Shows
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast295 How To Celebrate the Holidays with Hope, Even When Life Isn’t MerryEpisode Summary: Reverend Jessica Van Roekel joins me as a co-host as we take on the challenge of how to celebrate the holidays with hope, even when life isn’t merry. They explore common struggles such as grief, unmet expectations, loneliness, and the pressures of maintaining traditions. Offering both spiritual and practical tips, they share how to hold joy and sorrow simultaneously, lean into God's presence, and embrace meaningful rest during this season. Whether you're personally struggling or know someone who is, this episode provides encouragement and tangible ways to navigate the season with grace and hope....2024-12-0541 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast294 How to Change Your Life with Gratitude and NeuroscienceEpisode Summary: As the holidays approach and we’re inundated with messages about thankfulness, you may wonder: does gratitude actually change anything? Is there science behind the old advice to “count your blessings”? In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I’m diving into the connection between Gratitude and Neuroscience, showing how adopting a heart of gratitude impacts not just our spiritual lives but also our mental and physical health. Scripture reminds us that what God commands aligns beautifully with how He created us. I’ll share 25+ unique things to be grateful for and why cultivating thankfulness, even durin...2024-11-2720 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast293 How to Heal and Trust God When Life Doesn’t Go as We HopedEpisode Summary: In this episode of the Sacred Scar Story Series on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I had the opportunity to talk with Becky Beresford about a significant time in her life when things didn’t go as she hoped and meticulously planned. She experienced physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual pain. She shares how her first pregnancy was fraught with complications, leading to grief, loss, and deep wounds. Becky discusses how she learned to trust God through her struggles and how He brought healing, leaving her with beautiful sacred scars as a reminder of His faithfulness. Quo...2024-11-2124 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast292 How a Mother Helped Her Child Find Healing from Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidal ThoughtsEpisode Summary: In this Sacred Scar Story, we hear from Lori Wildenberg who faced the unimaginable pain of nearly losing her daughter to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. She shares how her faith and God’s presence guided her through this dark journey, ultimately bringing healing to both her daughter and herself. This story of resilience and hope offers encouragement for anyone navigating similar struggles. Quotables from the episode: Wounds have to be uncovered and cleaned out before real healing can take place. With great pain often comes fear, which can paralyze us and kee...2024-11-1425 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast288 How to Move Forward After a Broken Engagement and Heal from Painful TrialsEpisode Summary: In this episode we continue the “Sacred Scar Story Series.” My guest, Georgia Shaffer, shares the pain of a broken engagement and what she thought that meant for her ministry and service to God. She shares the beautiful sacred scar that her wounds have produced, and how God is using her in the lives of others. Quotables from the episode: Shame from the actions of another made me feel like there was “something wrong with me!” I felt like a fool, and believed I was unlovable. Because of the pain I went thr...2024-10-1716 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast269 3 Strategies to Overcome Painful Trials: Standing Strong When the Enemy StrikesEpisode Summary Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we discuss how painful trials can not only challenge us but also lead to profound spiritual healing and growth. Dr. Mel shares her personal journey of overcoming a series of devastating setbacks, including a severe injury and job loss, by employing three key strategies. Learn how these strategies help turn what the enemy intended for harm into beautiful marks of victory and testimony forming sacred scars. Quotables from the Episode "I spent the fall trying to rehab it... and they said, there's no fixing this...2024-06-0626 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast268 How to Transform the Wounds of Rejection into Sacred ScarsEpisode Summary: We discuss the principle that we all endure experiences in our lives that produce wounds, but when God heals those wounds, sacred scars result. Join me with Jessica Van Roekel as we share how to transform the wounds of rejection into sacred scars. We dissect the deep emotional and spiritual impacts of rejection, reveal how these healed wounds can be converted into powerful testimonies, and demonstrate how sharing these stories empowers and uplifts others. Learn to overcome fears, recognize the importance of scripture in healing, and discover God's transformative role in turning past pains into...2024-05-3025 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast267 Healing Pain: The Power of Sacred ScarsEpisode Summary Join me for healing pain and the power of Sacred Scars. Discover how personal hardships and emotional wounds can lead to spiritual and emotional growth. Gain insights on accepting your scars, finding purpose in pain, and realizing that your past struggles are not wasted. Hear inspiring stories that demonstrate resilience and hope, along with practical advice on how to view your scars through a lens of thanksgiving and healing. Quotables from the Episode Trusting God's promise that your past is not wasted. No matter what wound you've experienced, God can and will c...2024-05-2316 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast263 How To Defeat Depression by Addressing the Spiritual Roots of DiseaseEpisode Summary: Nobody is immune to depression. Even a seasoned neuropsychologist treating patients with a wide range of medical health issues can fall prey to depression. Join me as we shatter myths and offer powerful insights to help defeat depression by addressing the spiritual roots of disease. #replay Quotables from the Episode: If you were at a restaurant having dinner with some folks, if you stretch out your arms, you would be able to reach somebody who's been impacted by depression. If we don't treat this disorder, it truly is a deadly condition. Every...2024-04-2520 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast260 Hope Amidst Hardship: Breaking the Cycle of Generational PovertyEpisode 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...2024-04-0434 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast259 What Is Sexual Abuse and Offering Hope for SurvivorsEpisode 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, te...2024-03-2828 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast258 How to Hold Onto Faith While Waiting for HealingEpisode 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...2024-03-2131 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast254 How To Repair a Friendship with Grace to Move from Hurt to HealingEpisode Summary: What do you do when your friend walks away from your relationship without explanation or chance for reconciliation? Guilt and shame keep Christian women from talking about it. It’s embarrassing, confusing, and often heartbreaking. In this episode, Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about a common event, that few in Christian circles discuss openly. Misunderstandings happen and disagreements occur even in the healthiest of relationships. In a world that seems to thrive on discord, it can be tempting to run from conflict in a friendship. But conflict can bring about growth if we don’t fear...2024-02-2242 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast252 Depression: A Christian's