Tag: joy

Priceless Tidbits

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall and had a great fall. He couldn’t be put back together again. If you’re broken from a fall, God specializes in mending broken pieces. Have you smiled or laughed today? Humor does a body good. Aromatherapy may lift your mood & help alleviate the symptoms of various conditions.

Welcome! I’m so glad that you decided to visit Happy & Fit 4 the Master’s Use!  These priceless physical, mental, and spiritual tidbits are here to encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile.  It’s not about one part, it’s about the whole. God wants us healthy mind, body, and soul.

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall.
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.
All the king’s horses and all the king’s men, couldn’t put Humpty together again.

We don’t know why Humpty was on that wall.  All we know is that this time, they couldn’t put him back together. 

We’ve had to deal with a lot of challenges during COVID-19.  Many people have found themselves faced with losing their homes, life savings, jobs, family members, and friends, etc.  Some of you may be wondering how or if, your broken life, your broken situation is going to get put back together.  If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and you are broken or severely damaged from any kind physical, mental or spiritual fall, Jesus can fix your broken pieces.  Nothing is too hard for Him.  He specializes in restoration.

Maybe you’re broken from falling off the healthy living wall.  At one time you were drinking your water, getting enough sleep, exercising, limiting your sweets and processed foods, you were mindful of how you were treating your body.  Maybe you’ve picked back up some habits that you had previously dropped, like smoking, cursing or drinking alcohol.  Maybe your body is physically broken, well, it’s not too late.  God cares about your body and how you treat it and He’s able to put you back together again. 

At some point in my school age years I developed an inferiority complex. I let the devil drill it into my mind for years and years how inferior I was.  This went on until one day I was in my college dorm room and God spoke to me and told me that He was going to teach me to love myself.  I looked in the mirror and I declared, Annette, you are somebody and you’re not inferior to anybody.  From that day forward the journey began.  It didn’t happen overnight.  I began to look in the mirror and make positive declarations about myself and about my life.  Yes, I was broken.  I mean badly broken but I thank God that He has restored the broken pieces in that area.

Maybe you’re broken spiritually.  You’re not walking with God like you used to.  You’re not praying and seeking Him like you once did.  God can still mend your broken pieces.  I want to share with you from the second chapter of Joel.  The prophet Joel wrote to the people of Judah during a difficult time in their history.  They had endured the loss of crops and livestock as well as the death of friends and loved ones because of a plague of locusts. The Lord sent Joel to speak of His desire to restore to them what they had lost.

Joel 2 verse 25 reads, And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you.  The years that the locusts have eaten represent negative experiences in the past, especially seasons of loss or lack.  When those locusts did their work, it looked complete and final, but God promised that He could even restore the years that the swarming locusts has eaten. 

All the king’s horses and all the king’s men couldn’t put Humpty Dumpty back together again, but Hallelujah, I serve a God who specializes in doing just that!

Years ago I attended an event where I heard BeBe & CeCe Winans sing a song called Humpty Dumpty. It has stayed with me all these years.  Click below to view the oral presentation of this blog and my rendition of Humpty Dumpty.

Gotta smile

The church council met to discuss the pastor’s compensation package for the coming year. After the meeting the chair of council told the pastor: “We are very sorry, Pastor, but we decided that we cannot give you a raise next year.”

“But you must give me a raise,” said the pastor. “I am but a poor preacher!”
“I know,” the council chair said. “We hear you every Sunday.”

Timing Problem:  A little girl came home from school and said to her mother, “I wish you would let me take my bath in the morning before I go to school, instead of at night before I go to bed.” 

“What difference does it make?” her mother asked.

“Every day at school,” the little girl said, “Miss Taylor tells everybody to stand up who had a bath today.  And I haven’t been able to stand up one time since school started three months ago.” 

Words of wisdom: “There’s a fine line between a long, drawn-out sermon and a hostage situation.”

Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being.  Sometimes it’s called essential oil therapy. 

The term “aromatherapy” was coined by a French perfumer and chemist who had discovered the healing potential of lavender in treating burns.

