Does your body sometimes crave the goodness of the garden? Mine does, especially after indulging in too many sweets while on vacation. Even though I maintain that 80% fruit, vegetable, whole food plan, that 20% of junk is causing misery. So, it’s back to basics with this Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus Medley.

Cauliflower is a Powerhouse in Fighting Disease

When I think of all the benefits of cauliflower and asparagus I start to feel better already. The idea of decreasing joint pain and stiffness is appealing with this combination of anti-inflammatory delights. Cauliflower for instance, contains antioxidants that help fight cancer, the aging process and aide hormone balance. As a member of the brassica family of vegetables, cauliflower contains phytochemicals that lower oxidative stress, promote detoxifying enzymes, stimulate the immune system, decrease the risk of cancer, inhibit cancer causing mutations at the cellular level, as well as reducing the ability of cancer cells to grow and reproduce (1). We are talking, POWERHOUSE, of God given ability to fight disease.

While the benefits of cauliflower are amazing, its sister asparagus, in this dish also empowers our cells to fight disease! The polyphenols extracted in one study showed five antioxidant nutrients to fight disease; including ferulic acid, quercetin, rutin, isorhamnetin and kaempferol (2).

I don’t know about you, but I’m in! I’m starting by combining the lovely cauliflower with asparagus and cashews.

What God Puts in The Garden is So Good!

And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.
Genesis 1:29

There is no doubt science reveals the complexity and phenomenal plan of God’s provision for our bodies. His provision for our bodies is only outdone only by His provision for our mind and souls… through his word. So be assured today, in the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the word was God, he was with God in the beginning and the word became flesh and dwelt among us in the form of Jesus. (John 1:1, 14).

What a beautiful plan for divinely designed people!

So, if you like this Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus medley you may also like more dishes from the brassica family! You can check them out here:

Parsnip & Chickpea Saute’ – Strengthen Your Heart (mystypfeffer.com)

Thank you and God bless you on your journey of battling chronic disease!

References:

1. Kapusta-Duch J, Kopeć A, Piatkowska E, Borczak B, Leszczyńska T. The beneficial effects of Brassica vegetables on human health. Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig. 2012;63(4):389-95. PMID: 23631258. The beneficial effects of Brassica vegetables on human health – PubMed (nih.gov)
2. Fan R, Yuan F, Wang N, Gao Y, Huang Y. Extraction and analysis of antioxidant compounds from the residues of Asparagus officinalis L. J Food Sci Technol. 2015 May;52(5):2690-700. doi: 10.1007/s13197-014-1360-4. Epub 2014 Apr 20. PMID: 25892766; PMCID: PMC4397332.
   Extraction and analysis of antioxidant compounds from the residues of Asparagus officinalis L – PubMed (nih.gov)

Joshua Week One Day 1

Joshua

An Introduction

The freed slaves of Egypt have wondered in the desert for forty years under the leadership of Moses. Now, the Israelites are under the new guidance of his long-time apprentice, Joshua, and ready to enter the “Promised” land. The land God promised to their ancestor Abraham four hundred years ago. Joshua is no longer the young rambunctious spy ready to take on Canaan at around twenty years old. No, at twenty he had one responsibility; observing and reporting about the land. Now, he has the responsibility of the nation upon his shoulders. As leaders and parents, we can put ourselves in his shoes and understand his burden of responsibility for the people under his care. We too, know the promises of God, however the surmounting trials of our current culture challenge us daily in how we lead, speak, and influence those around us. Therefore, courage alongside faith is a must. As we begin the book of Joshua, may we remember God is with us in our everyday battles too. Through Him, in Him, and with Him we will overcome our fears and lead others to know and trust Him more. So, let’s get busy, shall we?

Who wrote the book?

Who were the recipients?

When was Joshua written?

Where did it happen?

What is Joshua about?

Word Study:

Be strong (Hebrew chazaq, be firm)—conveys a strength that grows. Although, the verb’s meaning is “tie or bind fast, gird” as in “girding the loins” the idea is that one secures a garment in order to free the legs for action. (Eph 6:14 1 Peter 1:13 lit “gird the loins of your mind”).

