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When God Provides the Way, Will You Provide the Work?

By
Alecia M. White
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god provides

When God Provides, It’s Not Always an Easy Ride

god providesI work for one of the school districts in my city and my office is in one of the high schools. Depending on the day, close parking is scarce, you know, with both staff and students needing to park.

Typically, by the time I go into work, all the building row spots (the row right near the entrance I use) are already taken by staff so I have to park in the lot. Now, again, staff and students are parking so many days, I park at the back of the lot furthest from the school. The only day I am seemingly guaranteed a building row spot is when it rains.

See, when it rains, the first spot in the row after the handicap spots kinda slants causing a puddle to form. Now, this puddle is just deep enough to submerge your entire foot in water up to your ankle. This, I am sure, is the reason that nobody ever parks there when it rains.

Not only is the puddle that deep, but it extends pretty far into the middle of the spot, so you can’t really plan to bypass it.

In order to successfully park in this first spot (yes, there’s a technique), one must get just close enough to the curb to step over the water. This will take a couple of tries since the water is so deep that you can’t even just put the tip of your foot in for leverage. I know it sounds easy enough as you are reading this to yourself, but it’s a bit tricky.

Once you get close enough, you must step onto the curb and walk into the grass. From the grass, you’ve got to hop over the small puddle that’s on the sidewalk. Okay, that may sound tedious, but once properly weighing that option against that of parking at the back of the lot across the way, I’m sure you’ll agree that it’s worth it. And, if you don’t, it’s fine – I’ll still be parking in that first building row spot on every rainy day.

But, Does it Take All of That, Lord?

god providesAlright, here we go. Yes, I know you don’t care where I park at work. You probably don’t even care that I go to work at all but you’re here again, wondering how this ties into actual Christian life situations. Don’t worry… I got you.

Mmmkay, that building row represents where you want to be in life, right up close to your blessings, your promises, your dreams – the ones that you have your sights set on from God. 

That parking lot represents where you’ve been waiting because you are afraid to get your feet wet.

What I need you to understand is that promises do not come without a process. There will always be opposition, like the rain, that causes this massive puddle to form. Just when you think you’ve got the front row spot, you realize it takes extra work to get it.

The thing is, you must be willing to do what others are not willing to do and park close enough to climb over it, walk through the grass, and hop onto that sidewalk. It’s going to take work, but as the saying goes, “Anything worth having is worth working for”. Just like at that school, many are not willing to work that hard for a parking spot, no matter how close it is to the door.

But you know what? That just means that there’s more room for you!

And, you will notice that where you are truly meant to go, there probably won’t be too many people there. When you remember my little analogy, you’ll understand why. They didn’t want to climb, step, or hop. You know what else? God wants you to get there. Yeah, He does. If He didn’t, there wouldn’t be provision made for you to do so.

So, What’s the Play Call?

I need you to realize, in this moment, that provision isn’t always easy. Provision doesn’t mean simple, it just means there is a way. My fail-proof parking method isn’t the simplest of choices, but it guarantees my spot. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you decide to give in and just take that “lot spot” in the back:

  1. Let God take control. Sometimes, we talk ourselves out of that “first spot” because it seems too difficult to master. If you just surrender your will to His, you’ll get there. “Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3 (NLT)
  2. Don’t doubt. I know, for a fact, that I’ve missed some things. Not because things weren’t possible for me to achieve, but because I didn’t believe that I could. Don’t be like I was. “Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe all things are possible to him that beileveth.” Mark 9:23
  3. Your faith requires movement. Yep, we can believe all we want that we’ll “get there”, but God wants us to move as well. You’ve gotta be willing to park in the puddle to get over it. “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” James 2:26
  4. Talk your fears out with God. Yes, fear is real and just because we serve God, it does not mean we are exempt from feeling it. It does mean that we have the key to deliverance from it. “I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.” Psalms 34:4

It may be “raining” right now, but use that to your advantage. Park closer and climb over that puddle. Trust God and take that building row spot He provided just for you. 

The Bible and Social Media Do’s and Don’ts

By
Ryan Churchill
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bible and social media

Social Media and Team Jesus

If you’re reading this, chances are good you came by this article in a social media post. Perhaps you check in with Team Jesus Mag regularly by going straight to the site, but if you’re like me, you probably wait for articles from sites that you follow to pop up on your social media news feed.

It seems to be the way things work nowadays. For so many of the people in our world, social media has been the place where we no longer get the news, but we interact with the news source –  we “like,” “comment,” “react to,” and “share” the articles with our network.

On its surface, social media looks like a great way to connect with distant friends. It’s a place to add your two cents to the social commentary of the day.

Regardless of the social media platform you choose, even the most socially paralyzed introvert is empowered with a simple, singular click to be a catalyst for change in a world where they otherwise feel little or no control. With the world wide web at our fingertips, we no longer go to the Yellow Pages where you were once encouraged to “let your fingers do the walking.” Instead, we now go to social media where we are encouraged to let our fingers do the talking.

The creators of social media used these features as powerful selling points to bring people all over the world into a new domain. Despite the selling points, social media has a sinister dark side, which has emerged step for step with each new feature.

bible and social mediaWe all know about the predatory behavior, the slanderous rhetoric, the “fake news,” and blatantly hateful words spoken about anyone and everyone. Whether individually or corporately, we’ve all been lumped in through stereotypes. And, with every “reaction” click, every “share” click, and every “comment,” positive or negative, the darkness is advanced to our friends and followers.