Aromatherapy works through the sense of smell and skin absorption using products like diffusers, aromatic spritzers, inhalers, roll-ons, bathing salts, body oils, creams, or lotions for massage or topical application, facial steamers, hot and cold compresses, and clay masks.

You can find them at many places including like Walgreens, Walmart, and online.  These oils aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  This means that essential oil products can vary in purity, strength, and quality across manufacturers.  Be sure to only purchase essential oils from reputable brands.  Look for a product that is 100 percent natural and doesn’t contain any additives or synthetic ingredients.

Some essential oils include: lavender, lemon, peppermint, spearmint, eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, and rosemary.  Each essential oil has multiple healing properties, uses, and effects.  You can use these alone or in any combination. 

Essential oils may help manage pain, improve sleep quality, help relieve symptoms of depression, reduce stress, agitation, and anxiety, improve digestion, fight bacteria, and boost immunity, and those are just some of the benefits.  One study found that peppermint oil led to a boost in exercise performance.  Another study shows that sniffing rosemary can increase memory by 75%.

You find diluted and undiluted oils.  Read the label.  If you buy undiluted oils, be sure to always dilute them in a massage or carrier oil such as Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, or Jojoba Oil.  Some of the oils could irritate your skin, if you apply them to your skin directly without diluting them first. 

There are some ready to use aromatherapy oils that have already been diluted.  I found some good ones at Dollar Tree.  One reason I like Dollar Tree is, I never know what jewels I might find there. 

On average, essential oils are up to 75 times more powerful than dried herbs, so a couple of drops go a long way.  The fragrance doesn’t stay on your skin like regular perfume does. So, don’t worry, if you use peppermint or lemon oil you won’t smell like peppermint or lemon all day.

Like most alternative therapies, aromatherapy shouldn’t be used as a replacement for your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan. Don’t stop taking medications, attending counseling sessions, or using other prescribed therapies without talking to your doctor first.

Essential oils may lift your mood and make you feel good with just a whiff of their fragrance.  Conduct your research to find more information on how to incorporate Aromatherapy into a healthy lifestyle.

Have you tried Aromatherapy?   How did it work for you?  Do you have a favorite oil?

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better.  If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make.

Thanks for stopping by.  I hope enjoyed these priceless tidbits. Until next time, have a blessed day!

Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

SOURCES
https://www.stewardshipoflife.org/jokes/
Hodgin, M. (1994). 1001Humorous Illustrations for Public Speaking. Zondervan Publishing House.
https://www.stewardshipoflife.org/jokes/
http://clipart-library.com/clipart/essential-oils-cliparts_13.htm
https://www.byrdie.com/essential-oils-guide
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Essential_oil
https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-aromatherapy#how-does-it-work?
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/aromatherapy#treating-depression



Rosy Tidbits

Have you smiled or laughed today? Humor does a body good. God has been so good! I get joy/happy when I think about all He’s done for me. Apple Cider Vinegar has a history of being a powerful, cleansing, and healing cure-all. What can it do for you?

Welcome! I’m excited that you decided to visit Happy & Fit 4 the Master’s Use.  l’ll some share physical, mental, and spiritual tidbits to encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile. It’s not about one part, it’s about the whole. God wants us healthy mind, body, and soul.

Tidbit 1   Humor Time

PECANS IN THE CEMETERY

On the outskirts of a small town, there was a big, old pecan tree just inside the cemetery fence. One day, two boys filled up a bucketful of nuts and sat down by the tree, out of sight, and began dividing the nuts.

“One for you, one for me, one for you, one for me,” said one boy. Several dropped and rolled down toward the fence.

Another boy came riding along the road on his bicycle. As he passed, he thought he heard voices from inside the cemetery. He slowed down to investigate. Sure enough, he heard, “One for you, one for me, one for you, one for me…”

He just knew what it was. He jumped back on his bike and rode off. Just around the bend he met an old man with a cane, hobbling along.  “Come here quick,” said the boy, “you won’t believe what I heard! Satan and the Lord are down at the cemetery dividing up the souls!”  The man said, “Beat it kid, can’t you see it’s hard for me to walk.” When the boy insisted though, the man hobbled slowly to the cemetery.

