Food For Soul Magazine

October 2014

Food for the body is not enough. There must be food for the soul.

–Dorothy Day

Dorothy Day

IN THIS ISSUE

JUST BREAD GOD SPEAKING A WHISPER AWAY SINKING SAND CREATIVE IN CHAOS RECIPES AND INFORMATION FOR BUILDING IMMUNE SYSTEM

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst”.

-John 6:35 Food for Soul is a menu of inspirational articles and inspiration for spiritual growth that also includes recipes to strengthen the body. Seeking contributing writers and or commentaries.

1 Send comments, recipes, photos, articles, or poems to: INSPIREMEFOODFORSOUL@GMAIL.COM P.O.BOX 304 TOMBALL, TEXAS 77377

Letter from the Editors

Brenda A. Graff Publisher / Editor / Writer

Greetings and a warm welcome to our very first issue of Food for Soul Magazine! We couldn’t be more excited to have the opportunity to bring to our reading audience pages of awe-inspiring articles, information, and recipes. Please take some time to get to know the layout of our magazine. You will notice each page is filled with material to enhance, encourage, and provide practical ways to grow spiritually, mentally, and physically.

You can look at one category at a time, or examine the articles on the home page to choose which to read first. Just as with any paper magazine, you can choose to sit and read the whole thing at once, or come back to this issue several times to digest the articles more leisurely.

We established this on-line magazine to promote a strong deliberate life-style. What you will find in the pages of Food for Soul Magazine, is a collection of inspiring, educational articles written by actual, honest, down-to-earth folks who work hard to live deliberately, but who are not afraid to admit the struggles that we often sometimes experience.

We are honored to share the work of committed people who live their lives with a purpose and a plan to promote a work that will help many lives.

Feel free to leave comments and share your thoughts or ask the authors a question.

We appreciate your support and are so pleased to have you as a reader of Food for Soul Magazine.

With warmest thanks, Brenda Graff and Sandie Reynolds, Editors

Food for Soul Magazine Born 1966 in the tiny town of New Albany, Mississippi, the place of infamous William Faulkner who wrote 19 novels, 75 short stories, received a Nobel Prize, and 2 Pulitzer Prizes.

Whew! Dynamite comes not only in small packages but from small places I say! TNT I am, (Texas Tornado) as some have called me reside now in, yep, you guessed it…Texas, with my Hubby, Kirby and our two youngest, Amanda and Cody. Being a former news reporter sparked a great desire in me to continue writing and researching but with a purpose to help others. It is my passion. Being a mom of six ages 29-11 has had its challenges, but it has taught me much along the journey. I utilize the experience to coach others to ignite a passion for positive change nutritionally, physically, but most of all, spiritually. I spend much time on projects to boost morale, and a lot of time in the kitchen creating new dishes. Currently, I am a busy homeschooler, and Grandmother of two, and when I’m not wrapped up with the little ones…spend many hours working on my Godgiven passion, which is pen to paper with a purpose!

-In His Service Jeremiah 29:11

Sandie Reynolds Associate Publisher / Editor / Writer

Food for Soul Magazine Yes, I'm a "baby boomer" born into God's great country as Sandra Brazill, with two "L's" and no middle name (happy about that), on August 7, 1949. In a small town called River Rouge in the state of Michigan, south of Detroit, born to wonderful, loving and encouraging parents, Cheathem and Elizabeth Brazill. I am the middle child of seven children, four boys and 3 girls, yes, I'm right in the center 1 female and 2 males older than me and 1 female and 2 males younger than me. I loved coming from a large family what a great experience.

Moving along I married Claude Reynolds and we had two children, Claude II and Samuel Reynolds. We later moved to Manchester, Georgia, my husband's hometown after he was diagnosed with lung cancer, he lived eighteen more years before passing. I still live in the "Peach state" of Georgia and my two sons, daughter-in-law, and my 5 grandchildren (yes the family has grown) live here as well. I'm "G-Ma" to my grands and they are the joy of my life. God has been better than good to me, turning 65 this year and feeling great about the new healthy and wise woman God has made me. As time goes on I will fill you in on2my life, but now I am happy to say that Brenda and I are going to take you on great adventures with us in our new magazine.

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Media is flooded with news of the economy. There isn’t a day without commentaries on soaring prices. Our family had been without cable for some time due to rising cost. This means, no television at all. My kids had fits at first, unable to stare into the almighty screen of distraction. My spouse developed right hand atrophy not exercising remote. We had videos, however, when you’ve seen the same ones so much you’ve memorized the lines of each character, it gets mundane. We’ve resorted to board games like monopoly or scrabble. The kids spend more time outdoors playing, being imaginative, and sneaking out Daddy’s tools to dismantle their playground. We’ve read more than ever. We’ve spent more time as a family. Did we miss TV? ABSOLUTELY! I especially miss watching comedies before bed, and yes, even the news. What I don’t miss, is my sofa covered in a body engrossed in television for hours! Nor, do I miss cookie crumbs and popcorn buried in sofa from SpongeBob marathons. We don’t sit around the tube watching depressing news while eating. We eat while sharing news about our day. The amazing part is our electric bill has dropped incredibly!

However, that is the only bill that has dropped. We’ve all experienced the pain of the rising cost of living. Lately, with enormous hikes in gas and food it becomes a choice of whether to eat or drive for some. There was a point a few years back when I had lost my job just days before Christmas. I panicked like most would. My spouse had completed a huge construction project that also ended a huge salary. We were reduced to a fourth of what we were used to living on. I was used to buying take-out at least once a week. I loved our date nights of Sushi or going to a cabin for a weekend geta-way. Now all that had come to a screeching halt! It was time to get back to basics. It meant learning to feed a family of 5 on less than $10 a day! I consider myself resourceful, but the challenge came with the sudden grocery price increase. While my teen and I were shopping, she grabbed milk and shocked at the cost said to me, “This milk better turn chocolate, and dance in my cereal for what it cost”! Stunned I also thought, “Where is the rest of the cow? We went along pricing as she picked up a bag of chicken costing nearly the price of a trip to Disneyland and said, “This chicken better lay eggs too”. She was getting the full picture and reason for my nagging about making the food last for a week. When we entered produce I had hopes of finding potatoes on sale. Well, to my surprise there was only a 5 lb. bag for almost $5 and I thought surely these must come with a deed to a small farm as well. Good grief! I was disgusted; I walked over to the instant aisle of everything and found a box of potatoes instead. Now, I am not one who likes instant. I prefer no preservatives, fillers, dyes, or ingredients I can’t pronounce. However, I was forced to make a decision. We could die of starvation or buy a box of chemically filled stuff that might have a hint of nutrition in it. I chose the boxed stuff.

I spent an hour in the bread aisle, looking for affordable bread with no high fructose corn syrup, and wheat gluten. No chance. I told my teen I was making it from scratch. She snickered all the way to the baking aisle. She knew I had never made bread before. Determined, I woke up early the next day and set out to make bread. I decided to listen to a series of sermons while baking. Ironically, as I was preparing the dough, the sermon began in Leviticus chapter two. He spoke of a grain offering and how it must be prepared. Bread to be made without yeast or honey since it would be burned. God didn’t want those ingredients to ruin the savory aroma. He also instructed the bread be sprinkled with salt as it stood for an agreement with God everlasting. The bread was considered the most holy part of the offerings made to the Lord by fire. I listened intently as I pounded the dough, and prepared for it to rise. I envisioned our heavenly Father smiling as He inhaled the fragrance of fresh baked bread in the air. I couldn’t wait to smell the heavenly aroma permeate through our home. The bread was done and the scent of a French bakery filled the air. We couldn’t wait to cut that first piece after melting butter on it.

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Just Bread cont’d The taste was unbelievable! It melted in your mouth. Bread has become more than a staple in our home. It has become a way of life. I involve the kids in the process which allows for us to spend real quality time in conversation. We’ve made raisin bread, banana nut, and cinnamon, cornbread, and yeast rolls. I usually make enough to send a few loaves with the kids to our neighbors. This bread has become a teaching tool. It has shown the kids how to give to others. It has shown neighbors God’s love by receiving this bread. It has caused a domino effect of giving back. Others have showered our children with treats. It has taught my family provision from God. We have had some weeks we had no idea how we could eat having more month left over then money. The bread has been broken and given at dinner while giving thanks to God for providing that day. I am reminded of (Matthew 6:11) The Lord’s Prayer- “Give us this day our daily bread”. He tells us to ask for our food only for today. He did the same with the Israelites when He provided bread from heaven. He instructed them not to store it up for the next day, and when they did, it spoiled (Exodus 16:4, 19-21) they were to trust Him for days ahead. God describes heaven like yeast that a women took and hid in a large tub of flour until it made the dough rise (Matthew 13:33). It was sacramental bread in (Matthew 26:26, Mark 14:22, I Corinthians 11:23-26) the bread that represents Christ body, in which He said take and eat). Bread is more than nourishment for the body, but food for the soul. My children will have memories of this bread making, tasting, and sharing long after I’m gone. They’ll remember every loaf created, the aroma, anticipation, and sharing when we could barely feed ourselves, more importantly, how God supplied more than enough with the little we had. They’ll laugh in memory of the flour shower trying to use a mixer to speed the process. Mostly, they will never look at bread the same again, knowing what they have learned how God loves the aroma of fresh baked bread enough to call it Holy. I never imagined that just bread would have such an impact in our life and community. I’m in awe of God who has taken job loss, removal of TV, and soaring prices to teach us how just bread multiplied blessings in our lives now and in history. We can’t do much about the rising cost of living, but we sure can do much about rising fear.

Bread + Faith + Giving = PLENTY! ECCLESIASTES 11:1-2

“Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again.”

