Tag: Jesus

Stress-free Nuggets

** Smile! Laugh! You can do it. Your body will thank you.
** What else can you do with Vicks VapoRub?
** Got Patience? It is an admirable and valuable character trait that we all need.

Nugget 1 A Little Humor

***Never Argue With Children – A little girl was talking to her teacher about whales. At one point in the discussion, the teacher remarked that it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow an entire human being because, even though the whale was a very large mammal, its throat was very small.
“But the whale swallowed Jonah,” the little girl insisted.
Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human. It was physically impossible, she said.
The little girl said, “When I get to heaven, I will ask Jonah.”
The teacher asked, “What if Jonah went to hell?”
The little girl replied, “Then you ask him.”

***Why frogs are always so happy
Ethan: Why are frogs always so happy?
Brad: Beats me.
Ethan: They eat whatever bugs them.

***A husband and wife get up on Sunday morning. After breakfast, the wife notices that her husband isn’t dressed for church.
“Why aren’t you dressed for church?”
“Simple. I’m not going.”
“Why not?”
“Well, I’ll give you three pretty good reasons why I’m NOT going.
First of all, the church is cold in the morning. It’s just cold.
Second, no one there likes me. Everyone is always talking about me behind my back.
And third, most important of all, I just don’t feel like going!”

Well, I’ll give you three pretty good reasons why you ARE going.
First of all, the church isn’t cold in the morning; it’s warm.
Second, I think, or I’m pretty sure, that there are some people there who do like you,
And third you’re the minister, so get dressed.”

Nugget 2

There is a website that provides DIY projects that may make your life easier and hopefully save you some money. One of the posts was so interesting that I decided to share tips with you all. The title of the post is: “What Else is Vicks VapoRub Good For? 4 Unexpected Deodorizing Hacks.” I grew up with Vicks VapoRub in the family bathroom cabinet. We used it for colds and congestion.  I never knew (until now) that this household staple could be used as a deodorizer.  See the sources at the end of this post and check them out.

We all know that no matter what you do to avoid negative stress; you cannot totally get away from it. Negative stress can impact your state of mind, your physical health, the decisions you make, your shopping habits, your eating habits, etc. It can also rob you of your time. Things we can do like DIY projects, can contribute to less stress. Fresh smells can cause dopamine and serotonin to be released in the brain. The effect can be an uplifted mood, a reduction of anxiety and stress. Most importantly, less stress helps us to be happy & fit for the Master’s use!

The following 4 tips may be used to help keep your shoes, musty closets, and more – FRESH.

1. Deodorize the Trash Can – Vicks has a strong, clean scent that can mask unpleasant odors. Smear a small amount inside a trash bag or under the trash can lid to keep odors in check.

2. Deodorize Closets – Vicks is great for freshening up closets and keeping those pesky moths away—they hate the smell! So, keep a jar tucked in the closet where you store your winter clothes. Poke holes in the lid of the Vicks jar. Place it inside the back of your closet. Voila!

3. Deodorize Boots & Shoes -Vicks helps mask odors and leaves a fresh scent behind. Dab some Vicks on cotton balls and tuck them inside your boots or shoes overnight.

4. Deodorize Smelly Hands After Cooking – The eucalyptus and menthol in Vicks helps remove strong odors like garlic, onion, and fish—scents that soap alone struggles to remove. After cooking, rub a small dab of Vicks on your hands, then wash with warm water and soap. Your hands will be odor-free and lightly moisturized.

DIY DISCLAIMER: This DIY guide involves the use of Vicks VapoRub for various household purposes. Please note that Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients that can be harmful if ingested by pets. It is strongly advised to use this product with caution and keep it out of reach of animals to prevent any health risks.

Nugget 3 Remain Patient

James 5:7-11, NKJV
7 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. 8 You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

9 Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door! 10 My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. 11 Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.

Rich, wicked unbelievers in James 5:1-6 had been oppressing the poor believers. James gave them a warning; Their reckoning day was coming. It’s not a sin to have expensive things, land, or to be rich. It’s what you do with your wealth that counts. They refused to spread their wealth. James let the believers know that their day of justice, deliverance and vindication was coming. He didn’t give a time or date but he encouraged them to remain patient and steadfast to the Lord. In due time, He would intervene on their behalf.  He would keep His promise.

Being patient is challenging for me. I do not like waiting. It can be especially hard when I’m suffering, but I understand that I grow spiritually through patience and endurance.  One thing I have learned is that I cannot make God move any faster than He intends to. My arms are too short to box with Him. He will come to my rescue only when He gets ready. Although I may struggle with waiting, I remain steadfast to Him.

James gave the example of the waiting farmer. The farmer does not sit on the porch, read the newspaper and wait for the harvest to come. He daily cares for his crops during the growing season. He does not grumble and complain because they are not growing fast enough. He knows that after his hard work, the harvest will come.

James gave other examples. The Old Testament prophets spoke for God. They were anointed, obedient and faithful, yet they suffered. Job suffered more than we probably will ever suffer. He had stubborn trust in God, during his trials. Look at how God brought him out. He was applauded for his perseverance.

Are you going through a tough situation? Are you tired of waiting for a change to come? You’re not in this thing alone. God sees and He knows your situation. Don’t give up. Don’t give in. When your change comes, you’ll have another testimony – a testimony that will bring glory to our wonderful God.

Patience is a vibrant Christian virtue, which is deeply rooted in the Christian’s absolute confidence in the sovereignty of God and in God’s promise to bring all things to completion in a way that most fully demonstrates His glory. ~Albert Mohler

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If you wait, it could be too late. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting live (John 3:16).

If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.Bye for now. Thanks for visiting. Don’t forget to click the Follow button

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with someone.

Disclaimer of Advertisements
Please be advised that the ad links and cookies attached to the pages of Happy & Fit for the Master’s Use have nothing to do with my ministry and have nothing to do with this blog. They do not reflect the ministry’s interest or endorsement in any way.

Sources
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/66076319525059563/
https://jokes.scoutlife.org/jokes/frogs-always-happy/
https://holidravel.com/a-husband-and-wife-get-up-on-sunday-morning/?ssp_iabi=1683551292346
https://www.hometalk.com/
https://www.hometalk.com/posts/clean/what-else-is-vicks-vaporub-good-for-5-45122182
https://www.vicks.co.uk/products/decongestants/vicks-vaporub-ointment
https://itsyourturnblog.com/when-to-be-patient-and-when-to-be-impatient-baca2e2ae697

Entertaining Nuggets

** That smile looks good on you!
** The good news is that there is no time frame for doing better.
** Owe no one anything except to love one another.

