Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.  And this we will do if God permits.
Hebrews 6:1-3

Hope in the finished work of Jesus.

It’s all we have.

No work based faith will bring us closer to God or into heaven because God looks at the heart. No act of contrition, tradition, or ritual of religion will bring us closer to God unless we embrace His son, Jesus, and receive love and faith as God’s child.

The author of Hebrews urges us to move forward in the faith Jesus provides. Beyond the foundational principles set by Jesus Himself: Repentance, faith, resurrection of the dead, eternal judgment. It’s heart wrenching to listen to His plea to his Jewish brothers regarding their search for eternal life.

Jesus told the Pharisees in John 5:39-40–“You search the scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me. Yet, you refuse to come to me that you may have life. For, if you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote of me.”

English Standard Version, Bible Gateway

Jesus also clarifies whoever has true faith will endure to the end. Those who flirt with Christianity and try to do things out of their own strength will fall away. It is utter dependence on Jesus that our hope is built, nothing else.

JOHN 10:22-30

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”

English Standard Version, Bible Gateway

It’s not unusual for people to fear change and loss. The radical life of following Jesus was too much for a law abiding Jew to swallow. Sometimes it is for us too. Giving up status, work, opportunity, family relationships, and cultural rituals passed down for centuries was life altering for the people of Israel. They knew they would embrace poverty, suffering, persecution, famine, and sword as they submitted all to Christ…..

Just as Jesus suffered, they too, would endure suffering for following Him.

Although, they would do it with hope for eternal life and an inner peace of their souls. A peace only He can provide. It was worth it for them and He is worth it for us. We won’t be like those who’s outward appearance of shallow faith becomes evident under hardship. There will be no lack of fruit flowing from our changed hearts. Moreover, we will avoid the world’s empty promises that ultimately lead to bitterness and hopelessness.

Because Jesus calls us to examine our hearts and seek healing in His all consuming power over death and despair. He is calling each of us every day. Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden, place your burdened soul down and trust me to carry you through.

I’m praying my heart and your heart is His today, friends. As we reach out to Him with all we have, even if it is a tiny thread of hope…..He will multiply it ten-fold with each step of faith. Love you!

Do you ever feel like something important is slipping away and you have no control over it?

I’m wondering if the first century Jewish Christians felt the same way. The torture tactics, emperor Nero subjected Christians to so they would not follow “The Way” were chilling.

How would the picture of Hebrews 11:37 affect our stand in claiming Jesus today?

We see a picture of terror for these first century brothers and sisters in Christ that our soft lifestyle of abundance might just cave under. Something important was slipping away and they had no control over it. Fear of losing temporary physical life was overcoming faith in eternal life with Christ.

The writer of Hebrews is urgently calling them to hold fast to the hope of Christ and look beyond their circumstances.

Our ladies group is studying “Better, A Study of Hebrews, by Jen Wilken. She points us toward the repeated phrase “hold fast” and what we see the first century Jews holding fast to in the following verses….. (LifeWay Publishing,Wilkin, 2020 p. 53)

Hebrews 3:6

Hebrews 3:14

Hebrews 4:14

Hebrews 6:18

Hebrews 10:23

I can’t help but remember and ‘hold fast’ to the words of Jesus in Matthew 10:28

“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”

Lord Jesus, help us fix our eyes on you and away from our lives in this temporary place. Please forgive us our grumbling in our comfort. Help us see the suffering of today’s Christians in China, Korea, the Middle East, India, and Africa as they face the same persecution your first church faced. May we continually keep them in prayer as they suffer and offer them any support you lay upon our hearts to offer.

Father, the faith of our children is slipping away, please help them hold fast. Our elderly are slipping away in fear of disease and isolation from their families, please comfort them. You see our country slipping away due to sin and rebellion, please help her turn from her sin and seek you again.

You are our confidence. You are our hope. You lift us up when we are too weak to cope in this world and remind us Jesus, you overcame the world. Our hope is in you and life with you forever. Although, we will not escape the daily tribulations of this world, you will be with us and guide us. Thank you! In Jesus’ name, amen.

“Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.”
2 Corinthians 13:11

I like the key word in this verse…aim. Aiming for restoration and comforting one another. The act of living in peace is what we, as Christians wake up with every intention of doing each day. Meeting God in His word and beginning with prayer helps us hit the mark. Well, aim better anyway.

