The Fit Christian Mar/Apr 2010 by His Work Christian Ministries

Mar/Apr 2010

5 Steps to Better Health

Fit to Serve

Dynamic Warm-Ups for Runners

You Are What You Eat

Easy Easter Brunch

Energy Efficiency

Interview: Grace Fox

of International Messengers

PUBLISHER His Work Christian Publishing www.hisworkpub.com

Charlie Nardozzi Gardening with Charlie

EDITOR

Angela J. Willard Perez Scripture & Reflection editor@fitchristian.com

Angela J. Willard Perez editor@fitchristian.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Cooking from the Heart | Egg Decorating 101 | Egg Decorating: Advanced | Deliziosa! Mushroom

CONTRIBUTORS

Jenny Burr jenny.burr@fitchristian.com

Michelle Grant Coach Powers Jason Swiney Chris Chapan Laurette Willis

COLUMNISTS Jenny Burr “Miss Communication” misscommunication@fitchristian.com Dennis Ellingson God’s Healing Herbs

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A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing. www.fitchristian.com

1 5 Steps to Better Health

3 Energy Efficiency Starts at Home

Heart disease–or cardiovascular disease–seems like something that happens to other people. But the truth is, about one third of adult Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease....

5 Fit to Serve

Energy is a hot news item. American families are closely watching their budgets and are concerned about rising energy prices. Political instability around the world has made Americans increasingly sensitive about where the U.S. gets its energy....

You knew from the title alone that this article is going to about serving. Interview: Something in you knows that joy Grace Fox of International Messengers comes from helping others, that joy is Jenny Burr interviews found in giving, not in receiving.... Grace Fox who, along with her husband, helped establish International Messengers in Canada about two years ago....

28 Spotlight: Bobbie Jo Kolb Bobbie Jo Kolb is a winning Fitness Model, Personal Trainer, Mother of Two, and Christian Youth Leader from Nampa Idaho. Let’s see what God is doing in her life....

Gifts Outside the Box: Shared experiences make wonderful gifts Find these articles only at FitChristian.com: Spring is full of reasons to celebrate. Weddings, graduations, Mother's Day ... there are plenty of occasions to buy gifts. If Emerging Artists Go Vintage with a Virtual Art Gallery you're looking for a unique present for that special someone, Collection why not look outside the traditional gift box for something As a brand that views winemaking as an art and believes in that provides lasting memories? forging your own path, Kim Crawford Wines unveiled The Artists' Lounge "Vintage 2009" virtual gallery, displaying a Save Money on Healthcare Costs full collection of original artwork inspired by musings and Health care costs keep rising and many people are paying ideas shared by the community's members. more out of the family budget for medical care than in the past. In 2007, people spent nearly $268.6 billion in out-ofpocket expenses, according to the American Hospital Association.

A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing. www.fitchristian.com

9 “Miss Communication”

Articles

Directions: Finding and Losing Your Way

10 Kids4Christ

34 Making Mealtime

The Little Lost Lamb | Among the Big Boys | Word Search | Reverend Fun

13 Food & Nutrition Easy Easter Brunch | Good for the Waistline | What's For Dinner in 2010? | You Are What You Eat

19 Gardening with Charlie

Getting Your Daily Dose of Color?

Matter for Men

The WINNER of our Valentine’s Giveaway is published on Page 4 and posted online at www.fitchristian.com/giveaway

Growing Mint | Pruning a Shrub Rose

21 Mix It Up with Jenny Making Mother’s Day Memories | Eggs-tra Special Easter Treats

24 God’s Healing Herbs

Enter our next Giveaway for another chance to WIN more great stuff! www.fitchristian.com/giveaway

Gingko, Ginseng, and Grape

26 Nancy’s New Beginnings Growing Strong in Broken Places–Dysfunction Junction

31 Exercise the Right Way Dynamic Warm-Ups | Protect your shoulders | Fool-Proof Weight Loss Methods

35 Spiritual Fitness Through the Bible: How We Speak | Scripture & Reflection: For the Kingdom, 1 Corinthians 15:58

March Holidays: National Nutrition Month | National Women's History Month 2 14 17 20 28 30

Read Across America Day / Dr. Suess’ Birthday Daylight Saving Time Begins St. Patrick’s Day First Day of Spring Palm Sunday Passover

April Holidays: Cancer Control Month | Alcohol Awareness Month 4 15 21 22

Easter Income Taxes Due Administrative Professionals Day Earth Day

You can stay up-to-date on fitness events in your area by visiting these Web sites: Bodybuilding-Fitness-Figure Upcoming Events http://www.bodybuildbid.com/upcoming.html Natural Bodybuilding, Figure, and Fitness Contests http://www.naturalbodybuildingevents.com/month.html Professional Natural Bodybuilding, Figure, and Fitness Competitions http://www.naturalbodybuildingevents.com/ProShows.htm To list your event here for free, email the information to

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iii

Greetings in Jesus!

The winner of our Valentine’s Giveaway has been selected! Thank you to all who entered. Congratulations goes to ....

Charles Anderson

First, I want to thank you all for your patience. I know I have been slow getting these last issues out, your patience is much appreciated. I am still prayerfully seeking help with this ministry. With this issue I did have some help with the layout (whew!); however, I am still painfully overburdened with school, family, publishing books, and lately working on call at my church’s daycare (which I LOVE!). Now, I have accepted a temporary job with the U.S. Census, which starts at the end of this month and runs for eight weeks. It is an opportunity I cannot pass up, especially since I have been praying for finances; however, it is yet another thing on my already full plate. Because of this, the next issue (May/June) will be skipped. I will just be too busy with kids, work, school, and book publishing to have any time to work on the magazine as well. There will still be articles and videos updated regularly on the site to keep your minds occupied :) Thank you for understanding. Happy Reading!

Watch the mail for your prizes!

Well the most exciting news to share is the fact that Cristina is back home, and all the rest of my children are safe and sound as well! Where was she you ask? Well, she moved out of the house to go live with her friends because she refused to live with my zero tolerance to drugs rule.

Our next giveaway will be in the next issue–watch for it!

www.FitChristian.com/giveaway Our giveaways are open to all U.S. residents (due to postage expenses we cannot ship outside of the U.S.)

She insisted that pot is a plant from God so it doesn’t count as a drug. I disagree. So, she had a month to prove that she could make it on her own in order to file for emancipation. During that month, she lost her job and has been unable to find another one; her and her roomies got kicked out of their apartment for smoking pot; then she spent time couch surfing and bumming food from her friends until I got a hold of her and brought her back home. Now she is agreeing to follow the rules, stay away from drugs, and finish school–one way or another. Still, she insists on trying to get emancipated when she is 17–which is in June–so please keep her in your prayers.

Get Fit4Jesus Today--Angela of His of Work Publishing. www.fitchristian.com © 2010 The Fit Christian. All Rights Reserved. A Publication A Publication His Christian Work Christian Publishing. www.fitchristian.com

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We are always looking for articles, recipes, photos, book reviews, suggestions, and new ideas for The Fit Christian. Please feel free to submit yours , as well as your comments to the editor. Feel free to print out this magazine and pass it out at churches, gyms, to your friends and family, co-workers, and anyone else who would enjoy The Fit Christian. © Copyright 2003-2010 The Fit Christian. A publication of His Work Christian Publishing (www.hisworkpub.com), USA. All Rights Reserved. No part of the magazine may be copied and reprinted without the express written permission from the editor, or the writers. Please contact the editor, Angela J. Perez, for reprint permission. Any views listed in articles or advertisements are not necessarily the views of The Fit Christian, His Work Christian Publishing or the owner or its contractors or employees. The Fit Christian and His Work Christian Publishing will not be held responsible for any claims against writers, or advertisers in the magazine or on the Web site. Contact The Fit Christian: editor@fitchristian.com His Work Christian Publishing The Fit Christian Magazine P.O. Box 5732 Ketchikan, Alaska 99901 www.fitchristian.com © 2010 The Fit Christian. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing. www.fitchristian.com

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Features

eart disease - or cardiovascular disease - seems like something that happens to other people. But the truth is, about one third of adult Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 80 million Americans that's one of every three adults - live with one or more types of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The toll this takes is enormous. In addition to reducing quality of life and raising health care costs, heart disease kills more people than any other disease, including cancer. The CDC estimates that every 37 seconds, someone dies from heart disease.