Nugget 1

***Parent: My child is an angel.
Church nursery worker [Whispering]: So was Lucifer.

**Teacher: “Which book has helped you the most in your life?”
Student: “My father’s check book”! -Anonymous

***I’m so single that when they ask for an emergency contact, I have just been putting Jesus.

***I want to be so full of the Holy Spirit, that if a mosquito bites me, it will fly off singing, “There is Power in the Blood!”

GREAT TRUTHS THAT LITTLE CHILDREN HAVE LEARNED:
1) No matter how hard you try, you can’t baptize cats..
2) When your Mom is mad at your Dad, don’t let her brush your hair.
3) If your sister hits you, don’t hit her back. They always Catch the second person.
4) Never ask your 3-year old brother to hold a tomato.
5) You can’t trust dogs to watch your food..
6) Don’t sneeze when someone is cutting your hair..
7) You can’t hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk.
8) Don’t wear polka-dot underwear under white shorts.
9) The best place to be when you’re sad is Grandma’s lap.

Nugget 2

My how time flies! In a few hours January will be gone. Some of you may have gone on consecrations, cleanses, diets or some sort of reset. Some of you may have set resolutions. Have your plans fizzled out by now? Are you still excited about whatever you decided to do at the beginning of this month? I applaud you for starting something.

God values our lives, and if He values us, we should surely value ourselves. When He created us He called us, “very good.” We sometimes fall into the trap of not caring for our bodies, or our mental and spiritual health. The good news is that there is no time frame for doing better. You can do better no matter how old you are and no matter where you are on your wellness journey. As January leaves and February comes in, here are some physical and mental goals that you may be interested in setting.

Nugget 3 


Romans 13:8-10, NKJV
8 Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. 9 For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,”  “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

 “There are three kinds of people: the haves, the have-nots, and the have-not-paid-for-what-they-haves.” — Earl Wilson. Many Americans are in that third category. They have some kind of debt: credit card, student loan, medical, mortgage, car, personal, etc. Some people have so many debts that they find themselves in financial bondage. They will never be able to pay all that they owe. They will die in debt.

Paul tells us that we (Christians) have a debt. Some Christians may not be aware of this, but our debt is to love one another. This debt of love is continual and universal. No matter how hard we try, we will never be able to pay it. We will die owing it. We don’t get to pick and choose who we love. We are to love everyone (inside and outside the church), not just the person who lives next door. Even though we may not know them, we love them because Jesus loves us.  

The genuine love that Paul talks about seeks the well-being of others. If we love someone, we won’t sleep with his wife or her husband. We won’t kill them. We won’t steal from them. We won’t tell lies about them. We won’t have an evil desire to get what they have. We will want the best for them, like we want the best for ourselves. We won’t have to wonder how we are supposed to love them. We will naturally avoid anything that will hurt them in any way. When we choose to love, and do no wrong to anyone, the law will automatically be fulfilled.  

One of the reasons some people go to work is because they have debts to pay. We have a much better reason to go to work for God: We owe Him. He sent Jesus, His only son to die for our sins. Jesus gave His life so that we would not have to die spiritually. He paid a debt He did not owe; we owed a debt we could not pay. So, we follow God’s commandments to the best of our abilities and we rely on the Holy Spirit to help us. We never get depressed or angry knowing that our debt to Him will never be paid. We get happy and excited.  We can happily declare, “I owe, I owe, so off to work I go!”

The information that I have shared with you is intended
for informational purposes only.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If you wait, it could be too late. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting live (John 3:16).

If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Bye for now. Thanks for visiting!
Don’t forget to click the Follow button.

Disclaimer of Advertisements
Please be advised that the ad links and cookies attached to the pages of Happy & Fit for the Master’s Use have nothing to do with my ministry and have nothing to do with this blog. They do not reflect the ministry’s interest or endorsement in any way.

Sources
https://clipart-library.com/clipart/n893850.htm#google_vignette
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/66076319525059563/

Bright Tidbits

** Have you smiled or laughed today? Come on, smile and laugh yourself to life!
** Making healthier food swaps may be easier than you think. All it takes is a made up mind.
** If the SON makes you free, you shall be free indeed. John 8:36

Tidbit 1 Humor Time 
**Teacher: Glenn, how do you spell ‘crocodile?’
Glenn: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L
Teacher: No, that’s wrong.
Glenn: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.
-Anonymous

**Teacher: “Which book has helped you the most in your life?” Student: “My father’s check book! -Anonymous

**A bus full of ugly people had a head on collision with a truck. When they died, God granted all of them one wish. The first person said, “I want to be gorgeous.” God snapped his fingers and it happened. The second person said the same thing and God did the same thing. This went on and on throughout the group. God noticed the last man in line was laughing hysterically. By the time God got to the last ten people, the last man was laughing and rolling on the ground. When the man’s turn came, he laughed and said, “I wish they were all ugly again.”

**A husband and wife were driving through Louisiana. As they approached Natchitoches, they started arguing about the pronunciation of the town. They argued back and forth, then they stopped for lunch. At the counter, the husband asked the blonde waitress, “Before we order, could you please settle an argument for us? Would you please pronounce where we are very slowly?” She leaned over the counter and said, “Burrr-gerrr Kiiing.” -Bill mills

Tidbit 2  Easy, Healthy Food Swaps
I hope you are still trying to DoBetter with your food choices. Making swaps does not have to be difficult or time consuming. Many times it just takes a made up mind. A mind that says, “I will try most things at least once, cause if I don’t try – how will I know that I can do this?”  The goal is to find a healthier ingredient that tastes or performs the same as the original ingredient – or as close to it as possible. These food swaps may contribute to your overall well-being. They may lower your risk of or help you manage diet-related diseases like obesity, stroke, heart disease and diabetes.

I discovered that I can eat a boiled egg without adding any salt. Yay! I wanted a hot dog. I don’t eat them often. I wanted the works: chili, coleslaw, & onions. I took a lot of the bread out of the bun. Yay! You may be thinking, “What’s the big deal?” The big deal for me was I made an effort. Every change, even if it’s a small one could contribute to your health. I love fried fish. I discovered that I can cook it in my air fryer or in a conventional oven and it tastes just as good as fried fish. I use the same coating that I would fry it with. I spray it with cooking spray. I am always happy with the results. Yay!

