Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

Episode Summary:
Does it ever seem like God loves other people more than he loves you? Maybe it looks like everything goes their way. Or their families are put together, not a prodigal in sight, and everyone enjoys each other. We, however, see our lives at a hot mess, unanswered prayers everywhere, and trouble after trouble. When we equate blessing and favor with love, we can begin to feel rejected and abandoned by God when we don’t feel blessed or favored by him. In this episode, my co-host, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about Overcoming Rejection and Abandonment with God’s Love.
Almost all of us carry rejection and abandonment because most of us have experienced someone walking away, excluding us, or making us feel like we don’t belong. Those wounds run deep. They are not just “hurt feelings.”
They can shape how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and how we imagine God sees us. Today we want to walk into the truth that Christ’s love actually heals these hurt places.

Quotables from the episode:
Rejection isn’t just a moment. It’s a story our hearts can start telling us, and often on repeat. It says, “See? You’re not enough.” “See? People always leave.” “See? You’re not worth choosing.” The rejection narrative comes from the oldest human experiences: a parent who wasn’t present, a spouse who checked out emotionally, a friend group that stopped inviting us, a church that didn’t know what to do with our pain.
I’m not going to be everyone’s cup of tea and they’re not mine, my value or lack thereof in someone else’s eyes doesn’t determine my worth. Even those who know me the most, only know a small piece of me, but God knows me completely.
It’s that time of year when love seems to be commercialized, but Christ’s love isn’t for sale. It’s offered freely…
If you’ve ever felt unwanted, unseen, or left—Jesus understands. You are not alone.
That’s why Romans 12:2 is so powerful. It says, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Our minds are powerful and what we tell ourselves matters. Your brain listens to your thoughts. When you think something like “I can’t handle this” or “I am loved”, your brain treats that thought as important information. It begins to adjust your mood, your energy, and even your physical reactions based on what you’re saying to yourself.
5 practical ways Jesus Christ’s love heals the wounds from rejection and abandonment.
We can’t heal what we hide.
Every rejection writes a script in our minds.
Healing doesn’t begin with convincing ourselves people won’t leave. Healing begins when we realize Jesus Christ’s love stays.

Scripture References:
Jeremiah 31:3 NIV “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness”
John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.”
Isaiah 53:3 says, “He was despised and rejected by humanity by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.”
Hebrews 13:5 “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”
Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Romans 12:2 “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
John 15:9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love”
1 Peter 2:9 “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light”
Ephesians 1:4 “In love, he destined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will”
Isaiah 43:1b “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine”
John 15:4 “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.”
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:
We all need to work a little harder at resting in contentment… realizing that sometimes marriage is a spectator sport. In a culture that encourages us to find our own happiness, fulfill self, give in to what brings us pleasure, lasting relationships must take a different approach. True selflessness is a reflection of God’s character.
Although recent polls seem to indicate an equal divorce rate between Christians and non-believers, this is not exactly true. People who identify as Christians but rarely attend church have a 60% divorce rate while those who attend church regularly, just 38% have been divorced.
It is easy to get caught up in the tyranny of the urgent and forget the very ingredients that build a healthy marriage. Join me with Nina Roesner as we discuss the role of unconditional respect in a healthy marriage.

