Our Daily Bread
Evian - the French word for overpriced bottled water! We have the cheaper American versions that are much cheaper. We even have "purified water", water that is not spring water and has been run through purifiers similar to what I have in my refrigerator!
Jesus talked about Living Water to the Samaritan woman at the well. The Living Water that Jesus offers us cannot be bottled or sold. Instead of that water needing purification, Living Water purifies us! We won't need case after case from Costco to keep us from thirsting again. We know this water is only from God!
Have you accepted a drink of Living Water?
Lord, we thank you and praise for satisfying our spiritual thirst!
Foodie Friday
Been pretty busy the past few weeks so I haven't much time for cooking or eating out at new places. I thought I would write about finding ways to be more efficient in the kitchen based on things I have learned. I am not sure how helpful this will be to anyone other than myself, but here it goes.
Getting things done
There are times you just need to get things done. I am making chili for a homeless ministry tonight. Will I experiment with a new recipe or try to augment my tried and true recipe? No. I will make two gallons of my standard bulk chili recipe and be done. It is good enough. Actually it is pretty darn good, but not the recipe that I would usually serve my guests. Finding balance and peace when you need to get things done with an acceptable level of quality can be a challenge for a foodie at times!
Find shortcuts
I volunteered to make four dozen cookies for a prison ministry. When at Kroger, I realized that I could buy four dozen cookies pre-made for about $5. Easy. Cheap. I couldn't have made them at home for that even though I had the stuff. Don't be afraid to take the easy road at times. There will be plenty of times for you to make your made-from-scratch creations for friends and family.
Treat yourself
When I say "treat yourself" I mean treat yourself with some healthy meals while you are busy. You will find that you will feel better and not as stressed if you eat better. I learned this lesson the hard way! I forgot it too often!
Take care of yourself as you take care of or minister to others. They are counting on you!
**********************************
I pray the weight of my sins doth not crush me back to dust from where I came. I pray that God create in me a new, clean heart and place a right spirit within me. Restore to me the joy of my salvation. Praise the Almighty God from whom all blessings flow.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Nature-ally
Our Daily Bread
I have to admit that I am not an outdoorsy kind of person on a regular basis. I am allergic to the outdoors! I am taking allergy shots to help with that, but will still be allergic to a lot of stuff. It is hard to enjoy nature when you are sniffling and sneezing and wheezing! I noticed that I didn't sneeze when I was in Honolulu. I guess I need to spend more time there! ha!
Yes, on the occasions that I go outdoors and experience nature, I am constantly in awe of God's creation. For me, nature augments the presence of God in my life. For others, it inspires the search for God. How about you? What does nature mean to you? I also admire how a little bit of rain can be transformed into a LOT of snow! I learned about that this winter in Central Ohio! Ha!
Lord, you gave us the gift of Nature. Please help us enjoy and protect it.
Technology Thursday
The Mobile World Congress is going on this week. It is the conference where most of the large mobile phone manufacturers and carriers show off their new toys! I found this article about the conference.
5 key takeaways from MWC 2014 (so far)
By Adrian Kingsley-Hughes
Mobile World Congress 2014 is not yet over, but some clear trends are emerging out of the inevitable froth that is generated by these sorts of events. And it will be these trends, and not the crazy niche gadgets that will be shaping the coming year.
So what should we be keeping an eye on over the coming year? Here's what's going to be on my radar.
Android is still hot
Device makers are still enthusiastic about Android. So much so that even Nokia – which is in the process of being acquired by Microsoft – is embracing the platform (although Nokia is going to a forked version that will add to fragmentation worries and is unlikely to make much of a splash).
If you're not Apple and don't have iOS, then Android is the place to be, having replaced even Windows as the platform that everyone – from ODMs to developers – want to exploit, and judging by the raft of new Android-powered devices unveiled so far at MWC, Google will be seeing hundreds of millions of new devices activated over the coming year.
Samsung is the Android trendsetter
While there's no doubt that Google makes some awesome Android hardware – the Nexus devices are some of the best on the market – the real trendsetter is Samsung.
The newly announced Galaxy S5 is crammed with cool new features such as gesture control, an array of sensors, and even a fingerprint reader. If Samsung actually pulls all this together into a usable package, then the Galaxy S5 will be the best Android smartphone once it is released in April.
Samsung is looking sideways, but not too much
But there's one thing that is clear from looking at the Galaxy S5 – and that is Samsung is looking sideways at what Apple is doing. The new handset features a fingerprint reader, motion sensors, and a sleeker user interface – just like the iPhone 5S.
But let's also give Samsung credit where it's due. The Galaxy S5 has some features that we've never before seen – such as the heart rate monitor, the fingerprint reader includes more features than the one found on the iPhone 5S, and the whole device is IP67 dust and water resistant (which means that it is totally protected against dust and will survive immersion up to 1 meter).
This to me is acceptable, because Samsung is bringing cool stuff to the table.
But be prepared for the attack of the clones.
Qualcomm is taking the PC approach to post-PC device processors
Mobile chipmaker Qualcomm announced new silicon, and it is clearly putting the emphasis on cores and power. The Snapdragon 615 is a 64-bit and 8-core processors while the Snapdragon 610 is a 64-bit part aimed at mainstream devices.
The focus is on cores and the 64-bit nature of the parts.
This is reminiscent of a phase that the likes of Intel and AMD went through with their processors, where it was the numbers that mattered rather than the users experience.
It'll be interesting to see how this works out for Qualcomm.
Nokia goes down the Android path
Or at least down a forked path
It's understandable why Nokia is eyeing Android. The platform is hot, and the Windows Phone platform isn't living up to the hype. Also, with Microsoft being more focused that ever on services, there's no real reason why it shouldn't cater for Android.
But Nokia is hacking its own path, choosing not to use Google Mobile Services, but instead replace them with Microsoft services. This means that there's no access to the Google Play app store, and that in turn means limited access to apps.
And that's the rub.
Nokia appears to be conceding that Android is a way forward, but doesn't want to embrace the Google parts of Android. It also wants to make the user interface look like Windows Phone, perhaps with the idea of making the device a gateway to the platform.
The problem with this is encouraging developers to develop apps for the platform. While forking Android worked for Amazon with the Kindle Fire platform, Microsoft has had a hard time convincing developers that it's worth pursuing the Windows Phone platform when Google Play and the Apple App Store are more lucrative. Now Nokia wants to convince developers to take a gamble on what seems like a much smaller segment of the market pie.
*************************************
Trusting God’s faithfulness dispels our fearfulness. - Our Daily Bread web site
I have to admit that I am not an outdoorsy kind of person on a regular basis. I am allergic to the outdoors! I am taking allergy shots to help with that, but will still be allergic to a lot of stuff. It is hard to enjoy nature when you are sniffling and sneezing and wheezing! I noticed that I didn't sneeze when I was in Honolulu. I guess I need to spend more time there! ha!
Yes, on the occasions that I go outdoors and experience nature, I am constantly in awe of God's creation. For me, nature augments the presence of God in my life. For others, it inspires the search for God. How about you? What does nature mean to you? I also admire how a little bit of rain can be transformed into a LOT of snow! I learned about that this winter in Central Ohio! Ha!
Lord, you gave us the gift of Nature. Please help us enjoy and protect it.
Technology Thursday
The Mobile World Congress is going on this week. It is the conference where most of the large mobile phone manufacturers and carriers show off their new toys! I found this article about the conference.
5 key takeaways from MWC 2014 (so far)
By Adrian Kingsley-Hughes
Mobile World Congress 2014 is not yet over, but some clear trends are emerging out of the inevitable froth that is generated by these sorts of events. And it will be these trends, and not the crazy niche gadgets that will be shaping the coming year.
So what should we be keeping an eye on over the coming year? Here's what's going to be on my radar.
Android is still hot
Device makers are still enthusiastic about Android. So much so that even Nokia – which is in the process of being acquired by Microsoft – is embracing the platform (although Nokia is going to a forked version that will add to fragmentation worries and is unlikely to make much of a splash).
If you're not Apple and don't have iOS, then Android is the place to be, having replaced even Windows as the platform that everyone – from ODMs to developers – want to exploit, and judging by the raft of new Android-powered devices unveiled so far at MWC, Google will be seeing hundreds of millions of new devices activated over the coming year.
Samsung is the Android trendsetter
While there's no doubt that Google makes some awesome Android hardware – the Nexus devices are some of the best on the market – the real trendsetter is Samsung.
The newly announced Galaxy S5 is crammed with cool new features such as gesture control, an array of sensors, and even a fingerprint reader. If Samsung actually pulls all this together into a usable package, then the Galaxy S5 will be the best Android smartphone once it is released in April.
Samsung is looking sideways, but not too much
But there's one thing that is clear from looking at the Galaxy S5 – and that is Samsung is looking sideways at what Apple is doing. The new handset features a fingerprint reader, motion sensors, and a sleeker user interface – just like the iPhone 5S.
But let's also give Samsung credit where it's due. The Galaxy S5 has some features that we've never before seen – such as the heart rate monitor, the fingerprint reader includes more features than the one found on the iPhone 5S, and the whole device is IP67 dust and water resistant (which means that it is totally protected against dust and will survive immersion up to 1 meter).
This to me is acceptable, because Samsung is bringing cool stuff to the table.
But be prepared for the attack of the clones.
Qualcomm is taking the PC approach to post-PC device processors
Mobile chipmaker Qualcomm announced new silicon, and it is clearly putting the emphasis on cores and power. The Snapdragon 615 is a 64-bit and 8-core processors while the Snapdragon 610 is a 64-bit part aimed at mainstream devices.
The focus is on cores and the 64-bit nature of the parts.
This is reminiscent of a phase that the likes of Intel and AMD went through with their processors, where it was the numbers that mattered rather than the users experience.
It'll be interesting to see how this works out for Qualcomm.
Nokia goes down the Android path
Or at least down a forked path
It's understandable why Nokia is eyeing Android. The platform is hot, and the Windows Phone platform isn't living up to the hype. Also, with Microsoft being more focused that ever on services, there's no real reason why it shouldn't cater for Android.
But Nokia is hacking its own path, choosing not to use Google Mobile Services, but instead replace them with Microsoft services. This means that there's no access to the Google Play app store, and that in turn means limited access to apps.
And that's the rub.
Nokia appears to be conceding that Android is a way forward, but doesn't want to embrace the Google parts of Android. It also wants to make the user interface look like Windows Phone, perhaps with the idea of making the device a gateway to the platform.
The problem with this is encouraging developers to develop apps for the platform. While forking Android worked for Amazon with the Kindle Fire platform, Microsoft has had a hard time convincing developers that it's worth pursuing the Windows Phone platform when Google Play and the Apple App Store are more lucrative. Now Nokia wants to convince developers to take a gamble on what seems like a much smaller segment of the market pie.
*************************************
Trusting God’s faithfulness dispels our fearfulness. - Our Daily Bread web site
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Love is like oxygen
Our Daily Bread
I like odd movies sometimes. Moulin Rouge is one of those movies. It is a musical with interesting characters and a story that makes you cry even though you know what is going to happen. My favorite part is the scene on top of the elephant when the main characters sing a clever medley of love songs. "Love is like oxygen! Love is all you need!" starts the interchange.
For children of God, love is like oxygen. Our God is love. He invented it. If God is love and God is in us, then his love is in us as well! That love cannot help but over flow to others! We are a conduit of his love to the world. How can we say we are his children if we don't love?
I talked with some friends about love the other day. There is a real disconnect between what the world teaches us about love and what God teaches us about love. All I can say is -- trust God, the inventor of love!
Lord, We thank you and praise you for the love you show us. Please help us show that love to others!
Wellness Wednesday
I found this article and took it to heart since I have a lot of weight to lose!
Things You Should Know If You've Got a Lot of Weight to Lose
by Katie Lowe
Back in 2010, when I first joined a gym, I weighed 290 pounds, and I used crutches to walk. My knees couldn't function under the strain of the extra pounds -- although at that point, I thought it was the result of an old injury, not my weight.
Almost four years later, I seem to waver somewhere between the 150- to 160-pound mark. I walk, and occasionally I'll even break into a run (although I'll admit, I'm a strength-training girl -- I'm saving my running for a zombie invasion).
Looking back, there are a few things I wish I'd known from the start that would've made the whole process considerably easier -- not least because when I started, I had no idea where I was going.
So, in the spirit of January -- and hopefully to counteract some of the crazy fad diets doing the rounds at the moment -- here are a few things I wish I'd known on Day 1.
Real food is way more effective than any quick fix.
The reason I ended up at 290 pounds is because, you guessed it, I love to eat. Seriously, I'd consider eating up there among my favorite pastimes ever. And as such, there's no way I'd want to live a life without great tasting food in it.
There are a million different products out there that claim to be the "secret" to weight loss, but trust me -- there is no secret. The only thing you need to do is eat real food, in balanced meals. Sure, it takes longer than a crash diet or a crazy pill -- but it'll taste damn good along the way.
Plus, don't forget -- the act of cooking a meal, and clearing it up afterwards, expends energy through something called NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) -- which burns calories, and increases your metabolic rate.
Patience is more important than motivation.
All the motivation in the world will get you nowhere if you don't have the patience to go with it. Motivation is the flash and boom that gets you moving, but having the patience to stick with it even when nothing seems to be changing is the secret to success.
It's also a matter of faith. Trust in the process, and the fact that you're making the right decisions, and eventually your patience will pay off. Promise.