Standing by the fence they heard, “One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me.”

The old man whispered, “Boy, you’ve been tellin’ me the truth. Let’s see if we can see the Lord…?”

Shaking with fear, they peered through the fence, yet were still unable to see anything. The old man and the boy gripped the wrought iron bars of the fence tighter and tighter as they tried to get a glimpse of the Lord.

At last they heard, “One for you, one for me. That’s all. Now let’s go get those nuts by the fence and we’ll be done…”  

They say the old man had the lead for a good half-mile before the kid on the bike passed him.

A newly-ordained pastor, in the first days of his first call, was attempting to console the widow of an eccentric man who had just died. Standing before the open casket, the nervous young pastor said, “I realize this must be a very hard blow for you, Mrs. Svenson.  Just try to remember that what we see before us is only the husk, the shell of your dear husband–the nut has gone to heaven.”

Tidbit 2   What God Has Done for Me

I woke up one morning feeling kinda “blah”.  Covid-19 and all the other drama that’s going on, can get to you sometimes.  I began to think about the Lord.  I began to think about the fact that through Him I am victorious!  I am triumphant!  I am an overcomer!  Jesus made that possible when He died and rose again.  If He would have just died, it wouldn’t be possible, but He died and rose again with all power in His hands!

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I began to laugh as I thought about those facts.  I laughed and I laughed.  Boy, was it fun!  God knows what we need and that morning I needed to laugh.  Laughter is medicine & it sure does a body good.  I get joy; I get happy when I think about what God has done for me.

Click on the link video to view the oral presentation of this blog and my rendition of I Get Joy When I Think about What He’s Done for Me.


Tidbit 3   Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) has a history of being a powerful, cleansing, and healing cure-all.  It contains natural occurring antibiotic, and antiseptic properties, that fight germs and bacteria for a healthier, stronger, longer life.  It’s been traced as far back as 3,000 BC.  It was used in Biblical times as an antiseptic and a healing agent.  In Paris, in the Middle Ages it was sold from barrels by street vendors as a body deodorant, healing tonic and delicious vinegar drink to keep the body healthy and ageless.

ACV may relieve headaches, zap sore throats, fight coughs and colds, help improve digestion, fight kidney and bladder problems, fight arthritis, & combat mucus.  If splashed on a burn of any kind, it may stop the intense continual pain instantly and permanently.  It also may help prevent scarring.

All vinegars are not created equal.  The vinegar that I’m talking about is raw, organic, unfiltered unpasteurized, ACV with the “miracle mother”.  I use this vinegar first, before I try anything else, especially for several of the reasons I just shared with you. 

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The “mother” is believed to be rich in health-boosting natural protein, healthy bacteria and acetic acid.  It forms naturally as raw organic vinegar ferments, producing a cloudy, brownish vinegar with cobweb-like substances at the bottom of the bottle.  If a vinegar looks crystal clear, it’s been filtered and pasteurized to remove the “mother” and most of its nutrients. 

This vinegar is more expensive than regular vinegar, so I don’t use it for cleaning. Once your bottle is half gone, you can add regular brown vinegar with it.  Just make sure that you still have some “mother” at the bottom of the jar.  It never needs refrigeration.

ACV has been used as an alternative to salt, a foot soak, skin cleanser and toner, a cleansing hair rinse, a steam facial treatment, sore muscle reliever, a salad dressing, and as a daily drink.

A common dosage for ACV as a drink ranges from 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons per day, mixed in a glass of water.  It can be hard on your throat if you don’t mix it with water. It’s acidic, and cause damage to tooth enamel.  So, drink it through a straw, mix it with water or rinse your mouth with water after taking it.

If you’re considering giving ACV a try as a drink, start slow to gauge how your stomach handles it. And consider talking to your doctor about the potential risks—especially interactions with your current medications.

I am a firm supporter of this God given home remedy.  I sing its praises because I’ve experienced the benefits.