Quotables from the episode:
Most people have heard the idea that women need love and men need respect, but in reality, don't we all need a combination of both?
Yes. I think the Bible uses that language to communicate very specifically to husbands and wives about some very specific stuff.
All relationships have challenges but the best ones surmount the hard times, allow these times to build the relationship instead of destroy it, and learn from one another.
Do you respect yourself and others in your relationship through your communication? And I think we need to respect everybody and I think that's a loving thing to do. That's the key. It affects our communication and we can develop resentment, bitterness and unforgiveness over those little things that then stack up and they morph into a life of their own until one day the straw breaks and our spouses left going, "That was not a big deal. You could have just said put your cup in the dishwasher. But the truth is it's built up resentment over time because we don't communicate over the little things until they become a big thing.
We do take things personally and it seems maybe I'm wrong but it just seems like over the past decade we're more quick to take offense over things that really don't need to be offended over all you have to do is turn to social media and see how quickly people are offended. If anyone had a right to be offended, it was Jesus. And yet he modeled for us good communication, forgiveness, love, and respect.
The idea that men need respect is not just part of some formula but an aspect of the gender differences. Men are wired to protect and provide, and knowing they are appreciated is one of the primary ingredients in lasting marriages.
When we get our identity from the Lord, then we're able to appreciate the strengths that God gave us and then bring forth those strengths in the relationship in a way that we weren't before. We are actually useful in that relationship in a way that deeply impacts everything. But so often we buy the lives of the culture and we go down these paths of thinking we're worthless or we're not valued and you know people treat us this way so it reinforces it or we're looking for that because if you have a belief like that you're gonna find it everywhere. But when we really have a solid identity in Christ and I don't pretend I'd be fully there, but I'm so much more there than I used to be. It doesn't matter what people say or do.
On a biological level, God designed this so well, because your brain chemistry changes when you forgive. The other thing is, is it's a humbling activity that puts us in the proper alignment with the Lord because we don't have the right to harbor unforgiveness. We're not judge and jury over this other person, and by the way Christ already paid for that. So who do we think we are? Excuse me, the seat on the throne has been taken. get off, right? So, when we forgive, it's like the brain chemistry changes and we're able to then have a clean slate here.
God uses pain in our lives to mold and shape us. Pain is the biblical path to growth.
It’s not just the church itself that’s the key to a successful marriage; it’s all aspects of faith—prayer, Bible study, gratitude, God-awareness.
It is easy to get caught up in the tyranny of the urgent and forget the very ingredients that build a healthy marriage.
According to recent studies, being a committed, faithful believer makes a measurable difference in marriage.

Recommended Resources:
The Respect Dare: 40 Days to a Deeper Connection with God and Your Husband by Nina Roesner
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
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
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.)
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 and Guest:
Connect with Nina Roesner:
Website / Facebook / Instagram
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

Guest:
Nina Roesner is the author of The Respect Dare and With All Due Respect. She serves as the executive director of Greater Impact Ministries. She has more than 20 years in the communications and training industry and has coached church staffs, pastors, executives, and managers. She and her husband, and their three children, live near Cincinnati.

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:
Today we are diving into a topic that affects millions of people who feel stretched too thin and overwhelmed by life. We are talking about real world tools for managing chronic stress and mental fatigue so you can regain clarity, rebuild your strength, and restore your hope. Chronic stress is not simply an inconvenience. It quietly infiltrates every area of life and disrupts sleep, relationships, thought patterns, mood, and even your sense of spiritual connection. Our goal today is to equip you with proven strategies that help you move from exhaustion to renewal so you can thrive again.
When mental fatigue sets in and stress feels unending, many people assume that feeling overwhelmed is their new normal. But God offers a better way. You can experience renewed strength, restored clarity, and a calm mind even in the middle of challenging seasons. If you long for sustainable emotional wellness, Christ centered stress management tools, and practical ways to quiet your mind, this episode is for you. We want to help you step out of survival mode and experience the peace that God promises. Today we’re going to be talking about Tools for Managing Chronic Stress and Mental Fatigue.
Quotables from the episode:
Chronic stress affects the whole person. It impacts the body, mind, emotions, and even our sense of spiritual grounding.
As a neuropsychologist, I see how the stress response system affects the brain. When people experience stress for long periods of time, the brain becomes over activated. Concentration decreases. Memory becomes foggy. Emotional regulation becomes harder. We feel more reactive and less resilient.
The good news is that the brain is both adaptable and changeable. With consistent tools, we can retrain the mind and restore mental clarity.
It is critical to remember that God did not design our bodies to live in chronic stress.
Chronic stress is the type of ongoing stress that does not resolve quickly. It comes from situations that continue to require emotional or physical energy without enough recovery time.
Chronic stress and mental fatigue are not signs of weakness. They are signs that your body and mind need care. With intentional tools and God’s help, your mind can heal, your body can recover, and your spirit can strengthen.
Scripture References:
Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who 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, 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
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
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.)
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 and Guest:
Connect with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel:
Website / Instagram / Facebook
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

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:
In a world where constant notifications, curated feeds, and digital pressure shape how we see ourselves, many are left feeling more anxious, isolated, and distracted than ever. We long for a life that is full of deep connection with God, ourselves, and others. And yet we’ve become programmed to seek peace, contentment, and happiness from our phones. Deep down, we know this isn’t how we were created to live. As endless scrolling leaves us feeling anxious, depressed, distracted, ad alone, we realize our true needs can’t be met by turning to social media in every slow, mundane moment. If you feel like your digital life could use a reset, this episode is for you.