-Physical Inactivity. A sedentary lifestyle impacts blood pressure, the amount of good cholesterol and triglycerides in the body, and weight. -Tobacco Use. Tobacco smoke contains more than 4800 chemicals, many of them damaging to the heart. Cigarette smoking promotes atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) and raises the levels of blood clotting factors. Nicotine raises blood pressure and heart rates, and carbon monoxide reduces the amount of oxygen the blood can carry. Exposure to second-hand smoke can significantly increase the risk of heart disease in non-smokers.

-Heredity. Genetic factors may play some role in high blood What can you do to reduce your risk of heart disease? Fol- pressure, heart disease and other vascular conditions. lowing these five steps can help you take control of your heart health and put you on the path to a healthier life. 2. Know Your Numbers. High blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage your 1. Know the Risk Factors. heart and blood vessels. But without testing them, you probKnowledge is power. Once you know what behaviors and ably won't know whether or not you have these conditions. conditions contribute to the problem, you can take action. It's important that you know what your levels are, to keep track of them over time, and to share them with care givers -Unhealthy Diet. Foods high in saturated fats and cholester- and family members. Using online personal health manageol raise blood pressure levels and promote atherosclerosis. ment applications like Mayo Clinic Health Manager, can Too much sodium causes high blood pressure levels as well. simplify how you organize and track your numbers and assist in determining your personal blood pressure and cholesterol goals. See “Heart Health” page 2 © 2010 The Fit Christian. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing.

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Heart Health cont...

Features

Try to maintain a BMI (body mass index) of 25 to 30.

-Adults should have their blood pressure checked at least every two years. You may need more frequent checks if your numbers aren't optimal, or if you have other risk factors for heart disease. Optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 millimeters of mercury.

It's easier than you think to prevent and manage heart disease. Taking small steps can make a big difference. Start following these five steps, and track your progress using an application like Mayo Clinic Health Manager at www.healthmanager.mayoclinic.com. It's free and you don't -Adults should have their cholesterol measured at least have to be a Mayo Clinic patient to use it. once every five years. You may need more frequent testing if your numbers aren't optimal or if you have other risk Online Tools for Creating Better Cardio Care factors for heart disease. The optimal cholesterol levels are The more you know about your own health and habits, and determined by the number or risk factors and other diagnosis. the more proactive you are in taking care of yourself, the better off you'll be. To help people manage their health better, Mayo Clinic and Microsoft worked together to devel3. Stop Using Tobacco Products. Mayo Clinic Health Manager, When you quit smoking, your risk of heart disease is dramat- op powered by Microwww.healthmanager.mayoclinic.com, ically reduced within just one year. No matter how long or soft HealthVault. how much you've smoked, you start reaping rewards as soon as you quit. Talk to your doctor about effective ways to stop smoking. In addition, you can find online tools and informa- Mayo Clinic Health Manager is a free privacy-and-securityenhanced online application where you can organize your tion at health information and receive personalized guidance. -www.smokefree.gov -www.lungusa.org -www.mayoclinic.com

Features: -Take a heart disease risk assessment to find out more about your chances for developing a fatal heart condition. -Use the Prepare for Appointment feature to customize and 4. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet. Many doctors recommend the DASH diet - DASH stands for print relevant information on medications, blood pressure Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. That may not and cholesterol before a doctor's visit. sound like a tempting menu description, but eating to protect -Get personalized heart health guidance based on expertise of Mayo Clinic physicians. The amount of information you your heart really can be delicious and satisfying. provide influences the recommendations you will receive. Reducing the amounts of saturated and trans fat you eat is key. Sources of saturated fat include beef, butter, cheese, Mayo Clinic Health Manager allows you to create custom milk, and coconut and palm oils. Check package labels for trackers for: "partially hydrogenated" to avoid trans fats. -Blood pressure (you can download data directly from comHeart-healthy eating isn't all about cutting things out. The patible devices like blood pressure cuffs) DASH diet is rich in fruits and vegetables (the recommenda- -Cholesterol tion is 5 servings a day), whole grains and other foods that -Weight can help protect your heart, help you control your weight, -Exercise and improve overall health. Learn more at www.dashdiet.org. -And more 5. Get Moving. Physical activity can reduce your risk of fatal heart disease. It helps you control weight and reduces your chances of developing other conditions that may put a strain on your heart, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. It also reduces stress, which may be a factor in heart disease.

View the charts over time to see if everything is in check. Based on the information you enter, you'll receive reminders for screenings you may need and the latest information on heart health.

-Guidelines recommend exercising vigorously at least 150 minutes per week. -Keep in mind that gardening, housekeeping, taking the stairs and walking the dog all count toward your total time.

Courtesy of Family Features Source: Mayo Clinic

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Environmental concerns also are motivating many people to alter their energy consumption habits. With issues this complex, if one wants to facilitate change, how does one begin? It might surprise some people to learn that they can advance energy independence in their homes. Conservation works The typical American family spends about $1,900 per year on home energy costs - a lot of money. Unfortunately, the Department of Energy estimates that much of that energy is wasted, taking a major toll on our budgets and negatively impacting our environment. The Department of Energy's Web site (www.Energysavers.gov) offers easy, low-cost ways to you can cut your energy use, reduce environmental impacts and save money. -Install a programmable thermostat. Most households spend up to 70 percent of their energy budgets on heating and cooling. A programmable thermostat makes it easy to set comfortable temperatures automatically and efficiently, shaving dollars off your bills.

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Saving energy–by recycling? According to the National Recycling Coalition, recycling helps Americans save energy. It requires 40 percent less energy to make paper from recycled paper than it does to make paper from fresh lumber, and recycling aluminum uses 95 percent less energy than is necessary to make new aluminum. Not only is recycling a great way to conserve energy (and other precious resources), it also produces savings on a variety of products that can have a positive impact on the family pocketbook. Ph

nergy is a hot news item. American families are closely watching their budgets and are concerned about rising energy prices. Political instability around the world has made Americans increasingly sensitive about where the U.S. gets its energy.

tol ia

Features

Energy independence–via landfill? Despite American's best efforts to conserve, we will continue to buy and use a lot of energy. People want this energy to be affordable, reliable, green and (when possible) from domestic sources. Today, more than half of all electricity consumers in the U.S. have the option of purchasing "green power" from their utility. You can find out how to tap into renewable sources of energy by visiting the U.S. Department of Energy's state-by-state list of providers, or checking with your own utility.

-Use compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). CFLs use The Department of Energy estimates more than half of the about 75 percent less energy than standard bulbs, and last renewable energy currently generated in the U.S. comes much longer. CFLs come in many different shapes and sizes. from trash burned at waste-to-energy plants or from landfills that convert gas byproducts into electricity, which together -Turn off computers when not in use. Turning off the provides enough renewable energy to power or heat more computer at the end of the day reduces wear and tear on the than 3.2 million homes. hardware, and can save an average of $90 a year in electricity bills. "Americans generate more than four pounds of trash per person every single day," said Bruce Parker, president of the -Wash laundry in cold water. Most loads don't actually National Solid Wastes Management Association in Washneed hot water, and 90 percent of the energy used by wash- ington, D.C. "Solid waste companies have long moved being machines goes into heating. Wash only full loads of yond simply hauling trash to using technology to solve these clothes for more water savings. major environmental and energy independence challenges." See “Energy Efficiency” page 4 © 2010 The Fit Christian. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing.

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Energy Efficiency cont....