The following are some recommendations from health experts on how to make healthier food swaps.

  • Replace refined grains with whole grains. The first ingredient should be a whole grain or look for the “whole grain’ stamp on the package.
  • Swap white rice for brown rice, bulgur wheat, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
  • Replace mayonnaise with mashed avocado or hummus when making a sandwich.
  • Replace enriched pasta with whole wheat, spaghetti squash, zucchini noodles, or bean based pasta.
  • Replace iceberg lettuce with darker greens.
  • Swap fried snacks with baked snacks.
  • Swap fruit juice for whole fruits.
  • When baking, replace all or part of oil with natural, unsweetened applesauce. Use an equal amount of the applesauce.

    Don’t stop here. If you will be bold enough to experiment, you should be able to find plenty of other healthy food swaps to make.

HAPPY EXPERIMENTING!

Tidbit 3   John 8:31-36, NKJV
Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

33 They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will be made free’?”34 Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. 35 And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. 36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

Some of Jesus’ listeners were offended when He told them that they were in bondage to sin. They insisted that they had always been free, because of their ancestry. They had never been slaves to any man. Jesus spoke of another kind of bondage. He made it very clear that without Him, they lived like slaves, like oppressed people. Only the Son of God could set them truly free and give them a place in God’s family.

Freedom is not free. It comes with a price, sometimes a great price. Men and women died in service so that we could continue to enjoy our freedom. Jesus paid the ultimate price when He gave His life for our freedom. Those of us who have accepted Him are free, but there are things we must do to remain free. We must continue in the living Word (Jesus). We must continue in the written Word (Scripture). Jesus tells us that if we continually obey and live according to His teachings, we will know the truth and the truth will set us free. Praise Jesus! We never have to be slaves to sin again!

Full freedom is doing what will make you happy in 1,000 years, leaving you with no regrets in eternity. -John Piper

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If you wait, it could be too late. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting live (John 3:16).

If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Bye for now. Thanks for visiting. Don’t forget to click the Follow button.

Sources
https://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes#
https://www.nhs.uk/healthier-families/food-facts/healthier-food-swaps/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/171277592070444304/
https://www.scripps.org/news_items/5012-6-simple-food-swaps-for-better-health
https://www.webmd.com/diet/healthy-food-swaps
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/642255596880048467/

Disclaimer of Advertisements
Please be advised that the ad links and cookies attached to the pages of Happy & Fit for the Master’s Use have nothing to do with my ministry and have nothing to do with this blog. They do not reflect the ministry’s interest or endorsement in any way.

Golden Nuggets

** “A smile is happiness you’ll find right under your nose.” – Tom Wilson
** Some people don’t have time to chew or may have difficulty chewing salads. A chopped salad could be an answer.
** Jesus transformed ordinary water into fine wine. Today, He transforms sinners into saints.

*** Nugget 1  Humor Time

What’s the best way to get your kids’ attention?
Sit down and look comfortable.

Favorite Hymns for……..
Gossips: “I Love to Tell the Story”
Formally attired men: “Blest Be the Tie That Binds”
Lost drivers: “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”
Clock watchers: “Moment by Moment”
Moms on the first day of school: “Peace, Blessed Peace”

The doctor told Uncle Fudd that if he ran five miles a day for 300 days, he would lose 75 pounds. At the end of 300 days, Uncle Fudd called the doctor to report he had lost the weight, but he had a problem.
“What’s the problem?” asked the doctor.
“I’m 1,500 miles from home.”
~H. B. McClung

What did the horse say when it collapsed?
“Help! I’ve fallen and I can’t giddyup!”

*** Nugget 2 Chopped Salads
We’re told by health professionals to eat more fruits and vegetables. I don’t think most people have a problem getting in more fruit, but it’s a different story when it comes to raw or lightly cooked veggies. If only raw veggies tasted as good as raw fruit! It’s so easy to pick up an apple and eat it. I don’t really want to pick up a big piece of raw broccoli and bite into it. Nevertheless, I’m encouraged to get those veggies in. I usually eat blended salads. I throw any raw veggies that I have in the fridge into my blender. I add some water, blend and eat with a spoon or drink it. It depends on the consistency.

It can take a long time to chew a big salad, especially if it contains hard veggies such as broccoli and carrots. Some people may not be able to chew well. A chopped salad could be one answer. Chopping the salad into small pieces gives you a head start on chewing.
How to make a chopped salad: try this Hallelujah Acres recipe.
Ingredients
1 head Romaine lettuce, heart only, washed, cut in chunks
1 ¾ cups broccoli florets, cut in chunks
1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
2 radishes, cut in half
2 large carrots, peeled, cut in chunks
¼ cup walnuts
¼ cup pecans
1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1.5 Tbsp. lemon or lime juice

Directions
1. Place all items in a food processor with the “S” blade. Place Romaine lettuce in last. All the Romaine lettuce will not go in the processing container in the beginning.
2. Process very briefly.
3. Add remaining lettuce and briefly process until mixture is chopped fine, yet still crunchy.
4. Pulsing the machine may give best results, so the perfect texture is achieved.

Use your imagination. Be sure to add lots of color and texture. More colors mean more diverse nutrients. Instead of using only iceberg, try mixing in darker greens like kale, chard, spinach, and red leaf lettuce. The possibilities are endless: cucumbers, red onions, nuts, seeds, protein, berries, etc.  If you don’t have a food processor, just learn the techniques of fast chopping.😊 Include chopped salads in your 2023 DoBetter Challenge. I hope you’re still trying to do better. Set a goal to get them in.  Enjoy and have fun!

*** Nugget 3  Serving the Better Wine
John 2:1-11, NRSV
On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. 3 When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” 4 And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what concern is that to me and to you? My hour has not yet come.” 5 His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” 6 Now standing there were six stone water jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons.
7 Jesus said to them, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. 8 He said to them, “Now draw some out, and take it to the person in charge of the banquet.” So they took it. 9 When the person in charge tasted the water that had become wine and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), that person called the bridegroom 10 and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now.” 11 Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee and revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him.