Have you tried ACV with the “mother”?  How did it work for you? 

 I hope enjoyed these rosy tidbits. Thanks for stopping by.  Have a blessed day.

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better. 

If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make.

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

Look me up on YouTube.

Sources
http://www.stewardshipoflife.org/jokes/
http://www.stewardshipoflife.org/jokes/
http://www.clipartpanda.com/clipart_images/laughing-animation-clipart-68239449
https://healthyhints.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/the-mother-Apple-Cider-Vinegar.jpg

Uplifting Tidbits

Have you smiled or laughed today? Humor does a body good. Are you a constant complainer? Complaining can be bad for your health. What can spices do for you? They could protect your health. Spice up your meals and enjoy all the super health benefits that God has provided through herbs and spices!

Welcome! I’m excited that you decided to visit Happy & Fit 4 the Master’s Use.  l’ll some share physical, mental, and spiritual tidbits to encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile. It’s not about one part, it’s about the whole. God wants us healthy mind, body, and soul.

A man buys a parrot and brings him home. But the parrot starts insulting him and gets really nasty, so the man picks up the parrot and tosses him into the freezer to teach him a lesson. He hears the bird squawking for a few minutes, but all of a sudden the parrot is quiet. The man opens the freezer door, the parrot walks out, looks up at him and says, “I apologize for offending you, and I humbly ask your forgiveness.”

The man says, “Well, thank you. I forgive you.”

The parrot then says, “If you don’t mind my asking, what did the chicken do?”

What did the Judge say when the skunk walked in the courtroom?

Odor in the court! Odor in the court!
          

A police officer attempts to stop a car for speeding and the guy gradually increases his speed until he’s topping 100 mph. The man eventually realizes he can’t escape and finally pulls over. The cop approaches the car and says, “It’s been a long day and my shift is almost over, so if you can give me a good excuse for your behavior, I’ll let you go.” The guy thinks for a few seconds and then says, “My wife ran away with a cop about a week ago. I thought you might be that officer trying to give her back!”  ~James Harris               

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“Complaining is dangerous business. It can damage or even destroy your relationship with God, your relationships with other people and even with your relationship with yourself.” – Joyce Meyer    

What do you do when you get really stressed out? Is your first instinct to complain? Somehow complaining has become a natural reaction to us. We gripe, groan, vent, and moan about the unfairness of it all. The Children of Israel in the Bible were famous for murmuring and complaining. They also got into a lot of trouble with God because of it.

Research has shown that when we complain, the hippocampus – the part of the brain that plays a crucial role in problem solving and intelligent thought, releases a stress hormone called cortisol.  The release of cortisol is your natural “flight or fight” response that has kept humans alive for thousands of years.  One effect is to raise your blood pressure and blood sugar so that you’ll be prepared to either escape or defend yourself.

All the extra cortisol released by frequent complaining impairs your immune system and makes you more susceptible to high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. It even makes the brain more vulnerable to strokes. 

Research also shows that when we hear someone else groan, moan or complain.  It’s like inhaling second-hand smoke.  So, damage can be caused either way. 

Because complaining has become a natural reaction to many of us, we have to train ourselves to not complain so much. Now this doesn’t mean that we should never complain or vent, but if and when we do, it’s suggested that we do it with the purpose of resolving a concern or grievance not just because it rained when you wanted the sun to shine or because the clerk at the grocery store didn’t say thank you.

Venting could keep us from going off on somebody.  The key is having the right, trusted person you can vent to: Someone who can encourage you, give you insight, or just be there to listen. 

I’m a work in progress when it comes to complaining.  When I sing songs like Rev. Paul Jones’s song: I Won’t Complain, it reinforces the fact that God has indeed been good to me and I must practice being more thankful cause – things could always be worse.  Somebody said, “I had no shoes and complained, until I met a man who had no feet.”

Click on the video below to view the oral presentation of this blog and my rendition of Rev. Paul Jones’s song: I Won’t Complain.