We may be tempted in situations to respond in haste. We may forego the extra time to stop and listen to the answer of our own question, “How are you?” to our neighbors. While each hour of our day passes we have the opportunity to take extra time or go the extra mile. When we do, a small spark of confidence grows and the peace of God is present in our small victories.

We can feel Him smiling as our aim is closer to that of his Son.

While we think about our aim to be more like Christ, I’ll share the aim of this cherry tart. It offers a balance of delicious tart and sweet flavor for our enjoyment. A crunchy oat and walnut cluster of top is slightly sweet and filling. Also, the use of a very small amount of sugar and stevia allow this pleasure to remain a healthier option for a rounded snack or breakfast substitute.

Cherries dark red juice and skin is loaded with anthocyanins to help fight inflammation. They also contain a decent amount of vitamin C. There is no guilt indulging in this beneficial treat.

Cherry Tarts

Filling

• 3 Cups Cherries (Fresh or Frozen)
• 1/4 Cup of Sugar mixed with 1 scoop of PURE stevia or monk fruit
• 1/2 Teaspoon Almond Extract
• 1/4 Teaspoon Cinnamon or nutmeg
• 1 Tablespoon Tapioca Starch or Arrowroot Powder

Crust

• 2 Cups Organic Gluten Free Oats
• 1/3 Cup Organic Olive Oil
• 1 Tablespoon Sugar (Optional)
• 1/2 Teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 Cup Walnuts Chopped

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine your filling ingredients in a bowl and toss well with the sugar, arrowroot powder, and spices. Place in a 8 pre-made tart shells and set aside. Combine oats, olive oil, sugar, cinnamon and walnuts in a bowl and place over the cherries. Bake for 30-40 minutes.

Take a couple of theses along with you as you visit shut ins or drop them off on the door step with a card of encouragement! Aiming high is our goal in our efforts to comfort and agree with on another.

Enjoy!

“….so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;
Colossians 1:10-11

Paul and his run on sentences! Breaking it down for me today for a short devotion….bearing fruit, increasing in knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power….(NOT according to my might but HIS might) and not just His might but His glorious might.

Now that is a promise worth holding onto for the rest of my days!

I have no strength apart from Jesus and I have no knowledge without the Word of truth shared in the bible. May the hope of these verses lift your spirit to a new level today just as a hearty meal from the garden will lift your stamina.

This sounds complicated because of three step process, but I assure you….it is easy. I chose to use Kale in this pesto only because I did not have basil on hand, and there is a LOT of it in the garden.

I’ve also used spinach in the past (LOVE THAT) it’s a little sweeter, but I like to keep things versatile so you can substitute and use what works for you. This is also one of those really good preparation day meals to cook ahead and eat later in the week.

There are so many benefits of kale with good amount of protein, rich in vitamins A, C, & K see this Healthline article for all the benefits!

Kale Pesto & Spaghetti Squash

Pesto

• 1 Cup Fresh Kale (Spinach or Basil)
• 1 Roasted clove of garlic (this gives a milder garlic flavor you can use fresh, but it will be strong!)
• 2 Tablespoons of Romano Cheese
• 1 Tablespoon of Sliced Almonds
• 1/3 Cup Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 Tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1/4 Tsp Salt
• 1 Dash of Pepper

Puree in a food processor until smooth.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Prepare Spaghetti Squash by washing well, cutting in half, scoop out seeds, sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder, Bake one hour until tender. Meanwhile, prepare meatballs.

Meatballs

• 1 Pound of lean ground beef (Turkey or Chicken)
• 1/4 Cup finely chopped onions
• 2 Tablespoons of Fresh Parsley
• 1 Tablespoon Grated Romano Cheese
• Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt and pepper ( I don’t measure this, it is to your own taste)

Roll into 1 inch balls and bake alongside squash for about 35-40 minutes.

When the squash is done, remove from oven and let cool until it can be safely handled. Carefully fluff with a fork to remove the flesh of the squash, add a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder as needed for flavor. Place in a container and add one tablespoon of the pesto. Mix well and top with meatballs. I added roasted asparagus. Delicious!

You’ll be more than ready to bear fruit in all your good work!

 Just one thing: Live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind, working side by side for the faith that comes from the gospel, not being frightened in any way by your opponents. This is a sign of destruction for them, but of your deliverance—and this is from God.