Guide to Navigating the DarknessEpisode Summary: Join me with Alicia Michelle for a candid discussion about my personal journey through depression as a Christian doctor. Not only did we focus on depression's physical, emotional and spiritual components, but we also addressed fundamental questions surrounding depression, such as its definition, the intersection of faith and mental health, barriers to self-recognition, and practical strategies for identification. You won't want to miss this episode as we offer insights on depression from personal, professional, and spiritual perspectives. Questions we answer in this episode: What is depression? What is the spiritual c...2024-02-0859 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast251 How to Find Mental Rest and Calm Your Racing ThoughtsEpisode Summary: Do you ever have difficulty calming your racing mind when life is stressful? Do you lay awake at night, unable to tame your thoughts so you can sleep? Do the stresses of life tempt you to fall into the trap of second-guessing yourself or others? Then you’ll be glad you tuned in to today’s episode where Alicia Michelle and I share how to find mental rest and calm your racing thoughts. Quotables from the episode: Our busyness, perfectionism, and people pleasing often originates with core negative soundtracks that play in our m...2024-02-0146 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast250 Unmasking the Unexpected: A Guide to Coping with Unforeseen EventsEpisode Summary: Life doesn't always go as planned, but that doesn't mean we can't navigate the twists and turns. Join me with Jillian Benfield for a guide to coping with unforeseen events—gaining insights into the beauty of vulnerability, the healing process, and finding strength in unexpected places. Learn how to turn unforeseen events into stepping stones for personal growth. Quotables from the episode: When unexpected events hit our lives, we realize just how fragile we really are. Unforeseen events are the gateway to living more vulnerable. For me, grief looks like good pastoral co...2024-01-2537 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast243 Holding onto Hope in Turbulent Times: Where We are Now and What to Do Going ForwardEpisode Summary: Join me for a conversation with Carolyn Freeman of Impact Coaching Ministries as we talk about holding onto hope in turbulent times: where we are now and what to do going forward. How can we respond to the challenges and changes in the evolving world so that we can make a meaningful impact? We'll challenge you to embrace the world with a hope-filled perspective by grounding yourself in God's word. We'll share about the importance of prioritizing a mindset focused on victory in Jesus rather than a victim mentality. You won't want to miss this...2023-12-0740 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast242 Recognizing God Moments in Our Lives Turns an Average Day into ExtraordinaryEpisode Summary: How does God reveal himself to you during simple moments in life? God moments are real and occur all around us all the time. The ability to recognize a God moment differentiates between an average and an extraordinary day. Pastor Gale Kragt and I talk about recognizing God moments in our lives. Quotables from the episode: Learn to see all the opportunities that are around you daily and be encouraged to step out in faith. If we want to recognize God moments in our lives, pray and ask God to make you m...2023-11-3040 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast240 Making the World a Better Place with 10 Keys to KindnessEpisode Summary: Have you ever been treated unkindly? We live in a world that values kindness but struggles to actually be kind. Today it seems that division runs amuck and people have forgotten how to treat each other with kindness and respect, even when we disagree with them. But kindness can change a heart, change someone’s mind, and change a world. Greg Atkinson and I talk about making the world a better place with 10 keys to kindness. Quotables from the episode: We live in a world that values kindness but struggles to a...2023-11-1636 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast239 Bipolar Disorder Stigma | Tearing Down the StigmaEpisode Summary: It’s my heart’s desire to be part of the solution with respect to tearing down stigma as it relates to mental health, especially in the church and Christian circles. Mental health issues are frequently misunderstood by people, even those diagnosed, but especially those who haven’t personally experienced it. How do we tear down the stigma surrounding mental health without education? More importantly, how can we be part of the solution rather than add to the problem? Sometimes the best teacher is experience, but I would never wish mental health issues on anyone just so...2023-11-0948 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast237 How to Keep Trusting God in Difficult TimesEpisode Summary: The world has thrown a lot at us the last few years. Between the pandemic, economy, and war around the world, many are shaken, worried, or scared. But Christians don’t have to succumb to these same feelings. When the pandemic first hit, people around the world were rocked. That’s when I had to choose to reflect on what I know to be true about Him. These truths change everything for believers. Join me with Kathy Howard for how to keep trusting God in difficult times. Quotables from the episode: God is al...2023-10-2639 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast236 Is Doubting God a Sin?Episode Summary: Disappointment bruises the bravest of souls. The nagging ache of uncertainty causes us to grow weary and afraid to hope. Doubt entices us to wonder if God is good when life is not. Yet, our hard questions can become opportunities for Jesus to show us who He is. But disappointments don’t have to define us and doubt doesn’t have to paralyze us. Join me with Angela Donadio as we talk about examples of doubt in the Bible and “is doubting God a sin?” Quotables from the episode: Disappointments don’t have to define us a...2023-10-1945 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast234 How Building Meaningful Connections Can Combat the Effects of LonelinessEpisode Summary: Have you felt the pang of loneliness? Do you find yourself longing for deeper connections, for meaningful friendship? People are designed to be in community with one another, yet so many of us suffer from loneliness and isolation. Feelings of disconnect are more common than you may have realized and can have devastating consequences. My colleague, Dr. Gregory Jantz, and I want to help you with that. In this episode, we talk about how building meaningful connections can combat the effects of loneliness. Quotables from the episode: Pre-pandemic studies revealed th...2023-10-0532 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast230 How To Recover from Grief and Embrace LifeEpisode Summary: In the past month or so, we’ve been focused on conversations around the types of pain that I wrote about in The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms. No conversation regarding the pain we experience in this life is complete without a discussion about grief and loss. Susan Duke and I talk about recovery from grief. Susan shares how she learned to grieve forward by taking small, practical steps to face and process her grief, while refusing to allow loss to keep her from embracing life. God does heal an...2023-09-0746 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast229 When Someone Hurts You EmotionallyEpisode Summary: Everyone knows the sting of physical pain whether it’s a broken arm, a toothache, or a torn ligament. Recently we’ve discussed physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual pain. Perhaps less discussed is Secondary Pain: pain that comes from the words or actions of others, that makes us feel worse when we are already experiencing one of the other types of pain. Join me with my husband, Scott Bengtson, for a discussion on what to do when someone hurts you emotionally. Quotables from the episode: Secondary pain is that painful experience caused by th...2023-08-3141 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast227 Relationship Pain: Finding Hope & Healing for Wounded HeartsEpisode Summary: Have you ever experienced relational pain? Those interpersonal relationships that cause you pain and heartache? Maybe even rejection or betrayal? Most of us have experienced relationships that cause us pain, but it’s not something that is talked about very much. How do we deal with it? What happens in the fallout? How do we move on? Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about relationship pain and the hope that’s available. Quotables from the episode: We are all familiar with the concept of pain. And when someone breaks a leg or...2023-08-1749 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast226 Emotional Pain: What is it and What do we do about it?Episode Summary: Most people can identify with physical pain. We've all been there… a broken arm, a skinned knee, a sunburn. But there are other less discussed types of pain that cause just as much and sometimes even more damage in people's lives. Most people don't talk about emotional pain. It's too embarrassing. It's too hurtful. But this is something we need to have an open conversation about if we really want to find hope, help, and healing. Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we talk about emotional pain. What is it and what do we do...2023-08-1055 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast225 Dealing with Chronic Pain: Do's and Don'ts (Part 2)Episode Summary: In part 2 of our discussion on what to do when chronic pain becomes too much, Laurie Davies and I cover a practical list of actionable do’s and don’ts when dealing with chronic pain. This helpful guide includes examples of the coping mechanisms we use on a daily basis. If you’re struggling with chronic pain, don’t give up! Join us for this hope-filled episode. Quotables: “Out of the deepest waters and the hottest fires have come the deepest things I know about God.” Elisabeth Elliot Pain brings us closer to...2023-08-0333 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast224 When Chronic Pain Becomes Too Much Part 1Episode Summary: Have you ever found yourself in a place where pain was all you could focus on? Do you ever question God’s plan while dealing with physical suffering? Do you ever get to the point where you just want the pain to end and you don’t know what to do? In part 1 of our conversation, Laurie Davies and I talk about when chronic pain becomes too much to bear. Quotables from the episode: Pain is a great clarifier. In sharing our pain, we let people know that they aren’t alone i...2023-07-2730 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast221 Laughter is the Best Medicine Even in a Health Crisis!Episode Summary: We’ve all heard that laughter is the best medicine, but why? When is the best time to laugh? What if I told you that laughter is the best medicine at any time, but even in a health crisis! My guest, Cherie Nettles, is going to help us unpack that a bit. Quotables from the episode: Doctors give diagnoses but only God can give prognoses! Scripture tells us that laughter is healing! To incorporate more laughter into your life, read funny cards, watch funny tv shows, and plan laughter into your...2023-07-0638 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast220 Embrace the Benefits of Waiting Upon the LordEpisode Summary: Your past doesn’t define you. Your present doesn’t define you. But who you choose to trust does define your future. We all experience a “meanwhile” in life. Those interminable and challenging moments when God is strategically laboring behind the scenes, yet we find ourselves questioning. Waiting on God to rescue, to answer our prayers, to work in the lives of our loved ones. But God never asks us to do anything that won’t benefit us. Today we’re going to be talking about how to embrace the benefits of waiting upon the Lord. 2023-06-2938 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast219 Christians & Mental Health: Addressing the Stigma that Surrounds Mental Health in ChristiansEpisode Summary: There are others like you…you are not alone! In this episode, my guest and I talk about Christians and mental health, as well as the stigma around mental illness for Christians. In my own practice, I’ve worked with thousands of patients who endured mental health issues, yet, I’ve seen some of the greatest shaming come from other Christians. Join me with Paul Gaumer as we talk about Christians and mental health and what we can do to break down the walls of stigma. Quotables from the episode: Looking back, God was...2023-06-2241 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast211 How to Change Your Thinking and Change Your LifeEpisode Summary: Our thought life determines our whole life. The enemy wants us to feel defeated, rejected, and defenseless. But Jesus offers a truth that sets us free and when seized in a mind, has the power to transform us to a whole new way of living. The mind of Christ can change everything if you let it. The size of your God far outweighs any issues in your mind. Join me with Kelly Balarie for how to change your thinking and change your life. Quotables from the episode: I believed I was how I...2023-04-2742 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast210 Living Purposefully: Paying Attention to the Right ThingsEpisode Summary: Every TV show, YouTube channel, podcast, social media platform, News broadcast, social media influencer—all strategically want one thing: your attention. In today’s world of endless hurry and distraction, we have difficulty focusing on what's important, and spend most of our days seeing and hearing without truly paying attention. Our lives are full of meaning—yet we miss the giant revelations, ideas, and truths right in front of us because we weren't actually looking for them. We must fight to pay attention period to the right things period to things of worth and mea...2023-04-2035 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast209 How To Trust in the Lord with all your Heart, Relinquish Control and Put your Hope in GodEpisode Summary: Bad things happen. People wound us. Friends let us down. Trust issues with people can become trust issues with God. Scripture tells us to trust the Lord with all our heart. But how do we do that? My guest, Joanna Weaver, invites you to trust in the Lord with all your heart. Relinquishing control and putting your hope in a forever-faithful Father--that's the beautiful secret of unshakeable faith. Quotables from the episode: Trusting God is the key to a victorious Christian life As you let go in surrender, God will e...2023-04-1347 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast208 How To Stop Thinking Negative ThoughtsEpisode Summary: Do you ever find yourself falling into a trap of thinking negative thoughts? Have you ever wondered how to control your negative thoughts? It is possible, and that’s what my guest, Tracy Taris, and I talk about in this episode: how to stop negative thoughts. Quotables from the episode: Our negative thinking usually comes as a result of our life experiences, beliefs, and messages we come into agreement with. Healing comes in layers. When we find it hard to hear from God, we need to assess what is God comp...2023-04-0633 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast203 Lifes Rock Bottom ExperiencesEpisode Summary: Have you ever hit rock bottom in your life? Perhaps received a life-threatening diagnosis? Or lost the one person who kept your feet on solid ground? How do you carry joy and sorrow in the same breath? How do we handle the rock bottom experiences in life? Today we’re going to be talking about how to handle life’s rock-bottom experiences. Quotables from the episode: Home is where we are together, but God’s word is a home that can’t be taken from us. We can’t live off old manna. Rock...2023-03-0232 