What's on your mind...
"Prayer... it is the most powerful weapon that we have and the least used". As pastor talked about the church, the question was are we operating in the true power of God? What are the signs of a great church?
If prayer really changes things, should the church have more of an impact on the communities around us. If My people who are called by My Name will humble themselves and pray and seek My Face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
Are we seeking? Are we turning? Are we praying? Are we trusting that the Lord will do what He said He will do?
Monday, November 23, 2009
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Dieting?
What's on your mind...
Another Diet? No Thank You!
In many cases, diets are a short-term solution for a long-term issue. Diets actually begin with an end date in mind. "I am dieting to loose 25lbs", end date: 25lbs later. "I am dieting to fit into my bridesmaid dress", end date: June 11. These are typical phrases from many dieters. We can't wait until the diet is over. Then what?
Well, the diet may be over, but the issues that created the need to diet are still there. The issues with food and weight management do not melt away while dieting. Reducing our calorie intake for a limited time, without a long term game plan to address the deeper issues, we many find ourselves in the off-again-on-again dieter club.
Diets can lead to the vicious cycle of loosing weight, gaining weight, loosing weight and gaining weight again. And this makes sense, as restrictive and limiting as most of the diets are, honestly, who wants to be on a diet for the rest of your life. Not me.
When I made the real commitment to get healthy and loose weight, I didn't want another diet. I evaluated why I ate, I looked at what I ate and when. Self discovery led to a new approach to food and weight management. I began to look
for foods I could enjoy that were also good for me. I would experiment with recipes and seasonings. I found ways to fit exercising into my schedule, regularly. Over time I developed a new way of life for myself.
I am not on a diet, I am not depriving myself, or limiting my food choices. I am living a healthy lifestyle that works for me. The fact that this new lifestyle also enabled me to get back into a size 8, is just a plus. I am not dieting, so there
is no need for an end date, and no fear of starting all over again. Another diet? No Thank you!
Another Diet? No Thank You!
In many cases, diets are a short-term solution for a long-term issue. Diets actually begin with an end date in mind. "I am dieting to loose 25lbs", end date: 25lbs later. "I am dieting to fit into my bridesmaid dress", end date: June 11. These are typical phrases from many dieters. We can't wait until the diet is over. Then what?
Well, the diet may be over, but the issues that created the need to diet are still there. The issues with food and weight management do not melt away while dieting. Reducing our calorie intake for a limited time, without a long term game plan to address the deeper issues, we many find ourselves in the off-again-on-again dieter club.
Diets can lead to the vicious cycle of loosing weight, gaining weight, loosing weight and gaining weight again. And this makes sense, as restrictive and limiting as most of the diets are, honestly, who wants to be on a diet for the rest of your life. Not me.
When I made the real commitment to get healthy and loose weight, I didn't want another diet. I evaluated why I ate, I looked at what I ate and when. Self discovery led to a new approach to food and weight management. I began to look
for foods I could enjoy that were also good for me. I would experiment with recipes and seasonings. I found ways to fit exercising into my schedule, regularly. Over time I developed a new way of life for myself.
I am not on a diet, I am not depriving myself, or limiting my food choices. I am living a healthy lifestyle that works for me. The fact that this new lifestyle also enabled me to get back into a size 8, is just a plus. I am not dieting, so there
is no need for an end date, and no fear of starting all over again. Another diet? No Thank you!
Friday, October 23, 2009
What Does Salad Have to Do With Relationships?
What's on your mind...
I am the author of a book entitled, A Christian Woman's Journal to Weight Loss, so why am I writing an article on relationships? Well, during my weight loss journey
I realized that loosing weight is about so much more than food. It's about how we live our lives. Weight issues affect every aspect of our life; relationships,
careers, physical and mental health, just to name a few. Today, we are looking at how it can have an adverse affect on our relationships.
Did you know, how comfortable we are in our own skin, can determine how comfortable we are touching someone else's. Excess weight can become a barrier that causes us to shut others out and lock ourselves in. Yes, we are mingling, dating, or even married, but we are prepared with roadblock, yield or stop signs for anyone who might dare get too close.
These signs can appear in the form of, an abrasive attitude, preoccupied persona or overly shy disposition. Without others or we ourselves realizing that the added weight we're carrying is the culprit of our prickly personality. The insecurities
that come with being overweight not only hold us back, but they could very well be holding back the one person who is trying to get in.
We owe it to not only ourselves, but those around us to choose a healthier lifestyle. As the weight loss begins the barrier wall gets thinner and thinner, allowing our true self to shine for all to see and be drawn to. Feeling good and looking good is very appealing. Improving our relationships could certainly
be tied to the commitment to improving our body image.