The number on the scales doesn't matter.
Now, I know you may need the scales to measure your progress. And that's okay, at first. I don't think there's anything wrong with knowing where you're starting from. But if you make that number your only measure of success, you'll soon find yourself disappointed, even when you're making real progress.
A long-term improvement in your health and fitness levels will result in muscle gain, which is heavier than fat -- meaning you'll plateau, or even gain weight, when your body's changing the most. And really, pretty much everything else you stand to gain through improving your health is more satisfying than that number. Instead of thinking about the scales, focus on how quickly you get out of breath, how much energy you've gained, and how much happier your amazing new life makes you.
Loving your body will get you everywhere.
I spent many, many years hating my body, and gaining weight. Then, I spent a good six months hating my body, and losing weight -- but for some reason, I couldn't keep it off. My reason for wanting to lose it was because I hated myself, but every time I had a little slip-up, I'd punish myself by sabotaging my own success even more.
Eventually though, I realized that I had my priorities all wrong. If, instead of hating my body, I learned to accept -- and love -- my body for what it was, it was possible to make the right decisions out of self-care, rather than self-loathing. Now, I eat well and exercise regularly because I respect my body for what it's been through, and where it's going to take me -- and that's a source of motivation that never goes away.
You will never, ever be perfect (and that's amazing).
I'm pretty sure I spent a good year or so of my journey wondering at what point I was going to become Beyoncé. Needless to say, I'm still waiting, and it turns out it's probably not going to happen.
But that's fine. Because while my stretch marks aren't going anywhere, and while I've still got a bit of cellulite and more imperfections than you could shake a dumbbell at, my body's still an amazing thing, exactly as it is -- healthy, imperfect and beautiful.
*******************************************
For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.- Psalm 117:2
I like odd movies sometimes. Moulin Rouge is one of those movies. It is a musical with interesting characters and a story that makes you cry even though you know what is going to happen. My favorite part is the scene on top of the elephant when the main characters sing a clever medley of love songs. "Love is like oxygen! Love is all you need!" starts the interchange.
For children of God, love is like oxygen. Our God is love. He invented it. If God is love and God is in us, then his love is in us as well! That love cannot help but over flow to others! We are a conduit of his love to the world. How can we say we are his children if we don't love?
I talked with some friends about love the other day. There is a real disconnect between what the world teaches us about love and what God teaches us about love. All I can say is -- trust God, the inventor of love!
Lord, We thank you and praise you for the love you show us. Please help us show that love to others!
Wellness Wednesday
I found this article and took it to heart since I have a lot of weight to lose!
Things You Should Know If You've Got a Lot of Weight to Lose
by Katie Lowe
Back in 2010, when I first joined a gym, I weighed 290 pounds, and I used crutches to walk. My knees couldn't function under the strain of the extra pounds -- although at that point, I thought it was the result of an old injury, not my weight.
Almost four years later, I seem to waver somewhere between the 150- to 160-pound mark. I walk, and occasionally I'll even break into a run (although I'll admit, I'm a strength-training girl -- I'm saving my running for a zombie invasion).
Looking back, there are a few things I wish I'd known from the start that would've made the whole process considerably easier -- not least because when I started, I had no idea where I was going.
So, in the spirit of January -- and hopefully to counteract some of the crazy fad diets doing the rounds at the moment -- here are a few things I wish I'd known on Day 1.
Real food is way more effective than any quick fix.
The reason I ended up at 290 pounds is because, you guessed it, I love to eat. Seriously, I'd consider eating up there among my favorite pastimes ever. And as such, there's no way I'd want to live a life without great tasting food in it.
There are a million different products out there that claim to be the "secret" to weight loss, but trust me -- there is no secret. The only thing you need to do is eat real food, in balanced meals. Sure, it takes longer than a crash diet or a crazy pill -- but it'll taste damn good along the way.
Plus, don't forget -- the act of cooking a meal, and clearing it up afterwards, expends energy through something called NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) -- which burns calories, and increases your metabolic rate.
Patience is more important than motivation.
All the motivation in the world will get you nowhere if you don't have the patience to go with it. Motivation is the flash and boom that gets you moving, but having the patience to stick with it even when nothing seems to be changing is the secret to success.
It's also a matter of faith. Trust in the process, and the fact that you're making the right decisions, and eventually your patience will pay off. Promise.
The number on the scales doesn't matter.
Now, I know you may need the scales to measure your progress. And that's okay, at first. I don't think there's anything wrong with knowing where you're starting from. But if you make that number your only measure of success, you'll soon find yourself disappointed, even when you're making real progress.
A long-term improvement in your health and fitness levels will result in muscle gain, which is heavier than fat -- meaning you'll plateau, or even gain weight, when your body's changing the most. And really, pretty much everything else you stand to gain through improving your health is more satisfying than that number. Instead of thinking about the scales, focus on how quickly you get out of breath, how much energy you've gained, and how much happier your amazing new life makes you.
Loving your body will get you everywhere.
I spent many, many years hating my body, and gaining weight. Then, I spent a good six months hating my body, and losing weight -- but for some reason, I couldn't keep it off. My reason for wanting to lose it was because I hated myself, but every time I had a little slip-up, I'd punish myself by sabotaging my own success even more.
Eventually though, I realized that I had my priorities all wrong. If, instead of hating my body, I learned to accept -- and love -- my body for what it was, it was possible to make the right decisions out of self-care, rather than self-loathing. Now, I eat well and exercise regularly because I respect my body for what it's been through, and where it's going to take me -- and that's a source of motivation that never goes away.
You will never, ever be perfect (and that's amazing).
I'm pretty sure I spent a good year or so of my journey wondering at what point I was going to become Beyoncé. Needless to say, I'm still waiting, and it turns out it's probably not going to happen.
But that's fine. Because while my stretch marks aren't going anywhere, and while I've still got a bit of cellulite and more imperfections than you could shake a dumbbell at, my body's still an amazing thing, exactly as it is -- healthy, imperfect and beautiful.
*******************************************
For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.- Psalm 117:2
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
STOP!
Our Daily Bread
STOP! Screech! Red lights glaring! BAM! These are the sights and sounds of a few Mondays ago when a guy rear ended my car while in traffic. A semi pulled over in front of me suddenly so I stopped as gently as I could. The guy behind me didn't notice and slammed into the back of my car. Fortunately, no one was hurt. His car was damaged more than mine. I was fortunate to get my car into the body shop and get it back in a week or so.
Why am I telling you this story? It shouldn't take an accident or a semi cutting us off (this is obviously a life metaphor) to get us to STOP! ha! We can run ourselves ragged with all the things we think we need to do. All the things that we think life requires of us. I understand. I do. My schedule has been wicked busy the past few months. I stopped to rest last weekend because I didn't feel I could move my tired old body another step that day! As a Ken Medema song says: "let it all go for a while. do you need your strength to be renewed? He who saves you will not let you fall!"
Take time for yourself. Take time for God.
Lord, we thank you and praise you for our time on this earth. Please help us spend as much as we can with you so we can practice for eternity!
Teaching Tuesday
We studied the books of Colossians and Philippians this week. Very interesting stuff.
Colossians
This book contributed a lot to the development of Christian doctrine, especially Christology (the branch of Christian theology relating to the person, nature, and role of Christ). The book describes who Christ is as well as any other book in the Bible. It also talks about the Christians' place in this world. It talks about taking care of this world, our Earth, as we look forward to our eternal home with Christ in the afterlife. The book was probably written by Timothy or by a member of Paul's following who expounded on Paul's outline of beliefs.
Philippians
We joked in class that Paul must have been on some anti-depressants when he wrote this book! Ha! It is amazing the could have written a book like this while in prison. He was very encouraging as he talked about his faith in Christ. One of my favorite verses is Philippians 4:13.
He also talked about false teachers or folks who would teach something other than the gospel he proclaimed. There was an explosion of growth in Christianity during this period. That scared and confused a lot of folks, especially mainline Jews who were converted and many who weren't.
There is even a hymn text in chapter 2:6-11. Read that sometime!
-- Excepts from Introducing the New Testament by Mark Allan Powell
***********************************************
You are a success in God’s kingdom if you are faithful where He has placed you. - Our Daily Bread
STOP! Screech! Red lights glaring! BAM! These are the sights and sounds of a few Mondays ago when a guy rear ended my car while in traffic. A semi pulled over in front of me suddenly so I stopped as gently as I could. The guy behind me didn't notice and slammed into the back of my car. Fortunately, no one was hurt. His car was damaged more than mine. I was fortunate to get my car into the body shop and get it back in a week or so.
Why am I telling you this story? It shouldn't take an accident or a semi cutting us off (this is obviously a life metaphor) to get us to STOP! ha! We can run ourselves ragged with all the things we think we need to do. All the things that we think life requires of us. I understand. I do. My schedule has been wicked busy the past few months. I stopped to rest last weekend because I didn't feel I could move my tired old body another step that day! As a Ken Medema song says: "let it all go for a while. do you need your strength to be renewed? He who saves you will not let you fall!"
Take time for yourself. Take time for God.
Lord, we thank you and praise you for our time on this earth. Please help us spend as much as we can with you so we can practice for eternity!
Teaching Tuesday
We studied the books of Colossians and Philippians this week. Very interesting stuff.
Colossians
This book contributed a lot to the development of Christian doctrine, especially Christology (the branch of Christian theology relating to the person, nature, and role of Christ). The book describes who Christ is as well as any other book in the Bible. It also talks about the Christians' place in this world. It talks about taking care of this world, our Earth, as we look forward to our eternal home with Christ in the afterlife. The book was probably written by Timothy or by a member of Paul's following who expounded on Paul's outline of beliefs.
Philippians
We joked in class that Paul must have been on some anti-depressants when he wrote this book! Ha! It is amazing the could have written a book like this while in prison. He was very encouraging as he talked about his faith in Christ. One of my favorite verses is Philippians 4:13.
He also talked about false teachers or folks who would teach something other than the gospel he proclaimed. There was an explosion of growth in Christianity during this period. That scared and confused a lot of folks, especially mainline Jews who were converted and many who weren't.
There is even a hymn text in chapter 2:6-11. Read that sometime!
-- Excepts from Introducing the New Testament by Mark Allan Powell
***********************************************
You are a success in God’s kingdom if you are faithful where He has placed you. - Our Daily Bread
Monday, February 24, 2014
Inconceivable!
Our Daily Bread
The 25th anniversay of the movie Princess Bride occurred recently. There was a "where are they now" article about the stars. One of my favorite lines from the movie, and there are several, was when the smart guy looked incredulously and said "Inconceivable!". Each time the inconceivable event really happened. Ha! Rent that movie sometime if you haven't seen it.
There are so many times when we read the Bible that we have the same incredulous look on our faces and we almost say out loud "Inconceivable!". How could God have won those victories for the Israelites? How could this happen or that happen or how can we believe every story we read? Scholars will say it is metaphor or a myth type story. I choose to believe that God did make all those things happen thousands of years ago. I also choose to believe that God can still work in hearts and lives today! Praise God!
Lord, we believe. Please help our unbelief!
Movie Monday
I was scheduled to go to the movies with a friend last night and it fell through at the last minute. I finished some chores and had time to watch a movie on Amazon Prime that I hadn't seen before. It was called The Moth Diaries.
The story line is about some 16 year old girls at a boarding school. I watched the entire movie and wasn't exactly sure what happened! It was a creepy spooky with some interesting characters and story line. It was difficult to determine what was reality and what was in the imagination of the main character. Check it out sometime on Netflix or Amazon Prime.
I give this movie two bear paws.
*******************************
Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” John 11:40
The 25th anniversay of the movie Princess Bride occurred recently. There was a "where are they now" article about the stars. One of my favorite lines from the movie, and there are several, was when the smart guy looked incredulously and said "Inconceivable!". Each time the inconceivable event really happened. Ha! Rent that movie sometime if you haven't seen it.
There are so many times when we read the Bible that we have the same incredulous look on our faces and we almost say out loud "Inconceivable!". How could God have won those victories for the Israelites? How could this happen or that happen or how can we believe every story we read? Scholars will say it is metaphor or a myth type story. I choose to believe that God did make all those things happen thousands of years ago. I also choose to believe that God can still work in hearts and lives today! Praise God!
Lord, we believe. Please help our unbelief!
Movie Monday
I was scheduled to go to the movies with a friend last night and it fell through at the last minute. I finished some chores and had time to watch a movie on Amazon Prime that I hadn't seen before. It was called The Moth Diaries.
The story line is about some 16 year old girls at a boarding school. I watched the entire movie and wasn't exactly sure what happened! It was a creepy spooky with some interesting characters and story line. It was difficult to determine what was reality and what was in the imagination of the main character. Check it out sometime on Netflix or Amazon Prime.
I give this movie two bear paws.
*******************************
Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” John 11:40
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Boundless love
Our Daily Bread
If you read my blog, you may notice that I like movies a lot. One thing I don't care for is remakes of old movies that really don't add any value or anything new. One recent example is Endless Love. Yawn... ha!
There is an example of endless, boundless love that I never tire of reading or hearing about -- the love of our God for his people! Praise God! David talks about it in Psalm 36 (and many other psalms). For today, we realize that our lives in God will not always be sunshine, rainbows and unicorns, however, we know without a shadow of a doubt that God is with us! We have seen it over and over in our lives if we just stop and think about it. Take time today to thank God for his presence in your life. Ask what we can do for him!