-General Motors, which since 2000 has used landfill gas to reduce its natural gas consumption by 25 percent. -Mars Snackfood, makers of Snickers, Skittles and Starburst candies, which fuels the boilers at its Waco, Texas plant with methane piped in from a landfill. Bruce Parker, president of the National Solid Wastes Management Association, noted that in the last two decades his industry invested tens of millions of dollars not only to modernize landfills and boost the use of trash as a clean source of energy, but to double U.S. recycling rates and make major reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. "Our industry is truly a science-based industry," he said. "We employ chemists, biologists, geologists, civil engineers, hydrologists, soil experts, and of course the haulers and drivers who are the 'everyday environmentalists'â&#x20AC;&#x201C;the men and women who keep our communities clean, conserve our resources and protect public health." To find out more about how solid waste companies are turning trash into a resource, visit www.environmentalistseveryday.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Courtesy of Family Features Source: Environmental Industry Associations

How does trash-to-energy work? When garbage decomposes in a landfill, it creates gas called methane. Innovative technologies allow garbage companies to capture this gas. It then can be used to produce electricity used by the local community or transported directly to nearby manufacturing plants, schools or other buildings and used to power heating systems and manufacturing processes. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as of 2009, 509 of these landfill gas-to-energy projects delivered 1563 megawatts of electricity to corporate and government users - the equivalent of cutting oil consumption by more than 58 million barrels and cutting coal consumption by nearly 350,000 railcars. Landfill-gas-to-energy facilities power up some surprising customers, including: -NASA, which uses energy from a landfill at its Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, where space agency employees build and operate NASA research satellites like the famous Hubble Space Telescope. -The University of New Hampshire, which gets more than 80 percent of its energy from a local landfill.

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Features

Becoming What You Were Created To Be By Coach Powers

You knew from the title alone that this article is going to What I didn’t about serving. Something in you knows that joy comes from know, until rehelping others, that joy is found in giving, not in receiving. cently, was that the Lord wants May I ask you a personal question? Are you, right now, me to tell you committed to doing everything you can to maximize your how and why to life? If you said yes, then you’re the type of person who is get as physically fit as possible for trying to become the best human being you can be. the rest of your What do you want for your life and the lives of your loved life. So, Fit to ones? You may say you want happiness, but what does it Serve is based on mean to be happy? Happiness is dependent on circumstanc- the idea that God es: you buy a new car and you’re happy for a few days. You is the one who get a raise at work and it makes you happy for a while. You wants us fit. The Bible is filled with encouragement for us to begin obeying get the picture. him in this area. I don’t want to be happy here and there, and now and then. No! I want to be fired up all the time! I want to be full of joy Physical fitness is wholeness in the body and within one’s every day that I spend on this earth. You see, unlike happi- spirit. It is the ability to perform vocational and recreational ness, joy is not dependent on circumstances. It’s based on tasks without risk of injury and undue fatigue. It is wholeness who we are and not on what we have. Joy is an attitude that in harmony and without defect. The components of Biblical fitness include the following: comes from the deepest part of our being. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Cardio-vascular/respiratory exercise Developing muscular/skeletal strength and power Maintaining joint flexibility and body elasticity Achieving a health balance between body fat and lean mass Ÿ Engaging in realistic nutrition Ÿ Get proper rest, restoration and sleep Ÿ Don’t worry, be happy, and have joy

Living an abundant life and prospering in all things means having radiant joy. It’s our inheritance as Christians. Part of this joy comes from what the Apostle Paul states in Romans 12:1, where we are to present our bodies as “holy and living sacrifices” to the Lord because of all he has done for us (my paraphrase). I’m a fifty-five-year-old fitness guy. In 1957 my dad had me kneel down on the living room floor in our home in Green Bay, Wisconsin. It was after Thanksgiving, so of course it was freezing outside, fit for neither man nor beast. He knelt down beside me and proceeded to demonstrate how to do a classic push-up. After showing me how to do it, he told me to assume the starting position and to do as many push-ups as I could before my arms buckled. He told me to do pushups every day for the rest of my life. And you know, I have – all of my life. I believe that the Lord spoke to my dad and told him to tell me he wanted me to be involved in a lifetime of fitness.

It so unbelievably cool that we were created to be whole and perfect and amazing in body, soul, and spirit – and to be so in a way that glorifies the One who created us to relate to Him unlike any of the rest of his creations. For more information on Fit to Serve, go to www.coachpowers.com; email coach@coachpowers.com; or call 423-4573214. Editor’s Note: Watch for the review of “Fit To Serve” in the next issue–it will also be in the next giveaway!

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Features

Grace Fox and International Messengers An Interview by Jenny Burr

Grace Fox with her husband.

I’m interviewing Grace Fox who, along with her husband, faith-stretching proportions. I think this made us good candihelped establish International Messengers (IM) in Canada dates because we were willing to take a risk in starting about two years ago. something new. FC: Grace, what is International Messengers? GF: International Messengers Canada is an evangelical ministry that partners with about 120 missionaries in Eastern Europe. These missionaries are involved in a variety of projects such as teaching life skills to gypsies, discipling university-aged believers, caring for abused women and children, and showing God’s love in practical ways to young adults living with HIV/AIDS. Most also host a week-long evangelistic English learning camp in the summer, and they need volunteers to help – that’s where IM Canada comes in. FC: Who asked you and your husband to establish it? GF: The president of International Messengers USA.

FC: What are your responsibilities? GF: One of our roles is missionary care and encouragement – that involves visiting our overseas staff in their homes and making sure they’re doing okay. Whenever possible, we participate in their ministries by teaching parenting or marriage workshops, or by my keynoting at women’s conferences they host. Back in Canada, we work full-time at raising awareness about IM. This involves traveling and hosting informational meetings in churches and in private homes, and representing IM and teaching workshops at mission conferences. We follow-up with folks who have expressed an interest in learning more, process their applications, train volunteers for overseas ministry, coordinate all the details involved in our short-term ministry opportunities, and lead teams overseas. Because we’re a new non-profit organization, there’s a lot of work behind-the-scenes such as establishing necessary policies.

FC: Why were you two chosen to do this job? GF: Several factors, I believe. First, we had cross-cultural missionary experience, having ministered in Nepal in the 80s. Second, we’d been involved in a year-round Christian camping ministry from 1996-2007. My husband was the program director, and he was very familiar with how to organize a good camp program. Third, we’d come to the FC: Have you traveled to any of the places where IM has place in our lives where we were ready for a change of sent its missionaries? © 2010 The Fit Christian. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing.

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Features

GF: Yes–so far we’ve been to Hungary, Romania, Poland, and Slovakia. In March 2009, we’ll travel to Ukraine. IM has one staff working among Tibetan refugees in Nepal–we visited her in 2007. FC: Tell us about your experiences. GF: One of my most memorable experiences was in July 2009 when we took a team of nine to Romania to host a camp for young adults living with HIV/AIDS. Twelve campers ages 19-22 came – three had full-blown AIDS, the rest were infected with HIV. Most contracted the disease when inoculated against childhood diseases (medical professionals vaccinated entire classrooms of children using contaminated needles). In Romania, fear of HIV/AIDS prevails due to lack of education about the disease. As a result, these young people are treated like modern-day lepers. The majority are not allowed to attend school or work. They’re often expelled from their families. Most receive no medical treatment for their disease.

Grace curling the hair of a young girl in Romania.

precious possession–a far cry from the casual way many While with these kids, we taught a daily Bible lesson, did North American believers treat God’s Word. crafts, and played games together. We laughed, cried, and ate with them. At the end of the camp, one girl committed her I’ve had opportunity to share the Gospel with 20 senior life to Christ. She said, “You’ll never know what it meant widows in a tiny Romanian village. Their husbands were that you came halfway around the world to be with us, and murdered and their farmland was seized by the Communists you treated us like normal people. Please come again.” Lord several decades ago. Now they live with their sons and daughters-in-law but are often neglected or beat up. In the willing, that’s exactly what we plan to do in 2010. same village, there’s an IM ministry that provides a sanctuIn summer 2008, we took a team to assist at an evangelistic ary for abused women with young children. These women’s family camp in Slovakia. At the end of the camp, I gave stories of rape, abandonment, and ill treatment are enough to Bibles to two women who’d been in my English reading make one’s blood run cold. There too, I’ve had the privilege class. Both hugged their Bible to their chest like a most of sharing God’s love in practical ways – this involves anything from braiding a woman’s hair to cuddling babies to teaching a Bible lesson. My experiences in Eastern Europe have helped me develop a greater appreciation for the freedoms and abundance I’ve known in my country. They’ve also shown me the hopelessness of those who, although they’re very religious, have never heard about God’s love and desire for relationship with them. FC: Why would you recommend individuals or couples become involved with IM? GF: Two reasons. First, our missionaries say the English-learning evangelistic family camps are the most effective outreach they do. Here’s why: Eastern EuroGrace with her English language class.