Courageous (Hb amats, be alert, firm, brave, strong, undaunted”). We see this often used in reference to one’s feet (being swift-footed) the verb figuratively means having an alert or vigorous mind.

Joshua was commanded not to be discouraged (Hb chatat “be broken down with fear, be dismayed or confounded” Dt 31:8).

“Have I not commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”

Themes of Joshua

God’s covenant faithfulness to his people Israel’s entrance into the promised land and inheritance of God’s promises The Lord’s provision and protection, no matter how discouraging the circumstances The necessity of a believer’s obedience (The Holman Christian Standard Bible, 2015).

Read Joshua chapter 1.

Do you see who is talking directly to Joshua? What does he say to Joshua in verses 2-5?

                Prepare to _________________________________________________

                Your territory will be_________________________________________________

                No one will be able __________________________________________________

                I will be __________________________________________________________

What characteristic of God is shown in verses 2-5?_______________________________

Why do you think it was necessary for God to remind Joshua to be strong and courageous?

Do you remember from studying the bible who Joshua is? For a refresher, let’s look at his younger days. We can also follow his story from the following passages, please note alongside the passage Joshua’s role (job description) and his character if noted:

Exodus 17:8-13

Numbers 13:30-14:38)   Gives us a clear picture of the journey and report of the twelve spies sent to scout the promised land when the Israelites were roaming in the wilderness. It is a bit long, but very helpful in understanding Joshua’s story.

Numbers 27:15-23

Deuteronomy 31:14-15:23

Now that we have a clear picture of what Joshua is up against and how he came to oversee the nation of Israel, we can also see his future will be just as challenging as Moses’s was. Therefore, God reassures him in the first chapter of Joshua.

Application:

Since we too, face challenges to be courageous, how does reading God’s promises to Joshua help you face your own circumstances?

What else did God show you in studying his word today?

Prayer: God in heaven, Father of all, your power and might always go before us. You are faithful to provide, protect, and deliver. As a loving Father, you expect obedience. Although, you allowed the consequences of Israel’s disobedience to alter their journey, you remained faithful. Just as our disobedience sometimes alters our circumstances, you are showing us the way apart from you is more painful. You are shaping and molding us slowly into the likeness of your Son through testing and trials. Please help us see through the difficulties, your great love and show us areas where we need to repent. Give us peace knowing you are with us and trust you completely in working ALL things for our good and your glory. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Joshua Week One Day 2

Be Strong and Courageous

Since the opposite of strong and courageous is weak, discouraged, and fearful we will look at emotions that stem from continual thoughts of uncertain outcomes like anxiety and fear.

So, let’s review our memory verse and live it out for the next 24 hours in everything we do.

“Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”. (Joshua 1:9).

We are going to get a little deeper into chapter one so let’s reread it today.

Mathew 6:28

Mathew 6:31

Mathew 10:19

Luke 10:40-42

We see clear instruction not to be anxious about anything, however living it out is a very difficult thing to do in the heat of our circumstances. Not being anxious is a state of spiritual growth that will be different for every one of us. We may think of people we know who are new to Christ and just beginning to trust him in the little things. Newer Christians may have more concerns than those who have walked with him for many years. On the other hand, you can probably think of several people you know who have been faithful to the Lord in attending church all their lives, yet are constant worriers.

Therefore, spiritual growth does not necessarily coincide with number of years of following Christ. Maybe the heart of the matter is submission and trust.

Do I trust God if the worst thing happens?

Although I do not know the conversation going on in Joshua’s mind with the Lord that day, I do know, he was to lead Israel into the promised land.  I also sense he had a tremendous amount of fear. When Moses laid out the blessings and curses before the people, they had the same choice you and I do. Trust God.

Deuteronomy 30: 11-16 says,

 “This command that I give you today is certainly not too difficult or beyond your reach. It is not in heaven so that you have to ask, “Who will go up to heave and get it for us, so that we may follow it?

 We read through part of Deuteronomy 30 on day one. The picture of Moses’ transition of leadership to Joshua is a beautiful thing for us to consider. Moses would not enter the earthly promised land, because God was taking him to the ultimate promised land. He reinforces to the people the reasons they should not be afraid.

