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Held By His Grace

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grace statue with cross

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” – 2 Cor. 12:9, NLT

It was Sunday, January 6, 2013, day one of my Daniel Fast. As I stood in church and worshiped the Lord, I could sense God’s nearness. I was filled with anticipation about the fast and what God had in store. However, three hours later, that jubilant feeling had disappeared as I lay in bed with a high fever. It was the beginning of a month-long battle with the flu.

Many times during that illness, I was tempted to feel sorry for myself and burst into tears. However, instead of “losing it,” I frequently had to remind myself of these three truths:

1) God is in control.
2) He has a purpose in allowing this affliction.
3) He will provide the strength I need.

Moments of weakness, although unpleasant, are actually beneficial. Suffering is a great teacher, for it reminds us how dependent we are upon the Lord. The events of your life are not random. Just as God knew I would be sick during my entire Daniel Fast, He is not surprised at all by your circumstances. Everything in your life has been filtered through the loving hand of your Father because there is something He wants to develop in you. Therefore, do not resist Him! Trust God to bring good out of your situation.

Romans 5:3-5 (NLT) says, “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.”

Maybe you can relate to my experience because you’re struggling physically. Or, perhaps you’re facing financial disaster or a broken marriage. Whatever your need, don’t allow fear to enter your heart and steal your joy. Instead, focus on God’s blessings, remembering that His grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

My prayer for you today is that you find peace in the Father’s arms. May you be strengthened in your inner being as you put your hope in Him!

When God Seems Far Away

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moon, night sky

Have you ever gone through a hard time and felt abandoned by God? Most of us probably have at one time or another. Maybe you’re there right now. Even though it may seem as if God has left you, He hasn’t. God is with you, whether you feel His presence or not.

Sometimes God can seem very distant when our questions or prayers go unanswered. However, the Bible says in Isaiah 55:8, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.” God’s purposes are beyond our understanding. We can’t begin to wrap our brains around all that He’s doing in our lives. Therefore, in moments of confusion, we need to put our trust in what we do know to be true, verses such as:

1)         God’s plans for me are for my good (Jeremiah 29:11).
2)         God is faithful in all he does (Psalm 33:4).
3)         God will fulfill His purpose for me (Psalm 138:8).

The next time your feelings say God isn’t paying attention to your concerns, tell yourself the truth: God sees, and He cares! In fact, it’s often during the silence that He’s working to bring about the help you need.

Our God is gracious, compassionate, and kind. He is forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who put their faith in Him and His Word. Though our emotions may be up and down, the Lord God remains the same. He is constant and steady. Those who put their trust in Him will not be disappointed!

The ABCs of Praise

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Alphabet Blocks, ABCs, ABC blocks

“You are my God, and I will praise you! You are my God, and I will exalt you!” – Psalm 118:28, NLT

On Thursday mornings, I lead a group at my daughters’ school called Moms in Prayer. A group of dedicated mothers and grandmothers meet to intercede for our teachers, administration, staff, and, of course, our children. Each week, we begin our 45-minute prayer time with praise. Then, we spend a few moments in silent confession, followed by thanksgiving and intercession.

Praise is one of the most important components of prayer, but, unfortunately, it’s probably the most neglected. Many people think they are praising God when they’re actually giving thanks to Him. Although both are necessary in the life of a believer, they are not the same. Praise is acknowledging God for who He is, while thanksgiving is offering words of gratitude for what He has done.

Think of how good it feels when someone gives you a compliment. That’s exactly what you’re doing when you praise the Lord! You tell God how great He is!

One way I like to praise God is by going through the ABCs. I speak out God’s attributes, character, or name for each letter of the alphabet. It goes something like this:

God, you’re…
A- awesome, amazing, the Alpha and Omega
B – beautiful, the Bread of Life
C – compassionate, the God of all comfort, caring
D – my Deliverer
E – eternal, excellent in all your ways
F – faithful, Father, friend, forgiving
(all the way to “Z”)

When you pray, be sure to begin with praise. Resist the temptation to rush right to your requests. Instead, worship the Lord, and exalt His holy name!