-Brenda Graff

“Baking bread is a lot like growing your faith in the Lord. You mix together the best ingredients you can find and wait for the mixture to mature, but it's the heat of the oven that makes it something of worth and substance. The same way the tribulations of this world mature a person’s faith.” ― Dorothy Love

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A glance at ingredients usually in store bought bread. You will find in bold some potentially harmful preservatives and conditioners included. The process by which store-bought bread is made leaves little to no nutritional value.

Enriched wheat flour (flour, barley malt, ferrous sulfate (iron), “B” vitamins (niacin, thiamine mononitrate (B1), riboflavin (B2), folic acid)), water, sweetener (high fructose corn syrup or sugar), yeast, wheat bran, whole wheat flour, wheat gluten, molasses. Contains 2% or less of: soybean oil, salt, sweet dairy whey, butter (cream, salt, enzymes), maltodextrin, honey, corn syrup, calcium sulfate, soy flour, dough conditioners (may contain: dicalcium phosphate, calcium dioxide, sodium stearoyl lactylate, ethoxylated mono and diglycerides, mono and diglycerides, and/or datem), yeast nutrients (may contain: ammonium sulfate, ammonium chloride, calcium carbonate, monocalcium phosphate, and/or ammonium phosphate), cornstarch, wheat starch, vinegar, natural flavor, beta carotene (color), enzymes, calcium propionate (to retain freshness), soy lecithin.

SIMPLE BREAD MAKING RECIPE For one loaf: 3 cups of flour (all-purpose all natural) 3 tsp active dry yeast (Organic Bakers 100% All Natural no GMO) 3 tsp raw sugar 1 tsp salt (prefer natural sea salt no preservative) ¼ cup of Sesame seeds, or other toppings (optional) 1 cup of warm water 1 tbsp. real butter 1 egg

Start by putting the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt together in mixing bowl. Add the warm water, 1 cup or as much needed to make a nice consistent dough. You don't want dough too soft. If you by mistake end up pouring too much water, don't worry, just add some more flour. Cut the butter into small cubes and add it while mixing dough. When dough is a bit sticky but not significantly sticking to your hands, start kneading it with a bit of flour and form it into a ball.

After that, put the dough on the counter or on a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes.

After about 10 minutes, take the dough and roll it in elongated tube shape. Divide it in 2 equal parts and roll it again into 2 rolls of about 15 inches long and as wide to fit into your hand. Put the 2 rolls next to each other, connect at one end, and start braiding them together.

Once you're done braiding, spray bread pan with PAM. Place bread into pan carefully to keep shape, tuck the ends underneath if needed. Beat egg, and brush onto uncooked bread and add topping if you chose. This will give your bread a nice color and outer crunch. If you happen to be allergic to eggs, you can substitute with oil.

Bake at 350 degree, for 30 minutes. When it's done, let it cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting into it. If you cut too early, the inside will be kind of gummy.

Serve with butter or my favorite is, heated olive oil, basil, and garlic. Enjoy!

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A Whisper Away -Brenda Graff Summer can be hot and miserable for most. Especially, here in Texas. I believe it is Satan’s sauna. This is where he spends most of his time in meditation after his tiresome work of torturing God’s children all week. Yep, his own personal spa treatment. Personally, I am not a fan of the heat. Nor am I a fan of freezing temperatures. Like most, I would prefer to have the spring or fall weather last all year round. However, “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes you might get what you need” as the old Rolling Stones song says. Well, knowing full well that Texas seasons are not going to change on my preference, have had to try my best to adapt by getting what our family needed, a swimming pool! To be able to jump in a pool at the end of a sizzling, “you could fry an egg on sidewalk” kind of day, is pure heaven to me! The children especially love to dive in and play one extremely exhausting, but exciting rounds of Marco Polo with my husband and I. One round usually turns into a marathon of splashing, screaming, jumping, flipping, and twisting in ways that can make my forty-eight year old body feel like it has been through a meat grinder by morning. For those of you who have never experienced the joy of this more than a century old game, it goes something like this: One player is chosen as "It". This player closes his/her eyes and tries to find and tag the other players without the use of vision. The player who is "It" shouts "Marco" and the other players must respond by shouting "Polo", which "It" uses to try to acoustically locate them. If a player is tagged, then that player becomes "It".

It only takes a few rounds of this game before my husband and I are completely water-logged and ready to retire to the indoors. Yet, we hang on for a few more sessions of insanity when our children’s pleas get louder than our groans to go indoors. My favorite part of the game is when I am “It”. I changed the rules a bit.

We don’t call out Marco Polo at all. I like to sit in the center after spinning three times with eyes closed and listen in silence, while I wait for the ripple of waves, or breaths to give away my opponent. I pay close attention to the false splashing of one’s whereabouts. If the sun is still out I intensely wait for the shadow of a passerby to cast over my closed eyes. I’m really good at the game. A few years ago I lost much of my hearing and thought I would never recoup it normally. However, my sense of hearing is more keenly working than ever before. I usually surprise my crew with a huge Godzilla attack standing up and walking in monster-mode stance straight to the one who give themselves away. A piercing scream of fright for a moment, and then my little ones begin their spontaneous laughter begging for another round. When I was watching my youngest son, Cody upon his turn trying desperately to copy his mom’s strategy, I was suddenly overwhelmed with emotion.

I watched him rush from one side of the pool to the other in pure exhaustion trying to catch one of us. He would get out of breath, and then stay put a moment trying to listen for the sounds of our whereabouts. Then plunge back into the water playground in a strenuous effort, finally catching someone. This reminded me of how often we rush here and there blindly in an attempt to find our way in life, whether it’s seeking approval, finding significance, or love while heading into a dead end of hollowness. We get caught off guard by the false splashing calling us over here. The sounds of perfection are pressuring over there. Voices of deceit’s laughter resonates on the hills of “the grass is greener on the other side”.

“Goodness speaks in a whisper, evil shouts” 6

While my son was swimming back and forth in desperation to catch me, he didn’t realize the whole time I was right behind him. I stayed on his tale like a man-eating shark. I knew I had to stay close behind him for his moves were predictable, it was either slightly forward or side to side. I had mastered this trick. One major lesson I learned in Criminology is how to read people, predict movement, listen to breaths, watch eye contact, pupil fixture, fumbling of hands, posture, foot stance, voice pitch, and watch the pulse in someone’s neckline. All these attribute to knowing if someone is fraudulent. You had to be able to predict someone’s move in order to save your own life or the lives of others if in a prison setting or investigation. I believe that sometimes we forget that our Father in heaven is following close behind and watching our every twist, and turn.

Psalm 139:3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.

He sees us thrashing about like a fish out of water exhausted from searching here and there for gratification. He sees us running in desperation to all the wrong places, and people. Jehovah knows our every thought and word that proceeds out of our mouths. He hears those heated arguments, complaints, back-biting, and rumors. There is no word that has exited our mouths that He didn’t already know was about to be spewed out. We can’t gossip without God hearing it first. We can’t falter without Him ready to catch us when we fall.

The man whispered, "God, speak to me" and a meadowlark sang, but the man did not hear.

So the man yelled "God, speak to me" and the thunder and lightning rolled across the sky, but the man did not listen.

The man looked around and said, "God, let me see you", and a star shined brightly, but the man did not see.

Luke 12:2-3 There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.

You can’t fool him. You cannot fake your way into his graces or worship.

And, the man shouted, “God, show me a miracle", and a life was born, but the man did not notice.

1 Corinthians 4:5 He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts.

This is why it is so important we choose our words carefully. Choose our steps prudently.

Matthew 12:36-37 But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.

He is his own Private eye. God doesn’t need a telescope, or investigative equipment to figure out when one of His sheep have gone astray or are hurting.

The Lord is always on the job day and night. Following very closely.

So, the man cried out in despair, "Touch me, God, and let me know You are here". Whereupon, God reached down and touched the man, but the man brushed the butterfly away and walked on.

The man cried "God, I need your help",

Jeremiah 23:24 “Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?’ declares the LORD. ‘Do not I fill heaven and earth?’ declares the LORD”.

and an e-mail arrived reaching out with

He knows the very hairs on your head. Jesus tells us to not be afraid of those that can kill the body, but be more frightened of what can steal your soul. We must listen closely to his voice in order to stay on the right path. We must heed the voice of truth. It is the only opinion, and voice that matters.

But the man deleted it and continued

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

good news and encouragement.

crying.....

-Author Unknown

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He states in his word that He watches us so closely that not even a sparrow that falls to the ground goes unnoticed. Yet we are more to Him then the birds.

Matthew 10:26-31 “So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 27 What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. 28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. 30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

He tries in subtle ways and in not so subtle ways to let us know He is there. God speaks often in a whisper that is usually overshadowed by the noise of our busyness, relationships, and even ministry sometimes. His small still voice is snuffed out with the snare of Satan’s hold on many of God’s children. I use to have praise music on 24/7, or television broadcasting sermons, radio shows, you name it. I thought that as long as I was listening to these things that I would be learning what I needed from scripture, and it would build strength and character in me. However, even all that got in the way of what God was trying to show me.

I truly believe that He allowed my hearing loss to happen because He desperately wanted to get my attention. He had things to say to me. God wanted me to utilize my other senses to see and touch what I couldn’t audibly hear. He wants us to come and sit at his feet and stay awhile to learn of his ways, His truth, love, and plan for us. He doesn’t want us to be like Martha who was rushing about to prepare dinner for Jesus and organize eating arrangements. He doesn’t want us so pre-occupied with progress, that we miss the whole point.

