Do you ever get frustrated planning for the holidays? Or does the gift of hope get lost in the pressure of expectations?

If you are like me, you take time to choose a special gift and pay careful attention preparing a loved one’s favorite dish. All the while, you’re really wondering if they’ll even show up.

Pressure mounts when you can’t find the item you need or the ingredients that make your recipe just right.

In addition to figuring out the month’s itinerary, work still has to be done, errands ran, and bills paid.

If we’re not careful, we can lose sight of the hope of the season.

“The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations.” (Psalm 33:11)

“Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in His Holy name. “

The gift of hope is coming! 

As you and I begin to celebrate the advent of our Savior’s birth, we can rest assured in God’s steadfast love. 

Overthinking everything else dims the brilliance of this perfect gift in our hearts.

The hearts of our loved ones are not won by special gifts, or by our skills in the kitchen.

The gift their hearts truly crave is Jesus, since God placed eternity on the heart of all mankind.

May you and I let the greatest gift be resting in the shield of his protection and love. The gladness of our hearts will illuminate the gift of hope for everyone around us.

God’s love is indeed steadfast!

Hope Deferred (Luke 1:1-24)

You, O Lord are my hope.

Even when you say no.

Even when the root of bitterness rises, you gently remind me to trust you.

You incline your ear to me and save me from my own thoughts.

My rock of refuge, I continually come. Just as the Psalmist turns to you when his strength is spent, so do I. Upon you I have leaned from before my birth, you are He who took me from my mother’s womb. My praise is continually of you

(Psalm 71:6).

God’s plan for you and me is clear from birth too. From scripture we see his love for His own.

His plan for Zechariah and Elizabeth to have a son was delayed, but oh so glorious. The hope deferred was so overwhelming it brought disbelief.

Yet it still came.

The multitude of people were praying outside at the hour of incense when the angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah.  Five months later, she who was called barren conceived a son. For nothing is impossible with God.

The bitter self- disgrace was removed from Elizabeth’s thoughts. She kept herself hidden saying, “Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people (Luke 1:25).

Reproach is a cause or occasion of blame, discredit, or disgrace.

What is an area of your life that needs blame or disgrace removed?

Let the hope of the Lord remove it today. Remain steadfast, righteous, and faithful as God works through you and around you.

The miracle child of Zechariah and Elizabeth is to pave the way and ready a people for Jesus. You, sweet friend, have been chose too.

In your circle of influence, you prepare children, friends, and family to see the beauty of hoping in Jesus too.

The impact on their tender hearts will have eternal rewards!

Gift of Hope in The Word Made Flesh

“My Soul longs for your salvation; I hope in your Word.” (Psalm 119:81)

The hope of salvation rests on the Word of God. Coming to fruition is the everlasting covenant promised to king David, and revealed to the virgin in Bethlehem.

I imagine Mary, breathless with fear as the Word of God comes out of the mouth of Gabriel. Assurance is hers, as it will not return empty, but accomplish all that He purposes (Isaiah 55:11).

“You will conceive in your womb and bear a son. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”

(Luke 1:31a, 32-33)

A word of assurance and a true gift of hope in God’s word.

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, and we have seen his glory, glory as the only Son from the Father full of grace and truth.

(John 1:1,14)

The promised Messiah. The Word becoming flesh. Is coming through her, how can this be?

Simple, dear Mary, the power of the Most high will come upon you.

And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord, let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:36a)

You and I don’t rest in fantasy or empty promises from those who may disappoint us. Like Mary, we can rest in the living Word of the Most High who humbled himself to become a babe in the womb.

It’s the hope of the Word made flesh our souls long for, because in it is salvation. Our spiritual health depends on applying scripture’s truth to our lives each day.

How will you hold this gift of hope close to your heart today?

The Gift of Hope in Obedience

When I get some amazing news, I can hardly wait to tell my family. I make haste to grab my phone and tell my husband, my daughters, or my mom and sister!

Mary is no different. When the angel departed from her, Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country of Judah. With the hope of the angel’s words fresh in her heart, she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.

Confirmation of Elizabeth’s condition combined with her excited proclamation of, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?”, fills Mary with rejoicing humbleness. (Luke 1:42-43)

As the infant, John, leaps for joy in Elizabeth’s womb, the Holy Spirit fills her to quiet the emotions this enormous task places on the young virgin.  “Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” (Luke 1:25)

All amazing news is a gift of hope from God we can’t wait to share.

It fills us with the hope and brings us closer to our Savior. Mary’s song of praise represents how our hearts can accept and share the hope of Jesus.