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Features

International Messengers cont...

use us in ways we’d never dreamt. We see Him provide the finances necessary. We see Him draw unbelievers to Himself. We also have the privilege of making friends from other nations, experiencing cross-cultural living, and seeing how God is at work in those places. FC: Do you have anything more that you would like to share? GF: In July 2010, we plan to take a team of 12 men and women to an evangelistic family camp in Poland, and a team (or possibly two) of 8 to Romania to work with the young adults infected with HIV/AIDS. We also hope to send Canadian teams to Ukraine and to Slovakia to help with evangelistic family

Romanian women showing off craft projects that Grace helped them with.

peans know their economic status can improve if they learn conversational English so they’ll attend these camps to practice their English skills. While there, they participate in daily Bible lessons based on Jesus’ parables, hear testimonies, and see that Christians are normal and yes, even fun-loving people. Positive relationships are built, and then our IM career staff (who have also been at the camp) follow-up those relationships throughout the year. Without English speakers, these camps cannot take place and countless opportunities to share the Gospel with men and women who would never consider attending a Protestant church are lost. We need English speakers! Second, participating in short-term missions changes one’s life. The thought of participating in such a venture can be frightening because it pushes us beyond our comfort zone, but that’s normal. We just need to admit our fear to the Lord, and then move forward trusting Him to equip us to do what He’s called us to do. When we say yes, we see Him

camps. H

Anyone interested can contact Grace Fox at grace@gracefox.com or gene@im-canada.ca. The IM Website is www.im-canada.ca.

Grace sharing her testimony with Romanian women.

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By Jenny Burr for The Fit Christian

Directions can lead to a great deal of “miscommunication.” I learned this early on in our marriage, and I continue to be amazed at how giving directions continues to be a source of problems between us. Not major problems but small “miscommunication” problems. During our first three years of marriage, we moved once a year. The moves were the result of having to find a halfway point for my husband to commute in one direction to work and for me to commute in the opposite direction to work. Friends from church were helping us with our move. The date had been set. The number of helpers had been established. Everything was just right.

Directions: Finding and Losing Your Way If I have a new place to find I generally pull out a map and locate where I am going. Then I will write down the name of the streets and the direction that I need to turn so that I can take a quick glance at the page as I am driving. This usually works very well until some type of detour or road construction prevents me from taking my pre-planned route. Then I’m a bit thrown off, but I still manage to find my way. When it comes to getting lost, my husband is much better at handling this calmly. I tend to get a bit stressed. Landmarks serve us both well when we are finding our way; however, we tend to use them a bit differently. A landmark that stands out for my husband doesn’t necessarily stand out for me. Just a week ago, I needed to ask my husband for directions to two different places. For one of the places he knew where it was, but he could not direct me to it because it would have required giving me names of streets. Names of anything, including people and streets, do not happen to be stored in his memory bank. This is why it is more difficult for him to give directions. He suggested that I look it up on a map, which I did. The place was easy to find once I knew where I was going.

For the second place it was very close to our daughter’s high school. The only problem was, when he gave me the directions he was coming from one direction, and in my mind I was coming from the opposite direction. As he explained that the track was ‘here’ and the road was parallel, I envisioned one section of the subdivision. It was the wrong section. When I asked for clarification he then explained that the track was on the left. Then I realized that we were picturing Sometimes I have messed up directions too. One time, my the area from the opposite direction. Once I realized that, I husband was supposed to drop our baby off at a new did not have a problem finding the house. Naturally, I also babysitter’s house. I told him that it was the third house checked a map to ensure that I knew where I was going. down the road which was correct. Unfortunately, a building on the corner which I did not count as a house, he counted. Do you and your spouse experience “misscommunication” He ended up at the neighbor’s house instead of the with directions? Write and tell me about your experiences. babysitter’s house. Another time my husband had to do the gymnastics drive and I had him on the correct road but I had Email: misscommunication@fitchristian.com mixed up the numbers. My husband was giving directions to some of our friends to our new rental in a small town. He advised them to check with me rather than just taking his word for it and so they did. My husband had them going to the wrong street and the wrong number. It’s a good thing that they checked with me before trying to find our new place.

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The Little Lost Lamb © Michelle Grant

apple tree. The water was so clear it look like the sky on a cloudless nce upon a time, there was a little lamb named Fluff. day. Little Fluff looked into the crystal-clear, Fluff lived in a beautiful green meadow, with lush green blue water and saw little fish and tadpoles swimming in the grass, crystal blue lakes and trees so tall they looked like they water. Little Fluff took a drink. The water tasted just like touched the sky. freshly squeezed apple juice. Oh, this place is so much better than where I live. I think I might just stay here from now on. Fluff was a very happy little lamb. He lived in the meadow with his whole family. Mom and Dad, brothers and sisters, In the tree, a little bird began to sing. The bird was so happy; aunts and uncles even cousins. It was a great place for a little his song just seemed to float on the air like a feather. Little lamb to live. Fluff decided to lie down on the sweet, soft grass and listen One day while Fluff was eating the green lush grass by the lake, he noticed even greener grasses on the other side. Little Fluff saw a bridge that his master used to get to the other side. Little Fluff thought that it wouldn’t hurt anyone if he crossed the bridge and just tried a couple of bites of that lush green grass. Then he would come right back over and no one would ever even know.

to the little bird’s song. Before long, Little Fluff let out a big yawn and, try as he might, he just couldn’t keep his eyes open any longer, he was fast asleep. When Little Fluff awoke, no longer was the little bird singing in the tree, or the warm and inviting sun shining. No, now it was dark and cold. Shadows were everywhere and a cold breeze blew right through Little Fluff.

Just a couple of bites won’t hurt, he thought to himself as he Where am I?, thought Little Fluff. Then he remembered that got closer to the bridge. I’ll be back before any one even earlier that day he had crossed over the little wooden bridge. knows I’m gone. Oh, why did I ever cross over that bridge? Now I am scared, cold, and all alone. Little Fluff began to cry, he couldn’t So over the little wooded bridge he went. As he was crossing remember how to get back home. the little bridge, he saw his face in the water. His mother had told him this was his reflection. That’s when Little Fluff As Little Fluff lay under that big tree crying he thought he heard a voice telling him, "Dear Little Fluff, don’t cross this heard someone calling his name. Little Fluff looked up. Way bridge. Yes, the grass does look greener and tastier on the in the distance there was a light. The light seemed to get other side, but what happens if you get lost? There are many bigger and brighter. Little fluff was very scared. He had dangers for you away from your family please turn around never been away from his family after dark and thought this and go home where you are loved and safe.” was something mean and terrible coming to get him. Then he heard his name again. Oh but the grass looks so green and tender. One little bite won’t hurt, he said to himself, and off he went. It was his master calling for him, "Little Fluff where are you?” As Little Fluff crossed over the bridge he could smell the sweet scent of the grass. It made his mouth water. He took his first bite of the grass and it was so sweet and tender— much better than the grass across the bridge. Little Fluff spotted some purple and yellow flowers over in the distance. “Oh I wonder what those are like. If they are as good as they smell I will be in heaven.” He trotted over to the flowers and they did smell so sweet, of sweet bees’ honey—Little Fluff’s favorite treat. The flowers tasted even better than they smelled. They just seemed to melt in his mouth.