Luke 10:38-42 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “You are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed— or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

I had been running for years from one end to the other, from one state to another, not operating in the full throttle of His plan. In search constantly for direction, yet finding nothing but a dead end road in many cases. GPS couldn’t have helped me! I am thankful that God loved me enough to shut me down. To quiet me. To say, “Hey…you’re important enough to me that I will do whatever it takes to cause your eyes to focus on me, I AM the one who knows what is best for you”.

How many times have you experienced the distraction of a child playing video games? The scenario usually goes something like this, “Can you feed the dog?”

Hours later, the dog is standing in front of you downcast with empty bowl in mouth. I know in my case I have to yank the plug at times. Sometimes God has to snatch us up and unplug our distractions.

Sinking Sand On the days when I feel abandoned or often left alone, remind me Lord that I am loved and Your very own.

When I begin to sink, like a ship wrecked on the sea, help me Lord to understand that You are ever with me.

Lord when I feel rejection and misery starts to creep, God help me see You have me, and I am Yours to keep.

Lord I often wonder why there has to be much pain in this world of trouble It’s hard to refrain from allowing tears to flood my soul, losing courage and control.

I couldn’t imagine living, without the hope of You With so much sadness in this world, I wouldn’t know what to do Abba sing me to sleep at night When my heart seems too frail, The days not gone so well, and somehow I have failed.

Forgive me Father for doubting That You are always near I know I shouldn’t live my life in doubt or acquire fear.

I know these things and yet, I still sometimes fall flat I need you Lord to hold my hands as I make it back, to the place where I belong Where Your love is ever strong, and though the sands are sinking It doesn’t have to take, me under like a tidal wave or standing in a quake.

Help me Lord to walk the path that You have laid.

Show me each and every step, and milestones along the way.

God remind me to accept that my debts been paid, been crucified, forgiven, and put away.

I love you Lord and pray I always know that no matter how Rough the road becomes You always love me so…

-B. Graff®

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The loss of my hearing was one of the most unsettling experiences I have ever known. When you lose the sense of hearing, you are reduced to hearing racing thoughts alone. It was the longest months of my life. I could hardly sit in public with the onset of claustrophobia I had developed. Driving was challenging for fear of not hearing ambulance sirens or out of control drivers honking. I couldn’t hear sermons, sing in church, or speak much to my children or spouse. If I did talk it was at Memorex levels. Phone conversations were over for the most part, other than text.

As long as I couldn’t hear music, television, or consume myself in conversations of nothingness, God had my attention. He removed my husband from me for several months working nights, and sleeping days. I had to completely rely on God. There were no visitors to encourage me. And I am certain that my Savior meant for it to be that way. After seeing the specialist several times, failing hearing test, and taking one prescription after another with no results, I truly felt hopeless. I was petrified for a few months before getting a grip on the situation and realizing that this was a divine confinement. My only hope and help was in the Lord. I had to allow His gentle whisper to speak to me when my whole world was audibly shut down. It was that soft inaudible voice that spoke to my heart and kept me in the midnight hour when my husband was absent and I feared I wouldn’t hear an intruder breaking in. Sometimes I would sit in my backyard at night sobbing before my King and feel His whispers in the caress of the gentle winds.

“I’m right here, right here”. “But Lord, I don’t see you”, I’d cry sometimes. His response was, “You don’t have to see me to know that I’m right there. I’m there when you scurry in the dark like blind mice from one place to the other trying to find purpose, and a way out of your mess. I don’t want you running blindly and wearing yourself out. You may be in this situation because I want you there for a time being...long enough to heal and clear up some misunderstandings you may have about Me…Just follow My voice, the small still voice that is speaking tenderly in troubling circumstances. It is in those moments of heartbreak, My words, My whisper of love are trying to penetrate your soul.”

I would tease my little man by whispering to him during Marco Polo, in passing across the pool to let him know how close I was as he groped blindly towards me.

I don’t believe that God is running away or turning the opposite direction from our groping; I believe that we are reaching out to the wrong people, swimming right past Him, missing His touch, voice, and direction. He whispers affectionately, and gently. There are going to be times when you realize there is absolutely no one to reach out to for help, but you call out to God in a desperate cry and then suddenly, the fear that gripped your very core, ceases. Peace settles in. The hurt and the Healer collide like a tidal wave of hope that draws you away from your circumstance of despair. Perspective changes, strength begins to rise in you like a lion. You stop listening to the roar of Satan and his Santanettes.

None so deaf as those that will not hear.

None so blind as those that will not see.

-Matthew Henry

The Devil wants you to believe that God is not in the crisis, he wants you to be convinced that God has abandoned you. Satan loves God’s children to be frightened and uncertain of their future. He likes us to think that our Father has taken a vacation during our time of need. God isn’t playing Marco Polo with us.

He isn’t standing in the background suddenly pulling away as soon as we get close enough to touch Him. He isn’t thinking of ways to deceive you. He cannot lie. You can trust Him. He does what He says he’ll do.

Numbers 23:19 God is not human, that He should lie, not a human being, that He should change his mind.

Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?

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Unfortunately, what usually happens is, we take scripture out of context by not reading all the verses and meaning behind faith, prayer, conditions, and consequences. We want all the good, but want none of the responsibility that goes with it. We want to name it, claim it, and watch things magically work out on our behalf never asking for God’s will in any of it. We want our circumstances to get better but sometimes don’t yield to the necessary changes that are crucial to the crucifixion of ourselves. We don’t listen for that small still voice. For some reason we think we can lead ourselves, but then when life falls apart, and everything is out of balance, we wonder why we can’t hear God. Pride keeps us from running to his arms sometimes. And He is just waiting there with mercy and grace held out wide saying, “Come on, keep stepping forward, hold on…dear one”, just as a parent leads a toddler beginning to walk. “Follow my voice…don’t look back…I’m right here…I’m just a whisper away.”

Kings 19:12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.

Job 26:14 And these are but the outer fringe of His works; how faint the whisper we hear of Him! Who then can understand the thunder of His power?”

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Watermelon Wonder In blender crush: 1 Cup crushed ice ½ Cup organic lime and coconut carbonated juice ½ Cup fresh watermelon juice from sliced fruit 3 tablespoon cactus

Health Benefits of Cactus Juice has shown to help prevent inflammation in the muscles, arteries, gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular region. It also can be used as a laxative to effectively treat constipation. It can reduce inflammation in the urethra and bladder. Thus, reducing painful infections. Cactus juice is a good source of phytochemicals, which can help strengthen the body's immune system. The Nopal Cactus has high levels of betalins, which are antioxidants shown to prevent premature aging, promote optimal cellular health, reduce inflammation and detoxify the human body. The American Heart Association has conducted research examining the benefits of cactus juice in reducing cholesterol levels. Nopal cactus nectar is high in soluble fiber, which the American Heart Association has shown to help control or reduce cholesterol levels. Cactus juice has shown to be an effective remedy for noninsulin diabetes. Research shows that cactus can help decrease and stabilize blood glucose and insulin levels. It provides you with betacarotene, vitamin B, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, calcium and numerous other minerals and vitamins. This fruit is rich in amino acids, specifically taurine which has antioxidants and flavonoids, both of which are beneficial to the body.

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A new study reports that the number of people who frequently experience symptoms of heartburn, also called acid reflux, has almost doubled in the past decade. Acid reflux can mean more than just discomfort -- too much surging stomach acid can create scars in the esophagus, causing food to get stuck on its way down. Research also has connected acid reflux with an increased risk of esophageal cancer, particularly if it is chronic and untreated.

Besides dietary issues, weight, and bad habits being culprits, eating in a hurry or under great stress, not chewing slowly can greatly impact your digestive track.

Asthma is also another culprit that can trigger GERD. Some experts hypothesize that the coughing that accompanies asthmatic attacks can cause changes in pressure in the chest, which then can trigger reflux. Certain drugs for asthma that dilate the airways may also relax the LES and contribute to GERD. Likewise, GERD has been associated with a number of other upper respiratory problems and may be a cause of asthma, rather than a result.

There is much research showing that the use of Steroids, NSAIDs, Antidepressants, Pain Meds, and Bronchodilators, Antibiotics, etc. can cause much damage to the stomach and esophageal lining.

But worse taking antacids for relief can complicate the matter further. Antacids are routinely prescribed for heartburn or acid reflux. Most of the time it is not the overproduction of the stomach acid (hydrochloric acid), but the underproduction that leads to heartburn. Without adequate stomach acid, the protein in the food cannot be broken down (digested) properly, so the bacteria (which can now grow freely in a low acid environment) in the gut will finish the job or part of it, as a result producing gas and acid (not hydrochloric acid) leading to heartburn.

Antacids may provide temporary relief by neutralizing the bacterial acids, as well as already low stomach acids, but in the long run they might lead to dangerous consequences by diminishing stomach acid levels. Stomach acid is necessary for the utilization of protein, and for the absorption of minerals, especially zinc and magnesium; and vitamin B12. Zinc is already a poorly absorbed mineral and taking antacids decreases its absorption even further. The most important role of this mineral is perhaps in the fusion of nucleic acids RNA and DNA, which are crucial for cell division, cell growth and repair. Zinc is also essential for protecting against prostate enlargement and prostate cancer in men. Moreover, zinc is used in the production of stomach acid. Low stomach acid levels cause low zinc levels, which in turn causes lower acid production, and so on, in a vicious cycle.

People with asthma, eczema, and arthritis often have low stomach acid levels. When protein is not broken down properly, the large protein particles can get absorbed into the bloodstream and carried into the systemic circulation, provoking immune system or allergic reactions. Allergic reactions create inflammation, swelling, pain, and tissue damage. Antacids can contribute to the development of these diseases or make them worse. I know after suffering severely for four months, one medical test after another, three doctors later, and no relief, nothing was working. The stomach pain and constant swallowing of acid that would spew back up was relentless. Drinking water wasn’t even possible without getting sick.