• *My soul magnifies the Lord
• *My spirit rejoices in God my Savior
• *He looks on the humble state of His servant
• *He who is mighty has done great things for me
• *His mercy is for those who fear Him
• *He has shown strength in His arm
• *He has brought down the mighty from their thrones
• * He has filled the hungry with good things

Although the task God calls Mary to do is above and beyond any you and I are called to do, we can still capture the spirit of being called and glorify the Lord humbly in obedience.

For some of us, that may mean walking away from sin and committing ourselves to the Lord. For others, it may require removing our pride and apologizing to someone we’ve wronged.

Whatever the call is upon our lives, make haste to rejoice like Mary and Elizabeth, and move forward in the hope of Jesus clearing the way for belief.

The Gift of Hope in Salvation

God of our salvation and hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas.

O you who hear prayer, to you shall all flesh come.

By awesome deeds you answer us with righteousness.

Blessed is the one you choose and bring near, to dwell in your courts! (Psalm 65:5b,2,5a,4)

The blessed hope of a son arrives for Zechariah and Elizabeth in the joyous presence of friends and family. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah’ muteness dissolves into a glorious prophecy for his son:

• *Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed His people
• *Raised a horn of salvation for us
• *Spoke from the mouths of his holy prophets from of old, that we be save from our enemies and those who hate us
• * We being delivered from the hands of our enemies might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness
• *And, the child John, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you go before the Lord to prepare his way
• *Give knowledge of salvation to His people in the forgiveness of their sins
• *Because of the tender mercy of God
• *Giving light to those who sit in darkness to guide our feet in the way of peace

(Luke 1:67-79)

The enemy who hates you is Satan, and he wants you to stay bogged down in self-loathing lies.

Lies that invade your thoughts about yourself, your friends, your family, and your coworkers.

The hope of his defeat is herald by John and the angels, the Most High becomes a babe, lives a sinless life, and suffered and died on a tree so you and I can live free of Satan’s lies.

Despite walking among those who are still living in darkness, Jesus makes a way for peace to enter our souls. May the God of our salvation who brings hope from the farthest seas speak softly to your spirit today, friend. Rest in knowing, “Oh you who hear prayer, to you shall all flesh come!”

What is the deepest hope of your heart today and how can I pray for you?

You may not be comfortable sharing personal things in public places, and I understand.

So, just say in the comments, “God knows!”, and that will be enough information to let me pray for you.

 Let God work a miracle in your heart this season with His mighty word, and may your spiritual health be lifted today as you trust in Him for all your needs.

I am here for you as a RN Health & Wellness Coach if you need spiritual coaching, as you navigate the beautiful gift of hope during on this journey of life! It is a sure path to complete wellness alongside our physical health!

Mysty

Simplifying Health God’s Way

I am reviewing “Everyday Theology, What You Believe Matters” by Mary Wiley, today because it’s so good you’ll want to add it to your list of must do studies! It is not only foundational, encouraging, and biblically solid, it will prepare you to articulate solid truth for the world.

Why is that so important?

Well, because the world is really busy filling my mind, my kids’ minds, and your mind with its views!

I notice this every day in media, marketing, articles, and even health promoting sites. However, I experienced it yesterday through casual conversation, meeting a new person for the first time. The person was so adept at incorporating his worldview into everything he said, I left the encounter knowing exactly where he stood on every frontline issue.

His choice of words to describe his role at a previous school gave a brief view of what he taught. However, the Hillbilly antics of the people who lived there filled his conversation and expressed his perception of the racial divide. By the time we were ready to leave, I knew his views on marriage, abortion, and conservatives.

My friend, I want our radically different views of life, marriage, and family to roll off our tongues in casual conversation too! Mary Wiley’s, “Everyday Theology” is going to help us do that! More importantly, it will show us how to do it in a non-confrontational or negative way.

Sessions Covered in Everyday Theology

We will start the study learning about the following topics:

• Scripture
• God
• Jesus
• The Holy Spirit
• Humanity
• Salvation
• The Church
• The End Times

In this eight-week study, you will get a clear view of everyday theology and how to talk about your beliefs with others. If you want a study guide to follow, you can order it with her video teaching sessions at Lifeway.com.

A sneak peek for the study is also available if you want to check it out too.

In our introduction and the following weeks reveal the importance of forever. When we examine scripture and see God’s plan for order and protection, we see love and guidance for a more peaceful way to live. I want that for myself and my family, and I want it for you!

Let’s take a look at the term “forever”.

What does forever mean to you?

To me, it means to the end of the age and beyond death. Our scripture memory verse today in Isaiah 40:8 describes God’s Word as standing forever.

I invited a lady to bible study yesterday because this day of study helped me clarify my purpose.