Quotables from the episode:
Social media can so easily steal our peace, distort our identity, and drain the joy God intends for us, especially when we are already struggling with anxiety, insecurity, or loneliness. That is why I am delighted to welcome Allie Marie Smith, author of Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, and Reclaim Your Joy. Allie has spent years helping women cultivate mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, and her newest book offers a practical and faith-filled path to break free from digital overwhelm and rediscover God’s voice above the noise.
In a world where constant notifications, curated feeds, and digital pressure shape how we see ourselves, many are left feeling anxious, isolated, and distracted than ever. We long for a life that is full of deep connection with God, ourselves, and others.
As endless scrolling leaves us feeling anxious, depressed, distracted, and alone, we realize our true needs can't be met by turning to digital media in every slow, mundane moment. If you feel like your digital life could use a reset, this is the episode for you.
Romans 12. 2 summarizes what we're talking about today: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
It impacts each one of us on such a profound level, on a soul level, on a spiritual level, an emotional level, even in our brains and in our bodies.

Scripture References:
Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
Isaiah 30:15 – “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength…”

Recommended Resources:
Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, and Reclaim Your Joy by Allie Marie Smith

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
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:
Connect with Allie Marie Smith:
Website / Facebook / Instagram
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

About Allie Marie Smith:
Allie Marie Smith is an award-winning author, speaker, and life coach. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping girls and women know their God-given value and lead flourishing lives. She lives in Santa Barbara County, where she loves writing, playing with horses, surfing, and adventuring up and down the California coast.

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:
Today we’re tackling a topic that hits many people hard each January: “Blue Monday.” You may have heard it called “the most depressing day of the year”: a day when motivation runs low, bills come due, and the sparkle of the holidays fades into the grayness of winter. But is “Blue Monday” real? Why do so many people feel down this time of year? And what can you do, spiritually, emotionally, and physically, to climb out of the slump and find renewed hope?
If you’ve ever felt like the light of Christmas faded too fast or that you’re struggling to find joy in January, this episode is for you. In this episode, I share How to Beat the Blues: Finding Hope When “Blue Monday” Hits. We unpack where the idea of “Blue Monday” came from, what really contributes to winter sadness, how to recognize when it’s more than just a passing mood, and how God invites us to nurture our mind and soul even in the darkest season.
Quotables from the episode:
Every January, the search engines light up with people looking for answers about “Blue Monday.” Some call it the most depressing day of the year. But here’s the truth: God doesn’t mark any day on His calendar as hopeless. Even when science can explain some of the factors that make us feel low, Scripture reminds us in John 1:5 that “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
So today, let’s uncover both the science and the Savior’s invitation to find peace, joy, and renewed perspective, no matter what your calendar says.