Everything had a bad salty taste. It was so unbearable I became depressed at the thought of eating, or trying to hold food in. I was forced to give up certain things I enjoyed like coffee water, and EATING! I became desperate trying different home remedies that failed and left me hopeless. Until one day I ran across this crazy broth recipe guaranteed to heal. I was so desperate I would have walked on hot coals if it would have cured me. I never post on anything I haven’t tried or made when it comes to my e-zines so trust me what I am about to share with you is truly a miracle in the making! Seriously, when I awoke the very next morning after trying this remedy I thought it was some kind of fluke. When pain and discomfort suddenly disappear after suffering more than 100 days in agony, you want to share it with the world! I am a research hound when it comes to natural remedies after watching my husband suffer partial paralysis and diagnosed terminally 17 years ago one week after our wedding. He was on so many medications, it was horrific to watch him waste away. I turned to God, natural foods, and educating myself in preparing meals that would aid in healing the body. He is still here today! Praise God! Okay I promised you some wonderful news on relief and healing for the lining of the digestive system. Here we go.

The recipe I am about to share with you is my own. I tried the recipes that were available online but they left little to be desired. So “Bam”, as Emeril Lagasse would say, I kicked it up a notch with flavor and additional healing properties.

11 -Cont’d

Recipe Equipment: Chef’s Knife Fine strainer Funnel Stockpot or Crock Pot / Slow Cooker 3 Quart size mason jars Roasting pan Ingredients: 5 lbs. pounds of beef bones 4 or more quarts of cold water 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar 1 sweet bulb onion 4 large carrots 2 celery sticks 1 leek stalk Celtic sea salt – optional – only after broth is completed *I don’t add salt, since celery and the bone marrow is salty.

Just a cup a day keeps the acid away!

(Drink first thing in the morning)

Preparation: 1. Place all bones even the ones with meaty bits on them on a large roasting pan that has removable drain tray, cover with foil and roast at 350 for 55 minutes. (This softens the bones) 2. Meanwhile add the water, and vinegar into the stockpot and begin heating up. (The vinegar draws out the marrow) 3. Once the bones have cooled, add the browned bones to the pot, add additional water if needed to cover the bones.

4. If using crockpot, cook on high for 1 hour and then reduce heat to low for 12-24 hrs. The longer the bones cook the more marrow comes lose.

6. Remove the bones with tongs. Strain stock removing any debris or bone pieces.

7. Put in large plastic container and let cool 20-30 minutes then place in fridge overnight.

8. Skim the thick layer of hardened fat on top, in which you will notice a gelatinous matter beneath.

9. Place the gelatinous matter back into crock pot with veggies, and 4 cups of water. Cook for another 12 hours. Remove veggies and ladle into wide mouth mason jars using funnel. You can use veggies for a different meal, casserole or soup, nothing is to be wasted.

The preparation will last up to 3 days in fridge. You can also freeze supply. You will end up with a pot of rather repulsivelooking brown liquid containing globs of gelatinous and fatty material. But don’t despair. By the end of it, it will be like liquid gold full of savor and loaded with healthy nutrients you will crave after your first taste.

12 Only heat up what you need to use. You don’t want to heat and reheat the tincture, it could cause spoilage if done -Cont’d next page

I pour mine into a coffee mug and sip away. It is my morning coffee now. It is actually very soothing, like a comfort food. I will also drink it in the evening if I am not up to preparing anything else. I keep a crockpot of stock brewing in my kitchen three days out of the week. I am still in awe of this wonderful natural remedy. However, do not be fooled. You may feel better instantly, but that doesn’t give you a license to ingest whatever you want. I found out the hard way when deciding my gut was strong enough to handle homemade tamales at a farmer’s market…ugh! I spent three horrifying days in misery doubling over in pain. Immediately had to get back to my low carb, no dairy, no gluten, no citric acid, soda, or sweets diet.

However, still clinging to my ice coffee, my latest craze. I found out that ice brewed coffee is very low in acid, but can be very high in caffeine. A little goes a long way and gives me just enough flavor to not miss my hot brewed coffee as much.

In my opinion, the broth is unbelievably healing. However, I have read scores of stories on its effectiveness. Below you will find nutritional and health factors: Helps to heal and seal your gut, and promotes healthy digestion: The gelatin found in bone broth is a hydrophilic colloid. It attracts and holds liquids, including digestive juices, thereby supporting proper digestion Inhibits infection caused by cold and flu viruses, etc.: Reduces joint pain and inflammation, due to the chondroitin sulfates, glucosamine, and other compounds extracted from the boiled down cartilage. It fights inflammation because of the amino acids such as glycine, proline, and arginine. Arginine, for example, has been found to be particularly beneficial for the treatment of sepsis5 (whole-body inflammation). Arginine is necessary for immune system function and wound healing. It is needed for the production and release of growth hormone and helps regenerate damaged liver cells. It is also needed for the production of sperm.

Glycine also has calming effects, which may help you sleep better and promotes strong, healthy bones: As mentioned above, bone broth contains high amounts of calcium, magnesium, and other nutrients that play an important role in healthy bone formation. It also promotes healthy hair and nail growth. Gelatin promotes probiotic balance and growth. Bone broth increases collagen reducing the appearance of wrinkles and banishing cellulite. Broth and stock contain sodium, chloride, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. If broth and stock are made properly as I described in recipe, they will contain gelatin which is the huge digestive aid I have been speaking of. The minerals found in broth and stock are important for bone and teeth health. Osteoporosis and tooth decay were not prominent diseases of Native cultures because of the common use of broth and stocks in their cuisine. Folklore suggests using broth and stock for colds, the flu, and asthma. Gelatin, specifically, has been used to treat diseases of the blood, diabetes, arthritis, and even cancer.

Folklore or not, all I know is that it works for me! I pray that this information will reach someone who may need it. Happy brewing!

Sources -http://greenbeandelivery.com/healthytimes/foodnutrition/the-benefits-of-broth-and-stock/, http://draxe.com/the-healing-power-ofbone-broth-for-digestion-arthritis-and-cellulite/ http://www.kitchenstewardship.com/2013/02/21/10-reasons-i-drink-bone-broth/

Where to find beef bones? You can usually find them at your local grocer, but you may have to order it. It isn’t a very popular product in the summer months, since they are usually used to prepare soups.

However, as desperate as I was didn’t hesitate to hit every market I could to find what I needed. In order to get the very best of nutrients, get in touch with a local farmer with grass fed beef. I spend on the average $48 for a 4 week’s supply of grass-fed bones. This is nothing compared to the $1000’s spent on over the counter and prescription antacids each year with no healing that only band-aid the issue.

The bone broth alongside of dietary changes, and other remedies such as Himalayan Sea Salt work towards curing the problem. Read in next article.

The articles and information written is not designed to and does not provide medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion, treatment or services to any individual. The information provided in this site, or through linkages to other sites, is not a substitute for medical or professional care, and should not be used in place of a visit, call consultation or the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider. Food for Soul, its Editor, contributing writers, or its successors is not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any other information, services or product you obtain through this magazine. The information contained is strictly for educational purposes.

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Eat Salt to Lower Blood Pressure?

Salt is essential for life -- you absolutely CANNOT live without it. However, most don't recognize that there are enormous variances between the standard, refined table and cooking salt. Even most Sea Salts sold in local grocers isn’t in its purest form. As you may or may not be aware, most table salts contain quite a few ingredients. Some of these are “anti-caking agents” which function to keep the salt granules from clumping together so your salt will fall freely through the holes of your salt shaker. There are anti-caking agents, E535 or Yellow Prussiate of Soda (YPS), in table salt, sea salt, and both iodized and non-iodized versions of both. This is how Wikipedia describes Sodium Ferro cyanide: “Sodium Ferrocyanide is a chemical additive known as E 535 in the EU. It is added to road and food grade salt as an anticaking agent. When combined with iron, it converts to a deep blue pigment called Prussian blue. In photography, it is used for bleaching, toning, and fixing.

It is used as a stabilizer for the coating on welding rods. In the petroleum industry, it is used for removal of mercaptans (Mercaptan is also known as methanethiol and is a harmless but pungent-smelling gas). It is often added to natural gas, which is colorless and odorless, to make it easier to detect. Sodium Ferrocyanide is produced industrially from hydrogen cyanide.” Hydrogen cyanide (HCN), sometimes called prussic acid, is an inorganic compound. It is a colorless, extremely poisonous liquid that boils slightly above room temperature, at 25.6 °C (78.1 °F). HCN is produced on an industrial scale and is a highly valuable precursor to many chemical compounds ranging from polymers to pharmaceuticals. I don’t know about you, but I prefer my insides not be bleached, anti-caked, poisoned or prepared for welding rods. And as always cyanide mentioned in the same sentence as food product should cause alarm sirens to go off in one’s head!

The differences of these salts can have major influence on one’s health. If you want your body to function properly, you need salt complete with all-natural elements. Today's common table salt has nothing in common with natural salt. Your table salt is actually 97.5% sodium chloride and 2.5% chemicals such as moisture absorbents, and iodine. Dried at over 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, the excessive heat alters the natural chemical structure of the salt. This is by far the purest salt available on earth and is absolutely uncontaminated with any toxins or pollutants. This salt from the Himalayas is known as "white gold." Together with pure spring water, Himalayan Crystal Salt offers all the natural elements exactly identical to the elements in your body -- the very same elements originally found existing in the "primal sea."