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast200 Disordered EatingEpisode Summary: Are you tired of dieting? Feeling weak and tired? Are you tired of the dieting yo-yo of losing weight only to gain it back again and more? What do you do when you hate dieting? Today we’re talking about help for disordered eating. My guest has been there, understands, and offers hope, help, and healing for the diet-weary soul. Quotables from the episode: Disordered eating comes from an unhealthy relationship with food. Disordered eating isn’t as much about the food as it is about what we think about food. You can b...2023-02-0936 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast199 How To Cope with RejectionEpisode Summary: Have you ever felt the sting of rejection with that sense of betrayal and disappointment that breaks your heart? Did you know there’s a positive side to rejection that we can use as an opportunity and a tool to cope with rejection? Jessica Van Roekel is back to share about 4 lenses that you can use to reframe and cope with rejection. We talk about what rejection is, how to know when we’ve experienced it, and learn how God uses rejection to redirect, refine, and restore us. Quotables from the episode: Rejec...2023-02-0245 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast198 How to Overcome RejectionEpisode Summary: Have you ever struggled with rejection? Rejection shows up every day in the world and it’s up to us to change the way we respond to it and address it. Join me as I talk with Jessica Van Roekel about how to overcome rejection. Quotables from the episode: I believe wholeheartedly that we experience struggles so that God can use us to help others. Rejection is a thread that runs through our personal lives and all throughout society. Perfectionism is a shield against joy. There are four types of rejection: Perceived, Act...2023-01-2637 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast191 How to Experience Revival in our HeartsEpisode Summary: Do you long to feel a closer connection to God? To discern His voice, experience His peace, and live in His joy? Erica Wiggenhorn and I talk about how to experience God’s faithfulness when surrounded by uncertainty, how to reignite our hope instead of losing heart, and how to realize the call of God, reawakening our purpose when we experience revival in our own hearts. Quotables from the episode: Revival is a personal heart cry before God, asking Him to meet us in our desperation and brokenness. We tend to doubt our...2022-12-0840 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast184 How To Forgive Someone Who Hurt You Emotionally and Isn’t SorryEpisode Summary: How do you forgive someone who hurt you emotionally? How do you forgive someone who traumatized you? How do you forgive someone who isn’t sorry? Our guest, Mark Sowersby, shares a gripping testimony of forgiveness, God’s grace, and overcoming in the midst of life’s hurts, pains, and abuses. Join us as we talk about how to forgive someone who has hurt you and isn’t sorry. Quotables from the episode: I was an abused victim but I learned that was not my identity. My identity was a child of God. I ca...2022-10-2037 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast172 How To Overcome AdversityEpisode Summary: Have you been knocked down by life’s circumstances and are struggling to get back up? Join me with Dr. Mel Tavares as we talk about how to overcome adversity and rise from the ashes. Those things that seem impossible are not impossible when we’re working with God and cooperating with Him. Quotables from the episode for Overcoming Adversity: If we aren’t advancing in the battle, we are retreating. We have to serve our way out in order to rise up from our ashes. As we pour into others, our pain is redeemed...2022-07-2839 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast170 Alcohol & Addiction: Never Too Lost for God to Find YouEpisode Summary: I talk with Tonie Camacho who lost a parent early in life, lived with a mentally ill mother, was sexually abused, raped and left for dead. She turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism. After her third DWI, and time in jail, God saved her. She learned that you are never too lost for God to find you. Sobriety is a daily struggle. But Tonie learned that the storm doesn’t last forever and God is on the other side with His hand open. If you or a loved one struggle with alcoholism and...2022-07-1428 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast169 How To Hold Onto a Christian WorldviewEpisode Summary: In this week’s episode, Cindy Sproles and I talk about how to hold onto a Christian worldview despite what we see going on in our country and our world. Cindy shares some startling statistics about the direction of our youth and we discuss questions like…What is a Christian worldview? How do we share it? Are we teaching our children? Quotables from the episode: We need to focus on doing what makes God happy rather than what makes man happy. The best way to share our Christian worldview is by our exam...2022-07-0738 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast165 How To Live from a Place of GraceEpisode Summary: I talk with Jami Amerine about learning to live from a place of grace. Jami shares how living from grace begins with your mindset and what you focus on. Because what you focus on grows, when you focus on love, gratitude, peace, joy and faith, those will grow and be magnified. Quotables from the episode: Grace is everything and once you are free, you are free indeed. There’s no “but” in a good “I love you.” God never says “I love you, but…” Fear is our most dangerous operating system. Hope is a confident ex...2022-06-0947 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast162 How What You Focus on GrowsEpisode Summary: What we focus on grows and impacts the quality of our day for better or for worse. We’ll talk about the neurological reason why this happens! And, we’ll discuss how to improve your day with some simple steps on how to focus on God instead of problems. Quotables from the episode: If we are not careful our minds will rule for us. God tells us to stay close to the vine (John 15:4), be transformed (Rom 12:2) and the stories of sowing and reaping (Luke 8). Before we decide what to focus on, we ha...2022-05-1924 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast159 How to Have a Good Day by Starting Your Day with GodEpisode Summary: Have you ever gone through really difficult circumstances, and just craved a good day? A really good day? Many years ago, that’s what I longed for. In this episode, I’ll share what I’ve learned about how to have a good day by starting your day with God. When we start our day with God, He will be on your mind throughout the day, and that helps make every day a good day! Quotables from the episode: The course of our day will be directly impacted good or bad, dependent on whet...2022-04-2820 minYour Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast152 My Favorite ThingsEpisode Summary: In celebration of my birthday month, I’m sharing a personal peek into some of my favorite things. Little things that make life more pleasant. And, some of the things that get me through the hardest of times. I’ve enjoyed getting to know some of you throughout my years of writing and podcasting. I thought it might be a bit fun to let you know a bit about me. Scripture References: Job 42:5 NLT “I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes” Recommended...2022-03-1030 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast123 Hope for moving from brokenness to Victorious LivingEpisode Summary: We have all made mistakes in our life. We’ve all done things we regret. We’ve all gone through hardships that have hurt and scarred us in some way. In short, we’ve all gone through brokenness. In this episode, my guest, Amy Elaine Martinez, and I talk about hope for moving from brokenness to victorious living. Amy admits to having grown up in the church, but then having made some devastating life choices. She shares