Does the Bible have anything to say about the dark side or even the selling points of social media? Let’s face it, social media didn’t exist back then. So, can the Bible speak to it?

Absolutely!

The Bible and Your Social Media Profiles

Let’s look at some Scriptures which can be applied to social media by simply using a substitute word. Scripture uses the word “tongue”, but you can use “your words” to represent both your spoken words and your written words on social media.

I want to encourage you to open the Word and allow God to speak to you through James 3:5-11.

I think God’s Word speaks with enough clarity that you probably don’t need any explanation from me, so let me highlight some phrases from this passage which I find particularly noteworthy and reason for us to go to the Father in prayer:

  • The Tongue:
    • is a fire
    • is the very world of iniquity
    • defiles the entire body
    • sets on fire the course of our life
  • With it [the tongue] we bless our Lord and Father, and we curse men:
    • who have been made in the likeness [image] of God
  • Does a fountain pour out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?

This excerpt from James is complemented by, and perhaps inspired by Proverbs 26:20-25.

Once again, read this passage from Proverbs for yourself, but allow me to highlight some phrases which directly tie us into the passage from James, and are worthy of our prayer and consideration.

  • For lack of wood, the fire goes out.
  • Like charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire, so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
  • The words of a whisperer are like dainty morsels, and they go down into the innermost parts of the body.
  • He who hates disguises it with his lips but lays up deceit in his heart.
  • When he [who hates] speaks graciously, do not believe him . . .

There may be no words of greater conviction in the entire Bible than the above passages.  But, with this conviction, the Holy Spirit offers great comfort in James 4:5-10. I’d like you to read that passage in the Bible so you know how it is actually presented, but I’m going to use the same words and re-write it in a different order, and add a little commentary in the brackets.

Ready?

Humble yourself in the presence of the Lord. [Don’t you know] GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD? Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom. [This isn’t the message or advice the world gives you, but there is a purpose behind it because] He gives a greater grace [a grace the world will never offer nor does it even want you to know it’s been offered.] He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us [And so] HE GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE. [Through that grace you may] draw near to God and He will draw near to you [despite what the world teaches because He is intimate with the upright]. Cleanse your hands and purify your hearts, [even though it’s difficult to admit that you are a] double-minded sinner. [And in doing so] He will lift you up.

It’s tempting to look at these passages and give ourselves a pass, choosing to focus on the speck in our brother’s eye. But, Scripture tells us to first remove the log in our own eye.

Wisdom literature can be a blessing when applied to our own lives and when we speak its truths calibrated with grace to those of peace in our lives. But, it can be a curse when we use it to speak truth into the lives of those with whom we have no relationship. It can be made even worse when no grace is offered.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Take some time with the following questions regarding today’s Scriptures. Pray over them. Humbly go before the Lord and request of Him the words of the Psalmist: Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way. (Ps 139:23-24)

  • Have your words on or off social media started fires that you have been unable to put out?
  • Do your words only defile your body, or can they defile the body of Christ?
  • Do you believe when Scripture tells us that all of humankind was made in the image of God? Are you comfortable with and ready to stand firmly behind the words you’ve used to speak about all who have been made in His image?
  • Are your words trustworthy when you speak graciously?

 

What are some other scripture references that help
guide our behavior on social media?

Kanye Sunday Service: Foolishness or For the Glory of God?

By
Kim Brightness
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Kanye West Sunday Service

Scouting Kanye West Sunday Service

By now in the body of Christ, most of us have heard of Kanye West Sunday Service, and most of us have our thoughts and opinions of Mr. West and his new, 2019 venture – including me.

Instead of sitting back reading (and believing) said thoughts and opinions of others, I decided to experience Kanye Sunday Service for myself. After receiving two “how to participate” emails from friends, I seized the opportunity to participate as choir alto, but also as one of the Kingdom’s Contenders for the Faith.

You see, I had my own thoughts and opinions of Kanye Sunday Service – having never attended – but saw the hoopla of posts, videos, and commentary for and against it. If there’s one thing you learn in media – one, two, or twenty social media posts from random people who weren’t actually there is the secret sauce for fake news.

So, as a “live and in living color” participant, earnestly seeking God’s discernment, filled with the Holy Spirit, here are my takeaways – that is, until you experience Sunday Service for yourself if interested in doing so.

Kanye West Sunday Service at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, Atlanta 9-15-19

After an orderly and professional choir member check-in that started promptly at 6:45 AM, as stated in the confirmation email, I watched the spirit and intention of those working on the Sunday Service team once inside New Birth.

“Are you all ready to celebrate Jesus?” “We’re all here to lift up our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

No “celebrity” push, no mention of “Mr. West” the entire rehearsal – but to identify him as the visionary or curator for Sunday Service.

After about a 1 1/2hr rehearsal, the choir and main singers prepared for regular morning service at New Birth.