Make the commitment of Psalm 145:2 (NLT): “I will praise you every day; yes, I will praise you forever.” Give my ABC idea a try, and see what you think.

His Words Are Your Life

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airplane and sunset

“These instructions are not empty words – they are your life!” – Deuteronomy 32:47, NLT

I gazed longingly out the airplane window. My mission trip to El Salvador had been a wonderful, life-changing experience, but I was ready to be home. I missed my husband and daughters. I wanted the comfort of my own bed and was eager to get back into my daily routine.

As we approached the outskirts of Springfield, a field below caught my attention, not that there was anything special about it, but because I’d seen it before…about 15 minutes earlier. My heart sank. We weren’t preparing for landing. We were going in circles.

The plane continued to hover as the pilot waited for conditions to improve. After nearly an hour, he announced that we might divert to a nearby airport to refuel before attempting another landing. Tears filled my eyes. After traveling for two days, I was physically exhausted and emotionally drained. I couldn’t believe that we had come this far only to be rerouted. My destination was within reach, but I couldn’t get there. Circumstances beyond my control were keeping me from the joy of being with my family again.

I bowed my head and prayed: “God, You’re in charge of the weather. Please clear the skies so we can land.” Shortly after I finished, I heard the pilot’s voice on the intercom. I took a deep breath and waited for the verdict. As soon as he announced his plan, passengers cheered and applauded. A huge wave of relief swept over me, and I said, “Praise the Lord!” The sound of the landing gear being engaged was like sweet music to my ears. Within minutes, I was on the ground. I’d finally made it home.

Every believer in the Lord Jesus Christ should be living an extraordinary life – one that’s full of joy, packed with adventure, and characterized by victory. However, many Christians often get stuck in a holding pattern, much like I was that day on that plane. No matter how hard they try, God still seems far away. A deeper connection with their Creator eludes them. Frustrated, they wonder what they’re missing, and their motivation for spiritual growth wanes. Instead of moving forward in their relationship with the Lord, they end up going in circles, chasing contentment in things that don’t satisfy.

The missing ingredient, in most cases, is the Word of God, or, should I say, the commitment to read it on a regular basis. The pages of Scripture are not just nice stories for our occasional entertainment. As Deuteronomy 32:47 says, “They are your life!”

If you want to grow closer to God this year, decide right now to make his Word a priority. Be in the Word every day. By continually reading and meditating on truth, you will develop a greater understanding of who God is and experience the abundant life He has for you.

Cazapple Juice

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Cazapple Juice

Cazapple Juice

Two of the most popular foods to juice are carrots and apples. This recipe features both, along with a little zucchini (which you don't even taste). You'll experience a burst of energy after just one glass of this wonderfully sweet juice.
4 from 5 votes
Print Recipe
Course Drinks
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

  • 3 large carrots, unpeeled
  • 2 apples, unpeeled, cored, and cut into slices
  • 2 medium zucchini, unpeeled and quartered

Instructions
 

  • Wash produce well. Feed into juicer, and enjoy.
  • Yield: 2 servings (serving size: 8 ounces or 1 cup)

Banana Stacks

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banana stacks

 

Banana Stacks

Banana Stacks features two foods that, in my opinion, were designed to go together - bananas and peanut butter (or almond butter for those with peanut sensitivities). With this recipe, you get a little bit of protein mixed with carbohydrates for energy. It really is the perfect treat.
3.17 from 24 votes
Print Recipe
Course Snack
Servings 4
Calories 140 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large ripe bananas
  • ¼ cup all-natural peanut butter, almond butter, or other nut butter

Instructions
 

  • Peel bananas, and cut into ¼ to ½-inch slices (about 12 per banana). Spread about 1 teaspoon almond butter on half of the slices. Top with the remaining slices.
  • Yield: 4 servings (serving size: about 4 stacks)

Notes

  • Great for an after-school snack for your children.
  • Spread Date Honey on top of the peanut butter in each stack.
    Sprinkle each stack with cinnamon.
  • Add chopped dates or raisins to tops of stacks.
  • Put in freezer until firm (3-4 hours) for a cool treat.