Containing all of the 84 elements found in your body, the benefits of natural Himalayan Crystal Salt include:  Regulates water content throughout your body  Creates healthy pH balance in your cells, particularly your brain cells!  Helps to regulate blood sugar  Reduces the signs of aging  Causes generation of hydroelectric energy in the cells of your body  Aids in digestion by absorption of food particles through your intestinal tract  Supports respiratory health  Increases sinus health  Prevents muscle cramps  Aids in bone strength  Naturally promotes sleep Dissolve approximately ¼ teaspoon of Pink Himalayan Sea Salt  Increases your libido in 6-8 ounces of water and drink each morning.  Encourages vascular health

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This product in combination with water, actually is vital for the regulation of blood pressure. Where can you find this treasured gold? Farmer’s market, wholefood stores, and even some of the local grocers or online. Make sure you read the labels. There is mounds of information on the side effects of ingesting the anti-caking agents in our table salt, packaged products, and processed foods. It is enough to make you mad that our FDA has allowed this to enter into our food production and into the mouths of our babies, between the chicken nuggets, French fries at McD’s, and other favorite fastfake-food establishments, and even medicines, it’s no wonder the youth are dying from one of the most leading cause of death, cardiac arrest! Our bodies were built to last longer. This is unacceptable. We must pay attention, and take action.

This may all seem overwhelming and change doesn’t always happen overnight. Taking a step at a time making changes within your food preparation and eating habits can and will make a difference.

If every consumer realized what they were in-taking, and feeding their families, children, and even their pets, they would understand why we have such a health crisis, unnecessary medical expenses, and even death! If after you have read the following information and still don’t understand, please consult a brain specialist as there is something seriously wrong with anyone who would continue to consume such poison on a regular basis. Much less feed it to their children. I admit, I’m guilty! I have taken my kids to their favorite fast food places and watched them scarf down the nuggets of nothingness and fatal French fries, and they survived. It’s just not something you want to be in the habit of. It is one of those overtime and much consumption slow killers I believe. I didn’t start having health issues until my late 30’s after years of consuming this crap. However, you wouldn’t hold a grenade in your hand after the pin is pulled….so why wait for the time-bomb of terminal illness to strike…throw away the ferrocyanide!

When reading the below information it is either going to shock some or enrage some! But whatever the outcome, I pray that the knowledge will find its way to your tables.

This is some information I located on Sciencelab.com which is a company out of Houston, Texas in regards to:

(Sodium ferrocyanide MSDS) Potential Acute and Chronic Health Effects:

Extremely hazardous in case of ingestion. Hazardous in case of skin contact (irritant), of eye contact (irritant), of inhalation.

DEVELOPMENTAL TOXICITY: The substance is toxic

to blood, lungs, mucous membranes.

Repeated or prolonged exposure to the substance can produce target organs damage.

Routes of Entry: Eye contact. Inhalation. Ingestion.

Chronic Effects on Humans: The substance is toxic to blood, lungs, mucous membranes. Other Toxic Effects on Humans:

E x t r e m e l y h a z a r d o u s i n c a s e o f i n g e s t i o n .15 Hazardous in case of skin contact (irritant), of inhalation.

DOT Classification: CLASS 9: Miscellaneous hazardous material. Marine pollutant

Heartbroken? Teen troubling you?

Marriage in the mud?

Dear Maggie: My best friend of 13 years who was single made a pass at my husband. I stopped talking to her or having anything else to do with her after it happened.

It almost completely wrecked my marriage too as I blamed my husband also. She had always been a great part of our lives even during holidays and I was devastated when this happened. Now after a few years, she located me on Facebook and is trying to connect with me. I not only lost my best friend but the trust was broken and I am still having trust issues. I feel that if I don’t connect then it is like I am not forgiving her. I know I have to forgive, but I am scared to allow her back into my life. What do I do?

Afraid to trust in Texas Dear Afraid: What has taken place is not uncommon. A single family friend can often become the target of a potential affair or the pursuer of an affair in a family setting. Fortunately, you were able to prevent this from going further. You do have to forgive for your own sake. Unforgiveness is like a disease that spreads quickly. The only connection I would engage in with this individual is to encourage her to seek counseling to avoid this kind of issue in the future. I would address her in a written letter by snail mail, not internet! Internet mail can be interpreted wrongly causing more issues. I would explain what this has done to your family, your marriage, and your inability to trust again. As much as you need to forgive let her know that to allow her back into your family would be too risky. The Bible says to guard our hearts.

Sometimes you have to cut the ties that bind. Not just in relationships, but with the past. In this instance you are still bound because you have not fully addressed this issue with her or maybe even yourself. Proverbs 4:23 says that, “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life”. This does not mean to put your guard up against others.

In doing so, you shut off the valve of love within you. It means to be more vigilant in choosing of friendships, and those you allow to associate within your family unit. I would suggest some marital, and individual, Godly counseling for a period of time so you can move past this and learn to trust again.

Faithfully,

Maggie Write to: Letters: FFS - Dear Maggie – INSPIREMEFOODFORSOUL@GMAIL.COM or P.O. Box 304 Tomball, Tx 77377

By submitting a letter to Food for Soul via snail mail, fax, or email, you grant Food for Soul and its successors to publish it. Dear Maggie expresses personal and professional opinions and views. These opinions or views are not intended to treat or diagnose; nor are meant to replace treatment and care that you receive from a licensed physician or mental health professional. Food for Soul or their employees are not responsible for the results following advice in Dear Maggie in any given situation. Food for Soul reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity. The advice offered by publication is intended for informational purposes only. Use of email or other media to provide this advice is not intended to replace or substitute for any professional, financial, medical, legal, or other professional advice.

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Cholesterol-lowering ability of collard greens may be the greatest of all commonly eaten cruciferous vegetables. They provide cancer protection. Our liver uses cholesterol as a basic building block to produce bile acids. Bile acids are specialized molecules that aid in the digestion and absorption of fat through a process called emulsification. These molecules are typically stored in fluid in our gall bladder, and when we eat a fat-containing meal, they get released into the intestine where they help ready the fat for interaction with enzymes and eventual absorption up into the body. When we eat collard greens, fiber-related nutrients in this cruciferous vegetable bind together with some of the bile acids in the intestine in such a way that they simply stay inside the intestine and pass out of our body naturally, rather than absorbing along with the fat they have emulsified. When this happens, our liver needs to replace the lost bile acids by drawing upon our existing supply of cholesterol, which causes the cholesterol level to drop. They provide three powerful properties that lower cancer risk by supporting, and detoxing that works the anti-inflammatory systems. They have been under research and proven to aid in the healing of Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel disease, insulin resistance, irritable bowel syndrome, metabolic syndrome, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and ulcerative colitis. The fiber content of collard greens, which is over 7 grams each cup—makes this vegetable a natural choice for digestive system support. Yet the fiber content of collard greens is only one of their digestive support mechanisms. Researchers have determined that the sulforaphane made from a glucosinolate in collard greens (glucoraphanin) helps protect the health of our stomach lining by preventing bacterial overgrowth of Helicobacter pylori in our stomach or too much clinging by this bacterium to our stomach wall. These hardy greens also greatly support the cardiovascular system by their exceptional folate content. Although this cruciferous vegetable scores a rating of "excellent" in our food rating system. These greens provide more than 350 micrograms of folate in every hundred calories. That's 50% more than the amount provided by 100 calories' of broccoli, 100% more than the amount provided by 100 calories' of Brussels sprouts, 3 times the amount provided by 100 calories' of cabbage, and over 7 times the amount provided by 100 calories' of kale. Folate is a critical B-vitamin for support of cardiovascular health, including its key role in prevention of homocysteine build-up (called hyperhomocysteinemia). Besides all their great benefits…they just taste AWESOME!

RECIPE INGREDIANTS: 2 HUGE STALKS (bunches) OF FRESH COLLARDS 2 STRIPS LOW SODIUM HICKORY SMOKED BACON (No nitrate, 100% Natural) TRIM FAT- OPTIONAL

1/4 CUP APPLE CIDAR VINEGAR 1/2 Tsp of HICKORY SMOKED SEA SALT (100% NATURAL) NO anti-caking agents

DIRECTIONS: Wash greens thoroughly, cutting away from stem. Discard stem. Roll stack of leaves and slice into 1-2” pieces. Depending on how bulky you like to eat your greens. Place in large soup pot and cover half way with water, cook on Med to Med-Hi depending on stove for 1 hour or until soft. You do not want them boiling, otherwise you burn out the nutrients. Add water as necessary.

Serve over brown rice, the juice makes an excellent sopping for homemade cornbread or poured over mashed cauliflower or potatoes.

A physician in a pot for under $6! Or grow your own like we do, costing $3.

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For those new to the Paleo style eating which is one of the healthiest ways to go, because it is the absolute only nutritional method that works with your genetics…beware! Research in biology, biochemistry, Ophthalmology, Dermatology and many others in medical research have highly indicated it is our modern diet, full of refined foods, preservatives, trans fats and sugar, that is at the root of degenerative diseases. It can sometimes be a little overwhelming when trying new recipes, especially if it is something completely out of the ordinary. If not following directions to the hilt can have sometimes an unpleasant result, which can easily make one give up trying it again. I could have easily given up on the bone broth diet after one Sunday morning. I found this blog while researching “What was wrong with my broth? I literally busted into tears of laughter due to the fact it was exactly what I had experienced that very morning. Enjoy!

GET TISSUE...I LAUGHED SO HARD...I CRIED! Holy Cr@p!! Is Bone Broth supposed to smell like that?!