Part 1: Where “Blue Monday” Came From
The term “Blue Monday” actually originated not from a psychologist or neuroscientist, but from a marketing campaign in the early 2000s. A British travel company wanted to boost winter vacation sales and partnered with a psychologist to create a formula that supposedly calculated the “most depressing day of the year.”
They based it on factors like weather, debt level, time since Christmas, failed New Year’s resolutions, and low motivation. The date usually lands on the third Monday in January.
But here’s what’s interesting: the science behind it was never validated. It was largely pseudoscience; a catchy idea meant to sell trips to sunny places!
Yet it resonated with people because, truthfully, many do feel a dip in mood this time of year. Why? There’s a real physiological and psychological basis for that.
Shorter daylight hours disrupt our circadian rhythm and lower serotonin levels—our brain’s natural mood stabilizer.
Colder temperatures mean less outdoor activity and fewer endorphins.
Holiday aftermath leaves us financially stretched and emotionally fatigued.
Unmet resolutions of ourselves or others stir up shame or disappointment.
So while “Blue Monday” may not be an official scientific day, it does point to something many experience: what we might call the post-holiday blues or seasonal affective slump.
Part 2: How to Identify It
Let’s talk about how you can tell if what you’re feeling is just a short-term dip or something more concerning.
Here are some common symptoms of the “Blue Monday” slump:
Low motivation or energy
Irritability or tearfulness
Difficulty concentrating
Changes in sleep or appetite
Feeling disconnected or unproductive
Hopeless thoughts like “What’s the point?”
If you’ve noticed these for a few days after the holidays, you’re not alone. Our brains and bodies crave rhythm and light—and winter often disrupts both.
But sometimes, what starts as a temporary funk can evolve into something more serious like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or Major Depression.
Part 3: When to Seek Professional Help
Seek professional help if:
Your sadness lasts more than two weeks.
You lose interest in things you usually enjoy.
Your sleep or appetite drastically change.
You feel worthless, helpless, or hopeless.
You find yourself withdrawing from others.
You experience thoughts of death or suicide.
Those are not signs of weakness—they’re signals from your body and brain that you need care and support. Just as you’d seek medical help for persistent pain, it’s wise to seek mental health help for persistent sadness.
As a neuropsychologist, I’ve seen firsthand that depression and anxiety are treatable. There are excellent therapies, medical interventions, and lifestyle approaches that can help. But the first step is reaching out.
And as a believer, I want you to know this: needing help does not make you a failure of faith. God often works through professionals to bring healing. He created our minds and bodies with complexity, and He delights when we care for them wisely.
Remember Elijah in 1 Kings 19? He was exhausted, afraid, and said, “It is enough; now, Lord, take my life.” God didn’t rebuke him. God fed him, let him rest, and then gently spoke truth to him. That’s a model of divine compassion toward our emotional distress.
Part 4: How to Take Care of Yourself
If you’re feeling those “Blue Monday” blues—or a longer winter sadness—here are practical, biblically grounded ways to care for your mind, body, and spirit.
1. Get More Light
Exposure to sunlight—or a light therapy box—can boost serotonin and regulate your circadian rhythm.
Genesis 1:3 says, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” Light was His first gift to creation, and it still brings life today.
2. Move Your Body
Exercise increases endorphins and dopamine, improving both energy and outlook.
You don’t need to run a marathon—start with a short walk or stretch.
1 Corinthians 6:19–20 reminds us our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Caring for them is an act of worship.
3. Nurture Connection
When we isolate, sadness grows louder.
Reach out to a friend, attend a Bible study, or volunteer.
Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 says, “Two are better than one… if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.
4. Adjust Your Expectations
After the holidays, it’s easy to compare today’s ordinary moments to the excitement of December.
Give yourself permission to slow down, to reset. The Bible gives us multiple examples of Jesus, the Son of God, taking time to rest. If He needed rest, why would we expect differently of ourselves?
Matthew 11:28—“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”*
5. Feed Your Spirit
Immerse yourself in Scripture, prayer, and worship music.
Depression dims perspective, but God’s Word renews it.
Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.”
6. Practice Gratitude
Gratitude activates brain regions associated with joy and resilience.
Even small blessings count—warm coffee, a friend’s text, a sunset.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
7. Set Rhythms of Rest
Winter is nature’s reminder to rest.
God Himself modeled rest on the seventh day—not from exhaustion, but completion.
Rest refuels your mind and aligns your soul with His peace.
Part 5: Reframing the Season
Maybe this January feels heavy. Maybe you’re tired of gray skies or unmet resolutions. But let’s reframe it:
What if winter isn’t a punishment, but an invitation?
An invitation to slow down.
To nurture your inner life.
To rediscover hope not in circumstances, but in Christ Himself.
Remember: no day is truly “blue” when it’s covered by God’s grace.
He specializes in turning mourning into dancing, ashes into beauty, and despair into praise (Isaiah 61:3).
The same God who paints the sunrise after the darkest night will bring light to your soul again.
Friend, if you’re listening today and feeling the weight of winter, know this: you are not alone. God sees you. He is not disappointed by your sadness; He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).
There’s no shame in reaching for help—from Him, from loved ones, or from professionals. Healing doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine; it means letting God meet you in the reality of your pain.

Scripture References:
John 1:5 “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
1 Kings 19 “It is enough; now, Lord, take my life.”
Genesis 1:3 says, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.”
1 Corinthians 6:19–20 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
Ecclesiastes 4:9–10, “Two are better than one… if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
Matthew 11:28 “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Isaiah 61:3 “and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”
Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

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: Bryce Bengtson


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