Philippians 1:27-28 ESV

1. LIVE WORTHY

You and I are often under the impression that we are trudging through life alone. Outside of our much needed support systems, spouses, and best friends, the core of disease affects us personally. Although we know others have similar afflictions and circumstances, the impact of it actually occurring right now, in my life, at this time, is almost consuming. Nothing prepares us for the unthinkable, because it is not normal to pursue thoughts of disease or infallibility. So, when the dreaded word of cancer, heart disease, diabetes (you fill in the blank) is presented our reaction is: Total shock, followed quickly by fierce denial.

Granted, no one else is in your skin, knows your deepest fears, or understands your uncertainty in processing news. You know it happens every day to millions of people, but today…. it affects you. There is a price for daily choices instant gratification cannot pay but only accrue. Mounting interest escalates into the bankruptcy of nutrient depleted cells and a fight to maintain balance. But wait! There is good news! Not only is the gospel of grace for your spiritual benefit it also empowers you to make better choices for living well. Paul says “live worthy” implying a strength for resisting physical temptations as inherent in the life of believers.

Resilience is in your Devine design. God made your body and every nutrient in the garden with the capability to restore and reboot dying cells. He also gave you the Holy Spirit to become a new person, with new values, and a new desire to please God.

2. STAND FIRM

So, with that determination in mind, you and I can stand firm on the strength of God’s word to fill our grasping souls with His Word and His provision of antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and protein in the tasty creations from our grocer’s garden (or our own). The plentiful fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and lean (minimally processed) meats are at our fingertips. Stand frim in faith and hope in our Lord Jesus to sustain the needs of our minds; quelling the anxious thoughts of fear with reassurance. All the while, filling the void of emptiness with peace and comfort; no preservative laden oatmeal cream pie can fill! He is with us always, even until the end of the age. Isn’t it comforting to know we can lean on Him through times of uncertainty?

3. WORK SIDE BY SIDE

But we don’t have to do it alone! We have the help of our coach and a network of people working side by side to cheer us along the way. Encouraging us in those daily victories, pulling us out of that sense of defeat, and LISTENING to our struggles. Facing temptations head on with prayer allows us a chance to step back from a situation, reevaluate, and pursue a stronger option. Prayer and scripture memory effectively renew the mind with the strength of the Holy Spirit! He is also there with us, working side by side; guiding, counseling, comforting. Even if we are not feeling His presence today, all we have to do is ask!

Luke 11:13 says,  “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.” God wants to be first in our lives; over food, sweets, material things, jobs, and even family. The reward is such amazing contentment, we won’t know how to react!

• Practical ways to apply this today:
• Pray
• Drink 8-12 ounces of water. Especially if I just ate a full meal two hours ago and I couldn’t possibly be hungry. (This applies unless otherwise instructed by your doctor)
• Move every 30 minutes. If you have a desk job, just getting up to stretch your legs and walking 20-30 ft. every half an hour helps blood flow to your extremities and return to your brain. It helps your mind focus better, while stimulating your metabolism. As well as giving your eyes a rest from the computer. So many benefits from one small move!

May God bless you and keep you as we live worthy, stand frim, and work side by side! We will be successful in rebuilding our cells to strengthen us mentally, while healing physically; repairing our bodies bite by bite to their fullest potential. I’ll be praying for both of us!

“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
James 1:19-20

I save myself a lot of anguish and regret when I am slow to speak….not that I always do, but WHEN I do, the outcome is better than when I don’t. There is so much noise and anger right now in our nation, it’s hard to discern what is righteous anger and what is just anger. My spirit aches for those angry hearts, because I know what it feels like to be trapped by it’s ugly snare.

Therefore, wise counsel from James is nice to hear among the clamor of voices. The reality of God’s word is summed up here…..he says, “the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” The context of this verse is tucked away in ongoing warnings of being lured by our own desires and staying away from filthiness and wickedness. He goes on to say that religion is worthless if we can’t hold our tongue (vs 26). Ouch.

Statements that check the genuineness of my heart and remind me to live free of anger! Thanks James, because I need to cling to God’s wisdom in an age of extreme chaos. It feeds my soul, just like the sweet potatoes coming on feed my cells.

Yes! My cells love this hormone balancing starchy vegetable from the garden prepared in a variety of ways. I love the nutrients of beta carotene, vitamins A &C, B1 & B6. As well as the good amount of minerals–magnesium, potassium, manganese and copper. Don’t forget they are also full of soluble fiber. All of which increase energy, balance hormones, provide fiber and sustenance. I like the added benefits of pumpkin and sunflower seeds for extra vitamin E and selenium too!

Hey, I”m packing as many nutrient’s as I can into one meal for busy people, ya know!