Nutrition

Calories: 140kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 5gFat: 5gSugar: 5gCalcium: 5mg

 

Raspberry-Pecan Smoothie

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Raspberry-Pecan Smoothie

Raspberry-Pecan Smoothie

4.89 from 9 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Breakfast, Drinks, Snack
Calories 128 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup water or unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 cup spinach or mixed greens
  • 1 large frozen banana, peeled, sliced
  • ½ cup fresh or frozen raspberries
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pecans

Instructions
 

  • Place all ingredients in a blender, and process until smooth.
  • Yield: 2 servings (serving size: about 8 ounces or 1 cup)

Video

Notes

  • You can also use unsweetened rice or soy milk.
  • To freeze bananas, remove peels before placing in freezer. Put in a plastic zip-top bag.
  • If using fresh fruit, you can add chopped ice to make your smoothie cold.
  • Add 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal.

Nutrition

Calories: 128kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSugar: 11gCalcium: 4mg

 

Super Easy Guacamole

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super easy guacamole

Super Easy Guacamole

When I was younger, I wouldn't have touched guacamole with a 10-foot pole. Now, I eat it nearly every day. Sometimes I go gourmet and whip up a big bowl of Guacamole with a Little Kick. But most of the time I make this simple recipe, which takes minutes to prepare.
5 from 2 votes
Print Recipe
Course Snack
Servings 8
Calories 148 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 5 medium avocados
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • ½ - 1 teaspoon salt, according to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit (just gently squeeze till it pops out). Use a large spoon to scoop the fruit into a medium-sized bowl. Add the lime juice and salt. Mash with a fork to desired consistency.
  • Yield: 8 servings (serving size: about ¼ cup)

Notes

  • Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
  • Add 1/4 cup Salsa.
  • Use as a dip with fresh vegetables.
  • Spread on top of Chipotle Black Bean Burgers.
  • The trick to perfect guacamole is ripe avocados. Check for ripeness by gently pressing the outside of the avocado. If there is n­o give, the avocado is not ready yet and will not taste good. If there is a lot of give, the avocado is ripe. Beware of too much softness, though, because that usually means the avocado may be over ripe and won’t taste good.

Nutrition

Calories: 148kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 2gFat: 14gSugar: 1gCalcium: 1mg

Peach Salsa

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Peach Salsa

Peach Salsa

When you hear the word "salsa," more than likely you think of a dip with tomatoes, peppers, and onions. However, this delicious salsa recipe is made with fruit instead of vegetables. Its light, refreshing taste will surprise you. Serve with baked tortilla chips or as a topping for a green salad.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe
Course Snack
Servings 6
Calories 10 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup chopped fresh or frozen peaches
  • 1 4-ounce can chopped green chiles
  • 2 tablespoons finely red onion
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Mix ingredients in a medium-sized bowl, and stir well. Refrigerate for about 2 hours or until chilled. Serve.
  • Yield: 6 servings (serving size: about 1/4 cup)

Notes

  • Substitute ½ teaspoon dried cilantro or parsley for fresh.
  • If you're a salsa fan, be sure to try these recipes: Salsa and Green Salsa Bean Dip.