Please read through Deuteronomy 30: 1-8 and list the them:

In reading these scriptures today, do you think anxious thoughts are a sin? Explain why or why not.

Application:

As we conclude today’s study, I hope we can pray this passage of scripture over the areas of fear we may be experiencing from our anxiousness today.

Prayer: God in heaven you see our hearts and you read our minds. We can pretend before others we are fearless and brave. Yet, you see the deepest fear of our hearts. They may be fear of losing health, fear of losing loved ones, or fear of death. But in this message, you teach us to trust you, Lord. Just as you went before Israel to face mighty enemies of the promised land, you go before us. Just as they feared the unknown, you reassured them through the words of promise. You will not forsake us, so thank you for this encouragement and hope for tomorrow.

Joshua Week 1 Day 3

Preparing the People

The book of Joshua is the first of the historical books of the bible following the Pentateuch, the first five books of the bible. The Pentateuch, written by Moses, contains the Torah or God’s law of instruction. It tells the beginning of creation, the beginning of sin, how mankind was separated from God, and it tells of God’s plan for redemption and salvation. The Torah, contains the ten commandments alongside the moral law, as well as the civil law (how to govern the people), and ceremonial laws (how to worship God).

In effect, God’s expectations, protection, and provision are clearly laid out in the Pentateuch in order to protect the people from themselves.

Considering the purpose of the first five books of the bible, what does God remind Joshua to do in chapter 1: 7-8?
Do not ________________________________________________
This book of instruction must not__________________________
You are to_____________________________________________
So that you may__________________________________________
For then you will__________________________________________

Joshua’s success was tied to his devotion to and continuous study of God’s whole instruction, the book of the law. He was told to recite (or meditate on) it, just as a person who would memorize and speak it aloud (HCSB, 2015).

1. How important is God’s Word to living and understanding the abundant life Jesus talked about in John 10:10?

2. Joshua takes command and begins to delegate orders to the officers of the people. What does he tell the officers to relate to all the people? (vs. 11)

3.  The instructions to the tribes are recorded in verses 12-15, what are the fighting men to do?

4. How do these men respond?

They are ready to claim their inheritance and promise to obey Joshua just as they obeyed Moses, in everything. They even pray for God to be with him as he was with Moses. I love how these men pick up the theme for conquering the enemy…Above all, be strong and courageous!

Please Read Joshua Chapter 2

Do you find in interesting that Joshua only sends two spies instead of twelve to scout out Jericho?  I do. In verse one, we meet Rahab the prostitute and learn the strategic place where her house is located. But, the king of Jericho knew a multitude of people were just across the Jordan and ready to take over, and he knew where to look for the spies.

5. What does the messenger tell Rahab and how does she respond? (vs 2-5)

6. Where were the men of Israel?

7. What does she say to the men of Israel and what does she do for them?

Rahab’s protection of the spies is like the midwives protecting the innocent babies born to the Hebrew women in Egypt at the time of Moses’ birth in Exodus. The greater purpose to save lives and answer to God verses answering to men took precedence. Her clear understanding of God’s plan to give the land to Israel had preceded the arrival of the spies.

8. What does she say to the men in chapter 2 verses 11-12

9. Do you consider that and her words in 11,12 and following actions in 13-16 a confession of faith? Look at Hebrews 11:31 to help with your ansHow excited the men were to report back to Joshua the results of their mission! What do they tell him in 2:24?

10. What statements in your reading today reminded you of God’s—-A. faithfulness B. promises, his provision C. protection and D. required obedience?

Application:

How does God’s character and his promises shown in this passage today encourage you to boldly live according to your faith, amid overwhelming pressure, fear, or uncertainty?

Prayer:

God in heaven, your faithfulness to your people is warming my heart. I have faltered in speech and action so many times, just as Israel did in the wilderness. Despite that, you forgive and encourage me through your mighty Word. I am grateful, humbled, and eager to change my weaknesses into strengths. Knowing your power and might rule over large armies, bigger obstacles, enemies of spiritual and physical destruction, I can live abundantly. Thank you, for sending your son to conquer my enemies of fear and oppression. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Week 1 Day 4

The Lord of All the Earth

In today’s reading of Joshua chapter 3 we will learn about preparing the strategy. Think about that word for a minute. Strategy is a plan put in place to achieve an overall goal. Does that make you think about your own overall goal in life?