Jesus, his mother Mary, and the disciples attended a wedding at Cana. Well into the festivities, the wine ran out. Mary asked Jesus to attend to the issue. After they exchanged a few words, he did as she asked. He instructed the servants to fill up some jars with water. When they drew from the jars the water had been transformed into wine. This wine was better than the wine that had been served at the beginning of the feast. This was Jesus’s first miracle and because of this act, the disciples believed in him.

Jesus transformed plain, ordinary water into fine wine. The miracle and the wine were amazing. What’s also amazing is that Jesus transformed the lives of men & women throughout the Bible. Today he takes people like us – and transforms us from sinners to saints. He can transform our lives from plain and ordinary to wonderful and unbelievable. We are the miracles that people can see. Let us be determined to let Jesus transform us on a continual basis so that others may choose to believe and trust in him.

God Made Something Beautiful out of My Life
(James Cleveland)
Chorus: He took me and made something beautiful out of my life.
He took a wretch, wretch like me, showed me love and concern.
And by His grace He made my life a new and better one.
I owe Him my all, I cannot let Him down.
Cause He’s the one who made something beautiful out of my life.
I thank Him for making something beautiful out of my life.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If you wait, it could be too late. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting live (John 3:16).
If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Bye for now. Thanks for visiting.
Don’t forget to click the Follow button.
The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.

Sources:
https://www.funnyeditor.com/joke/whats-the-best-way-to-get-your-kids-attention
Mitchell, P. (2013). Hey! Christians Have a Sense of Humor, Too! Colorado Springs, CO: Product Concept Mfg., Inc.
https://funnyeditor.com/joke/what-did-the-horse-say-when-it-collapsed
https://www.veggieinspired.com/raw-veggie-chopped-salad/https://myhdiet.com/blogs/recipes/micro-chopped-salad?utm_source=Klaviyo&utm_medium=campaign&utm_klaviyo_id=01G8X9K43SRJDA8PDPX72BN5C3&_kx=qRYE8Yp69BujbSHYR3gyZNENuL2SpnS2cXQvj_GxsCE%3D.Umv4Kx
free wine clip art – Clip Art Library (clipart-library.com)





September Tidbits

**Laugh yourself to life.
** Every day I’m thankful to be a child of God.
** Got hummus? Research shows that hummus has numerous health benefits. Plus, it tastes good.

*** Tidbit 1  Humor Time

A good laugh is sunshine in the house.
— William Thackeray

Christian One Liners
*Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited until you try to sit in their pews.
*Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisors.
*The good Lord didn’t create anything without a purpose, but mosquitoes come close.

Little Angel!
Little Johnny’s new baby brother was screaming up a storm.
Johnny asked his mom, “Where’d he come from?”
“He came from heaven, Johnny.”
Johnny responded: “Wow! I can see why they threw him out!”

Rest In Peace
One Sunday morning, the pastor noticed little Alex staring up at the large plaque that hung in the foyer of the church. The plaque was covered with names, and small American flags were mounted on either side of it. The seven year-old had been staring at the plaque for some time, so the pastor walked up, stood beside him and said quietly, “Good morning, Alex.”

Good morning, Pastor,” replied the young man, still focused on the plaque. “Pastor McGhee, what is this?” Alex asked.

“Well, son, it’s a memorial to all the men and women who have died in the service.”

Soberly, they stood together, staring at the large plaque. Little Alex’s voice was barely audible when he finally managed to ask, “Which one, the 9:00 or 10:30 service?”

*** Tidbit 2   Your Choice: Child or Slave   

John 8:34-38, NRSV
 Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. 35 The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. 36 So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. 37 I know that you are descendants of Abraham, yet you look for an opportunity to kill me because there is no place in you for my word. 38 I declare what I have seen in the Father’s presence; as for you, you should do what you have heard from the Father.”

The Jews firmly believed they couldn’t be enslaved to sin because they had the Law. They believed that only the Gentiles were enslaved to sin. After all, the Jews were the children of Abraham and did not need to be freed.  Jesus explained that yes, they were Abraham’s physical seed, but he was not their spiritual father. Jesus let them know that everyone who habitually practiced sin was a slave to sin.

There were times I enjoyed being a slave. I thank God for a mother and father who made sure that I learned about God. Someone said, “I had a drug problem growing up. My mother drug me to church. She drug me to Sunday School, Sunday Morning Service, Wednesday night Bible Study, Choir rehearsal, revivals, etc.” I thank God for that drug problem. Because of that drug problem I couldn’t enjoy being a slave for long. The Word had been planted in me. 

God saw my heart. He knew that deep down inside, I didn’t want to be a slave to sin. He offered me freedom through His Son, Jesus. I accepted His invitation. He adopted me as His child. Now I am a member of His family, forever. I still sin, but I don’t habitually practice sin. When I sin, I repent. I don’t allow myself to be eaten up by guilt because I have been forgiven.

The living Word (Jesus) and the written Word (Scripture) keep me in check. I heard someone say, “Check yourself before you wreck yourself.” Every day I check myself. Every day I’m thankful to be a child of God.

*** Tidbit 3 Got Hummus?

Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip and spread. It is a plant-based protein, packed with vitamins and minerals. It is usually made by blending chickpeas (garbanzo beans), tahini (ground sesame seeds), olive oil, lemon juice and garlic in a food processor.

It can also be purchased in the store. Just make sure you read the label carefully. Buy it with as few ingredients as possible. Look for mostly whole food ingredients with names you recognize on the label. Research has shown that hummus may help:

  • Fight inflammation
  • Improve blood sugar control
  • Aid in weight loss
  • Lower heart disease risk
  • Improve digestive health
  • Prevent cancer
  • Keep you regular

Different ways to add hummus into your diet include:

  • Use it in a sandwich, substitute for mayonnaise.
  • Make hummus toast.
  • Use it as a salad dressing alone or (Use less salad dressing and add hummus).
  • Use it as a marinade. (Let your fish or chicken marinate for an hour then bake as you normally would.)
  • Experiment with different vegetables.(cauliflower, cucumbers, celery, sliced peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, etc.)

Here’s a simple recipe for hummus. It can be made in less than 10 minutes and only requires a food processor.
Ingredients
2 cups of canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained
1/3 cup of tahini
1/4 cup of lemon juice
1 tablespoon of olive oil
2 garlic cloves, crushed
A pinch of salt

Directions
Place the ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth. You can also experiment by adding your favorite flavors including, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, etc. Happy eating!

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If you wait, it could be too late. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting live (John 3:16).