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Are you aware that adding herbs and spices to your food not only add extra flavor but they may also help protect your body?  Some aid fat burning and boost metabolism and help stabilize blood sugar.  Some have powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties.

Here are 8 herbs & spices that may benefit you.

1. Basil – Basil is a very effective anti-inflammatory herb with extraordinary healing benefits that work for arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel conditions, to name a just a few.

2.  Cinnamon is highly effective at helping to stabilize blood sugar levels, making it very effective for those with diabetes (type 1 and type 2). In one study of people with type 2 diabetes, just two teaspoons a day reduced blood sugar as much as 20-30%, as well as lowering LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

3.  Rosemary has long been known to improve concentration, boost memory, and lift depression. Rosemary also strengthens the immune system, improves circulation, stimulates digestion, and fights cancer, as well. 
 
4.  Thyme’s active ingredient is known for treating bronchitis, sore throats, chest congestion, laryngitis and asthma.  It is also effective as a soothing stomach aid to relieve gastritis, indigestion and colic.

5.  Turmeric is said to be more effective slowing down the development of Alzheimer’s disease than many medications, because it decreases inflammation and oxidation in the brain. This spice also speeds up the recovery time from strokes as well.

6.  Cloves have strong antiseptic and germicidal ingredients that help fight infections, relieve digestive problems, and arthritis pain. One of cloves’ best known uses is its ability to relieve tooth and gum pain. 

7.  Cumin is known for being especially good for digestion.  It helps detoxify the body, and is highly effective for respiratory disorders like asthma and bronchitis. 

8. Oregano contains oil that is a very potent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral agent). It may also relieve inflammation, internal or external, and offer relief from allergies, aches and pain, without side effects. 

Spice up your life a bit and enjoy all the super health benefits that God has provided through herbs and spices!

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.  Always check with your physician to be sure certain herbs and spices don’t interfere with medications you may be taking

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better. 

If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make.

I hope enjoyed these uplifting tidbits. Thanks for watching.  Until next time, have a blessed day!

Thanks for stopping by.  Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

Look me up on YouTube.

Sources
https://www.blissquote.com/2020/04/complaining-quotes.html
https://www.beano.com/posts/snow-white-jokes

http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes/4https://ideapod.com/constant-complaining-is-bad-for-your-health/http://clipart-library.com/herbs-cliparts.htmlhttp://www.truthaboutabs.com/top-10-spices.html.

Positive Tidbits

Need to escape from the stressors of today? You’ve come to the right place! I hope that at least one of these mental, physical and spiritual tidbits will encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile.

Have you smiled today?  Have you laughed today?  Studies show that something as simple as smiling can benefit your health and wellbeing.  Studies have also shown that you can still reap health benefits even if your smile is fake.

social media smiley April 2020

Let’s begin with a little humor.

A Healthy Lifestyle: A woman walked up to a little old man rocking in a chair on his porch.

“I couldn’t help noticing how happy you look,” she said. “What’s your secret for a long happy life?”

“I smoke three packs of cigarettes a day,” he said. “I also drink a case of whiskey a week, eat fatty foods, and never exercise.”

“That’s amazing,” the woman said. “How old are you?’

“Twenty-six,” he said.

A Special Request: A certain pastor conducts an expanded altar call at the end of his sermons. He asks those who wish to make spiritual decisions to come forward, as well as those with prayer requests or some other questions. One Sunday, his three-year-old daughter responded to his invitation. She waited patiently while others ahead of her made their requests. When her turn came, her father leaned down to ask for her request. She whispered, “Can we go to the restaurant after church”?

Busted Smiles: A boy was reprimanded for laughing out loud during school. “Teacher, I didn’t mean to. I was smiling, and the smile busted.”

Take Care of Yourself!
It can be easy to get stressed due to this “new normal” brought to us by coronavirus. It is important to make your physical, spiritual and mental health a priority during this time. God does not want us to be stressed out to the point where it negatively impacts our health.

Here are some potential stress busters.

PHYSICAL
• Physical Activity – Aim for at least 150 minutes a week. You don’t have to get it all in at one time. It can be broken down in 10-minute increments. The main thing is that you find something that you will do and then just – do it.