It does me. Although I didn’t realize it at the beginning, the main reason I do bible study with this group has become clearer over the years. Not only do I want to be more like Christ, I want my sisters in Christ to live confident, faith-filled lives. Lives that see beyond our temporary circumstances and the world.  In order to do that, we need the solid Word of God to guide us and gives us tools and strategies to stay the course.

Please Read Joshua Chapter 3

1. When did Joshua start his strategy? (vs 1).

2. Do you start your strategy early in the morning? If so, what do you do to prepare for the day? Are you preparing physically, spiritually, or maybe both?

3. After three days, what did the officers go through the camp and command the people to do?

4. What do you think is the significance of the “ark of the Lord your God” and why did they need to keep their distance? (vs 3-4)

According to the Holman Christian Standard study bible, the ark of the covenant symbolized God’s presence with His people. With the ark going before the people into battle, Israel’s strength did not come from their military might, but from the Lord’s presence with and defense of His people (HCSB, p. 316, 2015). We too, can keep Him and His Word ahead of us as we travel through a new climate of uncertainty in our own walk. He knows we are going to face things ahead that we have not experienced before.

5. What does Joshua tell the people to do in verse 5?

6. Look up the word consecrate and write the definition below:

“The term of worship commands a person to prepare herself to be purified, knowing that she will meet with God. That the Israelites were told to “consecrate yourselves” shows that their conquest was more than a military operation. It was also a spiritual journey” (HCSB, p. 316, 2015).  The beauty of cleansing our conscience before the Lord is so we can see Him work wonders among us, too. That, my friend, is some serious strategy!

7. What were the priests carrying the ark of the covenant ordered to do? (vs. 8).

8. We know from yesterday’s study that the fear of God was upon the people of Canaan and this gave the Israelites confidence (Joshua 2:24). So, how does Joshua reinforce their confidence in verses 9-11?

9. We also learn in verse 15 that the Jordon was flooding at this point of their travel. However, what does Joshua tell them in verse 13?Can you just imagine the site of the flooding river coming to a standstill on both sides as the priests took that step of faith into the rapidly flowing water? What are we told about the water in verse 16?

Some of them may have been around long enough to remember the parting of the Red Sea. Therefore, seeing the presence of God going before them assures them, no obstacle in their journey is greater than God. Nor is any enemy bigger than God. He is the Lord of all the earth. The same is true for us, as believers in Christ. Since He goes before us, we can have confidence in the circumstances we face.

Look up the passage below and describe what is happening and who commands the water in this passage:

Luke 8:22-25

What statements in your reading today reminded you of God’s—-A. faithfulness B. promises, his provision C. protection and D. required obedience?

Application:

Since, we are followers of Christ and have submitted our lives to him, we can rest in his ability to go before us in the days ahead. It may difficult. In fact, it may be as scary as putting our feet into the flood of a raging river. However, using the strategy of rising early, consecrating our minds in readiness to worship Him, and facing the day knowing He goes before us, will give us the tools to overcome our fear and build bold faith.

Prayer: God of all the earth, you go before us daily. As David says in the 23^rd Psalm, with you we lack nothing. We don’t have to fear danger because you are with us, your rod and your staff comfort us as tools for keeping us together in fellowship and encouragement. Apart, we tend to drift into the territory of the enemy. Bring us back with your handy staff, Lord. Bring the crook around our wandering necks and pull us close. The stifling pressure of the world thrives on fear tactics and sensationalism. Lord, please give us the power to implement the strategies to overcome the world! Just as you stopped the water and the waves, you’ll stop the force of fear.  Lord, as a result, we will be filled with wonder in Your presence. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Super simple and delicious Kale and Butternut Squash Quesadilla’s will be just the right side to your chicken chili! I know, I’m wearing out that butternut squash, but when a girl can’t eat tomatoes but loves Mexican food…something has to give! So, I ‘m giving it all the chances I can for making a healthier meal. All you’ll need is a slice of Havarti cheese and the recipes for Quinoa Chia Tortilla Shells and Butternut Squash/soup below.