The entire Sunday morning service progressed from beginning to end – praise and worship, the preached word, offering, altar call (where dozens came forward to receive Jesus Christ as their personal Savior…coming to see Kanye, but met The King of Kings!?) – before Kanye Sunday Service commenced. However, not without Pastor Jamal Bryant making it abundantly clear, “As we flow into the next part of the service, remember there is but one ‘star’ in the room, and that’s Jesus Christ.”

Kanye Proclaims

Aside from all of the gifted singers, the crazy dope harmony and beat arrangements, and the celebratory (“lit”) atmosphere, did Kanye West actually have something to say?

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Team Jesus Magazine (@teamjesusmag) on

Yes, he did. Here are a few quotes:

  • I’ve seen everything that the devil could’ve showed you… nothing beats God… and a sound mind.
  • He is the only Jesus – let’s be specific.
  • To be radically in service to Christ is the only culture I want to know about.
  • The devil had me chasing a gold statue… chasin’ numbers… The power of God cannot be calculated by numbers… by first week sales…
  • The road to hell is paved with ‘I’m just a good person.”
  • We must hold each other accountable; if you see somebody slippin’, you tell them.
  • Thank you for saving me, replenishing me, delivering me…

No mention of future albums. No merchandise sold. All glory was given to God.

Thoughts for Team Jesus

Teammates, I’ve seen a lot of our thoughts and opinions – many declaring Mr. West’s lack of “Kingdom” fitness due to his past behavior, lyrics, and our expert-non-expert diagnosis of his mental state and causes thereof.

Let me begin here.

Many Teammates are leery of Kanye West’s Sunday Service AND his proclamation of salvation and deliverance through Jesus Christ because:

  • Celebrity status typically breeds ulterior motives and agendas for profit or gain.
  • We are living in the last days where the enemy is turning up his deception and perversion, and he will use anyone to say anything – especially celebrities with a huge following.

I get that.

HOWEVER COMMA – Have we also considered that many Teammates:

  1. Think they have a personal monopoly or vetting process for who can and who cannot sing praises to God – and that they’re doing God a favor by “protecting Him” from bad people’s praise.
  2. Are still learning how to discern based on the Spirit of God – not by what they see and feel.
  3. Have lonnnng memories for other people’s sin/past, but appreciate swift forgiveness and grace for their own sin and failings.
  4. Are full-time Fruit Inspectors for others, work less than part-time on their own fruit, and hold themselves to a less strenuous standard of excellence, laced with excuses and justifications, e.g. “all have sinned”.
  5. Are steeped in lonnnng traditions of men and man’s validation, where one better not even think about leading something that honors God without first crossing off ALL the items on “their” haze checklist.
  6. Don’t consider that their negative, unrighteous, judgmental response to someone’s proclamation of salvation is being watched and informing “would-be” converts to our faith?
  7. Are not patient or kind. They have fruit of the Spirit that’s in the “bud” stage – which is why love, gentleness, patience have not matured enough to be meat for anyone else yet.

Teammates, I’m calling us out and holding us accountable for how we act and react in the public square – with definitive negation to someone’s initial proclamation of salvation (updated). Yes, if Kanye West has accepted Jesus Christ as Savior – there will be fruit, evidence in his lifestyle. Remember also that we don’t know the plan or appointed time of maturity for anyone’s sanctification process – but God does. He knows the plan He has for all of us (Jeremiah 29:11). So, if God’s appointed time for Tree A to bear fruit is 5 months, don’t go and burn the “barren” tree down at month 4! Let the plan and patience of God supersede your need to instantly-right-now validate another. Stand down. Watch and pray for them and encourage other teammates to do the same. Then be about your own soul salvation. All souls belong to God – not us (Ezekiel 18:4).

Thoughts for Kanye West

Mr. West, I pray that you stay with the Lord. Keep humbling yourself before Him and grow in God.

Yessir, it’s going to take studying and rightly dividing the Word (2 Timothy 2:15) to grow in the knowledge and wisdom of Christ. May God surround you with mature, wise counsel who will – as you said in Sunday Service – hold YOU accountable, sir, and speak the truth to you in love. You do have teammates who believe there is nothing too hard for God – all power belongs to God. We are praying for you.

So, What’s the Play Call?

We all watch and pray. The appointed time of God will reveal all and the Spirit of Truth will always prevail. Having spied out the land, here’s one report I know without a shadow of a doubt – God is WELL ABLE to overcome any issues or challenges with Mr. West, with you, and with me. May we all humble ourselves before His mighty hand.

3 Simple Ways to Submit to Authority Like Jesus

By
Kim Brightness
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submit to authority

The “A” word: Authority

Ahh, we welcome and embrace the word “authority”, Team, in the context of “taking or take” and “walk in”, yes? Rightfully so! What an awesome privilege and honor we have to exercise the authority given to us by faith in Jesus Christ (Luke 9:1-2, Luke 10:19).

But hold on.  There’s another side to authority that causes many followers of Christ to cringe, resist, and “feel some type of way”.

It’s when the “A” word meets the “S” word – Submit.

What emotional, non-verbal response did reading the word “submit” invoke in you? Did your spirit throw confetti and leap for joy? Was there a slight squirm, or an eye roll?