• Limit processed foods and include a variety of foods like citrus fruits, vegetables, spices, yogurt and other whole foods in your diet on a consistent basis. You build a stronger immune system by maintaining healthy eating habits over time.

• Get that water in – Staying hydrated can boost your immune health. Staying hydrated helps your body naturally eliminate toxins and other bacteria that may cause illness.

• Get enough sleep – God designed us to need sleep. Sleep gives your body time to rest and repair. When or if you have trouble sleeping, here are 2 Bible verses that can help you.

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”(King James Version, Psalm 4:8)

“When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.” (KJV, Proverbs 3:24)

SPIRITUAL
• Just like you eat food every day, you should do the same with your prayer life. You move closer to God and get to know Him better when you develop and maintain a consistent prayer life.

• Praise God when you feel like it and when you don’t. “Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord.” (KJV, Psalm 150:6)

social media 2 April 2020The more you praise Him, the better you’ll feel. There’s no way you can be sad and praise God at the same time.

• Meditate on Scripture. Meditate on the awesome works of God. Meditate on God himself. Psalm 145 is an excellent place to start.

MENTAL
• Write down something you are grateful for.
I’m grateful that when I get out of bed every morning, I need the help of nobody but God.

• Take a break: step away from the news, radio, social media, etc.
Turn on the radio and dance like you’ve lost your mind.

• Speak positive things to yourself. For example: Read aloud:
Psalm 118:24 This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Throughout the day speak it and make it personal:
This is the day that the Lord has made. 
I will–     I choose to–     I have a right to–     I get to–
REJOICE and BE GLAD in it!

Click on the video to hear a shortened oral presentation of this blog and to hear my rendition of the song: This is the Day.

Did I make you smile?  Were you able to escape from what’s going on in the world for just a few minutes?  I hope so.

Try to find something to smile about every day and it’s okay if your smile breaks out into a laugh.

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better. If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make because – in times like these we need a Savior.

Bye for now.  Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

Thanks for visiting!

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only. It doesn’t replace the advice of your doctor.

Resources:
https://clipartart.com/categories/free-clipart-smiley-face-thumbs-up.html
https://www.arcamax.com/entertainment/humor/jokes/s-1219284
Finding Faith During Times of Chaos
Hodgin,  M.(1994). 1001 Humorous Illustrations for Public Speaking.  Zondervan Publishing House.

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.

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‘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

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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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It happened to me.

Andrae Crouch sang these words:  Somebody told me of the joy they had.  Somebody told me that in sorrow they could be glad.  Then they told me, once they were bound but now set free.  But I didn’t think it could be until it happened to me. 
My oldest sister, Pastor Charlotte Bryant has shown me the joy that she has over the years.  She has shown me that in sorrow she can be glad.  I know stories of when she was bound and then set free.  But I STILL didn’t think it could be – until it happened to me. 
To be honest, I didn’t want to believe it could happen to me.  I didn’t want to change.  I wanted to continue being depressed.  I wanted to keep singing songs like What Do the Lonely Do at Christmas?,  Nobody Knows the trouble I’ve seen, and Trouble in my way, I have to cry sometimes – I lay awake at night but that’s alright- Jesus will fix it after while.  I didn’t want to sing songs like: I’m an Overcomer, Victory is Mine, and Joy bells Keep Ringing in My Soul.
Slowly but surely, it has happened to me.  I’m not singing those negative songs anymore.  When I hear them being sung, I will make up words to replace them.  Everyone in life will experience trouble.  1Peter 4:12, 13 clearly says, “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you: But rejoice, inasmuch as you are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, you may be glad also with exceeding joy.”  Trouble will come.  It’s up to me how I react to it. 
I won’t say that I am the most joyful person in the world.  I won’t say that I never get sad and depressed.  I will say that those bouts don’t happen often.  When they do happen and I examine myself, I find that I have not been praying, praising god and reading the Word like I should. 
I challenge you.  Don’t meditate on the negative, don’t sing the negative. Don’t declare the negative: Oh, I’m having a bad day, I have the worst luck, Nothing good ever happens to me, I don’t feel like thinking happy thoughts.  Don’t claim the negative:  my arthritis, my bad back, my lazy husband, my ugly self, my broke self. Look at the glass as half full and not half empty.  Praise God.  Meditate on the Word of God.  Invest in some laughter DVDs or books.  Do your part and God will do the rest.  Then you can share with others how, IT HAPPENED TO YOU.
To view my video, those who receive email notifications of new blog posts can click on the link beside my picture.