Lord, thank you for your endless and boundless love. Please help us give ourselves completely to you!
Psalm Sunday
We will read Psalm 132 today. Just a few more songs of ascents left to read! This one centers on David and his place is Israel's history. They remind God of David's faithfulness (as if they need to) when singing this song. Very interesting stuff!
Psalm 132
A song of ascents.
1 Lord, remember David
and all his self-denial.
2 He swore an oath to the Lord,
he made a vow to the Mighty One of Jacob:
3 “I will not enter my house
or go to my bed,
4 I will allow no sleep to my eyes
or slumber to my eyelids,
5 till I find a place for the Lord,
a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob.”
6 We heard it in Ephrathah,
we came upon it in the fields of Jaar:
7 “Let us go to his dwelling place,
let us worship at his footstool, saying,
8 ‘Arise, Lord, and come to your resting place,
you and the ark of your might.
9 May your priests be clothed with your righteousness;
may your faithful people sing for joy.’”
10 For the sake of your servant David,
do not reject your anointed one.
11 The Lord swore an oath to David,
a sure oath he will not revoke:
“One of your own descendants
I will place on your throne.
12 If your sons keep my covenant
and the statutes I teach them,
then their sons will sit
on your throne for ever and ever.”
13 For the Lord has chosen Zion,
he has desired it for his dwelling, saying,
14 “This is my resting place for ever and ever;
here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it.
15 I will bless her with abundant provisions;
her poor I will satisfy with food.
16 I will clothe her priests with salvation,
and her faithful people will ever sing for joy.
17 “Here I will make a horn grow for David
and set up a lamp for my anointed one.
18 I will clothe his enemies with shame,
but his head will be adorned with a radiant crown.”
*********************************
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
If you read my blog, you may notice that I like movies a lot. One thing I don't care for is remakes of old movies that really don't add any value or anything new. One recent example is Endless Love. Yawn... ha!
There is an example of endless, boundless love that I never tire of reading or hearing about -- the love of our God for his people! Praise God! David talks about it in Psalm 36 (and many other psalms). For today, we realize that our lives in God will not always be sunshine, rainbows and unicorns, however, we know without a shadow of a doubt that God is with us! We have seen it over and over in our lives if we just stop and think about it. Take time today to thank God for his presence in your life. Ask what we can do for him!
Lord, thank you for your endless and boundless love. Please help us give ourselves completely to you!
Psalm Sunday
We will read Psalm 132 today. Just a few more songs of ascents left to read! This one centers on David and his place is Israel's history. They remind God of David's faithfulness (as if they need to) when singing this song. Very interesting stuff!
Psalm 132
A song of ascents.
1 Lord, remember David
and all his self-denial.
2 He swore an oath to the Lord,
he made a vow to the Mighty One of Jacob:
3 “I will not enter my house
or go to my bed,
4 I will allow no sleep to my eyes
or slumber to my eyelids,
5 till I find a place for the Lord,
a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob.”
6 We heard it in Ephrathah,
we came upon it in the fields of Jaar:
7 “Let us go to his dwelling place,
let us worship at his footstool, saying,
8 ‘Arise, Lord, and come to your resting place,
you and the ark of your might.
9 May your priests be clothed with your righteousness;
may your faithful people sing for joy.’”
10 For the sake of your servant David,
do not reject your anointed one.
11 The Lord swore an oath to David,
a sure oath he will not revoke:
“One of your own descendants
I will place on your throne.
12 If your sons keep my covenant
and the statutes I teach them,
then their sons will sit
on your throne for ever and ever.”
13 For the Lord has chosen Zion,
he has desired it for his dwelling, saying,
14 “This is my resting place for ever and ever;
here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it.
15 I will bless her with abundant provisions;
her poor I will satisfy with food.
16 I will clothe her priests with salvation,
and her faithful people will ever sing for joy.
17 “Here I will make a horn grow for David
and set up a lamp for my anointed one.
18 I will clothe his enemies with shame,
but his head will be adorned with a radiant crown.”
*********************************
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
Saturday, February 22, 2014
I'll spot you
Our Daily Bread
I don't work out as much as I should. I also have never really done any heavy weight lifting. I noticed others at the gym and how that works. One person lifts the heavy weight. The other person "spots" the lifter or is there to help out if something happens like dropping the weight or having trouble lifting it. The two usually switch with the lifter becoming the spotter and vice versa. The spotter usually encourages the lifter as well.
The church is sort of like that. We "spot" each other during the times that we lift heavy weights or burdens. Most of us don't carry heavy loads all the time. It is nice to have someone "spot" us when we do! It is also nice to return the favor to another Christian friend. "Spotting" and encouragement are just two of the reasons to be active in a church community. Find one. Be a part.
Lord, thank you for your plan for our churches. Please help each of us do our parts!
Simply Saturday
Control
I was complaining to someone at wok the other day about how frustrating it was to deal with things out of my control at work. "If I could just take over this project and do it the right way". I often let my frustration boil over and say things in an unkind way. Yikes
THEN, the Holy Spirit chimed in. I often hate it when it does that... It means I have something to learn that should have been obvious to me decades ago! ha! The Holy Spirit said "I know that is frustrating for you, Duane. Why don't you start controlling the things you can control?" It was so gentle yet so powerful. "Like what?" I said pretending not to understand.
"Why don't you start with the way you say things sometimes? Do you like being talked to that way? And those eating habits? Don't get me started? Exercise? Really? Just a few times in the last few months? You can do better than this with all the strength and power I give you!" said the Holy Spirit. I may have ad libbed some of the dialog to include the sting I felt when I heard the words!
The Holy Spirit followed up with the lessons we learned from last weekend: surrender and submit. We identified a pattern that I need to follow and keep following: Control -> Surrender -> Submit -> Control -> Surrender -> Submit -> Control -> Surrender -> Submit -> .....
Control the things I can control to the best of my ability and with the strength and power of the Holy Spirit. Find additional things in my life to surrender to the Lord. Submit those things to God to refresh and renew my heart, mind and spirit. Wow.
Yes, God can even use our whining to lead us to him!
********************************
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
I don't work out as much as I should. I also have never really done any heavy weight lifting. I noticed others at the gym and how that works. One person lifts the heavy weight. The other person "spots" the lifter or is there to help out if something happens like dropping the weight or having trouble lifting it. The two usually switch with the lifter becoming the spotter and vice versa. The spotter usually encourages the lifter as well.
The church is sort of like that. We "spot" each other during the times that we lift heavy weights or burdens. Most of us don't carry heavy loads all the time. It is nice to have someone "spot" us when we do! It is also nice to return the favor to another Christian friend. "Spotting" and encouragement are just two of the reasons to be active in a church community. Find one. Be a part.
Lord, thank you for your plan for our churches. Please help each of us do our parts!
Simply Saturday
Control
I was complaining to someone at wok the other day about how frustrating it was to deal with things out of my control at work. "If I could just take over this project and do it the right way". I often let my frustration boil over and say things in an unkind way. Yikes
THEN, the Holy Spirit chimed in. I often hate it when it does that... It means I have something to learn that should have been obvious to me decades ago! ha! The Holy Spirit said "I know that is frustrating for you, Duane. Why don't you start controlling the things you can control?" It was so gentle yet so powerful. "Like what?" I said pretending not to understand.
"Why don't you start with the way you say things sometimes? Do you like being talked to that way? And those eating habits? Don't get me started? Exercise? Really? Just a few times in the last few months? You can do better than this with all the strength and power I give you!" said the Holy Spirit. I may have ad libbed some of the dialog to include the sting I felt when I heard the words!
The Holy Spirit followed up with the lessons we learned from last weekend: surrender and submit. We identified a pattern that I need to follow and keep following: Control -> Surrender -> Submit -> Control -> Surrender -> Submit -> Control -> Surrender -> Submit -> .....
Control the things I can control to the best of my ability and with the strength and power of the Holy Spirit. Find additional things in my life to surrender to the Lord. Submit those things to God to refresh and renew my heart, mind and spirit. Wow.
Yes, God can even use our whining to lead us to him!
********************************
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Friday, February 21, 2014
One life...one message
Our Daily Bread
Do you watch TV? One of my least favorite things is commercials especially on some channels that seem to play the same commercials over and over and over...and over. ha! I want to say "No thank you. If you have to show me commercials, can you show me something else?" There are some online TV/movie services that offer that option.
As Christians, we have options of what "commercial" we will show others. Will we show the same message of Christ's love over and over and over...and over? Or will we display our own message that may not be so Christ-like? Let's make the effort, mostly through practice, prayer and Bible study, to refine our personal commercial to always show our Lord Jesus!
Lord, you give us strength through your Holy Spirit. Please help us rely on you to send your message through our lives!
Foodie Friday
I saw a recipe like this on Facebook the other day. I looked for a mini version of it (instead of jumbo cupcake size). This is not something I would eat, but I know a lot of folks who would enjoy them!
Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes
Cake Ingredients:
2 eggs
2/3 cup white sugar
4 Tbsp pineapple juice
2/3 cup all purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
Topping:
1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick or 4 Tbsp)
2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
1-can pineapple rings
6-maraschino cherries
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray your muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray.
In a mixing bowl, add eggs, white sugar, and pineapple juice. Beat for 2 minutes. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to the wet ingredients and turn mixer back on for 2 minutes.
In a small sauce pan, melt the butter and add the brown sugar. Stir on low heat for one minute.
Spoon a layer of the warm brown sugar mixture into the bottom of each muffin tin, then place a pineapple ring on top. Add a cherry in the middle of each pineapple. Pour cake mixture over to fill muffin tin 3/4 of the way full. If you are using regular muffin tins, you will need to cut down the rings to fit or just use pineapple tidbits.
Bake jumbo cakes for 25 minutes. Bake regular cakes for 20 minutes. If you choose to make a large cake, bake for 22-25 minutes in a 10 inch cast iron skillet. The cake is done with a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
This is the hard part...waiting for warm cakes to finish baking.
Remove from the oven. Let cool in pan for 3 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of each cake to help loosen in case it sticks a little. Place a wire cooling rack on top, and quickly flip over on top of sheet tray to catch extra drippings.
Place wire rack of cakes on sheet tray to cool. Enjoy!
*********************************
You cannot say you've forgiven someone if in your heart you hope they are still suffering. Howerton
Do you watch TV? One of my least favorite things is commercials especially on some channels that seem to play the same commercials over and over and over...and over. ha! I want to say "No thank you. If you have to show me commercials, can you show me something else?" There are some online TV/movie services that offer that option.
As Christians, we have options of what "commercial" we will show others. Will we show the same message of Christ's love over and over and over...and over? Or will we display our own message that may not be so Christ-like? Let's make the effort, mostly through practice, prayer and Bible study, to refine our personal commercial to always show our Lord Jesus!
Lord, you give us strength through your Holy Spirit. Please help us rely on you to send your message through our lives!
Foodie Friday
I saw a recipe like this on Facebook the other day. I looked for a mini version of it (instead of jumbo cupcake size). This is not something I would eat, but I know a lot of folks who would enjoy them!
Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes
Cake Ingredients:
2 eggs
2/3 cup white sugar
4 Tbsp pineapple juice
2/3 cup all purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
Topping:
1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick or 4 Tbsp)
2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
1-can pineapple rings
6-maraschino cherries
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray your muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray.
In a mixing bowl, add eggs, white sugar, and pineapple juice. Beat for 2 minutes. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to the wet ingredients and turn mixer back on for 2 minutes.
In a small sauce pan, melt the butter and add the brown sugar. Stir on low heat for one minute.
Spoon a layer of the warm brown sugar mixture into the bottom of each muffin tin, then place a pineapple ring on top. Add a cherry in the middle of each pineapple. Pour cake mixture over to fill muffin tin 3/4 of the way full. If you are using regular muffin tins, you will need to cut down the rings to fit or just use pineapple tidbits.
Bake jumbo cakes for 25 minutes. Bake regular cakes for 20 minutes. If you choose to make a large cake, bake for 22-25 minutes in a 10 inch cast iron skillet. The cake is done with a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
This is the hard part...waiting for warm cakes to finish baking.
Remove from the oven. Let cool in pan for 3 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of each cake to help loosen in case it sticks a little. Place a wire cooling rack on top, and quickly flip over on top of sheet tray to catch extra drippings.
Place wire rack of cakes on sheet tray to cool. Enjoy!
*********************************
You cannot say you've forgiven someone if in your heart you hope they are still suffering. Howerton
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Firm foundation
Our Daily Bread
I have seen a few homes over the years where the foundations where compromised. One home was sliding off a hill due to the foundation giving way. The sellers wanted full price for the home, then expected the buyers to pay another $100,000 to pay for the repairs to make the home safe!
How many times are we like the homeowners in the story above? We expect to be given full credit for the things we have done in our lives and suffer no consequences for the things we didn't take care of or fix along the way. David was like this during the period of denial about his adultery and murder sins. God sent Nathan to let David know that he did not get away with the sins. The sins that had shaken the foundation of his relationship with God.
This message is important for all of us today. Do we have unconfessed sins or repeating sins that are chipping away at our spiritual foundation. God, the ultimate architect and repairman, will help us repair our spiritual foundation if we just ask him and turn those things over to him today! Do it! Now! ;-)
Lord, we thank you and praise you for the way you love us and forgive us. Please help us to turn from sin and towards you!