It’s amazing how each and every one of us on Team Jesus is given the command (play call) to submit to authority, and every one of us has at some point tried to wiggle out of doing so. God expects us all, regardless of gender, title, or status to submit ourselves to Him (1 Peter 5:6), to our supervisors and government (Romans 13), and even to graciously submit to each other (Ephesians 5:21).

But for many of us, when it comes to authority – it’s better to receive than give.  We enjoy reaping the benefits when others submit to us, but when the humility ball is in our hands, we quickly toss it away.

Mike? I Wanna Be Like Jesus!

Let’s be reminded of the examples of our Coach, Jesus Christ. As our savior and teacher, Jesus practiced what he preached. He was the first partaker of humility, acting under the sole authority of our heavenly Father, in all that He said or did.

Submitting to authority, practicing humility, and dying to pride is a tall order for some of us. And, many times we don’t realize when we’re showing dishonor rather than honoring authority. But we aren’t left without actionable, practical examples in the Word of God, our playbook, to guide us in wisdom and good judgment regarding authority.

Think of these examples from Jesus’ life:

1. Don’t take your title or position too seriously.

Jesus is Savior, Divine, the Risen King, Creator… Not one thing came into existence without Him (John 1:3). He is the embodiment of “Us” in “Let us make man.” (Genesis 1:26) Yet, his every move was to glorify His Father in Heaven.  Jesus was not confused by the association of authority, His place in the God-head, and knowing how to humble and honor the Supreme authority – God the Father.

He never got “pumped up” with pride that He was the Savior of the whole world, that He was the one who had to be crucified – not the Father or the Holy Spirit. Jesus never used his suffering as justification to ‘buck’ authority.

How often do we feel we have legitimate reasons to refuse to submit to authority?

So, don’t fight against authority when you feel you’ve contributed just as much as the other person.  When we work as “unto the Lord” as Jesus did for the Father (Colossians 3:23-24), the credit and reward will also come from the Lord, which is far better than any accolade or acknowledgment of man.

2. Don’t put your name on someone else’s vision or idea.

Did you know that we submit to authority by giving credit where credit is due? The will of my Father. Notice how Jesus made it perfectly clear that He came to do the will of His Father who sent Him (John 6:38). The humility and submission of Jesus never allowed Him to shine the light on Himself, but always to glorify Father God – the One in authority.

Teammate, are you passing someone else’s vision off as your own? Do you manipulate the work of others to shine the light on yourself?

When we submit to the authority of those over us, God will exalt us in due season with our own vision. Just be sure, Team, that when He does, we give all glory to God, none for ourselves.

3. Know when to question, how to question, and when to do what you’re told.

Jesus gives us the example of his complete submission to God in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46). There, He petitions God, “If it is possible”, to avoid the crucifixion and separation from the Father. The example here is HOW to ask questions of those in authority.

First, notice Jesus asks – not tells God what to do. Jesus does not attack God’s thought process or solution, but remains in a posture of “not my will, but yours”.

How do you handle those in authority with competing interests or strategies?

Second, Jesus accepts the Father’s decision. After receiving the final answer and peace from the Father, Jesus rises up and falls in line with God’s plan.

When exercising honor to those in authority, we have to know when we’ve done enough asking, suggesting, crying, or made enough recommendations contrary to the original marching order – and just get it done!

In our walk with Christ, God also asks us to do things that will cause us pain, suffering, and sacrifice. It is not our job to critique God or consider Him mean and unjust. God did not ask our opinion or permission for Him to be God, nor for Him to be the righteous judge.

But, trust that He will never leave us nor forsake us, and the hard tasks will not be faced alone. God helps us through every opportunity to give Him glory – both painful and pleasant.

So, what’s the play call?

Here’s to submission to authority that’s easier to manage, and do so with grace and honor. Our Coach has lead us by word and example. Let’s get it done!

Plant-Forward Thinking: What Does a Plant-Based Diet Look Like?

By
Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD
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plant based

And God said, “Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, on the earth.” And it was so. The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed according to their own kinds, and trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.

On the third day of creation, God made every flavorful fruit, vegetable, and plant imaginable. Every color of the rainbow, every unique flavor and texture conceivable – and it was good.

In fact, only a few scriptures later He proclaims, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.”

We have scientists and researchers looking for keys to health and longevity, but I think God stated it pretty clearly. Plants.

Plant-Forward Thinking for Better Health

plant basedIt’s true that we don’t live in the Garden of Eden. Maybe the soil that used to grow crops may not be as nutrient-rich as it once was. But, if we are seriously wondering about the next step to take to nourish our bodies, I think it is pretty evident.

And, it protects our God created earth, too.  The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee states:

“A dietary pattern that is higher in plant-based foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, and lower in animal-based foods is more health promoting and is associated with lesser environmental impact.”

Chances are you grew up in a home where you were told to ‘eat your vegetables’ – maybe even required to eat them before you left the table. Sadly, scare tactics and reprimands haven’t helped us eat more vegetables. In fact, less than 10% of adults eat the recommended 5 servings of vegetables each day.

But, it’s exciting to see in the last few years that a plant-forward diet is gaining media attention and popularity, an awakening if you will.

Does a Plant-Based Diet Mean Plants Only?

plant based

Instead of serving some boring vegetables on your plate, chefs, restaurants, recipe developers and foodies are inspiring us with a fresh take on veggies. Instead of leading with the idea that plants are nutritious, (yep, already know that!) they are telling us they can be absolutely delicious!