All you have to do is heat your skillet, spread your butternut squash over half of the tortilla, place your fresh cut kale over that, sprinkle with some onion salt. Split one slice of Havarti cheese evenly over the kale; then fold your tortilla shell over and brown in the buttered skillet about 3-5 minutes each side! Yum! You never know, Kale and Butternut Squash Quesadilla’s may just be your new favorite too!

Remember, what’s in the garden is so good!

The earth produced vegetation: seed-bearing plants according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good.

Genesis 1:12

Genesis 1:12 HCSB – The earth produced vegetation: – Bible Gateway

The first time I saw Soft Fish Taco’s on a cooking show, I thought, “WHAT!?” So, of course I wanted to try it. I don’t remember what fish or spices they used to make it either. A general rule of thumb for basic items like fish tacos is use what you know tastes good with fish and if it doesn’t turn out go back and look at the recipe. Now, the exception of course is baking; I follow the recipe to the T the first time, then change as I prefer. My guess is, you may too.

The standout for me on the first recipe I saw years ago was the garlic cucumber yogurt sauce, Tzatziki. Delicious! I love to make a red cabbage vinegar slaw to go on the side as well. Yum. If you can find Ice Atlantic cod, that is wild caught in Iceland, that is best. The Pacific cod in my local grocer is from China, and I’m not sure how trustworthy anything processed from there is anymore.

Cod Fish Benefits

The benefits of cod fish are: It’s low in calories and provides B12, magnesium, potassium and zinc. Included in this impressive nutrient load is approximately 90mcg of iodine; which is important for people with low thyroid function. Cod is also a good source of protein (20 grams for approximately 3 ounces). It is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids as well, which are touted for their heart health benefits. The funny thing is, studies show the fish oil capsules help with inflammatory pain like arthritis but are not conclusive with improving heart health. However, eating the actual fish is! There is always a lead in Science revealing a link back to food in its natural form, isn’t there? Kind of like what God puts in the garden (and the waterways) to nourish and sustain us!

Come and have breakfast,” Jesus told them. None of the disciples dared ask Him, “Who are You?” because they knew it was the Lord. Jesus came, took the bread, and gave it to them. He did the same with the fish.

John 21 HCSB – Jesus’ Third Appearance to the – Bible Gateway

Jesus knew exactly what Peter, James and John needed after a long night of fishing. They not only need the nourishment of fish and bread, but of encouragement to do the necessary work of fishing for men. Men and women looking for something to fill the emptiness in their souls. An emptiness only Jesus, himself, can fulfill. Fortunately, for the disciples and us, he provides both. Take heart today, be strengthened by knowing the gospel of Jesus and His provision. Who knows? We may have the privilege of eating breakfast with Him too some day!

In the meantime enjoy these soft Cod Fish Tacos!

The Soft Fish Tacos are really good on these homemade tortilla shells or Over a Quinoa Bowl!:

Tortillas 3 Ways – Strengthen Your Heart (mystypfeffer.com)

A Cottage pie is one of my favorite meals on a cold winter day. Well actually, any day of the year works, but when it’s cold outside and the oven is on…I just get that toasty, comfortable cottage feeling. Now, since I’m reading a book about excess carbohydrates and Alzheimer’s Disease, I want this one to be low carb. As you probably see throughout the internet, cauliflower in place of potatoes is one way to accomplish that task. So, I’d like share my version of a simple Low Carb Cottage Pie, using cauliflower.

Wellness Tip: Reducing carbohydrates is beneficial for all of us since the prevalence of prediabetes and insulin resistance is approaching 80 million people in the United States. Research studies reveal a strong relationship between insulin resistance and dementia. Since, we all know loved ones with one or the other, it is wise to know how to combat this escalating chronic disease. Insulin resistance in synonymous with high cholesterol and elevated triglycerides both of which contribute to oxidative stress on our cells. Especially, the cognitive area of the brain. {1} Therefore, taking measures to reduce oxidative stress is wise for all of us. We can do that by eating a primarily plant based diet (80%) reducing daily sugar consumption, and lowering starchy vegetables and grains. This Low-Carb Cottage Pie is a start!