Technology Thursday
Friends often ask me for technology tips. I found this article that I thought everyone should read.
How to Get Hacked in 5 Exciting Steps
from David Pogue
Most people probably don’t want to get hacked.
Most people don’t want their password stolen by some anonymous Eastern European teenager. They would not like discovering that they can’t get into their own email, Twitter, or Facebook accounts. They would find it embarrassing if their friends all started saying, “Did you know that I’m getting email spam from your account?”
But come on, people. What’s life without a little risk? Doesn’t some danger make everything more exciting? Why do you think so many people still text and drive? Why do you think people still bike without helmets, swim right after eating, and cut off the “DO NOT REMOVE” tags from their mattresses?
That’s right. Because risk makes everything more fun.
You’ve read endless articles about how to protect yourself online. And that’s fine if you’re a sheep, or you’re a chicken, or you want to plaster every surface of your life with bubble wrap.
But for those who seek the exhilaration of living dangerously, here it is at last: the first concise, authoritative guide to making yourself vulnerable online.
1. Choose an easy password. For years, the No. 1 most commonly chosen password in the world was the word “password.”
Of course, that’s also the world’s most easily guessed password. And there really are professional creeps out there whose job it is to guess passwords and get into accounts. They can actually sell name/password combinations in online hacker forums.
Fortunately, we’re making progress. According to SplashData’s annual Worst Passwords List, “password” is no longer the No. 1 most used password. It’s been surpassed — by “123456.” Good work, people.
If you’re some kind of risk-averse wussy, it’s easy enough to invent a password that’s not hard to memorize — but that no hacker can guess (and that no computer program can guess by trying every word in the dictionary, either). For example, you can compose a password from the initials of a fun phrase, like the delicious password “29gofiabm.” (That, of course, stands for “29 grams of fat in a Big Mac.”)
So, by all means, save yourself the mental strain of coming up with something hard to guess. Use “password,” “123456,” or another one of the Top 20 like “qwerty,” “iloveyou,” or “abc123.”
2. Use the same password for all your important online accounts. That’s right. Use that same, easy-to-memorize password for Yahoo, Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, your bank, and your credit cards. That way, if the bad guys manage to get their hands on one of your accounts, they can also get into all your others. Now you get to live dangerously and you’ve also made your life a lot easier. Only one password to memorize!
It’s possible to have a different password for every site without having to be a national memory champion. You could vary the password for each website — tacking on each site’s first initial at the end. For Facebook, “29gofiabmf,” for example; for Yahoo, “29gofiabmy.”
But you, the thrillseeker, would never bother. Nor would you bother installing a free password-management program like Dashlane or (for Apple products) iCloud Keychain. Those programs let you have a different, complex password for every site you visit — without your having to memorize anything at all!
But, hey. Where’s the thrill in that?
3. Don’t surrender your cellphone number as a security measure. These days, websites like Facebook, Gmail and Yahoo often ask you to provide your cellphone number.
They do that for three security reasons. First, if you forget your password or try to change it, they’ll send a new one to your phone for security.
Second, if the company gets hacked or your account gets locked for security reasons, the company has a quick way to alert you — by text message — and let you know the next steps.
Third, some websites, including Google, Facebook, Twitter and Yahoo Mail, offer an optional, super-hyper-secure feature called two-factor authentication. That user-hostile term means this: “The first time you log into your account from a new gadget, you have to enter a code that the company sends to you on your cellphone.” In other words, hackers using their own computers can never get into your accounts unless they also have your phone.
But you know what? All that’s for lily-livered pansies. Want to live on the edge? Keep your cellphone number to yourself!
4. When a bank or another company emails you to report a problem with your account, click the link and log in!
Most of the time, those are fake emails.
Clicking the link takes you to a fake website, dressed up to look like your bank’s (or eBay’s, or PayPal’s, or Amazon’s or whatever).
When you “log in” with your name and password, the bad guys intercept it. Now they know your name and password, so they can get into your real websites.
That particular scam — sending phony email that seems to be from your bank or another big company — is known as phishing (because they’re “fishing” for your information, get it?). And thousands of people every year get scammed that way.
If you think that maybe there really is a problem with your bank, or eBay, or Amazon account, you could open your browser and go log into the company’s website the usual way, not by clicking a link in an email.
If, however, you love the pulse-pounding adrenaline rush that comes from tempting fate, by all means — click the links in those emails and see what happens!
5. When troubles arise, pay for help. No big-name website — Yahoo, Google, Facebook, Twitter, Amazon — ever charges money to give you technical support. (Yahoo, in fact, even has a toll-free help number for “I can’t get into my account” problems: 1-800-318-0612.)
A bunch of bogus “help” sites do charge you, though. They pose as tech-support agencies that can solve problems with your account — for a fee, and often if you agree to give them remote control of your computer.
Only a sucker would fall for such a scheme — or a thrill-seeker like you!
So there you have it: the five easy steps to getting hacked and scammed. Why not make life more interesting for yourself? Start right away!
You’ll be in good company. Hundreds of thousands of people are already following exactly these steps today.
For real advice and information, also see:
* Weekend Project: Fix Your Passwords
* Why the Bad Guys Want Your Email
*****************************************************
We too can know this God and be assured of His presence. He has revealed Himself in His creation and in His Word. As we ask Him to make Himself known to us, we’ll learn that He is even more than the owner and creator of everything! - Our Daily Bread web site
I have seen a few homes over the years where the foundations where compromised. One home was sliding off a hill due to the foundation giving way. The sellers wanted full price for the home, then expected the buyers to pay another $100,000 to pay for the repairs to make the home safe!
How many times are we like the homeowners in the story above? We expect to be given full credit for the things we have done in our lives and suffer no consequences for the things we didn't take care of or fix along the way. David was like this during the period of denial about his adultery and murder sins. God sent Nathan to let David know that he did not get away with the sins. The sins that had shaken the foundation of his relationship with God.
This message is important for all of us today. Do we have unconfessed sins or repeating sins that are chipping away at our spiritual foundation. God, the ultimate architect and repairman, will help us repair our spiritual foundation if we just ask him and turn those things over to him today! Do it! Now! ;-)
Lord, we thank you and praise you for the way you love us and forgive us. Please help us to turn from sin and towards you!
Technology Thursday
Friends often ask me for technology tips. I found this article that I thought everyone should read.
How to Get Hacked in 5 Exciting Steps
from David Pogue
Most people probably don’t want to get hacked.
Most people don’t want their password stolen by some anonymous Eastern European teenager. They would not like discovering that they can’t get into their own email, Twitter, or Facebook accounts. They would find it embarrassing if their friends all started saying, “Did you know that I’m getting email spam from your account?”
But come on, people. What’s life without a little risk? Doesn’t some danger make everything more exciting? Why do you think so many people still text and drive? Why do you think people still bike without helmets, swim right after eating, and cut off the “DO NOT REMOVE” tags from their mattresses?
That’s right. Because risk makes everything more fun.
You’ve read endless articles about how to protect yourself online. And that’s fine if you’re a sheep, or you’re a chicken, or you want to plaster every surface of your life with bubble wrap.
But for those who seek the exhilaration of living dangerously, here it is at last: the first concise, authoritative guide to making yourself vulnerable online.
1. Choose an easy password. For years, the No. 1 most commonly chosen password in the world was the word “password.”
Of course, that’s also the world’s most easily guessed password. And there really are professional creeps out there whose job it is to guess passwords and get into accounts. They can actually sell name/password combinations in online hacker forums.
Fortunately, we’re making progress. According to SplashData’s annual Worst Passwords List, “password” is no longer the No. 1 most used password. It’s been surpassed — by “123456.” Good work, people.
If you’re some kind of risk-averse wussy, it’s easy enough to invent a password that’s not hard to memorize — but that no hacker can guess (and that no computer program can guess by trying every word in the dictionary, either). For example, you can compose a password from the initials of a fun phrase, like the delicious password “29gofiabm.” (That, of course, stands for “29 grams of fat in a Big Mac.”)
So, by all means, save yourself the mental strain of coming up with something hard to guess. Use “password,” “123456,” or another one of the Top 20 like “qwerty,” “iloveyou,” or “abc123.”
2. Use the same password for all your important online accounts. That’s right. Use that same, easy-to-memorize password for Yahoo, Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, your bank, and your credit cards. That way, if the bad guys manage to get their hands on one of your accounts, they can also get into all your others. Now you get to live dangerously and you’ve also made your life a lot easier. Only one password to memorize!
It’s possible to have a different password for every site without having to be a national memory champion. You could vary the password for each website — tacking on each site’s first initial at the end. For Facebook, “29gofiabmf,” for example; for Yahoo, “29gofiabmy.”
But you, the thrillseeker, would never bother. Nor would you bother installing a free password-management program like Dashlane or (for Apple products) iCloud Keychain. Those programs let you have a different, complex password for every site you visit — without your having to memorize anything at all!
But, hey. Where’s the thrill in that?
3. Don’t surrender your cellphone number as a security measure. These days, websites like Facebook, Gmail and Yahoo often ask you to provide your cellphone number.
They do that for three security reasons. First, if you forget your password or try to change it, they’ll send a new one to your phone for security.
Second, if the company gets hacked or your account gets locked for security reasons, the company has a quick way to alert you — by text message — and let you know the next steps.
Third, some websites, including Google, Facebook, Twitter and Yahoo Mail, offer an optional, super-hyper-secure feature called two-factor authentication. That user-hostile term means this: “The first time you log into your account from a new gadget, you have to enter a code that the company sends to you on your cellphone.” In other words, hackers using their own computers can never get into your accounts unless they also have your phone.
But you know what? All that’s for lily-livered pansies. Want to live on the edge? Keep your cellphone number to yourself!
4. When a bank or another company emails you to report a problem with your account, click the link and log in!
Most of the time, those are fake emails.
Clicking the link takes you to a fake website, dressed up to look like your bank’s (or eBay’s, or PayPal’s, or Amazon’s or whatever).
When you “log in” with your name and password, the bad guys intercept it. Now they know your name and password, so they can get into your real websites.
That particular scam — sending phony email that seems to be from your bank or another big company — is known as phishing (because they’re “fishing” for your information, get it?). And thousands of people every year get scammed that way.
If you think that maybe there really is a problem with your bank, or eBay, or Amazon account, you could open your browser and go log into the company’s website the usual way, not by clicking a link in an email.
If, however, you love the pulse-pounding adrenaline rush that comes from tempting fate, by all means — click the links in those emails and see what happens!
5. When troubles arise, pay for help. No big-name website — Yahoo, Google, Facebook, Twitter, Amazon — ever charges money to give you technical support. (Yahoo, in fact, even has a toll-free help number for “I can’t get into my account” problems: 1-800-318-0612.)
A bunch of bogus “help” sites do charge you, though. They pose as tech-support agencies that can solve problems with your account — for a fee, and often if you agree to give them remote control of your computer.
Only a sucker would fall for such a scheme — or a thrill-seeker like you!
So there you have it: the five easy steps to getting hacked and scammed. Why not make life more interesting for yourself? Start right away!
You’ll be in good company. Hundreds of thousands of people are already following exactly these steps today.
For real advice and information, also see:
* Weekend Project: Fix Your Passwords
* Why the Bad Guys Want Your Email
*****************************************************
We too can know this God and be assured of His presence. He has revealed Himself in His creation and in His Word. As we ask Him to make Himself known to us, we’ll learn that He is even more than the owner and creator of everything! - Our Daily Bread web site
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Be still
Our Daily Bread
While writing this blog entry the song 'Be Still and Know" by Steven Curtis Chapman played in my iTunes playlist. I wondered what this beautiful song had to do with my day and with the devotional. God does work in mysterious ways! Check out the lyrics here.
The devotional talks about the end of the Great War, World War I. The writers compares the feelings, emotions and plans at the end of that war to the coming of Christ that will end all war and strife. The devotional comforts us with the thought that Jesus is Lord. Jesus is High Priest. Jesus is at the right hand of God the Father. Be still and know these things when watching the news. When reading the horrible stories of atrocities and wars that are happening across the world. When you see a young person maimed by the horrors of war. Be still and know an eternity of peace awaits us. Praise Jesus!
Lord, we thank you and praise you for your promises and your reign for all eternity! Come, Lord Jesus, come!
Wellness Wednesday
I don't know about you, but I have a tendency to binge eat sometimes. I don't do it often. I usually binge eat on the same foods -- popcorn, pizza, chicken nuggets, burgers, tater tots, cookies. Sometimes the only thing worse than not knowing yourself is writing down the things we DO know about ourselves! ha! Below is an article I found about binge eating and why we do it.
The Science Behind Why We Binge (And What To Do About It)
By Nick English
At some point, we've all awoken from some kind of binge, perhaps surrounded by beer bottles, candy wrappers or shopping bags, and asked ourselves: What the hell happened? How can rational, functioning adults totally lose control of their impulses?
What's the deal?
As it turns out, whether it's drinking, eating or shopping, different binge behaviors actually have similar causes. Greatist Expert and clinical psychologist Dr. Michael Mantell explains that all types of bingeing are "ways of dealing with negative emotions that are not rational or healthy." But when does the occasional overindulgence become a real problem? According to Mantell, fully-fledged binge disorders are characterized by feelings of powerlessness, secrecy, shame and social isolation. Once someone feels a need to binge in private, or schedule binges around (or instead of) work and social obligations, it's time to ask why.