I honestly thought something might have died in kitchen when I woke up that morning. The smell was awful and the whole house reeked. I had just started my first bone broth in the crock pot the prior afternoon, but apparently at some point after I’d gone to bed something had sneaked into the kitchen, slithered its way into my crock pot, and died. And was now slowly decaying in the simmering juices that was supposed to have been a nice warm comforting bone broth. At least that is what I imagined must have happened, because surely a bone broth was not supposed to smell like that! Right? Just to be clear, I am a carnivore. I like meat. Eating meat was not one of the hard adjustments I had to make when switching to a paleo diet. One of my favorite ways to eat meat is in a nice hearty stew. I have very fond memories of my grandmother’s stew. She would make her stews from homemade stock that came from boiling bones for hours on end. And her stews were amazing. So when I read about bone broths on the paleo diet and how healthy they are, I didn’t have any of the reservations that I hear some people have about trying them. There was no “ick factor” for me. On the contrary, I was really looking forward to making my first bone broth and trying that “nice warm cup of broth” for breakfast that is apparently a staple for some. So, when I went to bed that evening, the crock pot simmering away with my grass-fed knuckle bone and fresh garlic, I fully expected to wake up the next morning with the house smelling of savory, beefy yumminess. So, imagine my surprise, when instead I woke to a smell so putrid and overwhelming that I rushed to open every window in the house, despite the brisk fifty-degree morning. I immediately went to computer and Googled “bone broth smells bad”. Sure enough, I got a number of hits. Most were a general consensus of “It doesn’t smell quite like you might expect and might be mildly unpleasant, but don’t worry, your soups will taste great when you use it”. I decided maybe I had over-reacted, maybe just the aroma in the air was bad, but the broth itself would be tasty. I opened the crock pot to investigate. And nearly vomited into it. I quickly closed it again, unplugged it and hauled it onto the back deck. This stuff could not stay in the house any longer. Still, there was a part of me that could not accept the fact that I, being such a big fan of all things meat, couldn’t take the smell, let alone the taste of bone broth. I went back to my reliable resource Google and found one gal who, like me, was shocked by the stench of her bone broth, but insisted that after she had strained all the solids out, left in the fridge overnight and then removed the fat that solidified at the top, that the resulting clarified broth did not smell bad at all and ended up making a great soup. Ok, I had some hope. I just might be able to keep my carnivore membership card. I strained out the bones, chunks of meat, fat, marrow, and other unidentifiable.

Luckily I have a dog, I don’t know what people without dogs do with this stuff. I can’t imagine putting it in my trash. Maybe, they plan bone broth day around trash pickup day? In any case, my dog thought he had died and gone to heaven. I put the strained broth into a clean pot and into the fridge overnight. The next day, I optimistically pulled out the pot, carefully removed the solid layer of fat off the top and gingerly sniffed at the gelatinous goo that remained. Then I unceremoniously dumped it down the sink drain. I decided I just shouldn’t be forced to ingest something that makes me physically gag. I didn’t think there was any way I would be able to force myself to even taste anything made from it. The crock pot and the pot I used in the fridge overnight sat out on the porch filled with dish soap, baking soda and lemon juice for 3 days. This experiment had not gone as planned. After recovering from the trauma of it all, I did more research into making bone broths and identified some of the things I did which may or may not have been the reason my broth turned out so nauseatingly awful.

18

Bone broth, round 2. I roasted my 2 pounds of marrow bones in the oven at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Then I added them to

I had used the first recipe I’d come across which called for one to simply plunk the bones into the pot with a couple tablespoons of cider vinegar, some crushed garlic and enough water to cover everything and cook on low for 8-24hrs.

After reading more about it, I found the majority of sources recommend first roasting the bones in the oven and then simmering with a bunch of carrots, celery and onions. I also read the especially fatty bones (which my knuckle bone most certainly was) tend to smell much less pleasant than others. And, finally, I discovered, quite by accident that fresh garlic when cooked a long time in the crock pot takes on a certain character which I personally find exceptionally unpleasant.

In the meantime, I had made another meal in the crock pot with fresh garlic and although my husband raved about it and ate it up, I couldn’t stomach it. So, armed with this new information and a new strategy in mind, it was off to the natural food store to find the freshest grass-fed marrow bones I could find. –unknown blogger

Please do not let this discourage you from trying the bone marrow broth, the benefits far out way the risk of bad odor. If you follow the recipe I have included in this issue you will find it to be tolerable and ingestible. I have to admit the day I messed up with my recipe and had that experience, my dogs wouldn’t even take the scraps, and one of our pooches is named “Millie”, but we call her “Millie Goat” because she eats anything.

This dog has cost us three sofas, an easy chair, cups, dishes, shoes, dining chairs, and anything she can put her mouth on. Thank goodness she is past the super chewy stage, but even my kids laughed hysterically when they realized that she wasn’t touching the bones from the broth after she took a whiff, and even our other dog, Dixie, sprinted in the opposite direction as if I was chasing her with a live snake! They pleaded with me to not open the lid of the crock pot. I figured I had finally come up with a secret weapon to rid ourselves of unwanted pests, and in-laws. Surely, nothing could survive the atomic blast of bad bone marrow broth smell in the house! Yet, again I want to encourage you to try the recipe, and many other options on the paleo way of eating. I received my blood test after a four month check up to find that all my lab results had improved so greatly my doctor was in shock, “Whatever it is you are doing keep doing it!” were his exact words. Again, I will remind my reading audience I will not promote what I do not believe in. Happy bone-brothing! –B.Graff B.G.

“Laughter is poison to fear.”

― George R.R. Martin, A Game of Thrones ABOUT THIS AUTHOR (GEORGE R.R. MARTIN) George R. R. Martin was born September 20, 1948, in Bayonne, New Jersey. Martin attended Mary Jane Donohoe School and Marist High School. He began writing very young, selling monster stories to other neighborhood children for pennies, dramatic readings included. Later he became a comic book fan and collector in high school, and began to write fiction for comic fanzines (amateur fan magazines). Martin's first professional sale was made in 1970 at age 21: "The Hero," sold to Galaxy, published in February, 1971 issue. Other sales followed. In 1970 Martin received a B.S. in Journalism from Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, graduating summa cum laude. He went on to complete a M.S. in Journalism in 1971, also from Northwestern. As a conscientious objector, Martin did alternative service 1972-1974 with VISTA, attached to Cook County Legal Assistance Foundation. He also directed chess tournaments for the Continental Chess Association from 1973-1976, and was a Journalism instructor at Clarke College, Dubuque, Iowa, from 1976-1978. He wrote part-time throughout the 1970s while working as a VISTA Volunteer, chess director, and teacher.

In 1975 he married Gale Burnick. They divorced in 1979, with no children. Martin became a full-time writer in 1979. He was writerin-residence at Clarke College from 1978-79. Martin signed on as a story editor for Twilight Zone at CBS Television in 1986. In 1987 Martin became an Executive Story Consultant for Beauty and the Beast at CBS. In 1988 he became a Producer for Beauty and the Beast, then in 1989 moved up to Co-Supervising Producer. He was Executive Producer for Doorways, a pilot which he wrote for Columbia Pictures Television, which was filmed during 1992-93. Martin's present home is Santa Fe, New Mexico. He is a member of Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America (he was South-Central Regional Director 1977-1979, and Vice President 1996-1998), and of Writers' Guild of America, West.

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What do you do when you suddenly find yourself in the mix of a mess? I mean a mess so deep you can’t climb your way out. Do you panic? Do you scream? Suffer in silence? Do you ex-communicate yourself from the world? I know personally I have done all of the above at one point or another in my life.

It can be quite disheartening when suddenly all the plans you had made were curtailed by some unforeseen semi of disaster rushing at you in a head on collision. I certainly don’t enjoy those moments and certain no one else does. It is difficult to concentrate or articulate ones thoughts, when the mind is cluttered with chaos. How do you function when everything around you seems dysfunctional? How can you step forward when your feet are buried beneath the weight of murky waters? Suddenly, nothing makes sense anymore. You find yourself questioning others, yourself, and yes at times, even God. It can be a very isolating place to be. I remember when I had experienced writers block so bad I wondered if I would ever be able to write a single word again. It had been years since I had that problem, so it was unexpected when it reared its ugly head. Like a snake it snuck up and bit me before I realized it. When you have a large family, though it be a blessing, it comes with much responsibility, drama, and many dilemmas. It can be a combination to combust if not monitored carefully. When I say monitor, I mean monitoring oneself especially. You have to learn when to say no sometimes. I have had a “no” issue for quite a while now. Actually for more than a decade! I didn’t realize the toll it had taken. .

If someone needed something, “Here I am!” I shout. After twenty-nine years of raising six children and still have another six to go with my youngest. I almost feel like I am running out of gas. The wheels are worn, the door hinges are getting rusty, and the tank is running on fumes. This vehicle is coming to a quick stop!

This year has been eventful to say the least.

It is wearing to constantly run into circumstances that wear you down. Many moments have I begged for Calgon to take me away, FAR AWAY! I even selfishly prayed for the rapture. But God wasn’t stopping all of His plans to fit into mine. Desperately wanting to retreat, I would beg God for some breathing room. I felt as if a mob of madness was following me like a shadow everywhere I stepped. It was too hard to shake it off. The only time I felt at peace was when I’d write.

But even that became difficult when I experienced the worst writers block in years.

My creativity was capped off by the chaos.

After much to do one afternoon, I had decided I was taking time out to go to the college nearby and write, think, relax, and create! Yet, the moment I sat down at the computer, my chair suddenly started sinking, inch by inch it jerked lower till it finally made it nearly to the ground! Ugh, okay no biggie.

I will just get another chair. Almost every chair I pulled up had some kind of issue. The mechanism to lowering or leaning back was either broken or missing. Okay fine. I find the best possible fit and begin to set up my writing session. While logging into computer, a message came up that said it needed to restart for updates. This delayed me an additional twenty minutes. Apparently the campus was having issues with their server.