Sharing with her how studying the bible has changed my life for the better just rolled off my tongue. The thought provoking questions that make me think about what I’m reading has transformed my life more than just sitting down to read a chapter or listening to a sermon ever could.

However, even though I’ve enjoyed bible study for personal growth over the years, it’s never been something I wanted to keep secret.

The urge to share it with you and others just kind of took over my life. It has nothing to do with me being a good person, but evidence of the transforming Word of truth hitting a humbled heart. I want everyone I know to experience this!

My friend, God’s Word is forever, because it’s relevant, meaningful, and purposeful. It is everyday theology coming alive is us as we share his living and active Word that is sharper than a double-edged sword to pierce the thoughts and attitudes of every heart!

Spend some time in the following Psalm to understand a heart longing for God and understanding how important it is to communicate with our heavenly Father.

Psalm 119:89-91

Psalm 119:92

Psalm 119:97-104

Mary Wiley says, “If we love God without loving God’s Word, we don’t really know the object of our affection.

Pray for a desire to seek God in His Word over every other desire in your life. He’ll gladly answer this prayer and give you the true desire of your heart…Him.

I look forward to walking alongside you in your journey, please check out the blog for recipes and the devotions for encouragement.

Mysty

Simplifying Health God’s Way

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-`8

1 Thessalonians 5 ESV – The Day of the Lord – Now concerning – Bible Gateway

Is there someone in your life that reminds you to hold fast to the good and be thankful in all circumstances? Who is the person telling you to look at the bright side?

I’ll be honest, I’m not always thankful in every circumstance.

Other than Paul in my daily bible reading, there is no one around me reminding me to be thankful in all circumstances either.

Sometimes I savor a little self-pity before conviction takes over and I see God is up to something. My heart needs tweaking from the Holy Spirt to hold fast, love more, give grace, and be patient.

When I think I have difficult times, all I have to do is attend a local community sporting event or interact with children at our Wednesday night church program, and see my life is not as complicated as I think.

Satan is harassing families and tearing them apart. The grade schooler playing soccer and running to the sidelines for a drink of water from his parents seems perfectly normal. The little girls at church giggle and hold fast to the joy of playing with others, until they settle down for our lesson and tell me about their parents in jail.

I notice the distance of the soccer player’s mom and dad from grandma and grandpa at the game. I also wonder about who is mothering these girls while they are separated from their mothers. I’m more than a little sad, I’m angry because I know Satan loves this. He thrives on tearing these families apart.

Many grandparents in the area are raising their grandchildren due to the drug use of their parents. They do the best they can and hope for the better days ahead. I’m certain they are especially hoping for freedom from this cancer of the soul.

In his letter to Thessalonica, Paul says,

Hold Fast to What’s Good in Life!

They are holding fast to the good, while their children are struggling with evil. A physical example of what I sense in the families of those sweet girls on Wednesday night. Lord, may they never fall into the cycle of addiction their parents are trapped in at the moment. Instill them with the power of your Word, so they abstain from every form of evil.

  Only Jesus can soothe the loneliness of an absent mother, calm the overwrought emotions of a fearful child, and remind them who He is. He is the Great I am. He is worth rejoicing, and only He will find a way for these families to survive all the evil placed before and upon them!

I pray for them to find relief, and the sanctuary of hope through Jesus. As I studied the state of humanity in bible study this week the question arose, “What are you most looking forward to when Jesus returns?”

I’m looking forward to no more child abuse and innocents suffering!

I’m tired of Satan having his way with families, as the evilness of the human heart overflows with pain and misery, looking to fill the void with substances and hurting those they love in the process.

Thanks, in All Circumstances

How do I rejoice and give thanks in these circumstances?

I rejoice because I know the Healer who can put his arms of protection around these families. I look to prayer warriors who call upon the name of the Lord to remove wicked desires and unnatural cravings. I ask for forgiveness for lack of action on my part, and pray He shows me a way to help.

Most of all I rejoice that God is good, and I can hold fast to what’s good. Although He doesn’t remove all evil, He works it out for those who love Him. In His timing, and in His way.

If you are also struggling to rejoice in all circumstances and mourning the status of torn families, I pray He shows you how to hold fast to what is good, too.

You and I can take comfort in knowing, Jesus has the power to reconcile all the angry, frustrated, drug-addicted, abused, and sad people we know to God, in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. Because he came and preached peace to everyone far off and those who are near (Ephesians 2:16-17).

Glory to God.

If you need further encouragement to embrace bold faith, check out more devotions here!