If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Bye for now. Thanks for visiting. Don’t forget to click the Follow button

Sources
Bible Humor: Good Clean One Line Humor (clean-jokes-and-humor.com)
https://www.pastoralcareinc.com/resources/sermon-helps/jokes-for-sermons/
https://unsplash.com/photos/p2OQW69vXP4
https://unsplash.com/photos/yr-sW_x9aHk
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-hummus-healthy#TOC_TITLE_HDR_10

Yes I Can

Let’s get started on the DO better! Challenge, so that we can better fulfill our destinies and enjoy all the plans God has for us on this earth. You only have one body – so look after it. Do better in February than you did in January!

Humor Time
Have Faith My Child

For the umpteenth time Mrs. Youngston came to her pastor to tell him, “I’m so scared! Joe says he’s going to kill me if I continue to come to your church.”

“Yes, yes, my child,” replied the pastor, more than a little tired of hearing this over and over. “I will continue to pray for you, Mrs. Youngston. Have faith – the Lord will watch over you.”

“Oh yes, he has kept me safe thus far, only…..”

“Only what, my child?”

“Well, now he says if I keep coming to your church, he’s going to kill YOU!”

“Well, now,” said the pastor, “Perhaps it’s time to check out that little church on the other side of town.”

Going Out

A couple was going out for the evening. The last thing they did was to put the cat out.

The taxi arrived, and as the couple walked out of the house, the cat shoots back in. So the husband goes back inside to chase it out.

The wife, not wanting it known that the house would be empty, explained to the taxi driver “He’s just going upstairs to say goodbye to my mother.”

A few minutes later, the husband got into the taxi and said, “Sorry I took so long, the stupid thing was hiding under the bed and I had to poke her with a coat hanger to get her to come out!”

What would you like them say?

Three buddies die in a car crash, and they go to heaven to an
orientation.

They are all asked, “When you are in your casket and friends and
family are mourning upon you, what would you like to hear them say about you? The first guy says, “I would like to hear them say that I was a great doctor of my time, and a great family man.”

The second guy says, “I would like to hear that I was a wonderful
husband and school teacher which made a huge difference in our children of tomorrow.”

The last guy replies, “I would like to hear them say, “Look! He’s moving!”
laughing face

Nutrition

The best vitamin for a Christian is B1.

Leaning on the Everlasting Arms is a hymn published in 1887 with music by Anthony J. Showalter and lyrics by Showalter and Elisha Hoffman.  Showalter said that he received letters from two of his former pupils saying that their wives had died. When writing letters of consolation, Showalter was inspired by the phrase in the Book of Deuteronomy 33:27 “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms….”

Hope this video blesses you.

The 2018 DO Better! Challenge

Faith confession: Yes I can! I believe I can so I will Do Better!  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. – Philippians 4:13

This challenge came about in Dec. 2015.  One night in choir rehearsal  I asked, “How many of you have healthy lifestyle habits that you know you need to pick up or put down – you don’t have to go home and pray about it- you just know you need to do it?” Everybody raised their hands.  I said, “I want to challenge you to pick a goal for the next 30 days.  They picked a goal and the Do Better challenge began the next day.

Every week after rehearsal we met and gave a report.  It was based on the honor system.  I asked,” Did you meet your goal?”  There were only 2 possible answers – Yes or No.  Why is it that you have to almost fight people for an answer to a yes or no question?  If you did not complete your goal for that week, the answer is No.

We would then share about our successes and failures.  We encouraged each other.  This is why you should invite others to join you –for accountability and support.  Every month we added another individual goal.

Each goal rolls over.  You don’t do one for a week or a month and stop doing it the next week or month.  You add a new goal every month and continue with the previous one.  That’s how it becomes a lifestyle change or habit.   The challenge is flexible.  You may want to add a new goal every week for nine weeks.  You decide.

Our challenge lasted 13 months.  We started off with 9 participants.  Two of them dropped out.  At the end of Jan. 2017, we had adopted 13 healthy lifestyle habits.

The goal of the DO Better! Challenge is to help you develop and maintain healthy lifestyle habits.  It’s never too early or too late to begin living healthier.  Any healthy lifestyle change is better than none at all.  This is not a weight loss challenge.  You may shed some pounds but it will depend on the goals that you choose.

It’s very unlikely that you will live to be 100, 120, or older.  Even if you do live to be 103 wouldn’t you like to be a spry, feeling good 103 – still doing some kind of work for God?  I’m not striving or praying to live to be 103.  I’ve often shared that my goal is not to live longer.  My goal is to improve the quality of my life.  I don’t want to be old, in pain, on medication, and hardly able to get around.  I want to be spry, able to dress myself and drive myself around for as long as possible.

Research shows that if you’re going to be successful at almost anything in life, the very first choice to make is to set some goals.  Remember, your goal must be measurable.  For example, if you choose exercise, how many days and how many minutes will you do it?  If you choose to stop drinking so many sodas, how many will you drink each day or each week?

The following are a list of possible goals.  Conduct your own research.  Discover why and how adopting some of these goals may help you become and remain fit for the Master’s use – for the rest of your life.

Here are 4 possible goals for February:

  1. No fried foods days (ex. no fried foods 4 days a week).  Fried foods can increase your fat, calorie and salt intake.  You won’t find a lot of nutrients in fried foods.  Eating a lot of fried foods can have negative effects on your health.
  2. Meatless days (ex. No meat at all, no chicken, no red meat, no pork).  Health experts suggest that most Americans eat way too much protein.  Excessive protein intake can also have negative effects on your health. There could be an association between red and processed meats and cancer and inflammation.
  3. Junkless days (candy, cake, etc. and/or chips, cheese puffs, etc.).  The word junk implies that something is extra and useless. We usually want to get rid of junk not accumulate it.  Junk food can contribute to depression, fatigue, obesity and other ailments. They have lots of calories and very little nutritional value.
  4. Improve sleep habits (ex. Avoid heavy and/or large meals within a couple hours of bedtime. Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night).  The amount of sleep you get or don’t get can affect your health, mood and weight. Studies have found a link between insufficient sleep and health problems, such as diabetes and heart attacks.  Sleep also helps fight some of the fallouts of stress.

Let’s get started on the DO better! Challenge, so that we can better fulfill our destinies and enjoy all the plans God has for us on this earth.  You only have one body – so look after it.  Do better in February than you did in January!