I know this is easier said then done, but think about it, you deserve it and what do you have to loose but a little bit or a lot of weight. Make yourself a priority everyday, do something to improve your overall health. It doesn't have to be an overwhelming concept, even small steps over time can have a sizable impact. Walk once a day, drink eight glasses of water a day, eat more vegetables and less fatty foods each day, then... put up the welcome sign.
I am the author of a book entitled, A Christian Woman's Journal to Weight Loss, so why am I writing an article on relationships? Well, during my weight loss journey
I realized that loosing weight is about so much more than food. It's about how we live our lives. Weight issues affect every aspect of our life; relationships,
careers, physical and mental health, just to name a few. Today, we are looking at how it can have an adverse affect on our relationships.
Did you know, how comfortable we are in our own skin, can determine how comfortable we are touching someone else's. Excess weight can become a barrier that causes us to shut others out and lock ourselves in. Yes, we are mingling, dating, or even married, but we are prepared with roadblock, yield or stop signs for anyone who might dare get too close.
These signs can appear in the form of, an abrasive attitude, preoccupied persona or overly shy disposition. Without others or we ourselves realizing that the added weight we're carrying is the culprit of our prickly personality. The insecurities
that come with being overweight not only hold us back, but they could very well be holding back the one person who is trying to get in.
We owe it to not only ourselves, but those around us to choose a healthier lifestyle. As the weight loss begins the barrier wall gets thinner and thinner, allowing our true self to shine for all to see and be drawn to. Feeling good and looking good is very appealing. Improving our relationships could certainly
be tied to the commitment to improving our body image.
I know this is easier said then done, but think about it, you deserve it and what do you have to loose but a little bit or a lot of weight. Make yourself a priority everyday, do something to improve your overall health. It doesn't have to be an overwhelming concept, even small steps over time can have a sizable impact. Walk once a day, drink eight glasses of water a day, eat more vegetables and less fatty foods each day, then... put up the welcome sign.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
What's on your mind...
RESULTS JUST ANNOUNCED!
National "Best Books 2009" Awards!
USA Book News. Check out the Winners & Finalists.
(Their website is www.usabooknews.com). A Christian
Woman's Journal to Weight Loss was a finalist in two categories,
Spirituality: Journals/Quotes and Health:Diet/Weight Loss.
RESULTS JUST ANNOUNCED!
National "Best Books 2009" Awards!
USA Book News. Check out the Winners & Finalists.
(Their website is www.usabooknews.com). A Christian
Woman's Journal to Weight Loss was a finalist in two categories,
Spirituality: Journals/Quotes and Health:Diet/Weight Loss.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Priceless
What's on your mind...
I remember when I could only run for two minutes.
I would be completely out of breath. So my workout
would consist of a run/walk combination. Now, to be
able to run for three+ miles without stopping is an
amazing feeling. I know that I am healthier and my
body is in much better shape, that's priceless.
As women we are dedicated wives, mothers, sisters
and friends, but we can put on all of those hats
without neglecting ourselves. Remember... put
on your mask first and then you can better assist
those around you.
I remember when I could only run for two minutes.
I would be completely out of breath. So my workout
would consist of a run/walk combination. Now, to be
able to run for three+ miles without stopping is an
amazing feeling. I know that I am healthier and my
body is in much better shape, that's priceless.
As women we are dedicated wives, mothers, sisters
and friends, but we can put on all of those hats
without neglecting ourselves. Remember... put
on your mask first and then you can better assist
those around you.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Sunday Mornings
What's on your mind...
Last Sunday during the sermon, two words stood out. Fear Not. When we need to make a change in our lives, fear not. If the results we're getting requires us to rethink our strategy, fear not. If we have to toss out our plan and pray for a better one, fear not.
To get a different result, we have to be willing to try something new. It might take some of the fear out of change, if we work backwards. Act, with the goal in mind. As we focus on the outcome, it may give us the strength to work through the tough realities of change.
And... remember who said, Fear Not.
Last Sunday during the sermon, two words stood out. Fear Not. When we need to make a change in our lives, fear not. If the results we're getting requires us to rethink our strategy, fear not. If we have to toss out our plan and pray for a better one, fear not.
To get a different result, we have to be willing to try something new. It might take some of the fear out of change, if we work backwards. Act, with the goal in mind. As we focus on the outcome, it may give us the strength to work through the tough realities of change.
And... remember who said, Fear Not.
Friday, September 18, 2009
The Weekend
What's on your mind...
With all the hats we wear during the week, we are all
ready for the weekend. Its time to unwind and relax.
Whether its walks in the park, long baths with a good
book or brunch with a friend, take the time to enjoy
the weekend. With schedules so busy, we can find
ourselves running seven days a week with no break.
We all need rest, our bodies and our minds need rest.
Slow it down... take your rest this weekend.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Decorum??
What's on your mind...