The Burden of a Health Crisis

A few years ago, my two co-workers were diagnosed with cancer around the same time. One of them colorectal, and the other breast cancer. The first had recently adopted two boys from Russia, while the other found her lump breastfeeding her child.

Although the burden of this catastrophic diagnosis weighed heavily on these ladies and every single one of their family members, they both faced it matter-of-factly, like they did everything else in life. 

I remember watching them continue working in the intensive care unit as they underwent treatments. They’d say, “Everything is going to be ok; God has this.” They tolerated chemotherapy like champs, and they’d laugh and joke with the nurses hooking them up to treatments.

The unspoken ruminating going on in their minds remained a hushed mystery.

I can only guess their thoughts as I put myself in their shoes. “How long do I have, Lord?” “Will my family remember me fondly?” “Did I do what you wanted me to do?” “How will my children react, and who will look out for them when I’m gone?” “Will my husband be ok?” “How long before he finds someone else?”

The emotion of the unknown is stifling.

The apostle Paul felt it come crashing in upon him and his comrades in Asia, much like today’s newly diagnosed cancer patient and their families reel from the shock of this diagnosis. The burden is so heavy he despairs life itself. He says in 2 Corinthians,

Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him, we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.

2 Corinthians 1:9-10 ESV – Indeed, we felt that we had received – Bible Gateway

Although the burden is overwhelming, he draws strength from God, who he knows delivers. He implores the church in Corinth,

You also must help us in prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted through the prayers of many.

2 Corinthians 1:11 ESV – You also must help us by prayer, so – Bible Gateway

Purpose of the Burden

I rejoice as I read this because the prayers of many helps lighten the burden of the unknown for my friends and family facing cancer. The purpose of it also becomes clear as we draw closer to each other and to God. Prayers restore peace to the heart under great duress. The power of prayer can heal the body of cancer cells and deliver ruminating minds from unanswered questions too.

Most of all, the prayers of many are felt wholeheartedly by the one receiving them. The Holy Spirit moves in and among us, connecting our thoughts to those of our friends in need. He can span many miles in mere seconds to soothe and comfort a hurting and doubtful soul.

The breath of life also works miracles.

It’s been almost ten years since my two friends faced cancer and won. Even though it was not an easy road to take, and the burden of complications from being sick is ongoing, their hope remains.

They didn’t lose heart, nor should you and me. The reality is our outer self is wasting away, but our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light and momentary affliction is preparing us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the unseen things. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things unseen are eternal (2 Cor. 4:16-18).

A Prayer for The Burden

Father God, I pray today for my friend whose burden is beyond her strength. You see her, know her, and love her more than words say. May the prayers of many reach her and her family at this moment. I pray you lift the burden of the unknown and the fear. Eventually, all of us will face the day when this tent, our earthy home, is destroyed.

But we have a building from you, God, a house not made with hands, but eternal in heavens. On that day, the burden of the immortal will be swallowed up by life. Praise you, God! You have given us the Spirit as a guarantee. (2 Cor. 5:1-4) Until then, Lord, prepare my friend and me for whatever we face in this tent. Please give us more time to do what you have called us to do and draw us closer to you in the process. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.

For more encouragement in your walk with God and easing your burden see the devotions page; Bold Faith.

Guest Post from Ruth Verbree

Co-Owner & Operator of Weigh Down Lifestyle

“Our Mission is to help You transform Your life by learning to love who God created you to be!”

Are you a christian woman struggling to lose weight? Do you feel like you’ve tried so many diets but you just keep failing? 

You’re so desperate to lose weight and so frustrated with yourself because you don’t have the willpower to stay on that restrictive diet one more day! You lost a few pounds, but one little cheat day and you’re right back where you started…then you think, what’s the point? So you ditch it all again and soon that whole vicious cycle starts over. I call this the Monday Morning Dieter!!! 

If this is you, then keep reading because the most important thing for you to take away from this article is that it’s not your fault! You haven’t failed at dieting…dieting has failed you!

I remember not too long ago when I felt the same way. I couldn’t last another day on my restrictive diet of only eating rabbit food and bird seed. I was so sick and tired of counting calories, carbs and points, of not being able to eat normal tasty food like a peanut butter sandwich – yes bread! I love bread and I love chocolate! I didn’t want to live like this any longer and I knew that as a child of God, He wanted me to be joyful in all things, to even enjoy tasty delicious food and to glorify God in every aspect of my life. 

I knew I needed a change because what I was doing was the definition of insanity, doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. 

My frustration took me to what the Bible had to say about food and it was like a light bulb came on when I read 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV) “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” 

For the first time I wondered what it meant to treat my body like a temple. According to google, the word temple means a building or a place dedicated to the worship of a deity. It signified the house of the Lord, a sacred, holy place that was respected. WOW! 