So, what does a plant-forward diet look like?  Does it mean no more meat? Does it restrict you from enjoying a grilled steak for dinner OR some broiled salmon on your salad OR scrambling some eggs for breakfast?

On the contrary, it doesn’t restrict or limit you.  It’s not really a diet. Instead, it’s a new way of looking at how we are composing our plate, what we are putting in our basket, and what we are reaching for when our stomach begins to grumble. It doesn’t make any foods ‘off limits’ and instead emphasizes the very thing God highlighted in the garden – plants.

Interestingly, a meta-analysis in the Journal of Epidemiology shows that 10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, and premature death by about 30%! As was discussed in this article,

“The researchers believe that it is not just about the powerful effects of specific nutrients (Vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin A, etc.), but instead, the ‘complex network of nutrients’ within varieties of fruits and vegetables. Vitamin supplements just cannot duplicate the synergistic power of real plants!”

How Can I Think Plant-Forward?

plant basedWhy are 90% of us having difficulty getting even 5 daily servings of vegetables?  Often because making a change to eat plant-forward brings questions about the actual execution. And to be honest, sometimes there is conflict (or potential conflict) from family members who aren’t on board.

Even if your spouse isn’t thrilled about the idea of ‘meatless Monday’, you can still begin to implement this approach in your meals.  While there are no hard and fast rules, these are some tips to help you think plant-forward:

  1. Make a vegetable or veggie dish the star at the dinner table. Many of us think we don’t like veggies very much because we remember boring, dull, limp and unattractive dishes sitting in a bowl at dinner. While there is nothing wrong with some steamed broccoli with butter and salt, or some carrot sticks with dip, there are aromatic and flavorful veggie recipes just waiting for you to try. And, don’t equate flavorful with complicated. These Parmesan Carrot Fries have a robust flavor with only 4 ingredients.  And, this Loaded Mashed Cauliflower gets compliments every time I make it but doesn’t require any fancy skills or special ingredients.
  2. Load up 75% of your plate with plants. Ideally, cover 50% with colorful, non-starchy veggies and 25% of your plate with starchy vegetables or whole grains.  This concept can be followed when eating out, in, at a neighbor’s or a potluck. This method is one of the easiest ways to create balanced meals no matter where you’re eating so that you are nourished, energized and satisfied.
  3. Create your meal plan with a veggie dish first, then decide a meat ‘side’ (or opt for a plant-protein). Many individuals enjoy eating meat, poultry, fish, and seafood. All of these protein foods are rich in nutrients and don’t necessarily need to be eliminated. But, a plant-forward approach means giving veggies actual thought in the planning process instead of just filling in at the meal. Have you ever asked yourself, ‘What veggies am I craving this week?’  Did you see a recipe posted on social media or made on a cooking program that looked appetizing? Even if only for a few days of your meal plan, try planning the veggies first.
  4. Try a new or unfamiliar vegetable. Have you ever roasted delicata squash?  Can you ever recall cooking bok choy? Did your friend tell you about the amazing beets she added to a salad the other day? Whether you are browsing the produce department or scanning the farmer’s market, look for something that gets you curious. One of the best ways to get excited about eating more plants is to mix curiosity with anticipation.

Plant-forward eating isn’t about going and buying vegan entrees and products at the grocery store. It’s about appreciating and enjoying the food God created from the very beginning. Eating those foods more often will naturally reduce your intake of highly-processed foods and those that are inflammatory.

So, what’s the play call?

To be honest, we don’t need another label.  Labels simply cause restrictive thoughts and snobby groups that isolate themselves, deeming their way to be the ‘right’ way to eat. Enough of that. Let’s pull from Truth the wisdom to nourish our body and let’s live based on our convictions, not anyone else’s.  

How can you begin thinking and eating more plant-forward?  First, get rid of the lies that you don’t like veggies or that they are boring  Then, go explore the flavorful creation just waiting to be noticed.

More Recipes

Parmesan Carrot Fries
plant based recipes
Lentil Marinara with Zucchini Noodles

3 Truths About the Revelation of Jesus: The Gateway to Manifestation

By
Liz Guya
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revelation of jesus

The Revelation of Jesus Drives Action

revelation of jesusEvery time we encounter God’s Word, we must listen with the intent to take action. The Bible declares we should be doers of the word and not hearers only (James 1:22). Revelation requires action after it has been received.

God wants us to live as the Bible says. It is when you act on the revelation you have received that physical manifestation of the Word takes place.

However, without revelation, it is hard to release into manifestation what the Word says into our lives.

Remember these things about revelation…

1. Revelation is first personal, then corporate.

This means that many can hear of a certain truth that is a revelation to another. But you can’t rely on another person’s revelation, unless it becomes your own, in your heart, established by the Spirit in your heart.

There’s a difference between personal revelation and corporate revelation. Personal revelation is what is revealed to you personally in your heart, from the Word of God. Corporate revelation is revelation that people believe on a massive scale, for example, salvation.

Many Christians believe that Jesus died on the cross for their sins. That becomes corporate revelation, where we all believe in our hearts a certain truth about the Word of God – think unity of the faith (Ephesians 4:13).