These wraps are inspired by watching a beautiful Indian woman making a flatbread with a sweet potato several weeks ago. Since I love to make a variety of wraps; why not use this idea to make my own version?

Here is all you need:

• 1 1/4 Cup Organic Unbleached Flour
• 1 Preboiled and Still warm sweet potato ( this makes about 3/4 cup)
• 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 Cup toasted pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds (1 Tbsp. each)
• 1 Tablespoon Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Place a skillet on the stove with the heat setting on low. Place the pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds in the pan to toast. Just a couple of minutes. Meanwhile combine the flour and salt. Place toasted seeds into food processor and gently pulse until finely chopped. Add them to the flour mixture and mix well.

In a separate cup combine the sweet potato and oil. Using a fork, incorporate the sweet potato mixture into the flour until a nice dough forms. Knead several times on a lightly floured surface until no longer sticky. You may need to add a little more flour. Divide the dough into eight small balls. Roll out one ball at a time, on a lightly floured surface until very thin. Place in the hot DRY skillet to cook, about 30 seconds each side. They will look dry and no longer wet when they are ready.

Place on a dish to cool. Use them for your wraps right away or store them in the refrigerator in a large zip lock bag. They are usually best when used within 7-10 days.

Enjoy the wraps, soak up God’s precious cleansing Word, and gather in the garden!

I pray wise cousel from God’s Word to feed your soul today, as you escape the craziness of our world for the peace of our sweet Jesus. I pray His precious Word brings you comfort as you balance your mind with the bible’s solid reassurance and your body with sustenance from the garden.

Because what’s in the garden is good!

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

Proverbs 19:21

Do you ever wonder what shapes God’s call upon your life? Do you feel the same self-doubt and trepidation answering a “potential” call like I do, or does it fade with each step of faith? A motley life course often matures with natural ability, love of God, and hope for a fulfilling career. Nonetheless, a clear-cut calling may remain elusive us until that breathless moment of trust says “yes” to a persistent tug on our hearts.

Trust built with momentous highs of professional advancement, marriage, and children alongside valleys of suffering, loss, disappointment and fear. The peace from gospel truth may even come at a young age, shaping hints of a purpose towards the eternal realm. Yet, growing in confident assurance the gospel provides progresses slowly.

As time moves on, settling occurs and the opportunity to contemplate the elusive purpose arrives. It is here that the word of God speaks to a soft spot of discontent in my own heart. Proverbs 20:5 says, “The purpose of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.”  Although, age should not be a factor, it is often present in the self-doubting fear of reaching deeper water.

Did Moses, at eighty years old, question leaving his settled life for a call to take the Israelites out of Egypt? He certainly did. Perhaps, he was content with being a shepherd. The details are not clear, however God’s plan for him shepherding people became very clear.

God saw the suffering of His people Israel. Exodus 7:3 says, “God heard them crying out because of their slave drivers and is concerned about their suffering.” So, now go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.” (Exodus 7:10 NIV).

Although Moses protests, God insists. Exodus 3:12a says, “And God said, “I will be with you.”

In spite of fears and inadequacy; God is calling average people like Moses.  He may also be calling you and I to use our professional experience and natural ability to relieve suffering for his people. In our own unique way, we can join the women we admire.

If God has placed on our hearts a concern for suffering people, He will continually woo us to join the battle of encouraging them. No matter what our age. He is equipping us with life experiences in the workplace. He’s placed people in our path to mentor and love. God’s word fills our hearts and strains daily to burst forth answering the call to help hurting people. 

The burning bush of revealed purpose may occur in the trepid steps of obedience. A passage or bible study continually getting us through each day may inspire others. The heart of our plans consistently aligning with God’s word is a true sign, He is calling us. There is no room for self-doubt, fear, or indecision. A deeper purpose and satisfaction await when, “it’s the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” (Prov. 19:20b).

“At daybreak, LORD, you hear my voice,
at daybreak I plead my case to you and wait expectantly.”
Psalm 5:3

Daybreak is my favorite time to meet with the Lord in His Word and draw near to Him. There is no better time of the day. Soon after daybreak, I check on the garden…..the kale is looking quite nice! Ready for a lunch date and wellness consult!

Here is the very simple recipe for salad to increase magnesium, manganese, calcium, and vital antioxidants for building your strength. I hope you enjoy this and your lovely day!