If my body is a temple, and the Bible says it is, then I must respect and honor my body. This was a new concept to me which made me dig deeper into what it really means to treat my body like a temple. 

I kept searching and another verse that spoke to me was Galatians 6:9 (NIV) “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

This verse is telling us that we reap what we sow. If you have ever planted a garden you will know that when you plant seeds of corn, you reap a harvest of corn. If you plant or sow carrot seeds, you reap or harvest carrots. This is really common sense when speaking in the literal sense. We don’t expect to harvest peas when we plant corn. 

It seems so silly to think this simplistically, but this is God’s law of sowing and reaping. It’s no different in terms of treating our body like a temple. We reap what we sow in the same way. To me this means that if we put good food and nourishment into our bodies, with moderation, we will lose weight and feel good, but if we put garbage (processed junk food) into our bodies, then we will reap an unhealthy body and gain weight. 

I believe treating my body like a temple means living a lifestyle that honors my body everyday. This is not a diet; it’s a lifestyle, and once we realize that we get to choose what we put into our temple, this changes the way we think about dieting. It’s no longer restrictive or starting from something we hate, but means inviting God into our weight loss journey with us. We choose to honor our temple and enjoy delicious food in moderation to glorify God.

If this is something that you would like to read more about, continue reading here:

https://weighdownlifestyle.com/treat-your-body-like-a-temple/

If you’re ready to Fire Your Diet and Dive into a Healthy Lifestyle without counting calories, carbs or points, then I invite you take this opportunity where I will show you how to treat your body like a temple, gain back your confidence, and see that your identity is in Christ and not in a number on the scale.

www.10DayWeighDown.com

The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

John 3:7-9 ESV – Do not marvel that I said to you, – Bible Gateway

Yesterday, the humid 95-degree heat made breathing difficult. Days like this cause my dad to burst out in thanks to God for the man who invented air conditioning. His reaction teaches me to be grateful for all things big and small. I also feel sorrow for those without that luxury.

As I was walking to a neighbor’s house, the heat index a mere 105 degrees, I noticed a soft flow of air over my skin. The same breeze I felt in the garden earlier in the day.

Under the brilliance of the sun, it felt like and oven wave, but in the dimness of the shade it became cooler. Refreshed and relieved, I thought about the thoughtfulness of God. Despite the situation, He provides a way to help us muddle through.

 He also gives us the spiritual strength necessary to face the sultry culture and times in which we live. Although I don’t know where it comes from, I know the Holy Spirit guides my thinking and my thoughts toward Him. At just the right time, my restless soul is convicted when I fall short. He encourages me to help others, and boldly convinces me to die to self.

Like a cool breeze in the shade, on a hot day, He is welcome to join me!

The Wind Obeys

Jesus said, “The wind blows where it pleases, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where is comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8)

The metaphor of wind Jesus uses to explain the Holy Spirit to Nicodemus is solid and functional. As our senses of touch and hearing are aroused to the wind’s presence, our eyes see its effects on trees and waves. Although you and I don’t see the Holy Spirit directly with our eyes, or touch him, we are witnesses to His great power. His life-changing power is evident in the people who accept Jesus as Lord.

If you and I question when this event takes place for those we love, or how our little ones will survive as evil progresses, we can rest assured. God supplies the Spirit softly and steadily as the spiritual heat rises. Although we feel it’s intensity, we will endure, and so will they.

He who rebukes the wind, and it obeys, is in full control.

Prayer

God, Almighty Creator and Provider, I thank you this day for sending your son Jesus to save our souls. He is the presence of light and hope. I praise you for sending the Holy Spirit as our counselor, comforter, and guide. In all things your glory is evident and pure. I confess my thoughts thar are contrary to your ways, Lord.

The selfishness that reigns in my heart at times and the critical spirit that tempts me to malign others. I place them before you, Lord and ask forgives. Give me the power to love like you, the boldness to proclaim your glory, the humility to remain pure of heart, and to forgive others as you forgive me. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Talking through spiritual fears and frustrations is helpful and I offer life coaching for those who need an ear to listen, Contact me for a free consultation any time.

“So, Moses summoned Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person in whose heart the LORD had placed wisdom, everyone whose heart moved him, to come to the work and do it.” (Exodus 36:2)

When I ask myself if my heart is moved to do the work God has called me to do, I almost hesitate. I say almost, because some test long ago informed me, I am a direct controller. Yeah, I get that analysis. Raising two kids, managing a home, and nursing ill and dying people in a hospital setting tends to propel a mom into some form of order and control, just to survive.