Binge eating is currently the most common eating disorder in adults, compulsive buying disorder (a.k.a. "shopaholism") is increasing, and binge drinking is widespread, especially among women. Whether it's pizza, booze or clearance sales, the causes of any type of binge behavior can fall into three categories: psychological, chemical and sociocultural. (Stick with us here, we won't get too dense.)
Psychological
The most common causes of bingeing are anxiety, stress and depression -- a lot of the time, it's simply a way to numb unhappy feelings. But bingeing can also be a symptom of an undiagnosed mental disorder. Depression, for example, can lead to low self esteem, body dissatisfaction, poor impulse control and difficulty managing feelings -- all of which can trigger a binge. Naturally, the pain and guilt that comes in the aftermath of a binge can trigger depression, which can trigger another binge... not exactly a fun cycle to get caught in.
Chemical
Of course, people also overindulge because it can feel great -- before regret sets in, anyway. The brain releases the feel-awesome chemical dopamine when we eat fat and sugar, when we drink alcohol, or even when we see new things to buy. Once the brain secretes dopamine during binges, they can become like a physical addiction -- we binge more and more because we crave the rush of chemicals. Similarly, low levels of dopamine and serotonin (another happy chemical) can lead to compulsive behavior (like bingeing) and depression.
Stress and anxiety can also make people binge by making them more prone to "reward seeking behavior" -- basically, stress can make us lose perspective and prioritize the nice feelings ("reward") we get during a binge over the regret that inevitably comes later.
Sociocultural
Without a strong sense of self-confidence, the pressures of a culture that emphasizes coolness through consumption can also drive people to binges.
"We're always being told that you're not worth anything if you're not thin, if you don't drink, if you don't own certain things," says Mantell. "That pressure to be perfect can definitely lead to anxiety and binge-like behavior."
Mind Over Matter
Many experts link bingeing to a lack of mindfulness, especially relating to emotions. People who are prone to compulsive behavior tend, in general, to have more difficulty understanding their feelings and handling stress. There are many ways to help remedy the issue, such as mindfulness meditation and writing down emotions throughout the day. When a binge feels imminent, Mantell suggests the THINK model: ask whether these feelings are True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary or Kind. For example, an impulse like, "I must buy that now," doesn’t exactly fit the THINK bill. Being aware of one's emotional states can help reduce stress, anxiety and consequent bingeing, so working on improving mindfulness is never a bad idea.
What Can I Do?
No matter why (or how) someone binges, there are plenty of treatment options available for those who seek help. Mantell recommends first visiting a cognitive behavioral therapist to figure out if the binges are a standalone problem or if they're caused by more serious mental issues, like depression or a mood disorder.
After talking with a mental health professional, the recommended next step is to work on controlling binges through continued therapy. Finding a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous, Overeaters Anonymous or Debtors Anonymous can also be useful in many cases.
Remember, self-treatment is only okay for less serious cases of binge behavior. If bingeing is continuously, negatively impacting your life -- to the point where it causes distress or financial, social or physical harm -- therapy should be the first step.
Thanks to Dr. Michael Mantell and Dr. Heather Hausenblas for their help with this article.
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Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” John 11:40
While writing this blog entry the song 'Be Still and Know" by Steven Curtis Chapman played in my iTunes playlist. I wondered what this beautiful song had to do with my day and with the devotional. God does work in mysterious ways! Check out the lyrics here.
The devotional talks about the end of the Great War, World War I. The writers compares the feelings, emotions and plans at the end of that war to the coming of Christ that will end all war and strife. The devotional comforts us with the thought that Jesus is Lord. Jesus is High Priest. Jesus is at the right hand of God the Father. Be still and know these things when watching the news. When reading the horrible stories of atrocities and wars that are happening across the world. When you see a young person maimed by the horrors of war. Be still and know an eternity of peace awaits us. Praise Jesus!
Lord, we thank you and praise you for your promises and your reign for all eternity! Come, Lord Jesus, come!
Wellness Wednesday
I don't know about you, but I have a tendency to binge eat sometimes. I don't do it often. I usually binge eat on the same foods -- popcorn, pizza, chicken nuggets, burgers, tater tots, cookies. Sometimes the only thing worse than not knowing yourself is writing down the things we DO know about ourselves! ha! Below is an article I found about binge eating and why we do it.
The Science Behind Why We Binge (And What To Do About It)
By Nick English
At some point, we've all awoken from some kind of binge, perhaps surrounded by beer bottles, candy wrappers or shopping bags, and asked ourselves: What the hell happened? How can rational, functioning adults totally lose control of their impulses?
What's the deal?
As it turns out, whether it's drinking, eating or shopping, different binge behaviors actually have similar causes. Greatist Expert and clinical psychologist Dr. Michael Mantell explains that all types of bingeing are "ways of dealing with negative emotions that are not rational or healthy." But when does the occasional overindulgence become a real problem? According to Mantell, fully-fledged binge disorders are characterized by feelings of powerlessness, secrecy, shame and social isolation. Once someone feels a need to binge in private, or schedule binges around (or instead of) work and social obligations, it's time to ask why.
Binge eating is currently the most common eating disorder in adults, compulsive buying disorder (a.k.a. "shopaholism") is increasing, and binge drinking is widespread, especially among women. Whether it's pizza, booze or clearance sales, the causes of any type of binge behavior can fall into three categories: psychological, chemical and sociocultural. (Stick with us here, we won't get too dense.)
Psychological
The most common causes of bingeing are anxiety, stress and depression -- a lot of the time, it's simply a way to numb unhappy feelings. But bingeing can also be a symptom of an undiagnosed mental disorder. Depression, for example, can lead to low self esteem, body dissatisfaction, poor impulse control and difficulty managing feelings -- all of which can trigger a binge. Naturally, the pain and guilt that comes in the aftermath of a binge can trigger depression, which can trigger another binge... not exactly a fun cycle to get caught in.
Chemical
Of course, people also overindulge because it can feel great -- before regret sets in, anyway. The brain releases the feel-awesome chemical dopamine when we eat fat and sugar, when we drink alcohol, or even when we see new things to buy. Once the brain secretes dopamine during binges, they can become like a physical addiction -- we binge more and more because we crave the rush of chemicals. Similarly, low levels of dopamine and serotonin (another happy chemical) can lead to compulsive behavior (like bingeing) and depression.
Stress and anxiety can also make people binge by making them more prone to "reward seeking behavior" -- basically, stress can make us lose perspective and prioritize the nice feelings ("reward") we get during a binge over the regret that inevitably comes later.
Sociocultural
Without a strong sense of self-confidence, the pressures of a culture that emphasizes coolness through consumption can also drive people to binges.
"We're always being told that you're not worth anything if you're not thin, if you don't drink, if you don't own certain things," says Mantell. "That pressure to be perfect can definitely lead to anxiety and binge-like behavior."
Mind Over Matter
Many experts link bingeing to a lack of mindfulness, especially relating to emotions. People who are prone to compulsive behavior tend, in general, to have more difficulty understanding their feelings and handling stress. There are many ways to help remedy the issue, such as mindfulness meditation and writing down emotions throughout the day. When a binge feels imminent, Mantell suggests the THINK model: ask whether these feelings are True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary or Kind. For example, an impulse like, "I must buy that now," doesn’t exactly fit the THINK bill. Being aware of one's emotional states can help reduce stress, anxiety and consequent bingeing, so working on improving mindfulness is never a bad idea.
What Can I Do?
No matter why (or how) someone binges, there are plenty of treatment options available for those who seek help. Mantell recommends first visiting a cognitive behavioral therapist to figure out if the binges are a standalone problem or if they're caused by more serious mental issues, like depression or a mood disorder.
After talking with a mental health professional, the recommended next step is to work on controlling binges through continued therapy. Finding a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous, Overeaters Anonymous or Debtors Anonymous can also be useful in many cases.
Remember, self-treatment is only okay for less serious cases of binge behavior. If bingeing is continuously, negatively impacting your life -- to the point where it causes distress or financial, social or physical harm -- therapy should be the first step.
Thanks to Dr. Michael Mantell and Dr. Heather Hausenblas for their help with this article.
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Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” John 11:40
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
The bestest helper
Our Daily Bread
My family has several pictures of me "helping" them when I was very small. Churning milk into butter with my little arms. Serving cookies to visitors. Cute kid stuff. Oh how things change! ha!
We often discount the importance of "helpers". I know I do. We forget that "helper" is listed in one of the gifts in Paul's scriptures. It is included in the same list as preachers and teachers! Jesus also refers to the Holy Spirit as our helper. I call that the bestest helper of all! ;-) A help in the time of trouble. Strength to face each day and overcome (not just survive). A mirror that enables us to see into ourselves to we can give everything to God. A spiritual GPS! What a helper indeed!
Lord, we thank you for the gift of your helper, The Holy Spirit. Please help us call upon the Holy Spirit each and every day!
Teaching Tuesday
We studied two short books this week: Philemon and Jude.
Philemon
This book, found near the end of the New Testament, is the shortest of the letters attributed to Paul (335 words in Greek). It is an interesting book even if it is very short! Paul is writing to his friend Philemon. Scholars think that Philemon was a wealthy and powerful man in the Collossae area. While the letter is addressed to Philemon, it is intended to be read to the church as a whole since he hosted church services in his home. The book uses several different literary devices, such as a play on words on a name. Check out the importance of the church in this letter. Very cool!
Jude
This book was attributed to Jude, one of Jesus' younger brothers who became a believer after his death. It is thought to pre-date the book of II Peter since that book refers to Jude and uses some of the same language. Jude has strong warnings against false teachers and folks that seek to damage the church with their actions A big controversy with the book of Jude is its references to non-canonical books. At least one book didn't make it into the Apocrypha! It is a short read. Check it out sometime.
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Waiting for God is never a waste of time. - Our Daily Bread Jan 26 2014
My family has several pictures of me "helping" them when I was very small. Churning milk into butter with my little arms. Serving cookies to visitors. Cute kid stuff. Oh how things change! ha!
We often discount the importance of "helpers". I know I do. We forget that "helper" is listed in one of the gifts in Paul's scriptures. It is included in the same list as preachers and teachers! Jesus also refers to the Holy Spirit as our helper. I call that the bestest helper of all! ;-) A help in the time of trouble. Strength to face each day and overcome (not just survive). A mirror that enables us to see into ourselves to we can give everything to God. A spiritual GPS! What a helper indeed!
Lord, we thank you for the gift of your helper, The Holy Spirit. Please help us call upon the Holy Spirit each and every day!
Teaching Tuesday
We studied two short books this week: Philemon and Jude.
Philemon
This book, found near the end of the New Testament, is the shortest of the letters attributed to Paul (335 words in Greek). It is an interesting book even if it is very short! Paul is writing to his friend Philemon. Scholars think that Philemon was a wealthy and powerful man in the Collossae area. While the letter is addressed to Philemon, it is intended to be read to the church as a whole since he hosted church services in his home. The book uses several different literary devices, such as a play on words on a name. Check out the importance of the church in this letter. Very cool!
Jude
This book was attributed to Jude, one of Jesus' younger brothers who became a believer after his death. It is thought to pre-date the book of II Peter since that book refers to Jude and uses some of the same language. Jude has strong warnings against false teachers and folks that seek to damage the church with their actions A big controversy with the book of Jude is its references to non-canonical books. At least one book didn't make it into the Apocrypha! It is a short read. Check it out sometime.
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Waiting for God is never a waste of time. - Our Daily Bread Jan 26 2014
Monday, February 17, 2014
Words can...
Our Daily Bread
Here are some poignant lyrics from Hawk Nelson's song Words:
Words can build you up
Words can break you down
Start a fire in your heart or
Put it out
Movie Monday
I didn't make it to the movies this week. ;-( I did watch an old movie on TV on Saturday -- The Beauty Shop.
I remember people talking about The Beauty Shop when it came out many years ago. Queen Latifah stars in the movie. Kevin Bacon plays a surprising role in the movie as well. Queen' character opens her own beauty shop. The movie covers a LOT of territory in the well-written script: racism, womens issues, gay issues, and small business owner issues. It was pretty well done.
I give this movie two bear paws. Rent it on Netflix or another movie service.
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Excavating your heart will unearth the beautiful things God has planted in you. - R. Howerton
Here are some poignant lyrics from Hawk Nelson's song Words:
Words can build you up
Words can break you down
Start a fire in your heart or
Put it out
I was reminded about words in the devotional this morning. The crucial point for me was the last few paragraphs where it talked about listening to yourself before you say something to determine how you are communicating your point(s). Are you being kind and effective? Are you being emotional and/or inconsiderate? It reminded me how many times I have said the right things in the wrong way, thus negating the important message I was trying to get across. Yes, the way you say your words can say more than the words themselves!
Lord, please help us watch our words. Please help us say everything the way our Lord Jesus would say them!
Movie Monday
I didn't make it to the movies this week. ;-( I did watch an old movie on TV on Saturday -- The Beauty Shop.
I remember people talking about The Beauty Shop when it came out many years ago. Queen Latifah stars in the movie. Kevin Bacon plays a surprising role in the movie as well. Queen' character opens her own beauty shop. The movie covers a LOT of territory in the well-written script: racism, womens issues, gay issues, and small business owner issues. It was pretty well done.
I give this movie two bear paws. Rent it on Netflix or another movie service.