what her breaking point was—when she knew something had to change. And she shares a bit of her jour...2021-08-1942 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast120 When Healing after Domestic Abuse, God Will Meet YouEpisode Summary: Karen DeArmond Gardner returns to discuss how God can meet you when healing after domestic abuse. She'll share what God did in and through and for her to focus on our good and faithful God. If you are involved in a domestic abuse situation, a difficult marriage, maybe some other kind of abuse, God is waiting for you to boldly approach His throne and He will give you mercy and grace. If you missed the last episode of YHFP where we talked with Karen about the hope we have for healing after domestic...2021-07-2933 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast118 Hope For Living the Best Version of Your True SelfEpisode Summary: In this episode, my guest, Kerrie Oles and I talk about the hope we have for living the best version of your true self. Have you ever felt you were all alone in your struggle? Or that nobody else would understand or relate? Or experienced shame from something you’ve done or didn’t do? Then you’ve tuned in for the right episode. Quotables from the episode: Too often we are self-conscious but don’t want to be self-aware. We put on a persona like everything is fine because we fear we may n...2021-07-1535 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast117 Hope When You Feel Abandoned by GodEpisode Summary: In this episode, Nan Jones and I talk about how to maintain our hope when we feel abandoned by God. During those times when we feel alone, we so desperately need evidence of God’s abiding presence. So often when we are in the valley, going through difficult times, it’s easy to feel like God has abandoned us. That’s when we need to pray God will open our eyes so that we can see Him despite our circumstances. Quotables from the episode: Having a temper tantrum with God is demonstrating authen...2021-07-0849 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast115 How To Train Your Brain To Trust GodEpisode Summary: In this episode, we talk about how to train your brain to trust God. Our guest, Kris Reece, is an expert in this area and will be sharing practical tips with us for learning how to renew our minds, take our thoughts captive and train our brain. Quotables from the episode: God is the one who does the transforming BY the renewing of our mind. Renewing our mind begins with addressing thoughts that are not life-giving. To take our thoughts captive we have to interrogate them to determine where they are coming...2021-06-2442 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast113 Financial Stress: How To Cope When Facing BankruptcyEpisode Summary: Have you ever experienced financial loss? Or have you ever wondered what you would do or how you would make it if you lost everything you had financially? Today, I talk with Shonda Whitworth who shares a very personal and real testimony of how God brought her through great financial hardship. She learned how to cope when facing bankruptcy and truly experienced what it means to say, “when all you have is God, you’ve got enough.” Quotables from the episode: With bankruptcy, the enemy heaps on shame and uncertainty. The Bible has a lot to say ab...2021-06-1044 minYour Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast109 When It Feels Like You’re Losing Your Mind - Finding HopeEpisode Summary: In this episode, we talk about finding hope when it feels like you’re losing your mind. My guest today, Sheryl Turner, is a delivered drug addict, stage four cancer survivor and former widow. Once a hopeless dope fiend, she is now a dopeless hope-fiend. Quotables from the episode: God wants you to accept forgiveness. Love covers a multitude of sins over our lives. When we feel trapped by the sins of our past, it helps to 1) Stop, 2) Confess it to God, and 3) Believe we are forgiven. Your ideas may be good bu...2021-05-1342 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast108 Dysfunctional Mother Daughter Relationships: Hope for Breaking the CycleEpisode Summary: Today we talk about hope for breaking the cycle of dysfunctional mother daughter relationships. My guest, Phylis Mantelli, experienced mother wounds and went on to break the cycle of mother daughter dysfunction with her own children. She always says, “We are not a perfect family, but a bonded family.” She’s here today to share hope and the lessons she learned with us. Quotables from the episode: Trauma feels normal and tries to convince you that you don’t deserve better. In order to change, you have to believe in something bigger than you...2021-05-0646 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast107 Hope When Prayers Go UnansweredEpisode Summary: Today we’re talking about how to have hope when prayers go unanswered. Samantha Morgan returns to share more of her journey through infertility, an adoption that fell through, an international adoption, foster parenting, and a domestic adoption. Through the very real, hard circumstances, God taught her how to wait on Him as she was waiting for Him to answer her prayers. Quotables from the episode: I thought God was punishing me, but really, He was drawing me to Him, to learn how to trust Him more. God can handle our anger, ou...2021-04-2946 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast106 Hope for Healing After InfertilityEpisode Summary: In this episode, we talk about hope for healing after infertility and adoption. My guest, Samantha Morgan, is going to share her testimony after enduring infertility, an adoption that fell through, foster parenting, and the beautiful ways God used her disappointments for good, weaving a beautiful tapestry that she never could have imagined. Quotables from the episode: Adoption is rooted in pain from both sides. Giving my infertility to God allowed me to get out of His way so He could do what only He could do. Infertility brings with it all the emotions...2021-04-2249 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast#102 Biblical Joy: Finding, Keeping, and Living in God’s JoyEpisode Summary: In this episode, Suzie Eller and I discuss some truths that just might change everything you thought you knew about joy. I so relate to my guest today because she has experienced one incredibly painful trial after another, and yet through it, she has come to savor the sweet aroma of her Savior walking with her in those trials. Quotables from the episode: After a year of sorrow, I began to search for biblical joy. I found 6 surprising truths that helped me redefine joy, keep joy, and live joy. Biblical joy isn’t...2021-03-2540 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast101 Hope When Things Aren't Always What They SeemEpisode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about how to find hope when things aren’t always as they seem. My guest, Lori Boruff, has been at the place where she felt hopeless, but then found the true source of hope, and has learned that even when life is difficult, things aren’t always as they seem. Quotables from the episode: I know hope because I’ve known what it was to be hopeless. Sometimes hope isn’t really lost, it just gets buried under the emotional rubble. We often think our way is best, but God’s...2021-03-1828 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast100 Lies We Believe vs. Truths from the Bible about our IdentityEpisode Summary: This is my birthday week, and in this episode, I wanted to give back to you, our faithful listener. I share what was the impetus for my daily social media “Today is a good day…” devotions. With age often comes wisdom. In this episode, I decided to focus on the lies that we often believe, and truths from the Bible about our identity. Quotables from the episode: As long as God is still on His throne, today is a good day for a good day. The lies we believe about ourselves limit us from fulfil...2021-03-1129 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast099 How to Jump Out of