One of my goals during 2017 was to eat less meat.  I did really well with this goal until Thanksgiving.   After then I jumped off the wagon.  I didn’t fall off, I jumped off.  I ate way too much meat.

I’m getting back on the wagon.  My goal for February: a) Can have meat (red, turkey, chicken, etc) only two days a week.  b) Can have salmon or other fish two days a week.

Feel free to share what goals you (and hopefully a friend, family member, or co-worker) set for Feb. and how you plan to achieve them.

Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to view the video and read all the nuggets.

 

Bye for now.

 

Sources:

http://jokes.christiansunite.com/Faith/Out_Of_Gas.shtml

http://www.broadcaster.org.uk/section2/jokes/parentingjokes.html

http://www.christian-jokes.net/Jokes/Heaven-and-Hell-Jokes/31-What-would-you-like-them-say.aspx

http:// www.jokesclean.com/ChristianJokes/HolyOneLiners.php

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaning_on_the_Everlasting_Arms

 

 

Joy to the World

Welcome to the buffet table.  I couldn’t let 2015 end without posting a blog.  I’m thankful, thankful, thankful.  We have a few more days left in this year.  Many changes can take place before then.  Things can get worse.  Things can get better.  Either way, I’m thankful.  I believe that they will get better.  God has been good to me.  I know that His love for me will never change.

I don’t have a lot to say, but I have several things I want to share.  Enjoy!

Joy to the world, the Lord has come! To view video, click on the link beside my picture.

—————————————————————–

‘Twas The Night Before Jesus Came’

written by Unknown Author

‘Twas the night before Jesus came and all through the house
Not a creature was praying, not one in the house.
Their Bibles were lain on the shelf without care
In hopes that Jesus would not come there.

The children were dressing to crawl into bed.
Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head.
And Mom in her rocker with baby on her lap
Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap.

When out of the East there arose such a clatter.
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash!

When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here.
With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray
I knew in a moment this must be THE DAY!

The light of His face made me cover my head
It was Jesus! returning just like He had said.
And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth,
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.

In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
Was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
When He said “it’s not here” my head hung in shame.

The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.
With those who were ready He rose without a sound.
While all the rest were left standing around.

I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I had been ready tonight.

In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of Jesus is drawing near.
There’s only one life and when comes the last call
We’ll find that the Bible was true after all!

http://www.btmi.org/Christmas/twas.html

——————————————————————

collards2Gotta love those collard greens  

 

collards

Collard greens pack in lots of nutrients for a little amount of calories. If you are trying to eat healthier, cruciferous vegetables (collard greens, kale, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, rutabaga and turnips) should be on your grocery list. Studies have shown and continue to show that increasing consumption of plant foods like collard greens may help decrease the risk of several diseases, promote a healthy complexion and hair, and increase energy.  Collard greens are high in both fiber and water content, which may help to prevent constipation and promote reqularity.

Collard greens hit peak season January through April. They can be enjoyed raw or cooked.  You don’t want to cook them to death because you’ll kill all of the nutrients and will be eating dead food.  Your collards shouldn’t look like baby food after you’ve cooked them.

Here are some ways to include them in your diet.

  • Collard green chips: Remove the ribs from the collard greens and toss in extra-virgin olive oil or lightly spray and sprinkle with your choice or a combination of cumin, curry powder, chili powder, roasted red pepper flakes or garlic powder. Bake at 275 degrees F for 15-30 minutes to desired crispness.
  • Sauté: Try sautéing fresh garlic and onions in extra-virgin olive oil until soft then add collard greens and continue to sauté until desired tenderness. Add black-eyed peas and brown rice instead of ham hock or salt pork.
  • Smoothies: Add a handful of collard greens to your favorite smoothie.
  • Salsa: Combine cooked collard greens with fresh tomatoes,

    onions and jalapenos and use the mixture as a nutritious salsa.

Resources

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/277957.php

http://juicing-for-health.com/basic-nutrition/healing-vegetables/health-benefits-of-collards.html

 

I’m sure that by now you just can’t wait to experiment with some collard greens!  I’d like to see people add more raw or lightly steamed veggies in their diets.  Try this and let me know what you think. You can also share with us one of  your favorite collard green recipes.

Marinated Collard Greens

¼ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
¼ cup chopped scallions, white parts only
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 teaspoon sea salt, divided
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 bunch collard greens, washed
1/8 cup olive oil

In a large bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, sun-dried tomatoes, scallions, garlic, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon sea salt and pepper. Set aside. Take several collard leaves and roll into a cylinder the shape of a fat cigar. Using a knife, cut the through the collard cylinder, making strips. Repeat steps two and three until you have cut all the collard leaves. Place strips in a large bowl. Pour olive oil on collard strips and sprinkle the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt. Massage the oil and salt into the strips until all are well coated. Transfer the collard strips to the bowl with the apple cider vinegar marinade. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best.

Servings: 4

Note: The raw collard greens won’t get as soft as its cooked counterpart. That’s a good thing, cooking your greens gets rid of all the water and nutrients that they provide.

http://thenewrawyou.com/recipes/marinated-collard-greens/

 

Humor Time:

  • Tonight’s sermon: ‘What is hell?’ Come early and listen to our carol practice.
http://www.guy-sports.com/humor/christmas/funny_christmas_religious.htm

Christmas Spirit

It was just before Christmas and the magistrate was in a happy mood. He asked the prisoner who was in the dock, ‘What are you charged with?’

The prisoner replied, ‘Doing my Christmas shopping too early.’

‘That’s no crime’, said the magistrate. ‘Just how early were you doing this shopping?’

‘Before the shop opened’, answered the prisoner.

http://www.guy-sports.com/jokes/christmas_jokes.htm

laughing people

Top Ten Things to Say about a Christmas Gift You Don’t Like

10.    Hey! There’s a gift!
9.      Well, well, well …
8.      Boy, if I had not recently shot up 4 sizes that would’ve fit.
7.      This is perfect for wearing around the basement.
6.      Gosh. I hope this never catches fire! It is fire season though. There are lots of unexplained fires.
5.     If the dog buries it, I’ll be furious!
4.      I love it — but I fear the jealousy it will inspire.
3.      Sadly, tomorrow I enter the Federal Witness Protection Program.
2.      To think — I got this the year I vowed to give all my gifts to charity.
And the Number One Thing to say about a Christmas gift you don’t like:
1.    “I really don’t deserve this.”

http://www.you-can-be-funny.com/CleanChristmasJokes.html

 

Until next time, thanks for stopping by.  joy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sing your song

shepherd

 

A Sunday school teacher decided to have her 2nd grade class memorize Psalm 23, one of the most quoted passages in the Bible. She gave the children a month to learn the chapter.