**************************************
Excavating your heart will unearth the beautiful things God has planted in you. - R. Howerton
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Submit
Submit
Read: Hebrews 13:17-19. The devotional referenced this passage today. It was an interesting follow up to the surrender article I wrote yesterday. Maybe God is trying to tell me (us) something? :-). Let's think and pray about how the passage affects us. Praise God!
Psalm Sunday
A very short song of ascents today. Can we honestly pray this prayer?
Psalm 131
A song of ascents. Of David.
1 My heart is not proud, Lord,
my eyes are not haughty;
I do not concern myself with great matters
or things too wonderful for me.
2 But I have calmed and quieted myself,
I am like a weaned child with its mother;
like a weaned child I am content.
3 Israel, put your hope in theLord
both now and forevermore.
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Surrender
I had an interesting discussion about the word surrender the other day. The word seemed like an admission of weakness with no chance of victory to one friend. To another friend, surrender was a positive thing. We decided to look up the definition in the dictionary.
Surrender
- to yield (something) to the possession or power of another; deliver up possession of on demand or under duress: to surrender the fort to the enemy; to surrender the stolen goods to the police.
- to give (oneself) up, as to the police.
- to give (oneself) up to some influence, course, emotion, etc.: He surrendered himself to a life of hardship.
- to give up, abandon, or relinquish (comfort, hope, etc.).
- to yield or resign (an office, privilege,etc.) in favor of another.
- to give oneself up, as into the powerof another; submit or yield.
— verb (used without object)
Why am I writing about this? One of my friends had a poignant observation: Jesus did all of those things for us!
From a place of ultimate power, Jesus defined the word surrender. He did it for us. Praise Jesus!
Friday, February 14, 2014
Excited.
Special edition from Chicago:
Happy Valentines Day! I saw lots of folks buying last minute gifts for their special someones at Kroger last night. It made me think about how I show my love for God.
There are times I wonder about me.
I get excited about things that really aren't that important in the big picture if things. I am sort of bleh about things that should fire me up. While thinking about this I remembered some verses attributes to Paul where he talks not doing what he know he should be doing but rather doing other stuff instead. Finding balance in hobbies and how we spend our money is always a challenge. Let us all think about that today. How do we show our love to God?
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Man in the Mirror
Our Daily Bread
The Michael Jackson song Man in the Mirror took on a religious overtone for me. It is so easy to sit back and judge others. I think that is the main reason I don't like reality TV -- it helps us practice judging others over and over!
What do we really see when we look at the person in the mirror? Do we see Sardis presenting a good appearance outwardly and have malice in our hearts. Or do we present the truth? What are the truths about ourselves? Find a way to pray about this whether it is a simple prayer from your heart or an organized prayer from the Daily Office through the Episcopal Church. Prayer not only changes others. It changes us.
I know I am not the man that I think I am. Today's devotional was a personal message to me as God has been talking to me about this for a few weeks now. Whew...
Lord, please teach us to look at ourselves realistically and honestly.
Technology Thursday
New receiver
If you have ever been to my house, one thing is obvious -- I like gadgets and electronics! I don't buy the top of the line stuff. I am too cheap for that. I usually buy middle of the road components that are good enough for my purposes and tastes. One of the reasons NOT to buy the top of the line stuff is that things change. When I bought my Sony A/V receiver several years ago, I only needed two HDMI inputs -- one for my DVD player and one for my cable box. As time went on, there is a need for at least four as I added a Roku device and a gaming system! I am not sure I will spend the money this year or not, but here is a potential candidate to replace my Sony receiver.
Onkyo TX-NR626 7.2-Channel Network Audio/Video Receiver
This Onkyo receiver. which costs $499 on amazon.com, is my top candidate. It has lots of connectivity options. Lots of power. Low distortion rate. Great reviews on several web sites. It is a little more than I wanted to spend, however, I think it will last me a long time. I am not sure I need all of this, but it is a nice thought!
- 95 Watts per Channel (8 Ohms, 20 Hz 20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 Channels Driven); 115 Watts per Channel (6 Ohms, 1 kHz, 0.7% THD, 2 Channels Driven)
- 6 HDMI Inputs and 2 Outputs with Audio Return Channel
- Built-In Wi-Fi-Certified Wireless LAN Capability
- Onboard Bluetooth Audio Streaming Technology
- Powered Zone 2 and Zone 2 Line-Out for Distributed Audio Playback in Another Room
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Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God - William Carey
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
X-ray vision
Our Daily Bread
I read a few comic books when I was a young boy. I enjoyed looking at the ads in the back of the comic books. Every boy's dream was to own a pair of X-ray glasses. Oh what wonderful and naughty things we could see! Ha!
I hadn't thought about the x-ray glasses for a long time until I read the devotional this morning about hyperseeing. The x-ray glasses from my boyhood were the only things I could relate to hyperseeing. The metaphor of God being able to see what we will become was very special to me. I realized that I can sometimes see what people can become. My only problem is that I often treat people like the person they can become instead of the actual person they are now. My trustful behavior can lead to disappointment and heartache at times. Those feelings made me realize how God must feel at times when he looks at our lives. Wow! Let's all think about that today as we live our busy lives!
Lord, we thank for seeing who we can become while still loving us for who we are today!
Wellness Wednesday
Here are the six tips. Click here to read the entire article.
- Rule No. 1. Don’t ever cheat. They never give themselves a break, not even on holidays or weekends.
- Rule No. 2. Eat breakfast. The National Weight Control Registry shows that’s one of the most common traits of those who succeed in keeping those pounds off once and for all.
- Rule No. 3. Get on a scale every day.
- Rule No. 4. Put in the equivalent of a four-mile walk seven days a week.
- Rule No. 5. Watch less than half as much TV as the overall population.
- Rule No. 6. Eat 50 to 300 calories less than most people.
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Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
So many fears
Our Daily Bread
Funny movies keep me going at times as I remember how they made me laugh. One line came to mind while reading the devotional. A pretty blonde enters a singles bar and says "So many men, so little time". I may just be making that up! ha!
We can sometimes cram all of our fears into a little time -- so many fears, so little time. We can let our fears, mostly unfounded and unnecessary fears, rule our lives at times. We fear the silliest things. We fear the "big" fears of life like being alone, losing those close to us, losing our jobs and security, losing our health, etc. What are your fears? So little time on this earth. Fears? I ain't got time for that! Praise God!
Lord, please help us turn our hopes and fears over to you. You are there for us and will lead us into your will.
Teaching Tuesday
Personal theology
This week we were challenged to review our own personal theology. What? A personal theology? Yes. We all have one! Where did you learn yours? From Sunday School? From years of personal study and seeking God? Here is an exercise for you (I already did it for my class!). ;-) Write out your spiritual journey. Some call this a "testimony". It can be as long or as short as you see fit. Put it aside for a day. Read it and answer these questions:
You have homework. Get er' done! ;-)
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“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
Funny movies keep me going at times as I remember how they made me laugh. One line came to mind while reading the devotional. A pretty blonde enters a singles bar and says "So many men, so little time". I may just be making that up! ha!
We can sometimes cram all of our fears into a little time -- so many fears, so little time. We can let our fears, mostly unfounded and unnecessary fears, rule our lives at times. We fear the silliest things. We fear the "big" fears of life like being alone, losing those close to us, losing our jobs and security, losing our health, etc. What are your fears? So little time on this earth. Fears? I ain't got time for that! Praise God!
Lord, please help us turn our hopes and fears over to you. You are there for us and will lead us into your will.
Teaching Tuesday
Personal theology
This week we were challenged to review our own personal theology. What? A personal theology? Yes. We all have one! Where did you learn yours? From Sunday School? From years of personal study and seeking God? Here is an exercise for you (I already did it for my class!). ;-) Write out your spiritual journey. Some call this a "testimony". It can be as long or as short as you see fit. Put it aside for a day. Read it and answer these questions:
- How do you see God? As protector? Always with us no matter what? Punisher?
- What ideas or images do you have of God? I put things like the cross, the tablet with the ten commandments, etc.
- What things or activities bring you closer to God?
- Are there things in your personal theology that you need to re-evaluate or change?
You have homework. Get er' done! ;-)
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“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
Monday, February 10, 2014
Music speaks to us
Our Daily Bread
I remember the first time I joked about the power of music. I saw a show where music calmed a raging beast in the wild. The beast went from a wild animal to a calm animal in just a few minutes while listening to Mozart. When some college friends were being rowdy, I played some similar music hoping it would work on my rowdy friends! ha!
I have been sharing a psalm a week for the past 130 Sundays. I feel the same way as the devotional writer. The psalmist, whether it be David or someone else, did an incredible job of expressing raw human emotions during a wide variety of life events. Whether it be extreme highs or extreme lows, the psalms express those emotions. They encourage me to express the wide range of my emotions to God even though he already knows everything about me. What about you? Why not try writing your own psalm this week and say/sing it to God?
Lord, you give us the ability and access to express our deepest thoughts, desires and feelings. We thank you and praise you!
Movie Monday
I didn't make it to the movie theater this week, but I managed to find time to rent Dallas Buyers Club on Amazon Prime.
Dallas Buyers Club
I did not know about the buyers clubs during this period when drug companies and the folks infected with HIV were desperate to find a cure for the fatal disease. While there is still no cure, we know now that there are drug cocktails that can reduce the virus to undetectable levels. We also know that HIV/AIDS is not just a "gay disease".
With strong performances from the two lead characters, this film was moving and haunting to me. Seeing on screen the prejudice and fear towards Matthew McConaughey's character, a straight man who contracted the virus from straight sex with a junkie (shared needles). The physical changes and the attitude changes throughout the movie were incredible.
I give this movie three bear paws. Definitely Oscar worthy performances and movie as a whole. You can rent this online or see it in a few theaters that are still showing the Oscar nominees.
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I am far from perfect, but despite my mistakes and my sins, I will never abandon the Lord and he will never abandon me - adapted from a statement about Abraham from the EfM Training Guide
I remember the first time I joked about the power of music. I saw a show where music calmed a raging beast in the wild. The beast went from a wild animal to a calm animal in just a few minutes while listening to Mozart. When some college friends were being rowdy, I played some similar music hoping it would work on my rowdy friends! ha!
I have been sharing a psalm a week for the past 130 Sundays. I feel the same way as the devotional writer. The psalmist, whether it be David or someone else, did an incredible job of expressing raw human emotions during a wide variety of life events. Whether it be extreme highs or extreme lows, the psalms express those emotions. They encourage me to express the wide range of my emotions to God even though he already knows everything about me. What about you? Why not try writing your own psalm this week and say/sing it to God?
Lord, you give us the ability and access to express our deepest thoughts, desires and feelings. We thank you and praise you!
Movie Monday
I didn't make it to the movie theater this week, but I managed to find time to rent Dallas Buyers Club on Amazon Prime.
Dallas Buyers Club
I did not know about the buyers clubs during this period when drug companies and the folks infected with HIV were desperate to find a cure for the fatal disease. While there is still no cure, we know now that there are drug cocktails that can reduce the virus to undetectable levels. We also know that HIV/AIDS is not just a "gay disease".
With strong performances from the two lead characters, this film was moving and haunting to me. Seeing on screen the prejudice and fear towards Matthew McConaughey's character, a straight man who contracted the virus from straight sex with a junkie (shared needles). The physical changes and the attitude changes throughout the movie were incredible.
I give this movie three bear paws. Definitely Oscar worthy performances and movie as a whole. You can rent this online or see it in a few theaters that are still showing the Oscar nominees.
*************************************
I am far from perfect, but despite my mistakes and my sins, I will never abandon the Lord and he will never abandon me - adapted from a statement about Abraham from the EfM Training Guide
Sunday, February 9, 2014
One body
Our Daily Bread
I hear it over and over again. The reason someone doesn't go to church is because of the way people act at church. The hypocrites make folks not want to attend. When a new friend told me this yesterday I avoided going into "preaching" mode. Instead I sent him this text later:
"I do believe in prayer and will be praying for you. My life in God has not all been sunshine, rainbows and unicorns. I know it is the best life for me. I pray that you find what is best for you."
It is times like this when I truly wonder about God's plan for the church. So many people see the church as a gathering place for saints. Someone once said the church is better thought of as a hospital for the spiritually sick! I know I have caused and experienced my share of church drama in the last 46 years. We think we are doing the right thing when we say or do certain things. We may be right and they might not be interpreted the right way or we may be horribly wrong causing hurt and discord. Let's all take a look at ourselves. Do our actions really match up to the words that are coming out of our mouths?
Lord, you taught us that we need to experience you alone and in community. Please help us pray and live for unity.
Psalm Sunday
Let's look at Psalm 130 this week. I really like this one. It seems more personal until the last verse. I especially like the literary device to repeat a line in verse 6. Very cool. Can you hear yourself praying this prayer and changing the word "Israel" in verse 8 to your name?
We have another four weeks of songs of ascents after this week.
Psalm 130
A song of ascents.
1 Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord;
2 Lord, hear my voice.
Let your ears be attentive
to my cry for mercy.
3 If you, Lord, kept a record of sins,
Lord, who could stand?
4 But with you there is forgiveness,
so that we can, with reverence, serve you.
5 I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits,
and in his word I put my hope.
6 I wait for the Lord
more than watchmen wait for the morning,
more than watchmen wait for the morning.
7 Israel, put your hope in the Lord,
for with the Lord is unfailing love
and with him is full redemption.
8 He himself will redeem Israel
from all their sins.