Things like healing, faith, or giving honor due to God must first involve personal revelation. When we come to God, we must first believe that He exists and that He rewards them that (personally) seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).

Eventually, God grows us from personal revelation to corporate revelation. He starts with individual believers who are in different seasons of their walk with Christ. Some develop fast, some slow – depending on cooperation, willingness, and other factors.

The gifts Jesus gave to the body of Christ in Ephesians 4:11 lead us to corporate unity and equip us for ministry in the faith.

2. Revelation is our guide.

When you receive a revelation of something, you don’t wait to be told to do it or to be led to give. For example, a child growing up needs to be guided to do homework, bathe, play, and eat.

But, as an adult with understanding, we don’t need to be guided and told repeatedly to do what we know is right. Understanding guides us.

When you understand the revelation of what God has for you and what you are to do, you apply it no matter where you are. This does not mean that the Holy Spirit stops being your guide. In fact, the Holy Spirit is the One giving or revealing to you the revelation that you walk in.

Revelation is the Holy Spirit breathing life to the Word in your heart.

The Word alone is not enough. We need the Holy Spirit to give life to it.

“..the letter Killeth but the Spirit gives life.” 2 Corinthians 3:6

The Spirit came to reveal all of Jesus, who is the Word (John 1:1).

3. Revelation is not our interpretation.

Since revelation is a product of the Holy Spirit, we can rest assured that revelation is always truth. Where there is an absence of truth, if what has been “revealed” does not align with the Word of God, we are to throw it completely away.

Let’s lay our personal interpretations and perceptions on the altar before the Lord as a sacrifice, and submit our hearing totally to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This way, we can accurately hear what the Spirit is saying to us personally and to the church corporately (Revelation 2:29).

So, what’s the play call?

Team, let us seek out the Word and trust the Holy Spirit to breath life into the Word in our hearts and make it a reality. Let us seek out the revelation of Jesus in the Word and allow God to bring His will into manifestation in our lives. Amen!

 

Emmy Winner Patricia Heaton Stars in New CBS Comedy, Carol’s Second Act

By
Editorial Staff
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CAROL’S SECOND ACT is Funny First

carol's second act

Emmy Award winner Patricia Heaton stars in CAROL’S SECOND ACT, a comedy about a woman who embarks on a unique second act after raising her children, getting divorced and retiring from teaching: pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor.

On Carol Kenney’s first day at work, she’s prepped with an abundance of life experience, people skills, talent and enthusiasm, advantages the chief resident and other newly minted interns don’t have – or immediately appreciate. Carol’s first-year partners on rounds are Lexie, who’s very nervous due to the pressure on her to succeed as the first in her family to go to college, and Daniel, a 2018 Harvard Medical School grad who’s already published in the New England Journal of Medicine…twice. Carol will need to win over their chief resident, Dr. Maya Jacobs, an all-business disciplinarian who doesn’t care for Carol’s chatty, outgoing nature. Fortunately, Carol has a couple of friendly faces at the hospital, including Dr. Frost, the accomplished senior attending physician who finds her charming, and her bubbly daughter, Jenny, a successful pharma sales rep who catches the eye of Carol’s fellow doctors.

At age 50, Carol is a medical intern who must sink or swim with peers who are half her age, and it’s her enthusiasm, perspective, and yes, even her age, that may be exactly what will make her second act a great success.

Series premieres Thursday, Sept. 26 (9:30-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

5 Weird Ways “Consequence” Is a Good Friend

By
Kim Brightness
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consequences

Our Day One Friend, Consequence

consequencesI was a hater.

There was a time when I could never hear the word consequence and think happy thoughts. No ice cream and bubble gum good times at the State Fair. No rainbows and cotton candy while skipping through tulips.

Nope, for most of us, we give the word consequence a bad wrap. We figuratively wrap the word neatly in gloom and doom, then sprinkle it with the best of the worst calamity.

If we can be honest, we’ve all lived through the consequences of bad choices, disobedience, and have lived to tell AND laugh about it. We took it patiently, and it didn’t kill us (1 Peter 2:20). Yet, the shade remains.

Is This How We Treat Our Friends?

Why would we do a friend like Consequence like that?

Now, if that question throws you for a loop, “Consequence…a friend?” – maybe it’s time to shift your perceptions and see the value a healthy relationship with consequences can bring your life.

How do we do that?

Just as friendship is about giving and receiving – we must be honest and open to receive the positive work consequences have to offer.

So, Team, no more ‘hating’ when we hear the word consequences. We can all learn to embrace the positive characteristics of consequences, and the truth of how to apply them to our lives.

Because just like a good friend…

1. Consequences don’t control us.
Consequences never go first. They’re not out to get you.  They don’t ask to be here – they are summoned, called, invoked after being produced by some other action, condition, or choice. This is actually good news, why? Because it puts us in control of consequences, and not the other way around.  With foreknowledge, we are not helpless victims of consequences.  If the reality of a certain consequence causes you anxiety or pain – guess what – you are not sentenced to that prison without first being handed the warden’s keys!