The difference between a Shepherds’ Pie and a Cottage Pie is the meat. I’m using lean ground beef for this instead of lamb. To make it even easier, I’m adding a bag of frozen chopped vegetables. Making things easier to prepare helps me stay on track with healthier eating throughout the week. I want preparing meals to be easier for you, too.

The other area that I want to be easier for you, is trusting God. His word declares an account of His provision and love. I am encouraged today, knowing He loves me and provides for me and my family. I’m sure the two of us can look back during times of distress and see where He walked beside us. We can take comfort today as He continues to shepherd us through trying times:

The Lord is the strength of His people; He is a stronghold of salvation for His anointed. Save Your people, bless Your possession, shepherd them, and carry them forever.

Psalm 28:8-9

Biblegateway.com

If you are wanting to know more about God’s provision and care join me in studying the bible click Here!

Have a wonderful day and remember, what’s in the garden is good!

References:

Maciejczyk M, Żebrowska E, Chabowski A. Insulin Resistance and Oxidative Stress in the Brain: What’s New? International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2019; 20(4):874. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20040874

Rest assured, you and I don’t have to panic when emotional eating creates cravings. Especially with this low sugar, orange creamsicle cake roll around. I’ve seen the images of sugar hitting the pleasure region of the brain on CT scans. So, I know how enjoyable and addictive it is.

However, when I had an emotional day last week, coming off a sugar fast, I didn’t want to completely blow my good behavior… Strange thoughts like Twinkies started intruding on my weak feelings. Really?! I haven’t had a Twinkie in probably twenty years. Close to the shelf-life of those deplorable things. Nope, I can’t do that.

With the temptation of Twinkies off the palate, I began to think about orange cupcakes. You know those ones with the thick orange icing on top? So, even though I dodged a Twinkie, I couldn’t stop thinking about orange cupcakes. No, that is not going to work either. Rehashing good sweets and really bad sweets is the kind of battle I face in my weak moments. My friend, it is also how food lovers create new things and try to make them better. Well, better for us anyway.

What is it about sugar that just reaches that pleasure spot in the brain? I’ve enjoyed my time in God’s word every single morning. Enjoyed it well, I promise you. I sat happily immersed in the comfort, peace, and strength only He can bring. At the same time, I still wanted that orange cake. Jesus reminded me in His word….

Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful.

No, He doesn’t give like the world gives. My heart “must not be troubled”. I know he wasn’t talking to me. He was telling the disciples He was going to die. Something He had to do, so all of us can live. They weren’t taking it well. In fact, they were handling it as poorly as me losing a loved ones respect.

So, the one thing I can tell you is, this low sugar, orange cream sickle cake roll did NOT soothe the ache in my heart. Only good humbling sorrow in the arms of Jesus can do that. However, it sure did taste good. Now, the first time I made it, I zested my orange, and began to place half of the orange into a bowl. As I thought about my pumpkin roll and the amount of pumpkin in it, I realized there was not enough substance to this orange pulp. Spying the butternut squash on the stove, I liked the color and thought it might be like other squash and take on the flavors of the things combined with it.

So, I thought, “Why not?” Maybe the butternut flavor will be mild to minimal with a lot of orange zest. It was actually pretty good, I used 2/3 cup just like I do with the pumpkin roll, and it made the cake a pretty light orange color. However, it was too dense and heavy. So I made it again, with just 1/3 cup of butternut squash and ….bingo! It’s so good.

Now, no low sugar creamsicle cake roll is as comforting as Jesus, of course…but it’s still hits a sweet spot to soothe to my sore emotions. Best of all, when taken in small slices, there is no guilt.

I hope you like it as much as the hubby and I do! Remember, what God put in the garden is good! And if we give Him half the chance, He soothes the soul too!

I wonder sometimes why they call these beans peas. Although, they are in the legume family, they have no relation to the peas. However, don’t let that stop you from soaking, rinsing, and stewing them with some garden veggies. This savory garden veggie and Black Eyed Pea stew is well worth the time and effort of soaking and simmering. Not only is it low calorie, it is loaded with nutrients.