So, the “almost” hesitation comes from questions that arise when changing complete direction in that path. Life and career were steady, set, and comfortable until an unsettled yearning began to take place.

It may be the same for you in a relationship, career, or health challenge. Your heart may be moved to do the work, but the action required is foreign to anything you’ve ever done before!

Take for example my friend, Halina. She is an avid baker and energetic woman who makes the most amazing perogies you ever put in your mouth. She also has Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition that is wrecking her body with inflammation and hormone imbalances. She’s discovered her body cannot tolerate gluten and she is taking measures to remove the substance from her diet.

It’s hard. Cheating here and there, while indulging in bread led to severe inflammation in her hip. Her heart and her body are now moved to do the work necessary to remove this suffering and restore her health.

Moreover, her tent (body) housing the Holy Spirit has much more work to do for God’s kingdom. I think about the picture of our tents often as compared to the first place of worship built for the Lord God. The tabernacle (tent) built in the wilderness required hearts offering something to God bigger than their own desires.

^” Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?  If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.”

1 Corinthians 3:16-17 ESV – Do you not know that you are God’s – Bible Gateway

Today however, the most precious things we have to offer God is the temple of our bodies. In order to do His work, we offer our minds in seeking him daily, and prepare our hearts for opportunities to share Him with others. The gifts we came into this world with are and the exact things we are leaving with. I think that is why when we obey God, we store up treasures in heaven.

The tangible things we assign value to are disposable and meaningless spiritually. However, they are necessary to carry out the function of the meeting place, like Israel’s offerings were for the tabernacle in the wilderness.

The scriptures create a picture of freed slaves with absolutely nothing to their name giving their newly plundered gold, jewels, precious stones, and fine linens over in order to worship God.

“So, the Israelites brought a freewill offering to the LORD, all the men and women whose hearts prompted them to bring something for all the work that the Lord, through Moses, had commanded to be done.” (Exodus 35:29)

Morning after morning the people continued to bring their freewill offerings. There were more than enough materials present to do the work and Moses stopped the people from bringing more! The principle here is not the more you give the more you receive. But the more your heart is moved to give your best, the more overflow is present and sufficient to get the job done.

Therefore, whatever efforts you and I put into restoring relationship, career, or health; the more God provides to get it done.

The jewels for health may come from God’s Garden of nutrient rich antioxidants, minerals, and proteins. The fine linen and precious stones to restore our relationships may come from diving deeper into God’s word with our loved ones each day. Remember, morning after morning they came and offered…

So many times, I ask myself, “Is my heart moved to do the work?” What would my life and your life look like if we came morning after morning to offer our very best? What if we consume the very best for our flesh?

I pray this day, we see the wisdom of God’s plan for our bodies, our minds, and our spirit. It is with His help; our hearts are moved to do the work it takes to bring joy and harmony into our lives.

By the way, my gluten free baking week is in honor of my dearest friend, Halina! Please check out the gluten free baking recipes on the blog! I am here to serve you any way I can, so if you need encouragement, wellness coaching or ideas send me a request at mystypfefferwellness@gmail.com

Week five’s STRENGTH Approach to Christian Wellness theme is one of hope. It is also one of setting a date to release desires for worldly things to God.

Let’s face it, we are focused on numbers. It doesn’t matter if the number relates to our bank account, retirement plan, grocery bill, or the number on a scale, our minds associate success with numbers.

They are also important for helping people control their blood pressure and blood sugar. Numbers on lab results identify problems inhibiting abundant life. Things like chronic kidney disease, heart disease. and autoimmune disease benefit from attention to numbers.

I get it, because I’ve seen the results dash the hopes and livelihoods of hundreds of people over the years! And I don’t want that to be me and you.

Although we cannot prolong our lives any longer than they were determined by God, we can choose items that give us live life to the fullest.

 A circumstance Jesus wants for us (John 10:10). Adjusting our attitude towards others in love is a start. Reducing chronic pain with fruits and vegetables, and not relying on processed food is another.

We have the scientific research at our fingertips on how we view life and what we eat affects us mentally and physically.

Scientific Facts

“The new field of nutritional psychiatry provides evidence for diet quality as a modifiable risk factor for mental illnesses.” (1)

“Meta-analyses of observational studies have shown that a healthy diet and Mediterranean diet are associated with lower risk of depression. People with mental illness have been identified as having poorer diet and other lifestyle behaviors that impact health, and less understanding of the impact of lifestyle behaviors on health (2)

Refined sugar and white flour carbohydrates increase chances for heart disease while whole grain, high fiber foods are protective. Saturated fat is not the cause after all (3).