2. Consequences encourage you to think before you act.
What would my life, your life, the world be like if we really thought about our words and actions before we said or did them? I’m of the mindset that people, in general, don’t like pain, embarrassment, loss, etc.  So, how is it that we make such thoughtless decisions, and then are mad at the who?….the Consequences!  Sound decisions after prayerful contemplation are key to a life with less misery and hardship (Proverbs 3:6).  Thinking before you act is also a loving gesture – any time you can save yourself or others pain and heartache – that’s Love!

3. Consequences grow you up. 
Team, we can’t stay on milk forever. At some point in life, we have to grow up and learn what, where, how, when to act AND why!  It’s called putting away childish things (1 Corinthians 13:11). There’s a part of God’s plan for each of our lives that reads: “The older you get, the more responsibility you’ll have, and a greater expectation that you’ll make sound, mature decisions.” Pain, hardship, embarrassment, loss all have a special way of getting our attention and growing us up – for our own good.

4. Consequences deter dangerous repeat behavior.
Have you ever looked at your past bad behavior and asked yourself, “Was I a glutton for punishment?” I have. Human nature is a trip. No matter how educated, well-put-together we seem – our sinful nature, gone unchecked, will have us repeating the same bad behavior again and again. Thank God for consequences (and mercy)! How can we get to the blessings of 12th grade, and be a blessing to others we meet in 12th grade, if we’re stuck in Kindergarten asking for “one more chance”? Consequences help put an end to our harmful cycles so we can begin to live on purpose.

5. Consequences are Excuse Assassins!
If excuses are monuments of nothingness, consequences are the wrecking balls that destroy those monuments.  When we’ve been made aware of the consequences, our “excuse card” immediately expires, and we are ejected from the blame game! Knowing the consequences, we are now empowered to manage our own outcomes. Being able to live an excuse-free life, one where responsibilities are fully owned, mistakes are learned, and you emerge a better person – this is the fulfillment of God’s growth plan for our lives.

Does this change your perception of consequences, or foster a friendlier relationship with the concept? We hope so.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Embrace your consequences, and grow patiently through every learned lesson. Here’s to better choices, behaviors, and the abundant life available to Team Jesus as we all mature!

Your Daily Gift: 4 Ways The Breath of Life is More Than Just Oxygen

By
Team Jesus
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breath of life

Inhale, Exhale

breath of lifeHave you ever watched a baby sleep?  As their bodies surrender to stillness, a gentle sense of calm and peacefulness is reflected in their bodies and sometimes on their faces.  That simple act of rest is a reminder for me about the power of God’s gift, the breath of life.

The breath has power and there’s a rhythm and a flow to it.  As a wellness professional and yoga instructor, I talk about the breath a lot and most of what I’ve learned about breathing has come from the word of God and confirmed through science.  I believe that the breath unlocks the door to spiritual awareness, and God starts this process in the womb.

Did you know that mothers breathe for their babies while they are in the womb?  During their time in the womb, babies practice breathing while their lungs are being developed in preparation for birth.  That moment when all those in the room wait in anticipation for those strong lungs to let out a loud cry to indicate… LIFE!

From that point forward, we embody the gift. Second by second, moment by moment we inhale and exhale consciously and unconsciously.  But, the breath is more than just the flow of oxygen; it is the vehicle by which God provides us with the following:

HIS PRESENCE

When God formed man from the dust in Genesis 2:7, God breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul.  We move and live with a daily reminder of God’s presence every time we take a breath.  His presence flows through us, giving life to our body, soul, and spirit.  On a deeper level through prayer and meditation, we are able to not only cherish the gift of God’s breath on a physical level, but we are able to feel and sense His presence on a spiritual level as well.  In John 4:24, we are reminded that God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.  As God’s greatest creation, we are built for spiritual worship and that type of worship starts with a spiritual awareness found in reverence of the breath.

HIS POWER

The breath, like all of God’s gifts, is full of power.  In Proverbs 18:21, we are reminded that death and life are in the power of the tongue.  Words riding along the flow of your breath holds power and with the gift of free will, we can choose how that power will be directed in our lives based on what we speak.  When God spoke “let there be light”, there was light.  That same power to speak life resides within us when our breath carries words from a place grounded in faith.

CHANGE

Created in God’s likeness, we possess power through God our Father and power can bring about change.  In our physical bodies, we were created with systems that allow us to receive and to release.  Our respiratory system is designed to take in oxygen and to release carbon dioxide.  Our human design is divine indeed!  We are change agents here on earth equipped with the ability to receive something and to change it into something useful for others.

Did you know that our moods and attitudes are reflected through our breathing?  Your breath may be short and choppy when you are anxious or upset.  Or, maybe your breath is shallow when you’re sad.  When we are more physically and spiritually aware of how we breathe, especially during difficult situations, we have the power to shift. We can change our perspective and sometimes our mood and attitudes in that very moment through conscious breathing.

CONNECTION

As a child in the mother’s womb, the breath is a mysterious and divine connector to our Creator and to the universe.  As God’s earthly creation gives us oxygen, we receive it, transform it and offer our gift of carbon dioxide to the earth.  In Genesis 1:26, God granted man dominion over the earth and that responsibility includes care and connection.  God created us with connection in mind and the breath is a constant reminder of that connection.  The connection is life and is life-giving to others.