Little Fluff’s heart leapt with joy. “Master here I am!” he shouted, no longer afraid of the light. Little Fluff’s master ran and scooped him up and held him close. “I was so worried, Little Fluff. You are safe now. Let’s go home.” And that’s just what they did. By

Michelle

Grant

Written

Now if I only had something to drink, thought Little Fluff. He shelygirls@hotmail.com looked up to see a little creek flowing right next to a huge Article Source: www.faithwriters.com © 2010 The Fit Christian Magazine. A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing.

January

21st

2010

Among the Big Boys By Jason Swiney

probably would have made it to the campsite first if Big E hadn’t taken the two tents I was carrying, and given me the cooler. It was heavy, and there was simply no comfortable way to carry it. Finally, Landon took one end and I took the other. We balanced the grocery bags Landon carried on top. The camping idea was Big E’s, but I think the “short” hike to the river was a little longer than he remembered. Big E had practically dared us not to go. Although Gordon and Two-Laine were also seniors, Big E called the shots. “Boys, we’re all going camping tomorrow, the whole offensive line,” he had announced after Friday’s practice. Perhaps Big E could simply inform his parents of such matters, but my household worked differently. Uneasiness filled my dad’s face as soon as I asked him Saturday morning. My dad, a deli shop owner by day and the chairman of deacons at all hours, was also a die-hard football guy. So I tried to appeal to the pride he had in his sophomore son being named the varsity’s starting center.

Stories told by my uncles sprang to the forefront of my mind. But in the end, apprehension of the game’s true purpose led to a lame question about my dad lying to his parents when he was younger. He answered without hesitation. And then it was suddenly my turn. “Dare,” I said. Truth was never an option. What sixteenyear-old would give a parent such an opportunity? He looked me straight in the eye, but his words hit square in the gut. “You can go camping if you want, but I dare you to be a Christian tonight.”

“Dad, this is just some bonding time for the offensive line- “Dad, I am a Christian, you know that.” men before the season starts, there won’t be any girls. I promise.” “Good,” he responded. “Then it shouldn’t be a problem.” He immediately started laughing. “I’m not worried about *** girls. I don’t see you and those other four grunts convincing any girls to spend the night in the woods. I think the local “Hurry up, I’m thirsty!” Big E bellowed as Landon and I ladies are safe this weekend.” caught up to the others. “This is where we camp.” As soon as we dropped the cooler, Big E dug out three drinks, tossing “Real funny Dad. But I promise we won’t...” one to both Gordon and Two-Laine. “We’ll be at the river fishing. You two set up the tents and find some firewood, “Let’s play a quick game,” he interrupted. we’ll be back shortly.” The three seniors turned and disappeared down the trail toting fishing rods and laughing. I cautiously agreed, although his tone indicated it wasn’t optional. I started unpacking the tents while Landon stared at the “How about Truth or Dare? And I’ll go first. Truth.”

cooler. “Are you going to drink some tonight?” he asked. I knew what the question meant. Landon hoped to be part of the crew without partaking of the brew.

“And how did you talk your parents into letting you come anyway?” I asked. He blew out a deep breath. “Well . . . I told them that you were going.” Landon’s response hit me harder than Big E during blocking drills. His parents knew my parents well. They knew me well, or at least the ‘me’ they saw at church and around town. Prophetic words ran through my mind—“I dare you to be a Christian tonight.” I tossed aside the tent poles and squatted beside the cooler. I flipped the lid and looked at the submerged silver cans. I rubbed my head to speed the thinking process and then retrieved a can from the icy water. I popped it open. Landon stared wide-eyed, as if I was about to offer it to him. I turned the can and let its golden contents pour slowly onto the dusty ground. When it was empty I plucked a second can from the cooler. “What are you doing?” Landon asked. “Big E is going to–” “Landon, go find some firewood, please.” A nervous smile crept slowly across his face. Finally, he turned and headed into the woods. It took a while to pour out the remaining thirty-two cans. It took even longer for Big E, Gordon, and Two-Laine to give up on catching any trout. But eventually I heard them, loud as ever, cursing and laughing on the trail toward camp.

ALIVE BEGINNING CHRIST EASTER JESUS Things were about to get real interesting among the big boys. MESSIAH

NEW PASSION PASSOVER RISEN SAVIOR TOMB

Jason Swiney is a Christian, husband, father, and educator who lives and writes in NE Georgia (lettingitflow.com). He can be contacted at jswiney@windstream.net Article Source: www.faithwriters.com

Easy Easter Brunch H

osting an Easter brunch is a great way to bring friends and family together. And it doesn't have to be hard or expensive. Here are some simple things you can do to ensure a memorable celebration without the hassle. Take Inventory. Pull out the dishes, platters, silverware and glassware to make sure you have what you need. If needed, spruce up any silver and table linens a few days before, so you can concentrate on other things the day-of the event. Set a Pretty Table. For creative place cards, try Easter eggs. Put a narrow strip of tape around the middle of each egg before you dye it. When it's dry, peel off the tape and write each name in the white space with a thin line permanent marker.

ahead of time, cover the baking dish with foil and keep it in the fridge until just before the party. Remove the foil, bake as instructed and watch your guests enjoy. You can find other tempting smoked sausage and polska kielbasa Easter recipes at gomeat.com.

Crustless Quiche Keep it Centered. For an inexpensive centerpiece, leverage simplicity:

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Makes: 12 servings 1

•

package Hillshire Farm Beef Smoked Sausage

Fill a glass bowl or vase with colorful Easter eggs–real 8 eggs, lightly beaten or plastic. 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

1 ½ teaspoons dry mustard ¼ teaspoon salt Set white or ivory votive candles on top of a flat mirror. 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 ½ cups (6 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese, divided Plan the Menu. The main thing you must always remember ½ cup chopped green bell pepper

• •

Put a potted plant inside an Easter basket.

is to keep it simple. Don't be afraid to use store bought items and recipes that can be made ahead of time. These simple Preheat oven to 350?F. Cut sausage into 1/2-cubes; set aside. time savers leave you more time to relax to enjoy your guests. Place eggs, cream, dry mustard, salt and black pepper in a • Buy instead of baking. Muffins, fruit pastries and sea- large bowl; whisk until smooth. sonal Easter breads can all be found in the bakery section of your grocery store. Stir in sausage, 1 cup of cheese and green pepper. Pour egg • Provide a lighter side dish such as a simple fruit salad. mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Squeeze lemon or orange juice on the fruit to help it keep Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until eggs are set. Sprinkle with from turning brown. remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. • Create a simple, yet special main dish such as a crustless quiche. With this easy recipe from Hillshire Farm, you simply combine flavorful beef smoked sausage with cheese and Source: Hillshire Farm eggs for a mouth-watering dish. You can prepare the mixture © 2010 The Fit Christian. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing.

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Good for the Waistline, Good for the Wallet

ow, more than ever, people are looking for tasty www.TheOtherWhiteMeat.com or follow The National Pork ways to trim their waistlines, and their budgets. Staying Board on Twitter @allaboutpork. within both a caloric and financial budget is as easy as updating your menu with a new centerpiece - pork. Mustard-Herb Crusted Pork Loin Roast Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 60 minutes

Pork is extremely versatile, packs a protein punch and pairs Serves 4 with leftovers for sandwiches well with almost any flavor. Plus, six of the most common cuts of pork are 16 percent leaner and contain 27 percent less 1 cup panko saturated fat than they did 19 years ago. 1 ½ pounds pork top loin roast, trimmed of external fat "Those looking to maintain a healthy weight should not underestimate the power of pork," said Mitzi Dulan, Registered Dietitian. "Research has shown that a diet rich in lean protein helps dieters feel full, which may lead to eating fewer excess calories." In fact, a study from the Obesity journal found that women who cut calories and included more protein, including six ounces of lean pork per day, kept more muscle mass while losing weight than women who consumed the same amount of calories but less protein.