An article in Politics Daily, states that Congressman
Joe Wilson's wife was even shocked by his outburst.
Immediately after the president's speech, Roxanne
Wilson spoke with her husband on the phone and asked,
"Joe, who's the nut who hollered out 'You lie'?" When
he told her he had done it, she said, "No really, who
did it?" She explains that the congressman is "very
passionate," and that his constituents at town-hall
meetings were worried and upset about health care.
"I think that's where Joe's outburst came from."
At the 2009 US Open Semi-Final, a line judge called a
foot fault on Serena Williams, during her match against
Kim Clijsters. This call, though very questionable was
followed by yelling, cursing and threatening remarks from
Serena.
During the 2009 MTV VMA Awards, Kanye West decided to voice
his opinion during a live show, on stage, in the middle of
the award winner's acceptance speech. Taylor Swift was
robbed of her moment as he felt the need to recognize
another nominee(Beyonce).
We live in America, every ones voice should be heard.
However, there is a time and a place. Our history teaches
that concerns, differences of opinion, and mistakes can
all be addressed with decorum. Outbursts, rude interruptions
and outlandish behavior in many cases can cloud the real issue.
Instant replay showed that the foot fault call against Serena
was very questionable, but that wasn't the focus after her
reaction to the call. Was Beyonce's video more deserving of
the award? In the interviews with Taylor and Kanye this week
the discussion is centered around Kanye's judgement.
After Congressman Wilson's outburst the focus was on his
public apology, not his view on the issues.
An article in Politics Daily, states that Congressman
Joe Wilson's wife was even shocked by his outburst.
Immediately after the president's speech, Roxanne
Wilson spoke with her husband on the phone and asked,
"Joe, who's the nut who hollered out 'You lie'?" When
he told her he had done it, she said, "No really, who
did it?" She explains that the congressman is "very
passionate," and that his constituents at town-hall
meetings were worried and upset about health care.
"I think that's where Joe's outburst came from."
At the 2009 US Open Semi-Final, a line judge called a
foot fault on Serena Williams, during her match against
Kim Clijsters. This call, though very questionable was
followed by yelling, cursing and threatening remarks from
Serena.
During the 2009 MTV VMA Awards, Kanye West decided to voice
his opinion during a live show, on stage, in the middle of
the award winner's acceptance speech. Taylor Swift was
robbed of her moment as he felt the need to recognize
another nominee(Beyonce).
We live in America, every ones voice should be heard.
However, there is a time and a place. Our history teaches
that concerns, differences of opinion, and mistakes can
all be addressed with decorum. Outbursts, rude interruptions
and outlandish behavior in many cases can cloud the real issue.
Instant replay showed that the foot fault call against Serena
was very questionable, but that wasn't the focus after her
reaction to the call. Was Beyonce's video more deserving of
the award? In the interviews with Taylor and Kanye this week
the discussion is centered around Kanye's judgement.
After Congressman Wilson's outburst the focus was on his
public apology, not his view on the issues.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Sunday Mornings
What's on your mind...
Remember when Sunday School was not an option.
Your parents made you go. Not anymore, we would
be amazed at the number of kids who do not regularly
attend Sunday School. Mothers, with our kids learning
so much from the music they listen to, the shows/videos
they watch, a 45 minute bible study lesson can't hurt.
Also while they are getting their lesson of the morning, the
adults can study and discuss the word as well. Our Sunday
School lesson this week very interesting. We pondered how
a powerful people can walk powerlessly, due to a lack of faith.
Think about it, with God anything is possible. He is not
concerned with our capability, it's our availability that is
the issue.
Remember when Sunday School was not an option.
Your parents made you go. Not anymore, we would
be amazed at the number of kids who do not regularly
attend Sunday School. Mothers, with our kids learning
so much from the music they listen to, the shows/videos
they watch, a 45 minute bible study lesson can't hurt.
Also while they are getting their lesson of the morning, the
adults can study and discuss the word as well. Our Sunday
School lesson this week very interesting. We pondered how
a powerful people can walk powerlessly, due to a lack of faith.
Think about it, with God anything is possible. He is not
concerned with our capability, it's our availability that is
the issue.
Friday, September 11, 2009
The Temple
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom
you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19,20
This scripture not only convicted me, but what a way to be reminded that my body is a precious gift from God. Although I wasn't feeling very precious, I had to begin to see myself as God sees me. I decided, that I deserve so much more than a few pieces of cheese cake, a bag of potato chips, or a jumbo size fry. My cholesterol was borderline, my energy level was low and I didn't feel very victorious. This was not Gods plan, so I had to replace my agenda with His. As the pounds began to shed, my cholesterol went down, and through His grace I am a conquerer. I look at it like this, as I take care of His temple, He is really taking care of me.
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