Nutrition

Calories: 10kcalCarbohydrates: 2gSugar: 1gCalcium: 1mg

 

Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

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Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

This recipe takes the wonderful flavor of nuts to a whole new level. You'll love the combination of a little sweetness and a tad bit of spice. A great snack for the Daniel Fast or any time you need a protein boost.
4.80 from 5 votes
Print Recipe
Course Snack
Servings 6
Calories 196 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup raw almonds
  • ½ cup raw pecans
  • ½ cup raw walnut halves
  • 1 tablespoon Date Honey
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon chipotle chile seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Line an 11 x 17-inch baking sheet with parchment paper (or use a silicone mat) and set aside. Put nuts in a large bowl. In a separate smaller bowl, mix Date Honey, water, olive oil, chipotle chile seasoning, and salt. Use a fork or small whisk to combine. Pour over nuts, and stir until well coated.
  • Spread nuts evenly on baking sheet. Bake 1 hour, stirring about halfway through cooking time.
  • Cool and serve. Store in an airtight container.
  • Yield: 6 servings (serving size: about ¼ cup)

Notes

  • Substitute any of the listed nuts with Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, or peanuts.
  • Use red cayenne pepper in place of the chipotle chile seasoning (you may want to decrease the amount a little unless you like super spicy food!).
  • This recipe can easily be doubled.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 196kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 4gFat: 18gFiber: 3gSugar: 5gCalcium: 4mg

Look for Opportunities to Love

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bellefinds10bucks“Make the most of every opportunity.” – Ephesians 5:16, NLT

My oldest daughter, Isabelle, has a gift that never ceases to amaze me. No matter where we go, she always seems to find some kind of treasure on the ground. She notices things that the rest of us miss, and, most of the time, it’s money!

For example, this past summer we traveled to New York City to visit my husband’s parents. One afternoon we took the girls to Coney Island, and she found $10 on the Boardwalk!

Things like that happen all the time! Just a few weeks ago, Isabelle spotted a $5 bill near our car at a gas station. However, she doesn’t keep finding money because she is “lucky.” The reason she frequently makes such discoveries is because she looks for them. Her eyes are always searching for the next big find.

As believers, we must have our spiritual eyes open to what God is doing around us. Every day, we encounter people who need to be seen. People who are hurting. People who just want to be noticed and loved. Unless we’re looking, though, we won’t see them.

Today, I encourage you to find ways to share Christ’s love with others. Maybe the Lord wants you to pray with a co-worker or help a family in your neighborhood. Or, perhaps He is prompting you to have a spiritual discussion with a member of your family. Simply step out in faith, and trust the Lord to guide you. He will show you what to say and do.

When you ask God for such opportunities, you should expect them to receive them. Therefore, approach this day in anticipation of divine appointments! May the Lord go before you and prepare the way!

Silician Beans and Rice

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Sicilian Beans and Rice

Sicilian Beans and Rice

Italy is a placed I've always wanted to visit. In fact, I plan to travel there someday with my husband before we're both too old to enjoy it! One particular region of Italy has a long history of producing noted cuisines. Because of their reputation for quality food, Sicily is often referred to as "God's Kitchen." Some of the best recipes in the world come from this area. This recipe is a tribute to my husband's Italian heritage. I hope I can make the Sicilians proud with this dish. It contains many of their most-loved ingredients - garlic, tomato sauce, basil, parsley, and fennel. You might be surprised to see rice in this recipe, but, believe it or not, Italians do take a break from pasta to enjoy other foods!
3.25 from 12 votes
Print Recipe
Course Main Course
Servings 8
Calories 198 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 15.5-ounce can black beans, rinsed, drained, slightly mashed
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seed
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 4 cups cooked brown rice

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet, and add onions. Cook until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic, and cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly so garlic doesn’t burn. Add remaining ingredients, and cook, uncovered, over low heat for 30 minutes. To serve, place ½ cup rice in a bowl or on a plate, and top with ½ cup beans.
  • Yield: 8 servings (serving size: about ½ cup beans and ½ cup rice)

Notes

  • Instead of brown rice, use quinoa or whole grain pasta.
  • Top with sliced olives.

Nutrition

Calories: 198kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 7gFat: 2gFiber: 7gSugar: 4gCalcium: 3mg