So, if you’re looking for a substantial amount of folate, fiber, magnesium, potassium, and zinc, you’ve picked the right legume. Pair this with carrots, onion, garlic, and spinach and you have a strong start to strengthening your heart! In the meantime, you’ll also be meeting your daily energy needs. Check out additional benefits of this hearty legume Here.

And don’t forget, strengthen your heart with God’s word each day too!

Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble;
You will strengthen their hearts.
You will listen carefully,
 doing justice for the fatherless and the oppressed
so that men of the earth may terrify them no more.
Psalm 10:17-18

Staying on track with a focused plan to heal the heart physically and spiritually will bless those around you for years to come! Hang in there because you and your family are worth it! You can start with meals like this Garden Veggie and Black-eyed Pea stew.

Check out the Bold Faith Page for more encouragement.

Any time of year is good for chili spaghetti squash. In places that savor their chili over pasta but don’t like the carbs, spaghetti squash makes a nice substitute. Not only is it filling, it provides small amounts of vitamin A & C. As well as minerals, potassium and calcium. Topped with your favorite chili recipe or this Quinoa Black Bean Chili, you’ll be set to enjoy a warm comfortable evening.

While chili spaghetti fills our bodies with food, let’s fill our souls with God’s word. The Psalmist says:

Lord, Your word is forever; it is firmly fixed in heaven.Your faithfulness is for all generations; You established the earth, and it stands firm.They stand today in accordance with your judgements, for all things are your servants. If Your instruction had not been my delight, I would have died in my affliction. I will never forget Your precepts, for You have given me life through them.I am Yours, save me for I have sought Your precepts.

Psalm 119:89-94 HCSB – ל Lamed LORD, Your word is forever; it – Bible Gateway

Don’t you love that God’s word is firmly fixed in heaven? Something we can count on it throughout every generation. Just as the earth stands firm, we can stand firm in God’s faithfulness. Moreover, It is life to us and something we won’t forget. I don’t know about you, but I will delight in that firm foundation, my friends!

Top this chili spaghetti squash with your favorite cheese and enjoy! Remember too, what’s in the garden is good!

I’ve never been the kind of person who bows to peer pressure. In fact, when the pressure heats up to behave a certain way or do a certain thing, this stubborn introvert digs her heels in deeper to stay right where she is. After all, one good friend is worth more to me than a dozen who roll with the times. I say all of this because of the mounting pressure to conform in today’s culture. Are you feeling it too?

Do you find yourself turning off the news because you hear the same repeated message delivered? Although different phrases and pictures are used the message is the same. I feel like I’m under the voice of a hypnotist sometimes. He’s warning me of the doom and gloom fast approaching and consuming me and the ones I love. His fear tactics are only superseded by his strategy of divisiveness.

Fortunately, followers of Christ can see the driving force behind these fear and divisive-based attacks and hang onto hope! Primarily because this enemy has already been defeated. Since, he knows his time is short, he is in a frenzy to accuse, discourage, and persuade every follower of Christ to doubt who is really in control.  The entire situation in our culture today reminds me of the old testament story of the twelve spies.

Feeling the pressure to Conform

For instance, the overwhelming pressure to conform appeals to my emotions. Also, my sense of responsibility, and accountability are piqued. Just as it is for Joshua. The intensity of pressure laid upon he and Caleb was intense. All because they were not afraid to enter Canaan under the direction of the Lord. One leader from each tribe was instructed by Moses to report what the land was like. They were to find out if the land was fertile or unproductive. As well as if the people were few or many, strong or weak. Do they live in fortified cities or encampments? (Numbers 13:18-20).

Although, twelve men were sent to scout out the promised land, only two came back with a hopeful report. Ten of them were fearful because of the very large people they saw. Canaan’s fortified cities, and their ability to devour its inhabitants terrified them (Numbers 13:31-32).

The intensity of this report incited the people to fear. They wanted to stone the two spies who gave a good report.  Much like an easily swayed population turns against those who place their trust in God instead of those in power. Money holders’ rule behind the scenes over policies, guidelines, and messages that affect the way people think. I take hope in Joshua’s response to the people.

Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among those who scouted out the land, tore their clothes and said to the entire Israelite community: “The land we passed through and explored is an extremely good land. If the Lord is pleased with us, He will bring us into this land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and give it to us. (Numbers 14:6-8).

Numbers 14 HCSB – Israel’s Refusal to Enter Canaan – Bible Gateway

Looking beyond the size of the people, Joshua and Caleb looked at the size of their God. They knew deep down the promises of God are real despite the circumstances. Not only was the fear uncalled for, it also showed a lack of trust in God. Moreover, the distrust sparked complete rebellion and disregard of His good-natured promises.

God is Bigger

Friends, He is with us and His promises are true for us too. He implores us to trust Him. Although the giants we face are present and actively changing values of the people around us, we can stand firm. Yes, the reports of death are real. However, the number of people dying today is no different than those who died this time last year. There is just a sensational amount of attention placed on one specific cause over another.

Even though the enemy of disease has a huge presence in our lives, we cannot forget God is bigger. He determined before we were born, when, how, and the day we will die. If it happens to be the current predominant disease, then that is His will. No matter what measures we take to prevent it, we will not escape His predetermined route of our leaving this earth.

However, we can rejoice because our souls are promised to be with Him in glory! He gave his son to die on the cross to save us from our own distrust and rebellion against Him. He urges us to not conform to the pattern of this world.

Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

(Romans 12:1-2)

I can’t describe the comfort this verse has brought me over the years. As I struggled to figure out who to follow, what to do, and who to believe. One traumatic year can change my self-perception and that is just wrong. I can bow to the pressure or use God-given discernment.

Bold faith says, “I am who God says I am. So, I only bow to Him in decisions that change my genetic code forever.” In doing so, I respect my friends’ decision to do what they feel is right. I also cast aside the crushing weight of this world and embrace a different perspective. I feel the tender presence of Jesus reminding me not to get too comfortable here . Mostly because this world and all its pressure is temporary and will pass away.

Knowing Jesus like you do, are you starting to feel it too?

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“I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it.”

Philippians 4:10

I hear the undertones of sadness in my sweet friend’s voice. I would love to see her in person and give her a hug. She is holding on to what she knows to be true amid overwhelming doubt and uncertainty.

Although I’m not sure of the deep questions in her heart, I can tell the damaging thoughts are taking their toll on her self-perception. Recalling her days of cheer and laughter, I’m tempted to bring her out of her sadness with memories of good times.

This might work temporarily, but if I continue to speak truth into her pain and pray God uses it to nurture His perception of her that would be better.

Several years ago, I too struggled with self-image, depressive thoughts, and uncertainty about who I am. The world tells me I must be pretty, smart, and a certain size in order to have value.

The thing is, I don’t have extraordinary characteristics of any of those things. My sense of self needs a greater hope. Thankfully, for me, and hopefully my friend too, Jesus fills our painful, never-ending strive for approval.

He says, “Let go of the shame, let go of the past and live for me”.  He heals all my twisted thoughts with his loving word. It is an anchor for my soul. He tells me a different story of value, redemption, and love than the world does.

He is sufficient is sweeping confidence in the flesh away, too. The talent, passion, and ability he provides are to glorify him.

Therefore, all the achievements, status, and education the world esteems are of no use if I don’t use them to show my sweet friend Christ. No matter how far away, she is. She may be out of sight, but she is never far from my heart.

How many times was I concerned about her and lacked the opportunity to show it due to distance? Like Paul and the Philippian church, the care they showed him resounded in rejoicing in the Lord.

As a result, he learned to be content in all circumstances. Although his circumstances referred to physical shortage and my friend’s is mental, the application is the same.

He knew they cared! The gift I send my friend is not a solution to her problems, but my love. I also give her the encouragement of the God’s healing and powerful word.

 He is not distant either, He is holding her close during her uncertainty. The secret for Paul being content in all circumstances can be a reality for the two of us as well.

Who knows when the round of discouragement will come my way again, as it did for Paul and my friend? Comfort and ease in life is fleeting, as doubt and uncertainty come and go.

However, my hope is in the One who cares, he too may be out of sight, but he is never far from my heart.

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