********************************
We can thank the Lord that through His grace and power, our past is forgiven, our present is changed, and our future is bright with hope for all He has prepared for us - Our Daily Bread, 10/13/13
I hear it over and over again. The reason someone doesn't go to church is because of the way people act at church. The hypocrites make folks not want to attend. When a new friend told me this yesterday I avoided going into "preaching" mode. Instead I sent him this text later:
"I do believe in prayer and will be praying for you. My life in God has not all been sunshine, rainbows and unicorns. I know it is the best life for me. I pray that you find what is best for you."
It is times like this when I truly wonder about God's plan for the church. So many people see the church as a gathering place for saints. Someone once said the church is better thought of as a hospital for the spiritually sick! I know I have caused and experienced my share of church drama in the last 46 years. We think we are doing the right thing when we say or do certain things. We may be right and they might not be interpreted the right way or we may be horribly wrong causing hurt and discord. Let's all take a look at ourselves. Do our actions really match up to the words that are coming out of our mouths?
Lord, you taught us that we need to experience you alone and in community. Please help us pray and live for unity.
Psalm Sunday
Let's look at Psalm 130 this week. I really like this one. It seems more personal until the last verse. I especially like the literary device to repeat a line in verse 6. Very cool. Can you hear yourself praying this prayer and changing the word "Israel" in verse 8 to your name?
We have another four weeks of songs of ascents after this week.
Psalm 130
A song of ascents.
1 Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord;
2 Lord, hear my voice.
Let your ears be attentive
to my cry for mercy.
3 If you, Lord, kept a record of sins,
Lord, who could stand?
4 But with you there is forgiveness,
so that we can, with reverence, serve you.
5 I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits,
and in his word I put my hope.
6 I wait for the Lord
more than watchmen wait for the morning,
more than watchmen wait for the morning.
7 Israel, put your hope in the Lord,
for with the Lord is unfailing love
and with him is full redemption.
8 He himself will redeem Israel
from all their sins.
********************************
We can thank the Lord that through His grace and power, our past is forgiven, our present is changed, and our future is bright with hope for all He has prepared for us - Our Daily Bread, 10/13/13
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Did I do that?
Our Daily Bread
A popular TV show in the 80s had a character that would look at the carnage he created through his silliness and ask innocently "Did I do that?" ha!
As Christians we can do that at times. We can sin unknowingly and realize later the problems we caused for ourselves and for others. We can also knowingly sin and ask innocently "Did I do that?" Of course we did! ha! I told a new friend why I try to live the best I can for God. He assumed that I didn't want to sin because of guilty feelings. I told him that it was because living for God was the best way for me to live for all parts of me -- physically, emotionally and spiritually. Praise God!
Lord we thank you for giving us the best way to live our lives -- for you!
Simply Saturday
I had a much busier week than I planned I hate that! Like I talked about above, we can knowingly or unknowingly sin and see the "wages of sin" until much later. I put off earning the PDUs that I need to renew a certification until the last few months. Not good. Earning those PDUs, both the expense and the time required, added to an already busy time.
Why am I telling you about this? I ask for your prayers that I may keep God first. That I may treat people the way they deserve to be treated at all times. I have a tendency to get short with people (more than usual) when I get in to "get things done" mode. Whew... Knowing oneself is the beginning of turning things over more and more to God. ;-)
I hope you learn more about yourself. More of yourself that you can give over to God.
*************************************
As wise King Solomon said, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:5-6).
A popular TV show in the 80s had a character that would look at the carnage he created through his silliness and ask innocently "Did I do that?" ha!
As Christians we can do that at times. We can sin unknowingly and realize later the problems we caused for ourselves and for others. We can also knowingly sin and ask innocently "Did I do that?" Of course we did! ha! I told a new friend why I try to live the best I can for God. He assumed that I didn't want to sin because of guilty feelings. I told him that it was because living for God was the best way for me to live for all parts of me -- physically, emotionally and spiritually. Praise God!
Lord we thank you for giving us the best way to live our lives -- for you!
Simply Saturday
I had a much busier week than I planned I hate that! Like I talked about above, we can knowingly or unknowingly sin and see the "wages of sin" until much later. I put off earning the PDUs that I need to renew a certification until the last few months. Not good. Earning those PDUs, both the expense and the time required, added to an already busy time.
Why am I telling you about this? I ask for your prayers that I may keep God first. That I may treat people the way they deserve to be treated at all times. I have a tendency to get short with people (more than usual) when I get in to "get things done" mode. Whew... Knowing oneself is the beginning of turning things over more and more to God. ;-)
I hope you learn more about yourself. More of yourself that you can give over to God.
*************************************
As wise King Solomon said, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:5-6).
Friday, February 7, 2014
Ordinary people
Our Daily Bread
There is an old song that I love called Ordinary People. Click here to read the lyrics. The song emphasizes what we read about over and over in the Bible -- God using ordinary people! I love reading those stories! They make me feel so much better about myself! ha!
Seriously, God will use anyone that makes themselves available to be used. I have been learning about saints the past few years. I have been amazed at the stories and the ordinary people that gave their lives to God. Like them, we don't aim for sainthood. We are to give ourselves to God to be used for his glory! Let us pray for each other to do that today and every day! Praise God!
Lord, you only ask that we give you our all. How can we not?
Foodie Friday
Two things today. A restaurant review and a recipe (sort of).
Italian place
My roomie wanted to go to Subway near the Giant Eagle grocery store on Dublin-Granville Road. When we parked, we noticed a small Italian restaurant next door. We decided to get pizza and salad instead of Subway! DOH! My roomie had a 10" pepperoni and jalapeno pizza. I had the 10" pepperoni, sausage and mushroom pizza. I also got a house salad. All this set us back a total of $13! Wow!
The salad was good. Fresh lettuce and good dressing. It was tasty. The pizzas, however. were a disappointment. We think it was the sauce that we didn't like. The toppings were adequate and very tasty, but we had to choke them down with that sauce. We couldn't quite put our finger on what we didn't like but neither of us did! I doubt we will be going back.
Recipe: Shrimps in a blanket
I am looking for Mardi Gras appetizer recipes for my dinner group on Sunday. I had an idea of my own this morning -- shrimps in a blanket! I plan to roll the cooked shrimp in cajun seasonings and then roll them up in a crescent roll (much like pigs in a blanket). I will probably brush the crescent rolls with some hot sauce or something like that. I will let you know how they turn out!
*******************************
Living out of love for God and pleasing Him should be our heart’s desire. - Our Daily Bread
There is an old song that I love called Ordinary People. Click here to read the lyrics. The song emphasizes what we read about over and over in the Bible -- God using ordinary people! I love reading those stories! They make me feel so much better about myself! ha!
Seriously, God will use anyone that makes themselves available to be used. I have been learning about saints the past few years. I have been amazed at the stories and the ordinary people that gave their lives to God. Like them, we don't aim for sainthood. We are to give ourselves to God to be used for his glory! Let us pray for each other to do that today and every day! Praise God!
Lord, you only ask that we give you our all. How can we not?
Foodie Friday
Two things today. A restaurant review and a recipe (sort of).
Italian place
My roomie wanted to go to Subway near the Giant Eagle grocery store on Dublin-Granville Road. When we parked, we noticed a small Italian restaurant next door. We decided to get pizza and salad instead of Subway! DOH! My roomie had a 10" pepperoni and jalapeno pizza. I had the 10" pepperoni, sausage and mushroom pizza. I also got a house salad. All this set us back a total of $13! Wow!
The salad was good. Fresh lettuce and good dressing. It was tasty. The pizzas, however. were a disappointment. We think it was the sauce that we didn't like. The toppings were adequate and very tasty, but we had to choke them down with that sauce. We couldn't quite put our finger on what we didn't like but neither of us did! I doubt we will be going back.
Recipe: Shrimps in a blanket
I am looking for Mardi Gras appetizer recipes for my dinner group on Sunday. I had an idea of my own this morning -- shrimps in a blanket! I plan to roll the cooked shrimp in cajun seasonings and then roll them up in a crescent roll (much like pigs in a blanket). I will probably brush the crescent rolls with some hot sauce or something like that. I will let you know how they turn out!
*******************************
Living out of love for God and pleasing Him should be our heart’s desire. - Our Daily Bread
Thursday, February 6, 2014
I can still hear you...
Our Daily Bread
There are some funny movie and TV scenes where some characters are talking bad about another character who is within ear shot. The maligned character puts her hands on her hips and says "I can hear you. I am right here." The other characters move a few feet away and continue talking. The maligned character puts her hands on her hips again and says "I can STILL hear you!" Ha!
So many times we are the ones that are talking about God as the maligned character in the TV show. We don't realize in times of grief and distress that God hears everything we say and knows everything we think and feel. I can't imagine him putting his hands on his hips (Lord have mercy) but I can imagine him saying: "I can hear you. I am right here." I can also hear God saying to us over and over "I can STILL hear you!" Praise God!
Lord, we know you hear us and know us better than we know ourselves. We thank you and praise you through good times and bad!
Technology Thursday
Garmin Vivofit
There are a lot of "fitness trackers" on the market right now. Garmin, the company that makes GPS systems, is entering this market at the end of March with their Vivofit device. It is not their first entry in the wearable technology field. They have several wristwatch type devices for runners with built in GPS.
The Vivofit has two models -- the base model for $129 and the base model plus heart rate tracker for $179. You can get these a little cheaper on Amazon.com. You can pre-order now if you like.
Here are some blurbs from the Vivofit web site:
vívofit learns your current activity level, then assigns an attainable daily goal. As you meet your milestones, vívofit will adjust your goal for the next day, gradually nudging you toward a healthier lifestyle. At Garmin Connect™, you can earn virtual badges and view your progress on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.
No need to stop and sync your data to see your progress. vívofit stores your stats right on your wrist. Later, with the touch of 1 button, you can wirelessly sync with Garmin Connect, our free online fitness community.
Research shows that prolonged periods of inactivity such as sitting at a desk much of the day decreases your body’s production of fat-burning enzymes. You can reverse that effect by taking frequent, short walk breaks throughout your day.
And while you might lose track of time and forget to move, vívofit knows. A red move bar appears on the display after 1 hour of inactivity and builds when you’ve been sitting too long. Just walk for a couple of minutes to reset the move bar.
********************************
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13
There are some funny movie and TV scenes where some characters are talking bad about another character who is within ear shot. The maligned character puts her hands on her hips and says "I can hear you. I am right here." The other characters move a few feet away and continue talking. The maligned character puts her hands on her hips again and says "I can STILL hear you!" Ha!
So many times we are the ones that are talking about God as the maligned character in the TV show. We don't realize in times of grief and distress that God hears everything we say and knows everything we think and feel. I can't imagine him putting his hands on his hips (Lord have mercy) but I can imagine him saying: "I can hear you. I am right here." I can also hear God saying to us over and over "I can STILL hear you!" Praise God!
Lord, we know you hear us and know us better than we know ourselves. We thank you and praise you through good times and bad!
Technology Thursday
Garmin Vivofit
There are a lot of "fitness trackers" on the market right now. Garmin, the company that makes GPS systems, is entering this market at the end of March with their Vivofit device. It is not their first entry in the wearable technology field. They have several wristwatch type devices for runners with built in GPS.
The Vivofit has two models -- the base model for $129 and the base model plus heart rate tracker for $179. You can get these a little cheaper on Amazon.com. You can pre-order now if you like.
Here are some blurbs from the Vivofit web site:
vívofit learns your current activity level, then assigns an attainable daily goal. As you meet your milestones, vívofit will adjust your goal for the next day, gradually nudging you toward a healthier lifestyle. At Garmin Connect™, you can earn virtual badges and view your progress on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.
No need to stop and sync your data to see your progress. vívofit stores your stats right on your wrist. Later, with the touch of 1 button, you can wirelessly sync with Garmin Connect, our free online fitness community.
Research shows that prolonged periods of inactivity such as sitting at a desk much of the day decreases your body’s production of fat-burning enzymes. You can reverse that effect by taking frequent, short walk breaks throughout your day.
And while you might lose track of time and forget to move, vívofit knows. A red move bar appears on the display after 1 hour of inactivity and builds when you’ve been sitting too long. Just walk for a couple of minutes to reset the move bar.
********************************
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
My worst critic
Our Daily Bread
Do yoi sing or play an instrument or get in front of people in any capacity? What do you say when someone compliments you? Do you smile and say thank you or do you quickly point all the flaw in your performance? I pray some day I will just smile and say thank you and stop being my own worst critic!
Most folks think that is what God does to us -- be our worst critic! Noooooo! I love this paragraph from today's devotional:
Wow! I challenge each of us to read this paragraph every day this week as a reminder! Praise God!
Lord, thank you for only wanting what is best for us. Please help us to realize what those things might be!
Wellness Wednesday
Easy Mind Tricks To Keep Food In Check
From Mother Nature Network's Melissa Breyer:
The formula for losing weight couldn't be simpler: Consume fewer calories than you require, which means eat less and/or exercise more. To lose a pound of fat there needs to be a deficit of roughly 3,500 calories; so, for example, burning an extra 500 calories a day — or consuming 500 fewer calories a day — will result in the loss of about a pound in a week.
However, while the math is simple, getting there seems far from easy. And thus comes a slew of miracle supplements (“burn fat fast without even trying!”), fad diets (may we offer you a binding corset or surgically-attached tongue patch?) and fancy gizmos (hello, Japanese diet goggles).