¼ teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1 egg yolk beaten 2 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard 1 ½ teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped

Heat oven to 350°F. Place panko on large dinner plate; set aside. Pat surface of pork dry with paper towels; sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Combine egg yolk, mustard and thyme in pie plate. Roll pork roast in mustard mixture, spreading mixture evenly on surface. Then roll mustard-coated roast in panko, patting panko Pound for pound, pork is also one of the most economical on roast to evenly cover. buys in the meat case and lean cuts don't stop with those from the loin. According to new data from the US Department of Place roast on rack in shallow roasting pan. Roast, uncovAgriculture, ground pork is now available in lean choices ered, in heated oven for 1 hour or until an instant-read that rival other lean meats. Any way you slice it, you'll find thermometer inserted near center reads 155°F. savings at the grocery store with pork. Loosely cover pork with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes. Transfer Maximize your budget and put pork to the test tonight. Plan pork roast to carving board; Cut half of the pork roast into to prepare the Mustard-Herb Crusted Pork Loin roast for 1/2-inch-thick slices to serve. Cool remaining piece of roast dinner and use the leftovers for a delicious Pork Cordon Bleu at room temperature for up to 1 hour. Loosely cover and Sandwich the next day. refrigerate for sandwiches. The Mustard-Herb Crusted Pork Loin Roast has only 150 calories and 4 grams of fat. This pork loin roast is trimmed of external fat and it could help you do the same. It also has an amazing 20 grams of protein and nutrients including phosphorus, zinc and potassium, which are all key to keeping the body fit and healthy. Find the complete Pork Cordon Bleu Sandwich recipe and more waist and budget-friendly recipes and brochures at

Serving Suggestions: Cook once and eat twice-serve half of this savory pork roast with steamed mixed baby vegetables and a wild rice pilaf for the first meal, and use the leftover roast for the Pork Cordon Bleu Sandwiches as a second meal. Nutrition: Calories: 150; Protein: 20g; Fat: 4g; Sodium: 170mg; Cholesterol: 80mg; Saturated Fat: 1g; Carbohydrates: 5g; Fiber: 0g Source: National Pork Board | Courtesy of Family Features

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Lemon-Bay Tortellini with Spinach & Wild Mushrooms Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes ½ 2 1 2 4 1 ¼ 8 1

preserved lemon McCormick Bay Leaves package (12 ounces) cheese tortellini cups frozen leaf spinach, unthawed strips bacon medium shallot, finely chopped cup olive oil ounces sliced assorted mushrooms teaspoon McCormick Minced Garlic Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

The way America cooks is in the midst of a flavorful evolution, according to the 10th annual McCormick(r) Flavor Forecast(tm). The report predicts an increased preference for high-impact flavors, balanced with comforting favorites. We'll see new flavor combinations, thanks to the breadth of year-round ingredients, chosen and preserved at the peak of 1. Remove and discard pulp from preserved lemon. Rinse freshness, available in a pantry near you. peel to remove excess salt. Coarsely chop peel (about 2 tablespoons). Set aside. "Flavor has never been so quick and accessible," says Kevan Vetter, Executive Chef at McCormick. "Today, a well- 2. Bring water and bay leaves to boil in large saucepot. Stir stocked pantry is like having a local farmer's market or in tortellini. Cook as directed on package, adding frozen bountiful backyard garden in your kitchen." The endless spinach during last minute of cooking. Drain, reserving 1/4 harvest of canned, pickled, preserved, frozen and dried in- cup of the cooking water. Disgredients are indispensable, at-the-ready tools for everyday card bay leaves. one-dish meal ideas that are anything but ordinary. 3. Meanwhile, cook bacon in large skillet on medium heat For example, a convenient can of coconut milk takes pump- until crisp. Drain on paper towkin pie spice and chicken thighs Caribbean. Economical els. Crumble bacon; set aside. canned chickpeas add Mediterranean flair to once-humble Add shallots to bacon dripShepherd's Pie, now featuring the alluring warmth of roasted pings; cook and stir 3 mincumin. And, aromatic bay leaves join salty-tart preserved utes. Add oil, mushrooms, lemons to brighten up tortellini, courtesy of the local grocer garlic and preserved lemon peel; cook and stir 3 (or, your own handiwork - see sidebar). minutes or until mushFor more easy recipes and featured flavor pairings, visit rooms are tender. Add tortellini mixture and www.flavorforecast.com. reserved cooking water; © 2010 The Fit Christian. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing.

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toss to mix well. Sprinkle with bacon. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Makes 6 servings.

Shepherd's Pie with Cumin & Smashed Chickpeas Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes

To prepare with fresh spinach: Cook tortellini as directed, omitting the frozen leaf spinach. Cook bacon and mush- 1 ½ pounds all-purpose potatoes, peeled and quartered rooms as directed. Stir in 1 package (6 ounces) baby spinach 1 can (15 ½ ounces) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed, divided leaves until slightly wilted. Continue as above. Nutrition Information per Serving: 416 Calories, Fat 24g, Protein 13g, Carbohydrates 37g, Cholesterol 46mg, Sodium 729mg, Fiber 5g

Preserving Lemons Although preserved lemons can be found at some specialty food stores, making your own requires just three basic ingredients - lemons, salt and time (it takes at least three weeks before the lemons are ready to use). For added dimension, bay leaves can even be included in the preserving salt. It is the supple rind of preserved lemons that is most valued sliced, chopped or minced to complement the texture of the dish. For step-by-step instructions, visit mccormick.com.

Caribbean Chicken with Mango Coconut Sauce Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes ¼ 1 1 1 ¼ 8 1 1 1 1 2

cup flour tablespoon McCormick Paprika tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon McCormick Pumpkin Pie Spice, divided teaspoon McCormick Gourmet Collection Sicilian Sea Salt teaspoon McCormick Crushed Red Pepper bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed (about 3 pounds) tablespoon vegetable oil cup thinly sliced red onion can (14 ½ ounces) petite diced tomatoes, undrained can (14 ounces) Thai Kitchen Coconut Milk cups frozen mango chunks, unthawed

1. Mix flour, paprika, 1 tablespoon of the pumpkin pie spice, sea salt and red pepper in shallow dish. Coat chicken evenly on both sides in flour mixture. 2. Heat oil in nonstick 5-quart saucepan or Dutch oven on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove chicken. Drain excess fat from pan. Add red onion; cook and stir 2 minutes or until lightly browned. Stir in tomatoes, coconut milk, mango and remaining 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice. Bring to boil. Return chicken to pan. Cover.

¼ cup milk 2 tablespoons butter 1 ½ teaspoons McCormick(r) Gourmet Collection Sicilian Sea Salt, divided 1 pound ground lamb ½ pound lean ground beef 1 cup coarsely chopped onion 1 tablespoon McCormick Gourmet Collection Roasted Ground Cumin 1 teaspoon McCormick Gourmet Collection Ground Coriander ½ teaspoon McCormick Coarse Ground Black Pepper ¼ cup whiskey or apple cider 1 cup beef broth 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 cup each frozen carrots and green beans, unthawed

1. Place potatoes in 2-quart saucepan. Add water to cover. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Drain and return to saucepan. Add 1/2 of the chickpeas, milk, butter and 1/2 teaspoon of the sea salt; coarsely mash until well blended. Set aside. 2. Brown lamb and beef in large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Drain fat. Add onion, cumin, coriander, remaining 1 teaspoon sea salt and pepper; cook 3 to 4 minutes or until onions are tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in whiskey. Stir broth into cornstarch until smooth. Add to skillet; stir constantly until well blended. Stir in vegetables and remaining chickpeas. Spoon into 2-quart baking dish. Spread potato mixture evenly over top. 3. Bake in preheated 400°F oven 15 to 20 minutes or until mixture is bubbly and top is golden brown. If needed, place under preheated broiler to brown potato topping. Makes 8 servings.

3. Bake in preheated 350°F oven 20 to 25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Serve with cooked rice, if desired. Makes 8 servings.