Individuals with a stronger network have better heart health, neurological, endocrine, and immune function than less supported individuals, thus lowering disease risks and extending long-term health. (4)

We are Better Together and Embracing God’s Plan in the Garden

Moreover, consuming more whole grains, beans, and eating less meat; will provide substantial protein and fiber to remove toxins from the body. The toxins create free radicals that are damaging to cells and contribute to disease, anxiety, and pain. The results of which alter mental stability, and lab values.

 Heads up! Something is wrong when our culture accepts altered food bathed in unrecognizable preservatives as nurturing to our bodies! We also fall for the lure and lies of material possessions for satisfaction.

Therefore, numbering the days of reliance on comfort food, material items, gossip, getting even, or whatever is hindering vitality and life will bring new life to the hope within. 

More importantly, don’t let lasting change intimidate you. It may mean taking baby steps to get where you want to be and not changing everything at once. I can help you with this in individual Wellness Coaching, since I’ve seen it multiple times and battle it myself.  

A point of hope to remember is King Hezekiah. When he was sick and dying, he pleaded with the Lord and the Lord gave him fifteen more years (2 Kings 20). I imagine as the leader of a nation; he had a great deal of stress and his own struggles with lifestyle choices.

However, Hezekiah’s feeling of hopelessness brought him to complete surrender. The same place repeated failures bring you and me. But glory to God! His plea to God brought him through, and it will bring you and I through times of difficult change too.

Remember, God is faithful, and He gives us the strength. His love enables us to bear all things, believe all things, hope all things, and endure all things (1 Corinthians 13:7). I am with you too and will pray for you! Just leave me a comment or contact me for a free consult.

References:

Nutritional psychiatry: the present state of the evidence | Proceedings of the Nutrition Society | Cambridge Core

Marx, W., Moseley, G., Berk, M., & Jacka, F. (2017). Nutritional psychiatry: The present state of the evidence. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 76(4), 427-436. doi:10.1017/S0029665117002026

Full article: A Mediterranean-style dietary intervention supplemented with fish oil improves diet quality and mental health in people with depression: A randomized controlled trial (HELFIMED) (tandfonline.com)

Natalie Parletta, Dorota Zarnowiecki, Jihyun Cho, Amy Wilson, Svetlana Bogomolova, Anthony Villani, Catherine Itsiopoulos, Theo Niyonsenga, Sarah Blunden, Barbara Meyer, Leonie Segal, Bernhard T. Baune & Kerin O’Dea (2019) A Mediterranean-style dietary intervention supplemented with fish oil improves diet quality and mental health in people with depression: A randomized controlled trial (HELFIMED), Nutritional Neuroscience, 22:7, 474-487, DOI: 10.1080/1028415X.2017.1411320

Fat, Sugar, Whole Grains and Heart Disease: 50 Years of Confusion (nih.gov)

Temple N. J. (2018). Fat, Sugar, Whole Grains and Heart Disease: 50 Years of Confusion. Nutrients, 10(1), 39. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10010039

The health consequences of stress in couples: A review and new integrated Dyadic Biobehavioral Stress Model – ScienceDirect

Shrout, Rose M. Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA b Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA Received 12 May 2021, Revised 3 August 2021, Accepted 9 August 2021, Available online 13 August 2021, Version of Record 24 August 2021.

“After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she kept herself hidden, saying, Thus, the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”

Luke 1:24-25

I can’t help but wonder how a woman in advanced age would feel about not meeting her husband’s expectations. Years of waiting and hope are met with no results, yet she is still admired and cherished. She must be proud he has been chosen, by God, to go into the most Holy place, a high honor for his priestly service.

I get this sense of affection and high regard for one another when I read the account of Zechariah and Elizabeth in Luke chapter one. The text describes their genealogy and how they are “both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statues of the Lord. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.” (Luke 1:5-7).

“What do they say about me? Are those whispers pity for my inability to conceive?” are some questions Elizabeth may have asked herself as time passed with her beloved Zechariah. The two of them are very aware of the culture’s expectations. They lived in a time where her value as a woman depended on giving her husband a son and keeping their home.

 The aching lack of producing a child gave her a sense of defeat and shame. Although barrenness was often attributed to some hidden sin or flaw in this agrarian culture, we know this is not true of her in Lukes’s description (Adalmen, 2021). Watching, and perhaps helping, women bring their children into the world through the years brings a bittersweet experience into deeper reflection.

However, this couple’s relationship is solid. Zechariahs’ doubt about the angel’s promise ends in speechlessness. He finds comfort in Elizabeth’s arms and the promise comes to life!