Your Comfort Zone and Dare with GodEpisode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about what it looks like to jump out of our comfort zone, have faith and dare with God. My guest today, is Kate Battistelli, mother of DOVE and GRAMMY award-winning Christian recording artist Francesca Battistelli, and author of The God Dare. Quotables from the episode: A “God Dare” is always too big for us—we can’t do it on our own without God’s help. The impossible is God’s zone. A “God Dare” often makes no earthly sense. It’s only after the fact that we can look back and se...2021-03-0444 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast098 Moving from Trials to TriumphEpisode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about the hope we have for moving from trials to triumph. My guest today, Tammy Whitehurst, shares how the hope God gives for today and the new strength He gives for tomorrow turns our trials into opportunities for praise. Quotables from the episode: We often get stuck going backwards, but life is meant to be lived in a forward motion. A broken heart can leave us bitter and wasting our days or better for it. So often our problems turn into praises if we will just hold on lo...2021-02-2543 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast097 How To Engage in Spiritual WarfareEpisode Summary: In this episode, we’re talking about our identity in Christ, the reality of spiritual warfare and the importance of praying daily for our children. We’re fighting a real battle that we can’t ignore. This is the kind of battle we fight on our knees. Join me with my guest, Tina Chambers Smith, founder of Raising Kids on Your Knees. Quotables from the episode: Our identity in Christ is despite what we do. My identity is rooted in the fact that I am a child of God and that never change...2021-02-1835 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast095 Childhood Depression: What Does It Look Like and How Can Parents Help?Episode Summary: In this episode we’re talking to licensed professional counselor, Michelle Nietert, about how to recognize depression in children, what parents can do to help, and how parents can know when it’s time to seek outside help for their children. Quotables from the episode: One in four children will have mental health issues by the time they are 18 years old. We’ve gotten things confused with our children. Too often we see them as human doings rather than human beings. There is nothing that you, I and God can’t face together...2021-02-0436 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast094 Hope for Discovering Joy in the Midst of PainEpisode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about how to find joy in the midst of life’s painful situations. In fact, our guest today is going to help us understand how joy can be found in any situation. Adria Wilkins enjoys telling a story, adding sprinkles of joy and a few extra dollops to liven it up. After suffering the unthinkable—the death of her 3-year-old son Blake, she found that Jesus sustains, and even surprises His followers with joy. If you need hope for finding joy in the midst of pain, this episode is for you.2021-01-2850 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast093 Spiritual Warfare is RealEpisode Summary: In this episode we talk about the reality of spiritual warfare and the fact that we can be securely held in the midst of such battles. Quotables from the episode: If you are living and breathing, you will experience spiritual warfare in some way. We were not born on a playground—we were born onto a battlefield. Our previous wounds coupled with bitterness and resentment give Satan access to our hearts and lives. The longer we nurse our wounds, the more they become an idol in our lives. Scripture References: 1 Jo...2021-01-2140 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast092 Hope for Experiencing Joy Despite our CircumstancesEpisode Summary: In this episode, Christina Custodio and I talk about experiencing joy despite our circumstances. Today’s guest knows what it’s like to face trials and triumph, and experience joy despite her circumstances. Her son almost died from a brain aneurysm. I hope you’ll be encouraged as you listen to today’s episode. Quotables from the episode: I believe that all things can work together for good, especially when we trust God to work in our lives without getting in the way and trying to take control. Though things may not look the way we h...2021-01-1432 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast091 Hope for Transforming our Body, Mind, Heart and SoulEpisode Summary: In this episode, my guest Christine Trimpe and I talk about Transformation of Body, Mind, Heart, & Soul. Christine has an inspiring transformation story. Not only did she lose over 100 pounds, but she gained a rich relationship with her savior. Listen in to hear how she did it, and you can too. Quotables from the episode: Sometimes weight loss journeys aren’t about physical weight at all. God met me in my worst despair. Insecurity and fear holds us back from God’s best for us. God gave me a voice I didn’t recognize. I was very g...2021-01-0742 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast086 Hope for When Life Doesn't Go as PlannedEpisode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about how life often doesn’t go the way we planned for it to go, which often makes us wonder where God is or if he sees or cares. My guest today, Tracy Steel, is a lover of both interior design and theology who combines these two passions to creatively help women find peace and understand who God is and his purpose for them whenever their life doesn’t go as they hoped or planned for. Quotables from the episode: We can’t find comfort, security, and contentm...2020-12-0332 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast082 The Miracle Man Shares HopeEpisode Summary: Today I’ve got a guest with a riveting story. By all medical accounts, he should not still be living. He is a true miracle man, and shares hope with us. Today we’re going to be talking about how God takes the worst of situations and works them for our good, and how we can find hope and peace in that. Quotables from the episode: When all else fails, God never fails us. Scripture References: James 1:2-4 “Dear brother and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opp...2020-11-0531 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast081 Hope for Finding Your PurposeEpisode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about finding our purpose. Did you know that God created you with a very specific purpose? He has plans for you to fulfill that ONLY you can do. Quotables from the episode: “Your emotions will make you second guess yourself, but your confidence in God will make you stand upright.” Dr. Marina McLean “Knowing your purpose starts by identifying your passion.” Courage is seeing something is possible. The depth of pressure that you can handle distinguishes you from being good to being great. Most people find their purpose in...2020-10-2948 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast080 Hope in the Midst of HardshipEpisode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about the fact that even in spite of hardships and difficulties that God has allowed, He also shows us how to find hope. My guest today has been through trial after trial, but Julie Holmquist shares with us how she maintained her hope despite her hardships. Quotables from the episode: Scripture says “Hope is an anchor for the soul.” Anchors steady us, and hope pulls us forward, out of the storm. Faith is the driving force in our lives. Without faith, we have no hope. We maintain our ho...2020-10-2225 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast079 Hope for Overcoming RacismEpisode Summary: Nelson Mandela said “No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love.” Today we’re going to have a bit of a different episode. I’ve invited a friend to join me on the program to talk about hope for overcoming racism. Christina