Nutrition Information per Serving: 316 Calories, Fat 14g, Protein 19g, Carbohydrates 25g, Cholesterol 63mg, Sodium 643mg, Fiber 4g

Nutrition Information per Serving: 357 Calories, Fat 21g, Protein 25g, Carbohydrates 17g, Cholesterol 86mg, Sodium 447mg, Fiber 3g

Courtesy of Family Features | Source: McCormick

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Shrimp Stir-Fry Wrap

ed fat, cholesterol and sodium by looking for a lower percent of DV. Instead, choose foods with a higher percent of DV for ou've probably heard the saying, "You are what you fiber, vitamins and minerals. eat." If this is true, you should eat healthy, right? In reality, most people struggle with their taste buds and their con- 3. Visit the frozen food section. Some frozen foods have science on doing what's right. been frozen at the peak of freshness to protect their nutritional benefits, which means they deliver just as much nutritional Most people know they should eat healthy. However, too value as–or more than–fresh products. many believe that healthy food can't taste great and be filling. These are common misconceptions that lead to poor food When planning a weekly menu, use recipes that make the decisions. It is absolutely possible to serve wholesome dish- most of wholesome ingredients. These no-fuss recipes start es that have great taste and are filling, too. It all starts with with Contessa Frozen Convenience Meals, letting you serve choosing foods with the right ingredients. up fabulous meals that don't compromise on taste. Serve them as-is, or get creative. Each ready meal can be used as a starting point for a whole new recipe with just a few changes When grocery shopping: 1. Read the ingredients list first. If an ingredient is at the or additional ingredients. top of the list, there is relatively more of it. Steer clear of artificial additives, because they're typically unhealthy. For For more recipes and a complimentary booklet loaded with example, High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS), Monosodium tips to make you ingredient-savvy, along with a special guide Glutamate (MSG), Autolyzed Yeast Extract (AYE), and on how to read a Nutrition Facts label, visit Contessa.com Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) are all ingredients you and request Volume 1 of "Better Ingredients. Better You." want to avoid. 2. Review the nutrition facts and note the Daily Value (DV) Stir-Fry Tips percentage per serving listed next to each nutrient. Daily –After you cook in a wok, wipe the inner surface with Values are the recommended amount of nutrients a person vegetable oil to retard any rust forming. should get every day. Limit foods that are high in fat, saturatSee “What You Eat” page 18 © 2010 The Fit Christian. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of His Work Christian Publishing.

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What You Eat cont....

–The keys to delicious stir-frying are high temperature, short Prepare stir-fry per instructions on package, omitting sauce. Set aside. In a small bowl, whisk yogurt and lemon juice. cooking time, and small pieces of food. Add salt and pepper to taste. –Many home chefs mistakenly cook large portions, so the wok steams the food instead of frying it. Try using a larger In a separate bowl, combine red onions, cucumber and feta wok‚ about 20 inches in diameter. Small woks simply boil cheese. Season with black pepper and stir. food. If your wok is small, cook smaller portions. Spread yogurt mixture inside pita bread. Add stir-fry and top with sliced tomatoes. Place desired amount of onion/cucumber mixture over tomatoes. Top with additional Shrimp Stir-Fry Wrap yogurt mixture. 4 to 6 servings

2 1 4 1 2

cups rice package Contessa Shrimp Stir-Fry large tortillas cup mild salsa cups Monterey Jack and American cheese, shredded

Prepare rice per instructions on package. Prepare stir-fry per instructions on package. Heat tortillas.

Chinese Chicken Salad

Chinese Chicken Salad 5 to 6 servings 1 1 ½ 3 6 Classic Greek Sandwich ½ 4 Lay tortillas flat, spoon in 2 tablespoons rice, 1 tablespoon 2

salsa and 1 cup stir-fry. Sprinkle generously with cheese, then wrap. Serve with salsa.

Classic Greek Sandwich 6 servings 1 ½ 3 ¼ ½ ¾ 6 2 1

package Contessa Beef Stir-Fry cup plain yogurt teaspoons lemon juice red onion, sliced cucumber, sliced cup feta cheese pita bread pockets tomatoes, sliced teaspoon dill, chopped Salt Pepper

package Contessa Chicken Stir-Fry head Napa cabbage, thinly sliced cup toasted almonds, sliced tablespoons sesame seeds scallions, sliced cup rice wine vinegar tablespoons sesame oil tablespoons sugar Salt Pepper

Prepare stir-fry per instructions on package, omitting sauce. Place in a bowl and refrigerate 30 minutes, or until cold. Set sauce packet aside. In a large bowl combine cabbage, almonds, sesame seeds and scallions. Place rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, sauce from packet and salt and pepper, to taste, into a blender. Blend for 15 seconds. Add chilled chicken stir-fry to cabbage and mix in desired amount of dressing. Serve immediately with crispy noodles. Courtesy of Family Features | Source: Contessa

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Photo Courtesy of Fotoli

Growing Mint Kathy Bond-Borie, Guest Columnist

The mint family offers a mouthwatering array of different types, such as pineapple mint, chocolate mint, apple mint, orange mint, not to mention spearmint and peppermint. With these refreshing scents and flavors to enhance your cooking, add to beverages, and use in potpourris, mint can be an indispensable plant.

Corsican mint is hardy to zone 6 so treat it as an annual in colder regions.

Once plants are growing vigorously, you can harvest young or mature leaves. Don't be afraid to cut the plants back frequently to promote fresh growth. Use fresh leaves in cooking or dry mint leaves on trays or by hanging bunched In addition, bumblebees and other pollinators are attracted to branches upside down in a warm, dark, well-ventilated area. H the delicate flowers that appear in mid- to late summer. Some varieties even sport variegated foliage for added interest in the herb garden.

Pruning a Shrub Rose

Mint's only downside is it will take over your garden if it gets half a chance. But you can contain its exuberance and keep it close at hand by growing mint in pots. And I do mean "pots" plural. With the array of varieties, it can be hard to choose just one. Or you can confine mint in a garden bed with edging of metal or plastic. Bury the edging to a depth of 14 inches around the perimeter of the mint patch.

Many a gardener has stood before a favorite rose shrub with pruners in hand, hesitant to make the first cut. Thorns aside, it can be downright intimidating to cozy up to a shrub rose to try to direct its future growth and flowering.

Fortunately these plants don't need a lot of pruning and are very forgiving. Their fast growth will soon cover any pruning cuts, and their informal shape doesn't necessitate taming. A Sampling of Mints for Your Garden Spearmint (Mentha spicata), with its slightly sweet flavor, With some basic tools and guidelines, you can tidy up the makes a refreshing tea, and can be used to highlight flavors plant and encourage abundant flowering. in a fruit salad, or to add to new potatoes or grain pilaf. It's the mint of mint jelly, and is a key ingredient in mint juleps. The main reasons to prune a rose are to remove dead and Plants grow 2 to 3 feet tall, with pale pink or white blooms damaged canes, increase blooming, and decrease disease and pest problems. The best time to prune is early spring just appearing in mid to late summer. before new growth begins, but remove spent flowers and Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is more pungent than spear- dead canes whenever they occur. The goal is to keep the mint, growing to 3 feet tall, with pinkish lavender flowers. center of the shrub free of twiggy, weak growth that's espeIt's a common ingredient in teas, especially for soothing the cially susceptible to attack by insects and disease. stomach. Collect your equipment. Pruning thorny rose shrubs reCorsican mint (Mentha requienii) is a ground-hugging mint quires sturdy, thorn-proof gloves and safety glasses to prothat prefers shade. It drapes over a container or weaves in tect your eyes. Look for elbow-length gloves at garden centers. You also need a pair of sharp hand pruners for canes between stepping-stones or in a stone wall. up to 1/2 inch in diameter. Use long-handled loppers or a small pruning saw to cut larger stems and to reach into the Growing and Harvesting Mints Most mints can be started from seed, with the exception of center of dense shrubs. peppermint, which is propagated by cuttings. Choose a sun- Inspect your rose plant. First, identify all dead and damny location (except for Corsican mint) with moderately fer- aged canes. Next, locate long thin canes and canes that grow tile, humusy soil. Use a light mulch to retain moisture and from below the graft union, if the plant is grafted. Lastly, keep leaves clean. Most mints are hardy to zone 3 or 4; ÂŠ 2010 The Fit Christian Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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In cold-climate areas, wait to prune until the buds just begin to swell in spring. Then it's easy to tell the difference between healthy canes and buds and those that didn't make it through the winter. Make the right pruning cut. Make your cut about 1/4 inch above a healthy bud and at a 45 degree angle. The bud and the high point of the cut should be on the same side of the cane so that water will drain away from the bud. To prevent the spread of disease, clean your pruning tools between shrubs with a mix of one part bleach and nine parts water. Fertilize after pruning. To encourage flowering, use a rose fertilizer as recommended on the label. Remove spent flowers. To encourage repeat flowering, use look for canes that rub against or crowd each other, especial- hand pruners or scissors to remove flowers as soon as they ly if they're growing through the center of the bush. finish blooming. Cut each flower stem back to the next lower set of leaves. (No longer is it recommended to cut back to a Determine where to cut. Prune canes back to buds that face 5-leaflet leaf because this removes too much foliage and can the outside of the shrub. Cut the spindly canes back by half slow reblooming.) their length or to 2 to 3 feet long. Cut or break off canes completely that grow from below the graft union. Remove For more tips and garden information visit www.garden.org diseased canes, and those that rub or crowd, back to healthy, outward-facing buds. If you see brown tissue in the center of A former floral designer and interior plantscaper, Kathy Bond-Borie has spent 20 a cane when you cut it, prune a little farther back until the years as a garden writer/editor, including her current role as Horticultural Editor for the National Gardening Association. She loves designing with plants, and tissue is clear and healthy. spends more time playing in the garden – planting and trying new combinations – than sitting and appreciating it. Courtesy of Family Features