But the truth is, losing weight takes work. That said, interesting research has revealed that some simple tricks can make the work a little easier; specifically, creating small obstacles and changing cues.
A study in Switzerland found that the relative availability of food influences food intake. Researchers for the study say that eating is an automatic behavior that can be disrupted when any additional effort is required.
Study participants were invited to sample freely from a bowl of candies; one group was offered unwrapped candies while another group was given wrapped ones. Participants who had to unwrap the candy themselves ate on average 3.6 pieces, while those who had no unwrapping to do ate 5.5 pieces each.
Similarly, in another experiment those who were asked to use tongs to take the candy ate significantly less than those who used their fingers; and in yet another experiment, the results were the same, even when the choice was between high-fat chocolates and dried apricots, indicating the tongs, not the food, were the deterrent, researchers said.
The moral of the story? While the packaging-minded among us may not want to purchase individually wrapped treats, we can still create similar obstacles. For example, wrap snacks in reusable packaging, make snacks hard to reach (just store them in the garage!) or of course, you could resort to eating snacks with tongs!
In a different but similar vein, consider the work of clinical dietitian and author Timi Gustafson, R.D., who explores habits and how they can sabotage our best laid plans to eat well. In a blog for online newspaper SeattlePI.com, Gustafson takes a scientific look at the influence our daily habits. In one case, a woman with an “addiction” to pastries simply changed her driving route to avoid passing her favorite bakery and her “addiction” was eventually cured (and she lost 50 pounds along the way).
Another person exploring the amazing pull of routine as it relates to diet is New York Times journalist Charles Duhigg, who wrote the book "The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business." Similar to the bakery visitor, Duhigg had a chocolate-chip cookie habit; and he was also able to escape the rut by switching up his routine by avoiding the cafeteria during the afternoon slump and socializing with co-workers instead.
**************************************
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13
Do yoi sing or play an instrument or get in front of people in any capacity? What do you say when someone compliments you? Do you smile and say thank you or do you quickly point all the flaw in your performance? I pray some day I will just smile and say thank you and stop being my own worst critic!
Most folks think that is what God does to us -- be our worst critic! Noooooo! I love this paragraph from today's devotional:
We all know things about ourselves that no one else knows—failures, faults, sins—that although confessed to God and forgiven by Him may come back to accuse us again and again. John, one of Jesus’ close followers, wrote about God’s love for us and the call to follow His commands, saying: “By this we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him. For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things” (1 John 3:19-20).
Wow! I challenge each of us to read this paragraph every day this week as a reminder! Praise God!
Lord, thank you for only wanting what is best for us. Please help us to realize what those things might be!
Wellness Wednesday
Easy Mind Tricks To Keep Food In Check
From Mother Nature Network's Melissa Breyer:
The formula for losing weight couldn't be simpler: Consume fewer calories than you require, which means eat less and/or exercise more. To lose a pound of fat there needs to be a deficit of roughly 3,500 calories; so, for example, burning an extra 500 calories a day — or consuming 500 fewer calories a day — will result in the loss of about a pound in a week.
However, while the math is simple, getting there seems far from easy. And thus comes a slew of miracle supplements (“burn fat fast without even trying!”), fad diets (may we offer you a binding corset or surgically-attached tongue patch?) and fancy gizmos (hello, Japanese diet goggles).
But the truth is, losing weight takes work. That said, interesting research has revealed that some simple tricks can make the work a little easier; specifically, creating small obstacles and changing cues.
A study in Switzerland found that the relative availability of food influences food intake. Researchers for the study say that eating is an automatic behavior that can be disrupted when any additional effort is required.
Study participants were invited to sample freely from a bowl of candies; one group was offered unwrapped candies while another group was given wrapped ones. Participants who had to unwrap the candy themselves ate on average 3.6 pieces, while those who had no unwrapping to do ate 5.5 pieces each.
Similarly, in another experiment those who were asked to use tongs to take the candy ate significantly less than those who used their fingers; and in yet another experiment, the results were the same, even when the choice was between high-fat chocolates and dried apricots, indicating the tongs, not the food, were the deterrent, researchers said.
The moral of the story? While the packaging-minded among us may not want to purchase individually wrapped treats, we can still create similar obstacles. For example, wrap snacks in reusable packaging, make snacks hard to reach (just store them in the garage!) or of course, you could resort to eating snacks with tongs!
In a different but similar vein, consider the work of clinical dietitian and author Timi Gustafson, R.D., who explores habits and how they can sabotage our best laid plans to eat well. In a blog for online newspaper SeattlePI.com, Gustafson takes a scientific look at the influence our daily habits. In one case, a woman with an “addiction” to pastries simply changed her driving route to avoid passing her favorite bakery and her “addiction” was eventually cured (and she lost 50 pounds along the way).
Another person exploring the amazing pull of routine as it relates to diet is New York Times journalist Charles Duhigg, who wrote the book "The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business." Similar to the bakery visitor, Duhigg had a chocolate-chip cookie habit; and he was also able to escape the rut by switching up his routine by avoiding the cafeteria during the afternoon slump and socializing with co-workers instead.
**************************************
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
No power over me
Our Daily Bread
I laugh when some friends want to go to the restaurant called Hooters. Pretty girls in tight clothes are the servers. They can be known to be a little flirty and usually end up getting a bigger tip for it. When one of them started flirting with me, I chuckled and said 'you have no power over me'. hahaha!
As we grow in the Lord, we find that the trials and tribulations of this life have less and less power over us. We can look those trials in the face and say "you have no power over me!" Praise God! Let us remember that each time we face some new challenge (or opportunity for faith). Power is ours through the Holy Spirit!
Lord, we thank you and praise you for all you give us including power over circumstances!
Teaching Tuesday
1 and 2 Peter
We studied 1 and 2 Peter this week. I didn't realize that both books were NOT attributed to the apostle Peter! 2 Peter is anonymous. Apparently, it had so much good stuff in it that the book became part of the canon (official Bible).
There are some main themes running through both books like the importance of the community of the church and the seriousness of backsliding (or falling away from the Lord). I liked the sections where it talked about the church a lot. The seriousness of backsliding and the language around it was scary to me. I know those passages have caused much dissension in the church over the centuries about the security of salvation.
There are also several odd passages like when Jesus was compared to the mysterious priest to Abraham called Melchizedek. It made a good point that Jesus is the ultimate high priest.
Read through the books sometime. There is some good stuff. There is some odd stuff IMHO.
********************************
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
I laugh when some friends want to go to the restaurant called Hooters. Pretty girls in tight clothes are the servers. They can be known to be a little flirty and usually end up getting a bigger tip for it. When one of them started flirting with me, I chuckled and said 'you have no power over me'. hahaha!
As we grow in the Lord, we find that the trials and tribulations of this life have less and less power over us. We can look those trials in the face and say "you have no power over me!" Praise God! Let us remember that each time we face some new challenge (or opportunity for faith). Power is ours through the Holy Spirit!
Lord, we thank you and praise you for all you give us including power over circumstances!
Teaching Tuesday
1 and 2 Peter
We studied 1 and 2 Peter this week. I didn't realize that both books were NOT attributed to the apostle Peter! 2 Peter is anonymous. Apparently, it had so much good stuff in it that the book became part of the canon (official Bible).
There are some main themes running through both books like the importance of the community of the church and the seriousness of backsliding (or falling away from the Lord). I liked the sections where it talked about the church a lot. The seriousness of backsliding and the language around it was scary to me. I know those passages have caused much dissension in the church over the centuries about the security of salvation.
There are also several odd passages like when Jesus was compared to the mysterious priest to Abraham called Melchizedek. It made a good point that Jesus is the ultimate high priest.
Read through the books sometime. There is some good stuff. There is some odd stuff IMHO.
********************************
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Monday, February 3, 2014
Resolutions 2014
Our Daily Bread
Did you make any New Years resolutions for 2014? Have you broken them all yet? ha! I have already noticed the number of folks at the gym decreasing (like me for example!). I have kept a few of my resolutions, but I am struggling with what to do the rest of the year!
The devotional writer gave up on resolutions many years ago, but decided to add a new important one this year: to not judge folks and not be a hindrance to anyone. Wow! Very important! She referred to Romans 14:13 as her scripture reference. Check out that whole chapter and see what you think! Are there any February 2014 resolutions we need to make?
Lord, we thank you and praise you for new beginnings and for your instructions on how to live our lives!
Movie Monday
I saw the movie Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit yesterday after church. I enjoyed the mindless yet suspenseful entertainment. The movie was based on characters by Tom Clancy. I don't think this particular movie was one of his stories. The action scenes were OK. The story interesting. The characters engaging. It was entertaining.
I give this movie two bear paws. Not a lot of surprises. Would be a great Netflix rental.
*************************************
Let go, my friends! God will be there to catch you and hold you in his loving arms!
Did you make any New Years resolutions for 2014? Have you broken them all yet? ha! I have already noticed the number of folks at the gym decreasing (like me for example!). I have kept a few of my resolutions, but I am struggling with what to do the rest of the year!
The devotional writer gave up on resolutions many years ago, but decided to add a new important one this year: to not judge folks and not be a hindrance to anyone. Wow! Very important! She referred to Romans 14:13 as her scripture reference. Check out that whole chapter and see what you think! Are there any February 2014 resolutions we need to make?
Lord, we thank you and praise you for new beginnings and for your instructions on how to live our lives!
Movie Monday
I saw the movie Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit yesterday after church. I enjoyed the mindless yet suspenseful entertainment. The movie was based on characters by Tom Clancy. I don't think this particular movie was one of his stories. The action scenes were OK. The story interesting. The characters engaging. It was entertaining.
I give this movie two bear paws. Not a lot of surprises. Would be a great Netflix rental.
*************************************
Let go, my friends! God will be there to catch you and hold you in his loving arms!
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Our lighthouse
Our Daily Bread
There is a traditional folk hymn called The Lighthouse. I think I first heard it sung by the Bill Gaither Family many years ago. Check out the lyrics here. We all know what a lighthouse is. don't we?
The Holy Spirit can be many things to us. One of which is a lighthouse when we seem to be tossed and battered by life's storms. Praise God! We also know that the Holy Spirit can help us discern truth when we face life's easy and difficult questions. I said easy questions too because we often try to handle too many things on our own and get it wrong! I know I have!
What about you? Are you being tossed and battered by life's storms? Seek comfort and guidance from the Holy Spirit. All you have to do is ask!
Lord, we thank you and praise you for sending your Holy Spirit to us. Please help us seek the Holy Spirit every day!
Psalm Sunday
We are almost done with the songs of ascents. Psalm 129 is another one that we may not understand in today's language and culture, but we can still get some meaning out of. I love verse 2. Check that one out!
Psalm 129
A song of ascents.
1 “They have greatly oppressed me from my youth,”
let Israel say;
2 “they have greatly oppressed me from my youth,
but they have not gained the victory over me.
3 Plowmen have plowed my back
and made their furrows long.
4 But the Lord is righteous;
he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked.”
5 May all who hate Zion
be turned back in shame.
6 May they be like grass on the roof,
which withers before it can grow;
7 a reaper cannot fill his hands with it,
nor one who gathers fill his arms.
8 May those who pass by not say to them,
“The blessing of the Lord be on you;
we bless you in the name of the Lord.”
**********************************
I pray the weight of my sins doth not crush me back to dust from where I came. I pray that God create in me a new, clean heart and place a right spirit within me. Restore to me the joy of my salvation. Praise the Almighty God from whom all blessings flow.
There is a traditional folk hymn called The Lighthouse. I think I first heard it sung by the Bill Gaither Family many years ago. Check out the lyrics here. We all know what a lighthouse is. don't we?
The Holy Spirit can be many things to us. One of which is a lighthouse when we seem to be tossed and battered by life's storms. Praise God! We also know that the Holy Spirit can help us discern truth when we face life's easy and difficult questions. I said easy questions too because we often try to handle too many things on our own and get it wrong! I know I have!
What about you? Are you being tossed and battered by life's storms? Seek comfort and guidance from the Holy Spirit. All you have to do is ask!
Lord, we thank you and praise you for sending your Holy Spirit to us. Please help us seek the Holy Spirit every day!
Psalm Sunday
We are almost done with the songs of ascents. Psalm 129 is another one that we may not understand in today's language and culture, but we can still get some meaning out of. I love verse 2. Check that one out!
Psalm 129
A song of ascents.
1 “They have greatly oppressed me from my youth,”
let Israel say;
2 “they have greatly oppressed me from my youth,
but they have not gained the victory over me.
3 Plowmen have plowed my back
and made their furrows long.
4 But the Lord is righteous;
he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked.”
5 May all who hate Zion
be turned back in shame.
6 May they be like grass on the roof,
which withers before it can grow;
7 a reaper cannot fill his hands with it,
nor one who gathers fill his arms.
8 May those who pass by not say to them,
“The blessing of the Lord be on you;
we bless you in the name of the Lord.”
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I pray the weight of my sins doth not crush me back to dust from where I came. I pray that God create in me a new, clean heart and place a right spirit within me. Restore to me the joy of my salvation. Praise the Almighty God from whom all blessings flow.
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Icons
In the sessions about iconology I keep wondering how humans can possibly use icons without making them into idols. We have seen that over and over again in the Bible. I will listen and learn!
I was fascinated by the process of
creating a religious icon, at least the little bit I learned about last night.
Looking forward to the day. Praise God!
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