Custodio and I recently sat down over a three hour lunch and had a very honest, open dialogue about the issue of racism, and what we...2020-10-1537 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast078 How To Find Joy Even in the Midst of PainEpisode Summary: Today, my guest, Tricia Thirey, and I talk about how to find joy even in the midst of life’s most difficult circumstances. My guest knows pain, loss, and grief, and yet, God challenged her to find the joy in her every day despite her circumstances. She’ll be sharing how to find joy even in the midst of pain. Quotables from the episode: It’s important to grieve well, which includes not just the loss of the person, but also acknowledging everything else that loss represents. It’s okay to not be okay...2020-10-0836 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast076 Hope from a Recovering Adult Child of Alcoholic ParentsEpisode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about what it’s like to be a recovering adult child of two alcoholic parents, and how even in such a difficult situation, God pursues us. Today we are going to be talking about God’s grace and love for us no matter where we come from or what our lives have been like. Quotables from the episode: You don’t have to be the same as someone else to serve as a valuable mentor. We must drop the blame and stop feeding the anger if we want to...2020-09-2445 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast075 How to Live Bravely, Courageously, and Without FearEpisode Summary: Today we’re talking about how we can become brave, think big, dream wildly, and live without fear. While most of us may desire this, few know how to get there. My guest today, Tracey Mitchell, will show us how. Quotables from the episode: Every storm has a valuable takeaway. You have to learn to sail in every season Never believe things won’t improve. Sow what you want to receive. Pay courage forward. Scripture References: Joshua 1:9 “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord...2020-09-1731 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast074 How To Maintain Your Hope in the Face of Financial CatastropheEpisode Summary: Have you ever experienced financial loss? Or wondered how you might handle it if you did? What if I told you that there could actually be hidden blessings from a financial catastrophe? My guest today, Patricia Durgin, shares how she maintained hope in the face of financial catastrophe, and how you can too. Quotables from the episode: “We lost everything except our family, our home, and our Savior.” No matter what we can lose in life, we can’t lose God. God sends His most trusted soldiers into the deepest darkness so we can be rem...2020-09-1048 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast073 You Have a Story to TellEpisode Summary: Every one of us has a story to tell that others need to hear. Today’s guest is going to help us know if we’ve been called to write that story, and how understanding the different personality types will help us connect better with our readers. Quotables from the episode: “If you want to change the world, pick up a pen.” Martin Luther You have to know your reader’s personality to connect with them Honesty encourages hope. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 3:3 “You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our...2020-09-0335 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast072 When an Atheist Finds JesusEpisode Summary: I was raised in the church since I was born. We were there every time the doors were open. And in my teen years, we helped plant churches, so we were there before everyone else arrived and stayed after everyone else had left. I consider myself very fortunate because I was given a solid spiritual foundation. But not everyone is so fortunate. Today we’re going to be talking to a guest who grew up an atheist before coming to know Christ in her young adult years. If you have been praying for someone to come to...2020-08-2743 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast071 How To Navigate God's Doors and Know His WillEpisode Summary: Have you ever considered that our life is a series of doors? Our guest, Cindy LaFavre Yorks, helps unpack how to navigate God’s doors: the closed door, open door, side door, trap door, and locked door. Quotables from the episode: Sometimes God has to close a door before we will become ready to walk through a new open door. Scripture References: Isaiah 43:2 “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppr...2020-08-2039 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast070 How To Find Hope in the Midst of GriefEpisode Summary: Today we talk about the fact that no matter what we’re going through, God is always there, and He cares. My guest today knows pain and loss. She experienced miscarriage, the murder of her sister (a victim of domestic violence), the loss of two brothers within a short period of time, and the death of her 14-month old granddaughter to Trisomy 18. Yet, she still maintains her hope. In this episode, she shares how she finds hope in the midst of grief. Quotables from the episode: No matter what we’re going through, God is al...2020-08-1336 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast069 When Bad Things Happen to Good PeopleEpisode Summary: Although we never want to think about it, life can change for any of us in an instant. My guest in this episode shares how on an ordinary day, her life changed in the most horrific way when she was involved in an accident that killed another individual. We never think something like that will happen to us. She shares the struggles that result after a moral injury, and how she continues to find hope despite being involved in an accidental death. Quotables from the episode: God uses broken things. Fruit comes after suffering...2020-08-0646 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast068 How To Overcome OverwhelmEpisode Summary: Life is busy, and we’ve got plenty to do for our families, our jobs, and our ministries. But if we’re not careful, burnout can ensue. In this episode, my guest, Patty Scott, and I talk about how to overcome overwhelm. Life is constantly shifting and it can be difficult to find God in the midst of the storm. It is important to find our footing and seek God even when we think we don’t have time. Quotables from the episode: Even Jesus took time off. Look at the day at hand, it's go...2020-07-3035 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast067 How To Live a Life of PurposeEpisode Summary: In this episode, we talk about how to live a life of purpose. You can find your God-given purpose even when you feel lost. If you’ve ever wondered how to find your purpose, or what it even is, you won’t want to miss this episode with Dr. Kris Reece. Our guest is an expert in this area and will be sharing practical tips with us for living a life of purpose. Quotables from the episode: God can and will do exceedingly, abundantly, above what you could ask hope or think. He desires to re...2020-07-2328 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast065 Hope for Healthy LivingEpisode Summary: Today we talk about how to approach your health with a spirit of grace. My guest is my friend, Amy Connell, who is a personal trainer on a mission to help women realize that their eating and the way they move their body doesn’t have to be perfect. The reason we take care of our body is so we can do what we are called by God to do. Quotables from the episode: Am I taking care of my body the way God wants me to? Perfection will enslave us when it comes to...2020-07-0936 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast064 How to Overcome Grumbling, Complaining, and General NegativityEpisode Summary: In this episode, we talk about how to overcome grumbling, complaining, and general negativity. Think that’s impossible? Our guest, Tricia Goyer, shares how she and her family pursued the grumble-free year! Join us for a candid conversation about how grumbling and complaining is unhealthy