One little boy was excited about the task, but he just couldn’t memorize the Psalm. Although he practiced and practiced, he could hardly get past the first line. The day came for the children to recite Psalm 23 before the congregation. The little boy was nervous. When his turn came, he stepped up to the microphone and proudly said, “The Lord is my Shepherd and that’s all I need to know!”

http://www.jokesclean.com/ChristianJokes/

I shared my story in previous blogs about how in 2013, I lost my job of 11 years and how my 13 year old Mustang was totaled in an accident. I got a brand new 2013 Ford and it turned out to be a lemon in less than a year. The Ford Company finally replaced it with a 2014.  There have been no problems so far. In the midst all of the drama, I decided to go back to college. God blessed me to earn a 4 year degree (B. S. in Health Promotion) in a year and nine months. I had a lot of credits that transferred from previous degrees. 

If someone would have told me that at the seasoned age of 30 +++ laughing happy face with tongue, I would have multiple degrees and yet be working 6 – 14 hours a week in retail making minimum wage, I might would have just run away. This job was a good fit while I was in school but now I need a full time job (or a rich husband laughing face).  I’ve been seeking a full time job, with no success. In the meantime, I try to keep hope alive. Some days are better than others. I know that things could be a lot worse, so I’m thankful for what I do have.

God has been a faithful shepherd. Although I don’t like my situation,  don’t understand it, and it doesn’t feel good, I believe with all my  heart that He loves me. I know that God has a plan for me. This is not the end.  He has provided and continues to provide for me.  Nothing has been cut off, my car has not been repossessed.  My refrigerator has not been empty. Yes, Jesus loves me more than anyone on this planet. This situation hasn’t killed me. I believe that it will make me a stronger, better, and wiser person.

I haven’t blogged in months. I lost my motivation. I couldn’t think of anything to write about.  Today I decided that I needed to sing, so I’m singing my song. Keep in mind that when I encourage you to “sing your song”, I’m talking about the song that is within you. It doesn’t matter who wrote it or who recorded it. Anna B. Warner wrote the words to the hymn, Jesus Loves Me and William B. Bradbury was the composer. It’s my song because it’s within me. Of course I can’t take the credit for writing the text nor composing it, but I can sing it as only I can sing it. I used to wonder why God didn’t give me a voice like Patti LaBelle, opera singer, Jessye Norman, or gospel singer, Yolanda Adams. Now I accept the fact that He gave me the voice that He wanted me to have.

Sing your song!

It doesn’t matter if you’re in tune or out of tune.  My oldest sister, has many gifts, but singing is not one of them. We joke about it. Nevertheless it doesn’t stop her from singing anywhere and anytime.  Sometimes (when the anointing hits) you wouldn’t know that singing was not one of her gifts.  

There are social, emotional and physical benefits to singing. Singing can:

  • Help reduce depression and anger.
  • Encourage creativity.
  • Bring people together.
  • Release endorphins, the brain’s “feel good” chemicals.
  • Increase the amount of oxygen you take into the body as you inhale deeply, producing a feeling of alertness as more oxygen gets to the brain.
  • Improve muscle tone in the face, throat, neck and jaw.
  • Help manage stress.
  • Improve your ability to listen attentively without having to think of responses.
  • Be a form of meditation because it enables you to just “let go.”

I’m gonna sing my song while I live because when I die, no one will be able to sing it for me.

To view my video, those who receive email notifications of new blog posts can click on the link beside my picture.

 

HUMOR TIME

Hymns for People Over 50

  • Give Me the Old Timers Religion
  • Precious Lord, Take My Hand, And Help Me Up
  • Just a Slower Walk with Thee
  • Go Tell It on the Mountain, But Speak Up
  • Nobody Knows the Trouble I Have Seeing
  • Guide Me O Thou Great Lord God, I’ve Forgotten Where I’ve Parked The Car
  • Count Your Many Birthdays, Count Them One By One
  • Blessed Insurance
  • It Is Well With My Soul, But My Knees Hurt

http://www.jokesclean.com/ChristianJokes/

There’s a slimmer person inside me yelling to get out, but I can usually shut her up with ice cream and cake.

ACTUAL Church Bulletin Bloopers:

Bertha Belch, a missionary from Africa, will be speaking tonight at Calvary Memorial Church in Racine.  Come tonight and hear Bertha Belch all the way from Africa.

“Ladies, don’t forget the rummage sale.  It’s a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around   the house.  Don’t forget your husbands.”

“Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered.”

The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to conflict.

The sermon this morning: “Jesus Walks on the Water.” The sermon tonight: “Searching for Jesus.”

Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir.  They need all the help they can get.

Don’t let worry kill you. Let the Church help.

Thursday night will be a potluck supper. Prayer and medication to follow.

For those of you who have children and don’t know it, we have a nursery downstairs.

A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow.

This afternoon there will be a meeting in the south and north ends of the church. Children will be baptized at both ends.

Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.

http://javacasa.com/humor/church.htm

smiley faceThanks for stopping by.  It’s been therapeutic for me.  Hope it has made you smile.

 

Resources

 

http://www.moresingingplease.com/benefits-of-singing

http://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/emotions/singing-happy1.htm

http://www.businessballs.com/singing.htm

 

The Buffet Table

Welcome to the buffet table! I’ll be jumping from one subject to the next, so get your plate and fill it up. The good news: you don’t have to worry about portions, fat, sodium, sugar, GMOs, nor calories.

TOMORROW We’ve all said at one time or another, “I’ll do it tomorrow.” I’ll begin that project tomorrow. I’ll go on a diet tomorrow. I’ll start a savings plan tomorrow. I’ll start getting more sleep tomorrow night. I’ll give my life to Christ tomorrow. I’ll start working on things that God has laid on my heart tomorrow. I’ll get life insurance tomorrow. I’ll start exercising tomorrow. I’ll choose to be happy tomorrow.  Tomorrow came, and you still didn’t do what you said you were going to do. The cemetery is full of the bodies of people who said, “I’ll do it tomorrow”, but tomorrow never came. Books, ideas, songs, inventions, plays, crafts, testimonies never to be shared, and destinies never to be fulfilled have been put in files labeled tomorrow. It’s so easy to put things off for tomorrow. Tomorrow is not promised.