Kale and Beet Salad

• 4 Cups Fresh Kale chopped
• 1/4 Fresh Beet, shaved over salad
• 1 Small Apple finely sliced
• 1/4 Cup Chopped Walnuts or Almonds
• 1 Dash of Salt

Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing

• 1 Ounce Apple Cider Vinegar
• 3 Ounces Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 Tablespoon of Honey
• 1 Dash Pepper

Combine your kale, topped with apples, nuts and shaved beets, cover with dressing and toss.

What’s in the garden is good!

On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable.
1 Corinthians 12:22

A clear picture of my need for others is in this verse. How many times have you held a baby and just could not resist hugging or kissing them……..especially if they’re part of you! They are weak and seemingly offer us nothing, however the sheer innocence of their presence offers indispensable hope! We need them and we need each other.

We have many needs in our spiritual body that require the gifts and talents of others. They are at our fingertips, a text or phone call away. I’m comforted I don’t have to hesitate, I can reach out for them today. Just as I can reach to the garden to meet my needs physically. Here is how you and I can do that today, using leftovers from the night before.

1. Asparagus On An English Muffin with Fresh Herbs

• 1 Egg
• 1 Tbsp. Leftover Steamed Asparagus
• 1 Tsp. Grated Romano Cheese
• 1 Tbsp. Fresh Herbs ( I used my favorite lemon balm, fennel, parsley)
• 1/2 Tsp Organic Olive Oil

Super easy preparation….In a mug, place your olive oil. Add one beaten egg, the asparagus, and cheese, microwave on High 1 minute. Place over English muffin and top with fresh herbs.

2. Gluten Free?….No problem, prepare items and place over leftover Wild Grain Rice

3. Low Carb for You?…….Easy fix, place egg mixture over a bed of greens with fresh herbs.

Eggs not your thing?
Adjust accordingly by combining 1/2 cup wild grain rice, a teaspoon of Romano cheese, Leftover steamed asparagus, a tablespoon of pumpkin seeds, and a tablespoon of walnuts. Heat in microwave 1 minute.

Why Fresh Herbs?
As we learned in our verse today, every part of our body is indispensable. That includes our gut health.
Fresh herbs aid in the digestion of our food, provide vital polyphenols and flavonoids to help us fight inflammation, disease and cell damage. All antioxidants and nutrients help us sustain and nourish our bodies. So, it is a good idea to add a few items from the garden to each meal.

I pray you have peace and nourishment in your body and soul today! What’s in the garden is good!

Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
Romans 11:33

I’m glad I don’t have to try and search the wisdom and knowledge of God, it is at my fingertips in His Word. Moreover, it’s comforting to know someone is aware and can handle all the chaos, heartache and pain taking place in our country today. His depth and riches are beyond my comprehension. Yet, I want to be more like Him in his capacity to love, encourage, and empower His people.

We may think He is too big or too busy to think of us little nobodies, but scripture tells us He numbers the hairs on our head. He accounts for and names the stars in the sky. Furthermore, He knows where the birds will lay their head. Evidence He does care about the simple things too!

A starting point for all of us……..simple things.

Simply Delicious Summer Squash

• 1 Summer Squash
• 1 Zucchini
• 2 Boneless, Skinless, Chicken Breast
• 1 Small Onion Chopped
• 1 Teaspoon Oregano
• 1/2 Teaspoon Chili Powder
• 1/2 Teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1/2 Teaspoon Paprika
• 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper
• 2 Tablespoons Organic Olive Oil
• 1 Cup precooked Quinoa

Heat skillet to low med setting. Combine all spies in a bowl or small dish. Prepare chicken on a cutting board, sprinkle half of the spices on the chicken, cut into strips. Place oil in heated skillet, then add seasoned chicken, cook until done, about 5-6 minutes. Push to the side of the skillet. Meanwhile thin slice the vegetables on a different cutting board and sprinkle with remaining spices, Sauté’ until just tender, about 5-6 minutes. Serve over precooked quinoa.

I can take comfort in the Devine design of yellow, orange, and green displayed in my squash and carrots. I need stamina, endurance, and strength to be productive. The essential antioxidants in this dish meet those needs, while they also fight inflammation and cancer. Knowing the taste buds won’t be disappointed make this dish an easy choice.

People like me prefer the simple things in life! Simple recipes, preparation, and ingredients that cook quickly and provide satiety. So, I can do the work He has called me to do. This meal will assist in providing the necessary nutritional requirements to keep you going in your work too!

So feed your body and feed you soul because what’s in the garden is good!

Leave me a comment, let me know how you like it!