for us, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. We see plenty of examples in the Bible of people grumbling and complaining, and we also see that God plainly punished grumbling. No one likes to be around those who grumble and complain. But we can learn to defeat grumbling, complaining, and negativity, and Tricia Go...2020-07-0233 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast063 Former Model Shares: the Myth of Perfection {and What She Found to be Much More Satisfying}Episode Summary: Theodore Roosevelt said “Comparison is the thief of joy.” After my conversation with former print and runway model, Jennifer Strickland, I would have to say the strive for perfection is another thief of joy. In this episode, we talk about how the strive for perfection leaves us empty and lonely, and how our true worth and value can only be found in our true identity as children of God. Former model, Jennifer Strickland tells us her story about being an international model, and how she turned her back on modeling at the height of her career and...2020-06-2549 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast060 HOPE: What Is It, How Do We Get it, and How Do We Display it?Episode Summary: This is the second in a four-part anniversary series of “Your Hope-Filled Perspective.” Specifically, today we are discussing the concept of “Hope.” What is hope, how do we get it and how do we display it? And what isn’t it? The Bible has two uses for the term HOPE One is simple but ungrounded expectation that something specific may happen—closest to English vernacular understanding. Second is a CONFIDENCE that something anticipated will come to pass. What is the difference between FAITH and HOPE? The Bible talks about both, and...2020-06-0426 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast059 Celebrating the One Year Anniversary of YHFP: The Importance of “Your” Pt 1Episode Summary: This is our one year anniversary of producing the Your Hope-Filled Perspective podcast. And we are so thankful to you, our listeners and our viewers for tuning in with us each week as we seek to provide you with a biblically based hope-filled perspective. We thank you for the gift you have given us in terms of your reviews, subscribing to the podcast, and sharing it with others. We started this podcast, and continue this podcast out of a desire to serve you. To bring you a hope-filled perspective for the trials you encounter in your...2020-05-2818 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast058 How To Practically Fight Anxious Thoughts and WinEpisode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode, we talk in depth about how we can fight anxious thoughts and win. Forty million American adults suffer from anxiety, while 264 million suffer worldwide. Chances are, even if you don’t suffer with anxiety, you know many friends and loved ones who do. In this episode, we’re going to talk about how to win over fearful and anxious thoughts. The first thing to remember is that we are in a battle, and the enemy...2020-05-2123 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast057 - How God Gives us a Sound Mind to Defeat AnxietyEpisode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode, we talk in depth about the third weapon God gives us to defeat anxiety: a sound mind. When God says He has given us a sound mind to defeat worry, fear, and anxiety, we can get excited because we have been given the mind of Christ. Before Jesus started his earthly ministry, the Holy Spirit led Him into the wilderness for 40 days and nights. There he was repeatedly tempted by the enemy. It was Je...2020-05-1432 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast056 How God Gives Us His Perfect Love to Defeat AnxietyEpisode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode, we talk in-depth about the second weapon God gives us to defeat anxiety: His perfect love. John 15:9 tells us, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.” In order to remain in God’s love, we must first accept that He gives His love, and we must then receive it for ourselves. But His love is crucial for defeating worry, fear, and anxiety in our lives. 1 John 4:1...2020-05-0721 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast055 How To Improve Mother Daughter RelationshipsEpisode Summary: Today we’re going to be talking about how to improve mother/daughter relationships and the hope available for restoration and reconciliation. Mother/daughter relationships can be so painful, and especially with Mother’s Day coming up, we can have a tendency to mourn what we don’t have in our own mother/daughter relationship. If you struggle in your mother/daughter relationship, or have been desiring an improved relationship, then you’ll want to stick this program out to the last minute. Experts in mother/daughter relationship reconciliation and restoration, Blythe Daniel and Dr. Helen McIntosh...2020-04-3043 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast054 How God Gives Us Power To Defeat AnxietyEpisode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode we talk in-depth about one of the weapons God gives us to defeat anxiety: Power. There are many ways for Christ followers to appropriate God’s power. Romans 8:11 tells us, “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.” We have been given the same powe...2020-04-2332 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast053 Worry Creeps, Anxiety Seeps, Crises ExplodeEpisode Summary: We’ve been in the middle of a special series of podcasts about defeating anxiety during times of crisis. In this episode, we break down worry, fear, anxiety, and crises, and how they are different, and how they each impinge on our lives. Jesus said not to worry about tomorrow and be anxious for nothing. He never said “except when my bank account dips, or when the toilet paper runs out, or when you have to work or go to school online.” Anxiety results from living in a place of dread instead of victory. When we become...2020-04-1621 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast051 Helping a Teenager with Anxiety during a CrisisEpisode Summary: We’ve been doing a series on the podcast recently of episodes all related to helping defeat anxiety during times of crisis. Given what so many of us have been experiencing with the current crisis and the disruption of anything normal, it would be natural to realize that our children’s lives are being significantly impacted as well, and this may breed worry, fear, and anxiety. This episode is about how to help a teenager with anxiety during a crisis. Join me as I interview my teenager, Bryce. We discuss ways that help us understand worry, fear...2020-04-0230 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast050 Defeating Anxiety During a Crisis like CoronavirusEpisode Summary: Everyone will fight challenges and trials at some point in their life, and at the time of this recording, the world is facing the Coronavirus outbreak, and with that has come astronomical amounts of worry, fear, and anxiety. In this episode, we discuss ways to defeat anxiety during a crisis like the Coronavirus. This may be the first real crisis our children have had to face in their lifetimes, and it’s important for us to remember that they will take their cues for how to respond to crisis from watching and listening to...2020-03-2630 min
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast001 Hope for Depression Part 1: Am I Depressed?Episode Summary: In this episode Dr. Michelle Bengtson shares hope for depression. She talks about her history as a neuropsychologist, treating patients with depression for decades and thinking she was immune to it, before she endured a very bad episode of depression. She helps the listener who is asking the question, am I depressed? She discusses common signs and symptoms of depression to help the listener determine if depression might be something they or a loved one struggle with. Dr. Bengtson combines her faith with her clinical practice. In this episode, sh...2019-06-1128 min