Things like this happen, and though I know this, were beginning to quickly lose my enthusiasm to write. I pull out my ear buds to listen to nature sounds while I write to find them in such a tangled mess it was as if some tangle fairy found them in the night neatly tucked away in my backpack and said, “Hmmm, I know just the thing to really send Brenda into a tizzy...hehe”, it took me another minute or so of frustration. At that moment I thought, okay, you just need a Mocha Ice Coffee to get in the mood.

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I race over to the snack bar to purchase my ice coffee, get back to my desk, and turn as hard as I may the lid, could not get it open. I didn’t have a crowbar handy at the moment!

The poor man sitting next to me has witnessed the fiasco of my mission to write for nearly forty minutes, untangling and tangling my ear buds, musical chairs with me fussing, and huffing. He reaches out his hand and says, “May I” offering to open the coffee for me. I was embarrassed. I knew my sighs of “good grief’s” were resonating through the whole campus! Anyhow, coffee open, chair situated, computer finally booted up, put in my scan disk and just as I was preparing with a thought to write…there were a pair of young men sitting to the right of me, I will just call “Bevis and Butthead” bursting out in laughter while spending quality time wisely watching insane YouTube videos. “Don’t you guys have a job or class you need to be at?” I thought! I turn to the computer screen in disgust and stared blankly for another thirty minutes! I couldn’t write a single word! It was paralyzing. This is when I realized that my family and life had finally fried my brain!

There was not one single intelligent, expressive, heart-felt word to utter. It was over! I couldn’t have written one letter of a word if my life depended on it. Sadly, I read mindless post on social media and went home. Writer’s block is a creativity killer.

Sometimes these periods can last days or months. Was it my lack of inspiration? Lack of motivation? Or had I just been slung into a creative black hole? It was depressing.

Nothing had inspired me lately. My mind was absolutely consumed with some things my eldest son and two daughters were going through, my youngest daughter starting 8th grade, my duties as a homeschooler for our

youngest, duties as a wife, and in community, and last but not least my God given purpose to write. I was besieged so much so I was ready to quit. I wanted to raise the white flag and surrender! Give up writing, give up trying, as I felt I would never have the time, ability, or talent any further since everyone was sucking the life out of me. I literally had to buy an open and close sign to put on my desk to let them know that when the closed is facing, don’t ask mom, “Where’s the peanut butter?” Or “Mom, have you seen my gym shorts?”, or Hubby asking where some tool I can’t even pronounce is that he misplaced for the hundredth time! This isn’t the time to call and gossip about Betty Sues black mole, or Martha’s mound of weeds in front yard. Ringer off! This isn’t the time to interrupt my quiet time which is unfortunately, sitting at my desk next to stove in the kitchen…which is the most high-traffic area next to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta! There just isn’t any private areas of our home where I can utilize a zone with no one passing through it. That is where the ear buds, and sign come in. I’ve had to write and design much with chaos surrounding me. Recently, I realized more than ever if I wait for chaos to quiet down I would never accomplish anything. I know that God is NOT the author of confusion, yet I have allowed it to creep up like a vine in our home on many occasions. After becoming so stressed recently and ending up in hospital unable to breathe, thinking I was having a heart attack. Discovered my oxygen level was horrifically low. I was spending so much time huffing and puffing; I was hyperventilating my way through stress. I realized at that point I absolutely had to put my foot down and start saying “No”, no I will not be your GPS, no I will not allow much needed rest and time to focus interrupted by the insanity of it all. “No”, I will not be manipulated into thinking I don’t care enough if I say “No”. I say all this to say that it isn’t beneficial to be a people pleaser. You cannot take the responsibility for those that are capable and should be taking responsibility for themselves.

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It is one thing to serve, but to manage those who refuse to manage themselves is insane.

All this does is enable the behavior of manipulation and a lackadaisical mentality in those who refuse to handle their issues...and I’m not speaking of those that are truly seeking help if they sincerely cannot handle the circumstance. I really got to thinking as I was laying their on that hospital gurney, “What is this?” I shouldn’t be the one laid up sick! I knew while I was laying there my older children were chilling in the comfort of their home not giving it a thought, my youngest two were not even the slightest stressed over my being hooked up to hoses, wires and needles while they bickered over seating arrangements in the ER. I was wheeled in for test as they were checking for a blood clot in lungs, or leg…..terrified of outcome, thinking…is this it Lord? Is this the payoff to not be there to raise the rest of my kids because I became too stressed? I didn’t take care of myself enough Lord? Ugh, I was mad...mad as H-E-DOUBLE HOCKEY STICKS! As a matter of fact, I prayed, broke down, begged God as the nurse also held me, and cried “Abba (Daddy) Father let me be okay”, vowing to never allow stress to takes its toll again. I am reminded of the scripture where it states in the Bible we must stay alert.

1 Peter 5:8 (NLV) Keep awake! Watch at all times. The devil is working against you. He is walking around like a hungry lion with his mouth open. He is looking for someone to eat.

It is impossible to stay alert when you are cluttered in every direction. Sometimes you have to start de-cluttering your surrounding first. I mean literally. Searching for items in clutter can be time stealers. I took the opportunity when I couldn’t write to start cleaning out the closets!

It is amazing what a little tidy up, or sometimes gutting out drawers can do for your mind. It is a medical fact that people suffer from depression when living in cluttered homes.

Now my house wasn’t anything like “Hoarders” reality television show, but it was enough to drive me nuts, especially when looking for something. I even went as far as labeling the pet cabinet with food labeled for which pet.

Between the two kids, three cats, two dogs, four finches, and a partridge in a pear tree, no seriously two parakeets, it can get messy. My children don’t seem to mind as they step over their mounds of trash in bedrooms, but I mind.

I know it’s there, I can’t walk away from it or just shut the door and pretend it away. Don’t they know their mom is OCD? Ugh. Anyhow, I know some people live by the seat of their pants and don’t worry about clutter, or time, heck some don’t even own a watch. However, as you get older, time becomes more precious.

You realize how short life can be. You understand your days are numbered and you want to make each and every one count. This is especially true for someone who desires greatly to work in God’s will and purpose. You don’t have time for sucking time stealers. The chaos has to be more controlled, more purposeful. Otherwise, the devil sneaks his way in through the crevices and causes confusion which derails you from following through with your journey's end.

And I purposely want to continue in my plight in or out of the chaos. Things seem so much high pressured these days despite the digital avenues we have at our disposal. It seems as if it actually causes more HYPER-TENSION! Everyone- wants-things-now syndrome! No patience or the surprise of waiting for something. And you can’t refute, after all you now have the ability to email, text, tweet, Skype, Instagram, message, etc…you can fax from your phone, deposit checks to the bank, take selfies, 22

download an app to exercise, buy shoes, or download a computer generated voice of a human if you do not want to be in contact with people. You can even download an app that tells you whether or not you’re a good kisser. Who needs a partner...right? There is an app called “Cry Translator” so you can understand your children’s cry better. Come on, really? Not that I don’t love the access to internet, information, or the fact that I can digitally publish articles, it’s just that sometimes I want to say, “slowdown”! I want to breathe in and out slowly, not hyperventilate my way through this life. I want to have many more years to write, more moments to laugh, and mornings to watch a sunrise. I was trying to think, who was the most famous character in the Bible who made it through chaos? Wanting to encourage myself. I could not pin point just one. They all and I mean all went through some stuff! Here’s just a few.

Adam and Eve kicked out of the Garden of Eden just after b-a-r-e-l-y getting to know each other (Genesis 3:24) leading to two sons, loses both because one, Cain kills other, Abel, and Abel leaves as a fugitive. Eve gives birth to another, Seth who eventually has a son named, Noah (Genesis 6) speaks of the conditions before the flood that led to a decision by God to destroy the earth, but there is a delay, for "Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD." Noah had prayed for his sons, Shem and Japheth to have wisdom and beauty, and great social and cultural achievements. Shem became a prophet of and lived 600 years, serving God as a priest. In the time of Abraham, who was the ninth generation in direct line of descent from Shem. Shem was famous under the name of Malkitzedek (Genesis 14), the “Just King,” who brought offerings to God. He lived to see the eleventh generation of his descendants (Jacob). Together with his worthy greatgrandson Eber, he taught and spread faith in God and in His commands in a school which was known as the Academy of Shem and Eber.

Joseph sold into slavery by his very own brothers (Gen. 37:23-36), yet became the second most powerful man in Egypt next to Pharaoh. He rescued his family during a horrific famine even the ones who sold him.

Moses is found floating down the river and right into his purpose while there was affliction in Egypt, (Exodus 1–5), (Leviticus) in the book of Numbers it screams mayhem. In (Numbers 10-12), the Israelites travel from the wilderness in Sinai to approach the promise land. The people complain about their food, God gives them quail, and because of their greed, He also sends them a plague.

In (Numbers 13-19), there is severe punishment for disobedience and unfaithfulness to God. Moses was frustrated trying to lead the Israelites for 40 years prior to their entrance into the “promise land”!

(Numbers 1:1; 9:1; 20-36 33:38) (Exodus 40:2), the new generation of Israelites again attempt to enter the land to take it as God promised. And then sadly, because of Moses frustration and disobedience he didn’t get to enter the promise land himself. But God said, “ I will give it to your descendants” God swore to give it to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and now the promise was going to be fulfilled. Moses was allowed to take the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob up to the threshold of the Promised Land, but no further. “I have caused you to see it with your eyes, but you shall not cross over there” What a bitter-sweet moment! Moses saw this, and his heart was thrilled at being able to see the Promised Land as never before. Yet, there no doubt a sadness in his heart, knowing that it was his own misrepresentation of God (Numbers 20:7-12) here he stood so close, yet so very far away. “What drama! What pathos!

