mama’s Got Anxiety: But It’s Not Going to Steal Her Joy by Courtney Devich  Your Rx: 40 Scriptures that Combat Worry, Fear, Anxiety and Panic
Where Do Anxiety, Worry and Fear Come From?
Anxiety Attack vs. Panic Attack: Key Differences and Symptoms
Coping with Anxiety {7 Steps}
God and Anxiety: God’s Answer to Moses is the Same for Today
Beating Anxiety: The Thief of Peace
How to Get Rid of Worry, Fear, and Anxiety
It Is Finished: What Jesus Would Say About Anxiety
What is the Difference Between Worry, Fear, and Anxiety?
Hope for Helping Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression and Suicidal Ideation – Episode 127
How We Fight Against Worry, Fear, and Anxiety – Episode 25
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 YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms   Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win  
Social Media Links for Guest and Host:
Connect with Courtney Devich:
Website / Facebook / Instagram
For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:
Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube
Guest:
Courtney Devich is a mama relying on Jesus and reheated coffee every da