Consider how you’ve been breathing lately and take a moment to try this spiritual breathing exercise.  As you breathe in slowly through the nose, consciously envision you breathing in God’s presence and exhaling doubt.  Slowly inhale the power of your breath to carry your prayers to feet of Jesus.  Consciously exhale fear – the image of it and the energy of it.  Slowly inhale your God-given ability to change or shift your perspective or feelings and exhale worry.  Slowly inhale your ability and desire to connect with God the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit, earth, and others, and exhale isolation.

Remember, breathing is needed to live, and how you live is rooted in how you breathe through life.

 

Sherrell Moore-Tucker is a Wellness Professional, Writer, and Registered Yoga Instructor with the National Yoga Alliance and Holy Yoga Ministries.  Sherrell provides wellness services which tend to a person’s spiritual, mental, and physical well-being while providing accessible tools for managing stress. Join the movement and learn more about how to “Breathe in, Stress Out” at www.sherrellmooretucker.com.

7 Ways to Choose A Life of Gratitude Over Fear

By
Tamsyn Cornelius
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gratitude

Gratitude is a Habit

attitude of gratitudeLife is hard and we can easily get bogged down in all the negative situations that pervade our lives each day. However, the Bible teaches us to live from a place of thanksgiving, despite our circumstances. How do we successfully choose gratitude when we daily face challenges, negative media, and secular mindsets that are contrary to our biblical training?

We need to actively take our thoughts captive and choose a positive mindset over fear. When we operate from a place of thanksgiving and positivity, we give the enemy very little room to get us down. Not only is thanksgiving an instant mood lifter, but it is also God’s will for our lives.

The Bible says, “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus,” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Gratitude is a Weapon Against Negativity

I have lived in Cape Town, South Africa all my life. Besides being a beautiful and diverse nation, crime seems to be at an all-time high in many provinces around the country.

Daily we are bombarded with negative and shocking news reports that can easily overwhelm and stir up a spirit of fear. However, as a child of God, I am constantly reminded to choose hope, life, and thanksgiving despite the negative news reports.

Gratitude needs to start in the mind and heart first. When we face trials or disappointments, we need to take a step back and assess the situation from Heaven’s perspective. God is always good, so how does His goodness fit into the picture and impact the negative circumstances we are facing right now?

Grow Your Seeds of Gratitude

Make a point of seeking out God’s goodness in your own situations today and give Him thanks before you allow any negative emotions to set in.

It was Zig Ziglar who said,

“Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.”

Living from a grateful heart is the daily decision to appreciate all that life has to offer and to live out of a place of hope over fear. Yes, things do not always go our way. Yes, we may face insurmountable obstacles in life. But, the reality is that we serve a good and faithful God who promises to be there with us and assist us through the storms of life. When we choose to turn our affections to Him, we, in turn, choose hope, expectation, joy and so much more.

Gratitude Keeps On Giving

authentic selfDid you know that there are many benefits to adopting gratitude as a way of life? As you begin to take on a mindset of thanksgiving, you may start to curb negative thoughts, eliminate anxiety and even diminish depression.

In fact, according to the Greater Good Science Center, preliminary research suggests that grateful people may have better sleep, healthier hearts, and fewer aches and pains than their less grateful counterparts.

In Philippians, it reads, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 4:6-7).

Through thanksgiving and a grateful heart, we can begin to experience the peace of God through any situation.

Gratitude also has ripple effects and can influence the people you interact with each day. One simple act of gratitude from one person to another can instantly change moods, mend relationships and encourage a chain reaction of thanksgiving in others.

So, what’s the play call?

What practical steps can you take to develop an attitude of gratitude each day?

  1. Be mindful. Take negative thoughts captive as soon as they enter your mind. Do not give the enemy room to engage you with harmful or destructive thoughts that can impact your life or stir up fear.
  2. Appreciate the simple things. There is always something to be grateful for – whether it is food on the table, flowers in bloom or a roof over your head. Look for the silver lining in every situation, no matter how small, and start to develop a deeper sense of gratitude for the simple things in life.
  3. Thank God every morning. Create a habit of praying and thanking God each morning for your many blessings. Commit your day to Him and start it on a positive note. Soon enough, you may begin to look for more things to be grateful for.
  4. Create a gratitude journal. Choose to write down those things that you are most grateful for in a dedicated gratitude journal. It may start out simple, but over time, you may begin to see a pattern of the immense goodness of God in your life. When you are feeling down, whip out your journal as a reminder of His faithfulness.
  5. Engage in good acts to others. Choosing to help others, especially those less fortunate than ourselves, often leaves one with a greater sense of gratitude for our own circumstances. Get involved in your local church’s outreach programs or support a charity in your area. Make it a family event and support a community initiative, with your time and resources. Doing good may help you develop your own sense of thanksgiving for all that the Lord provides.
  6. Express thanks to others. Make a point of thanking others for their role or contribution in your life. Write a note to that inspirational teacher or pastor who encouraged you through a difficult season. The more we learn to express gratitude, the more we give others the freedom to do the same.
  7. Choose faith over fear. Walk closely with the Father and follow His guidance. He is a great comforter, leader, provider, and peacemaker. The Bible says that He has good plans for those who love Him and follow His commands. Allow Him to help you walk in faith today, despite your surroundings.

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend,” ― Melody Beattie

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