What inward pain! What sense of accomplishment mixed with disappointment must have been in Moses’ mind as he looked over the land the Lord had promised to Israel” Looking out over the vast landscape, on what must have been a cloudless clear day, Moses saw the end result of his life’s work - leading the children of Israel into the Promised Land - and heard God say, as clearly as he had ever heard God speak, “this is the land.” The chaos of forty-plus years, yet still served its purpose.

Abraham had to relocate many times leaving behind loved ones beginning in (Genesis 12:1) He ask his wife to tell lies fearing for his life. He was caught in domestic disputes between his wife and, the (bondswomen) mother of his first born son.

Separated and heart-broken. Abraham was greatly distressed by his wife's words The Lord told Abraham not to be distressed but to do as his wife commanded. (Genesis 21) God ask him to sacrifice son (Genesis 22), God told him "I will make you a great nation" (Genesis 12:2). This was particularly interesting because previously named, Abram was 75 years old childless (Genesis 12:4; 11:30). Most elderly folk are looking to settle down for the last few years of their life, but here formerly known Abram begins a journey unlike he ever expected.

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Over a period of 25 years, God confirmed with Abraham his future twice. The promises came when Abram was 99 years old (Genesis 17:1-17).

At this time, Abram and Sara were still childless, yet when God told him to change his name Abraham, which means "father of a multitude."

He meant it! Sarah, Abraham’s wife becoming pregnant at age 90! (Genesis 21:2) If that ain’t chaos I don’t know what is! Whew I couldn’t imagine having to chase around a tot at that age.

A great nation had descended from him! He grew strong in faith through the trials (Romans 4:20).

He remains to be one of the most well-known patriarchs of the Bible.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel

Gideon which means "Destroyer," "Mighty

Famine hits Bethlehem forcing the family to move east to Moab with their two sons to survive. There, they set up shop and live for about ten years. The sons marry two girls, Ruth and Orpah. Life is good or so it seemed. Yet, the men die. This leaves Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah man-less and in need of help. Naomi decides to head back to Bethlehem (10 years is enough time to get over a famine, right?) and her daughters-in-law pack their luggage and join her.

Ruth pledges her devotion to Naomi. In Bethlehem, things are not good for the ladies. Naomi is feeling down and out and Ruth is reduced to gleaning in the barley fields just to survive. There, Ruth happens to run into a well-known rich guy named Boaz, who instantly takes a liking to her and offers her all kinds of gathering privileges...Wedding bells start ringing and everyone is happy. Soon, Ruth and Boaz have a son, which makes Naomi happy. The women in town name the baby Obed and, surprise, surprise, he goes on to be the grandfather of King David. Talk about a happy ending from a chaotic beginning. (Ruth 1:16)

warrior was called to leadership when living in a winepress like a scaredy-cat hiding from the enemy, which included his own family! (Judges 6:1-35) He doubted both himself and God, requesting proof of God's will by three miracles (Judges 6:36-40). In (Judges 8:10) he fought with only 300 men against the Midians (135,000) and won! He became a man of Valor, and victor in war as God had seen he’d do.

Jeremiah was still a young man when the spirit of prophecy came upon him. He was fearful to accept such a responsibility, declaring, "I am still a boy!" (Jeremiah 1:6-8) He was persecuted and troubled under the weight of ministry which prompted much violence towards him. His messages of doom (Jer.11:21-23) kept him as a constant target as many wanted to take his life.

He was referred to as the “weeping prophet”, based on his wish to have a “fountain of tears” with which he might weep for the slain of his own people (Jer. 9:1) He suffered with anxiety, and depression, crying out to God. Yet, through this anguish there were startling promises of hope, hope found not merely in the possibility of human repentance, but grounded squarely in the amazing grace of God. (Jer. 31:27-34)

Chapters 1-3) were known for their exclusive devotion to God. In particular, they are known for being saved by divine intervention from the Babylonian execution of being burned alive in a fiery furnace. They were three young Jews, of royal or noble birth from the Kingdom of Judah, who, along with Daniel, were inducted into Babylon when Jerusalem was occupied by the Babylonians in 606/605 BC, under the campaign of Nebuchadnezzar II, during the first deportation of the Israelites. Yet, because of their faith, it caused King Nebuchadnezzar to acknowledge the power.

Ruth came from a nice Jewish family with a problem.

David, well there is just too much dysfunction and chaos to tell, adultery, lies, murder, defeat, fear, anxiety, tears, death of a child (I Kings, I Chronicles Psalms)..Yet he was a mighty King (2 Samuel 5), and a man after God’s own heart. He produced a lineage of hope! (John 3:16) (Matthew 1) (Luke chapter 3) There was no amount of chaos that could keep him from his God! And it changed our world!

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Tamar is one of the four female ancestors of Jesus.

(Matthew 1:3) (Genesis 38:1-11). Tamar married into the family of Judah, first to Judah’s son Er and then, after his death, to Onan his brother. Because Onan practiced a form of contraception, Tamar did not become pregnant. For a Jewish woman this meant disgrace, because people thought that being childless was a punishment from God. She claimed her Levirate rights. (Genesis 38:12-19) God punished Onan and he died. By law Tamar should have married Judah's third son so she could have a baby who would inherit her dead husband's share of the tribal wealth. But this did not happen, so she decided to get justice for herself. (Genesis 38:20-26) She dressed as a prostitute, and conceived by her father-in-law Judah twin sons (Genesis 38:27-30) because she did not name the father of her child, it was assumed she had been promiscuous, and Judah sentenced her to burn to death. But she saved herself by a clever ploy. God rewarded her tenacity with the birth of sons, one of whom was the ancestor of King David, Israel's great hero. None of the people in this story understood God's long-term plan for the Jewish people. They saw only their own predicament. But the mind of God had a plan of which they knew nothing. Despite Tamar's unorthodox methods, she was a woman of integrity who risked her life to fulfill her duty to herself and her family. She knew she had the right to a child, and she knew that her first husband Er had the right to an heir. Once again, God's plan unfolded through the unorthodox actions of a persistent woman.

Paul, the man who put the P in patience and persistence! Born—an Israelite—in Tarsus of Cilicia (Acts 22:3; Phil 3:5) A Pharisee (Phil 3:5) A persecutor of the church (Acts 8:1-3; Phil 3:6) A conversion on the Road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-9) Flees to Lystra and Derbe, preaching the gospel (Acts 14:6-7) Stoned at Lystra, supposed to be dead, but re-enters the city (Acts 14:19-20) Departs with Barnabas to Derbe, preaching the gospel (Acts 14:20-21) They return to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch to strengthen disciples and appoint elders (Acts 14:21-24) Paul and Silas imprisoned after casting out a demon from a slave girl (Acts 16:16-25) Prison doors opened miraculously and the jailer saved (Acts 16:25-34)

At Thessalonica and preached Christ, but had to flee (Acts 17:1-10) In the midst of a terrible storm they get shipwrecked on the island of Malta (Acts 27:13 - 28:1) Released from Roman imprisonment 1 Timothy (c. 6264) Second imprisonment and martyrdom under Nero and died for the Gospel. Paul was the reason the gospel had spread and keeps going even today. He was considered to be the most important individual in the New Testament next to Jesus, the apostle Paul, is martyred around May or June in 68 A.D.

Jesus born nearly out of wedlock (Matt. 1:18-25) when His mother’s fiancé was shocked with the news of her pregnancy. Just think of the gossip! His father, Joseph had not been intimate with His mom, so that was a chaotic questionable circumstance. He is now with step-father, in a blended family. That is stressful enough. He suffers rejection by the community He was closest to right when He was starting His ministry. Even His own family doubted His stance as Christ (Luke 4:1430) (Isaiah 53:3). Ouch! He was spat upon, and ridiculed at the most excruciating moment of His life (Matt 26:6367) Yet, even as He sweat drops of blood in agony crying to His Father to remove the chaos if it be His will (Luke 22:42) even though He hung on a cross covered in His blood, and blanketed by our shame, even though this perfect man wore the weight of the world so heavy His lungs were collapsing, even though He washed the feet of the very ones that would betray Him, even though He lived a flawless life dedicated to following His Father’s instruction, and suffered the most incredibly excruciating underserving pain and chaos, God didn’t let Him out of it. It had a purpose and that purpose was simply us. (John 3:16)

I realized all the more after research, that no one is immune to chaos. Sometimes it is in the chaos which births creativity, the mind blowing victory, the joy at the end of a very painful journey. It is when trial turns to triumph and serves to either change your life or another’s. Creative in chaos is to be challenging, but it is through those challenges that real courage, strength, and honor are born. It is when greatness grows out of grief. This is where your weakest moments turn into wonderment for others to witness. In the end giving God the glory and honor for allowing you all the havoc. Was it worth it? Yes, yes Lord yes. My soul, my soul says yes!

-Brenda Graff 25

If you only look at us, you might well miss the brightness. We carry this precious Message around in the unadorned clay pots of our

If I were to in this business for business, I wouldn't be in this business. Work like you don’t have to! And work what you love!

ordinary lives. That’s to prevent anyone from confusing God’s incomparable power with us.

As it is, there’s not much chance of that. You know for yourselves that we’re not much to look at. We’ve been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we’re not demoralized; we’re not sure what to do, but we know that God knows what to do; we’ve been spiritually terrorized, but God hasn’t left our side; we’ve been thrown down, but we haven’t broken.

What they did to Jesus, they do to us—trial and torture, mockery and murder; what Jesus did among them, He does in us—He lives! Our lives are at constant risk for Jesus’ sake, which makes Jesus’ life all the more evident in us.

While we’re going through the worst, you’re

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getting in on the best!

-2 Corinthians 4:7-12 (MSG)

Impossible is a closed door OPEN It! You have the key

“Chaos was the law of nature;

- JESUS Order was the dream of man.”

― Henry Adams 26

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