Let your tomorrow begin today!

RESURRECTION DAY You usually don’t hear people talking about Resurrection Day until around Easter. The ultimate resurrection was when Jesus Christ rose from the dead. He died but when He rose, He rose with all power in His hands. His resurrection made it possible for us to have resurrections in our lives. We all go through things. Sometimes the situation looks, feels, and smells so bad that we think it’s dead. Just like God raised Jesus up from the grave, and just like Jesus raised up Lazarus from the grave, He can raise your situation up from the grave also. So when you find yourself in what you are sure is a dead situation, rest assured that your Resurrection day is on the way!

REFLEXOLOGY It is said that a large percentage of disease is stress related. Getting a massage is one way to release stress. There are many more benefits associated with massage therapy including relaxation, increased and improved blood circulation, and increased flexibility. Reflexology is a therapeutic form of foot massage and of course, hand reflexology is a therapeutic form of hand massage. Reflexology may benefit people in the same way massage helps people relax and reduce their stress levels.

Reflexology is based on the belief that each part of the foot is a mirror site for a part of the body. The big toe, for example is considered a reflex area for the head. The heart and chest are around the ball of the foot. The liver, pancreas and kidney are in the arch of the foot. Practitioners believe that certain areas of the hands and feet are linked to other areas and organs of the body. For example, the brain can be helped by putting pressure on the tips of the three largest toes on both feet.

One day while on the computer, I did a search on hand reflexology. I found a web site that allowed me to print out a free 10 step hand reflexology self-treatment. I sat at the computer and did some of the exercises. I can’t begin to describe how good my hands felt. I have two different foot rollers and a porcupine massage ball that I ordered online. I had no idea that my feet and hands could feel so good after using them.

One time I had a pain in my neck. The pain was there for more than a week. I took aspirin. I applied a heating pad. Neither of those things worked. The Holy Spirit brought to my attention my porcupine massage ball. I began to roll one foot and then the other over the ball and immediately the pain began to ease. I did it the next day and the next, and then the pain was totally gone!

Check out reflexology. Visit the library or google it. There are reflexology charts available that show the locations and therapeutic indications of pressure points on the hands and feet. I thank God for letting me discover the benefits of foot and hand reflexology. I use my porcupine ball on a regular basis. I get so busy that I sometimes forget about my foot rollers and hand reflexology techniques. That’s why I like sharing healthy living tips: As I review topics and share them, I get reminded of certain things.

GROWING UP It’s generally thought that wisdom comes with growing older. It does happen with some people, while others become stupider (yes, I had to look it up: stupider or more stupid). I like using stupid because it really gets people’s attention. I’m growing up while growing older. Sounds silly doesn’t it? Life seems backwards. By the time you grow up and begin to figure life out, it’s time to exit.

“I think of life as a good book. The further you get into it, the more it makes sense.” Harold Kushner

I like to think that my life would have turned out much better if I would have had the wisdom I have now, when I was 25. But I don’t dwell on that thought because I can’t go back to when I was 25. I can’t undo what’s already been done. All I can do is learn from the mistakes, stupid decisions, trials, and disappointments because they were instrumental in making me who I am today. Not that I’m all that, but I like to think that I have become a better person. I’m not where I need to be, I’ll be growing up until I die, but I thank God I’m not where I used to be.

“In the trials we’ve faced, something good has happened too: God has fine-tuned us so we are more compassionate, more caring, more loving, more aware of others’ pain.”

I would have never chosen this path for my life, but my strategic, all knowing, loving, Daddy God had other plans. He knew and still knows the best route for my life. After all, it was He who formed me while I was yet in my mother’s womb. He tells me in Jeremiah 1:5a “I knew you before I formed you in the womb; I set you apart for me before you were born” and in Jeremiah 29 verse 11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Now that’s good news!

HUMOR TIME Willing to take a bullet for Jesus? The two thousand member Baptist church was filled to overflowing capacity one Sunday morning. The preacher was ready to start the sermon when two men, dressed in long black coats and black hats entered through the rear of the church.

One of the two men walked to the middle of the church while the other stayed at the back of the church. They both then reached under their coats and withdrew automatic weapons.

The one in the middle announced, “Everyone willing to take a bullet for Jesus stay in your seats!”

Naturally, the pews emptied, followed by the choir. The deacons ran out the door, followed by the choir director and the assistant pastor.

After a few moments, there were about twenty people left sitting in the church. The preacher was holding steady in the pulpit.

The men put their weapons away and said, gently, to the preacher, “All right, pastor, the hypocrites are gone now. You may begin the service.”

The dog closed his eyes in concentration. This fundamentalist Christian couple felt it important to own an equally fundamentally Christian pet. So, they went shopping. At a kennel specializing in this particular breed, they found a dog they liked quite a lot. When they asked the dog to fetch the Bible, he did it in a flash. When they instructed him to look up Psalm 23, he complied equally fast, using his paws with dexterity.

They were impressed, purchased the animal, and went home (piously, of course). That night they had friends over. They were so proud of their new fundamentalist dog and his major skills, they called the dog and showed off a little. The friends were impressed, and asked whether the dog was able to do any of the usual dog tricks, as well. This stopped the couple cold, as they hadn’t thought about ‘normal’ tricks. “Well,” they said, “let’s try this out.”

Once more they called out to the dog, and then clearly pronounced the command, “Heel!” Quick as a wink, the dog jumped up, put his paw on the man’s forehead, closed his eyes in concentration, and bowed his head.

I hope you leave today – as full as a tick.  laughing happy face with tongue   Bye for now.  Thanks for stopping by.

Resources http://www.christian-jokes.net/Jokes/Church-Jokes/115-willing-to-take-a-bullet-for-Jesus.aspx http://www.christian-jokes.net/Jokes/Bible-Humor/141-The-dog-closed-his-eyes-in-concentration.aspx Jeremiah 1:5 International Standard Version http://biblehub.com/isv/jeremiah/1.htm Jeremiah 29:11-13New International Version (NIV) https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+29%3A11-13&version=NIV Johnson, B. (2006). I Don’t Suffer From Insanity….I Enjoy Every Minute of It! (Mar. 3) Siloam Springs, AR: DaySpring Cards, Inc.