 

Word to meditate on:        
Fear thou not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed, for I am thy God. I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of My righteousness. Isaiah 41:10 
You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you: because he trusts in you.  Isaiah 26:3
A merry heart does good like a medicine: but a broken spirit dries the bones. Proverbs 17

HUMOR TIME

God is Like a TV Commercial
Then there’s the Sunday School teacher who had her 5th grade class watch commercials to see if they could use them to come up with ways to communicate truths about God. Here’s what they said:
God is like.
Allstate: You’re in good hands.
Alka-Seltzer: Try him, you’ll like Him
Tide: He gets the stains out that others leave behind.
Sears: He has everything.
A Ford: He’s got a better idea.
Hallmark Cards: He cared enough to send the very best.
Bayer Asprin: He works miracles.
Delta: He’s ready when you are.
Alberto Vo-5: He holds through all kinds of weather.
Coke: He’s the real thing.
The US Post Office: Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail will keep Him from His appointed rounds.
Scotch Tape: You can’t see Him, but you know He’s there.
Dial Soap: Aren’t you glad you’ve got Him? Don’t you wish everybody did?
General Electric: He brings good things to life.
Charity Begins at Church
After the church service, seven year old Brian said to the preacher: ‘When I grow up, I’m going to give you some money.’
‘Well, thank you, ‘the preacher replied, ‘but why?’
‘Because my daddy says that you’re one of the poorest preachers we’ve ever had.’
 Going Down!!
As the storm raged, the captain realized his ship was sinking fast. He called out, “Anyone here know how to pray?” One man stepped forward. “Aye, Captain, I know how to pray.” “Good,” said the captain, “you pray while the rest of us put on our life jackets – we’re one short.”
Get moving.bicycle
Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health.  People who are physically active tend to live longer and have lower risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and some cancers.  Physical activity can help control weight, strengthen bones and muscles, and if you’re an older adult, improve your ability to do daily activities and prevent falls.  In December 2010, the Department of Health and Human Services launched Healthy People 2020, which has four overarching goals:
  • Attain high-quality, longer lives free of preventable disease, disability, injury, and premature death;
  • Achieve health equity, eliminate disparities, and improve the health of all groups;
  • Create social and physical environments that promote good health for all; and
  • Promote quality of life, healthy development, and healthy behaviors across all life stages.
Healthy People 2020 tracks approximately 1,200 objectives organized into 42 topic areas, each of which represents an important public health area.  Increasing physical activity is one of the objectives.  Specific goals for physical activity are:
Here are 8 more reasons to get moving:       
  1. To reduce tension and enable you to handle stress more effectively
  2. To help prevent constipation
  3. To improve your sleep
  4. To relieve arthritis
  5. To improve your posture and general appearance
  6. To improve your circulation
  7. To have more energy to praise the Lord in dancing
I get moving because I want to have flexibility and to strengthen my bones and muscles.
 What motivates you to get moving?      apple weights                      
Thanks for stopping by.

Resources

Physical Activity. (April 2015). Retrieved from http://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/data-search/Search-the-            Data?f%5B%5D=field_topic_area%3A3504&ci=0&se=0&pop=

http://biblehub.com/akjv/1_peter/4.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/verse/en/Isaiah%2041:10

http://biblehub.com/akjv/isaiah/26.htm

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

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

http://www.beliefnet.com/iLoveJesus/Features/Hilarious-Christian-Jokes.aspx?p=6#8SyJPYTfowTjR3eU.99