After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five moths she kept herself hidden, saying “Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”

Luke 1:24-25

Reproach among her people is Elizabeth’s perception of herself as she reflects on the miracle within her. Her statement echoes that of Rachel as she bore her firstborn, Joseph. Her “reproach” had been removed as well. The longed-for baby happening now in Elizabeth’s advanced years removes the disappointment of barrenness.

But can she grasp the intense reason of this new life, at this time in history? His purpose and the special instruction given to raising him without any impurity is clear. Knowing from the angel, Gabriel, that “many will rejoice at his birth, he will be great before the Lord, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit,” even in the womb, is a longed-for treasure (Luke 1:14-15)!

Awe and appreciation for the Lord fill her in this time of blessing that removes her perceived shame.  She is aware of the proverb,

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life (Prov 13:12).

The most beautiful desire of the heart is to know and be known by our Lord. Although she didn’t fully experience being known during her infertility, she feels it now as sure as she feels the child moving within her.

Oftentimes, we lose sight of our position with him in the heavenly places (Eph. 2:6) because our focus is on what we don’t have here on earth. The continual battle in our mind revolves around the desires of our flesh. We, like Elizabeth, long for the approval of others and to bestow the fullness of our love onto another without risk.

I believe our perception of what people think of us is based on our unmet expectations in life. It is often skewed as we project our own disappointment on another’s thoughts of us. We see Elizabeth’s intuition meet the truth of her actual status in her neighbors’ and relatives’ eyes as they rejoice with her at John’s birth (Luke 1:58).  

They’ve been rooting for her all along.

My strong sister, I bet your close friends and relatives are too! So, if this truth helps relieve some pressure to preform today, take it to heart. God may have another plan for your life that is more fulfilling.

 He may even prolong the dream until you realize your value as a woman has nothing to do with bearing children or being accepted by many. It has everything to do with being filled with the Holy Spirit and living in humility. Elizabeth’s joy and humbleness in greeting Mary is contagious:

“Why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord (Luke 1:43,45).  

Desire satisfied is indeed, a tree of life.

It is also a heart-filling moment in scripture to accept and receive today as an example of biblical womanhood and a devoted couple. Zechariah did not cast her aside but remained committed and intimate. May you and I boldly hold onto our relationships as cherished reward as well. In them, we learn how to please our Savior.

References:

Adalmen, Rachel (June 23, 2021) “Barren Women in the Bible” The Jewish Women’s Archive

Week 1 of Jesus and Women by Kristi McLelland.

Our Tuesday study group is beginning the first week of, “Jesus and Women” by Kristi McLelland. Her approach is that of a college professor comparing the Middle Eastern way of learning to the Western way.

So, I am already hooked and loving the study!

One big difference we’re taught in the two cultural approaches to scripture is they encounter the text expecting to be fed a feast; while for us, it is to acquire knowledge (2019).

However, as much as that may be true, “generally “I don’t like blanket generalizations. It happens in medicine far too often. Besides, that is not my, or my study groups, approach to scripture.

My deepest desire (and I think, theirs’ too) is to know my Father in heaven better and relish his presence, his plans, and his Word. Like, the Psalmist, I take delight in his laws. Why? They keep me straight. I have a clear picture of God and his holiness and my need for his mercy every day.

Therefore, when McLelland states, “We tend to stare at our lives and glance at God. We want to stare at God and glance at our lives,” I am immediately convicted (McLelland, 2019). Although, an hour or two is spent reading and studying His word every morning, I must ask myself through the rest of the day, “Am I a woman who glances at God?”

I hope not. However, I often find myself longing for more time with grandchildren, getting caught up in the latest news headline, or getting preoccupied with starting a new career. Then I realize, staring at my life is not helpful in building up others. Therefore, the “staring at my life” statement is a timely reminder to keep my eyes toward heavenly things and not earthly things.

McLelland further states, “We want to live like rivers, not lakes. We want the Word to travel to us, through us, to others (2019).”

It is a natural flow of renewal and hope that we carry with us and are excited to share. When we are set free of sin and death, we want others to be free as well. Furthermore, when there is sickness and disease surrounding us, we have a picture of a day with no illness. A day when all death, destruction, and evil is conquered.

Although we don’t see it yet…it’s coming!

When my girls were in nursing school, I always reminded them, “Keep your eye on the prize” meaning it will all be worth it in the end, and you’ll have valuable skills to help you navigate the rest of life.

 How true is that for people of faith too? When we have a biblical perspective of health, disease, difficulty, distance in relationship, or trials; we can embrace those times as opportunities to draw closer to God and make what we are studying real and personal.

I pray you have that opportunity today! Get your book at Lifeway.com and study with us!