Phytonutrients are natural components or compounds of plants Americans Falling Short on Heart-Healthy Phytonutrients thought to offer benefits to health. Fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts and teas are rich sourc(Family Features) Most people consider color an important es of phytonutrients. Though there are many important phytofactor in fashion, home design, cosmetics, even landscaping. nutrients, the report focuses on four - allicin, quercetin, But a new study shows that they don't give color much thought anthocyanidins and resveratrol - that research suggests may when it comes to food which can improve heart health. benefit the heart. These compounds are grouped in the white and purple/blue color categories and are commonly found in Americans are falling short on heart-healthy phytonutrients, garlic, onions, apples, blueberries and grapes. according to "America's Phytonutrient Report: Heart Health by Color," a new report released by the Nutrilite Health Institute. It "Heart health can be supported by certain lifestyle habits infinds only two out of 10 Americans consume "prudent intake" cluding daily exercise and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegelevels of select heart-healthy phyto- tables, which include low calorie sources of potassium, fiber, nutrients, leaving the other 80 per- folic acid, and vitamins A, C and E," added Amy Hendel, cent with a "cardio phytonutrient Nutrilite's Phytonutrient Coach. gap." To help close the gap and promote heart-friendly lifestyle "This report makes it clear that choices, Hendel, a registered physician assistant and most adults are not getting the rec- health/wellness expert, offers the following tips: ommended intakes of fruits and vegetables, which are packed with - Cook with Garlic and Onions. Garlic offers you the beneficial compounds like phytobenefits of allicin, a phytonutrient that supports nutrients," says Dr. Ken Kornman healthy blood pressure. Onions provide the benefit of of Interleukin Genetics, and Scienquercetin, a phytonutrient that also supports healthy tific Advisory Board Member for blood pressure. Nutrilite Health Institute. See “Daily Dose” page 23 © 2010 The Fit Christian Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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Making Mother's Day M

Memories

other's Day is a lovely way to pay tribute to moms and other women who have nurtured us, taught us and influenced our lives. If you're looking for a special way to say thank you and give her a wonderful memory, try some of these ideas. Make Her a Favor Book. Put together a coupon book of favors that the kids will do for her. Write things like "I will help with the dishes," "Good for one long cuddle," and "Mom picks the movie" on index cards or slips of pretty paper and staple them together to make a booklet.

Crustless Broccoli and Cheddar Mini Quiches Makes 12 servings 1

3 2 ¼ ¼ 2 Say it With Flowers. In Victorian times, bouquet flowers 2 were chosen very carefully because each flower had a special ½

can (12 fluid ounces) Nestlé Carnation Evaporated Lowfat 2% Milk large eggs, beaten tablespoons all-purpose flour teaspoon salt teaspoon ground black pepper cups (8 ounces) shredded mild or sharp cheddar cheese cups chopped, frozen broccoli, thawed and drained cup chopped red bell pepper

meaning. Give mom a bouquet that tells her how you feel. Some examples: PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease and lightly flour twelve 2 1/2-inch muffin cups. v White carnations symbolize the purity and strength of motherhood. Pink ones mean gratitude, and red ones express WHISK evaporated milk, eggs, flour, salt and black pepper in medium bowl until blended. Stir in cheese, broccoli and deep love and affection. bell pepper. Spoon 1/4 to 1/3 cup of mixture into each v Red roses are for deep love, pink for admiration, grace prepared muffin cup, filling almost to rim.* Stir mixture and elegance. frequently to evenly distribute ingredients. v Hibiscuses are for delicate beauty. Get some to show her BAKE for 23 to 28 minutes or until knife inserted near that she's beautiful inside and out. centers comes out clean and tops are lightly browned. Cool Host a Special Brunch. Gather friends and family to cele- in pans for 15 minutes. Run knife or small, flat spatula brate motherhood at a leisurely brunch. Take plenty of pho- around inside edges of muffin cups. Carefully remove quichtographs and pass around a memory book for guests to write es. down words of thanks and encouragement. *NOTE: Number of quiches will depend on the size of Set up a buffet that includes Crustless Broccoli and Cheddar muffin cups. Bake time may need some adjusting. Mini Quiches. These bite-sized beauties can be made ahead TIPS: of time and frozen - they're a snap to reheat. Quiches can be made ahead and frozen. To reheat, place on baking sheet and bake in preheated 325°F oven for 25 to 30 There are dozens of ways you can celebrate moms and the minutes or, place 2 to 4 quiches on microwave-safe plate and women in your life - get creative and give her a Mother's Day microwave on MEDIUM-HIGH (70%) power for 2 1/2 to 5 she'll never forget. minutes or until hot. For more memorable recipes, visit TheCookingMilk.com.

Nutrition Information per serving: 120 calories; 60 calories from fat; 7g total fat; 5g saturated fat; 80mg cholesterol; 220mg sodium; 6g carbohydrate; .5g fiber; 4g sugars; 8g protein; 15% Vitamin A; 35% Vitamin C; 25% Calcium Source: Nestlé

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Mix It Up With Jenny

Eggs-tra Special

Easter Treats

love making Easter baskets really special. It's a fun tradition to put some nontraditional treats and surprises into each basket. I like to look for little gifts that say a lot about the person getting LINE 13 x 9-inch or two 8-inch-square baking pan(s) with them. Sports stickers for the little athlete, movie tickets for the film buff...what kinds of egg-stras do foil. you like to give? COMBINE sugar, evaporated milk, butter and salt in 4- to For younger kids, try sidewalk chalk, bubbles and bubble 5-quart, heavy-duty saucepan. Bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil, stirring constantwands, and coloring books of their favorite characters. ly, for 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Older kids might enjoy a new journal, cd or gift card. Who says grown-ups can't join in the Easter fun? Give your STIR in marshmallows, morsels, nuts and vanilla extract. special someone a favorite DVD or a certificate for a fun Stir vigorously for 1 minute or until marshmallows are melted. Pour into prepared baking pan(s). Refrigerate for 2 night out together. hours or until firm. Lift from pan; remove foil. Cut into As always, I'll be including some homemade goodies in all pieces. Store tightly covered in refrigerator. the baskets. These darling Easter Nests are a cinch to make and taste great, too. And the Very Best Fudge is a delicious addition to any Easter basket! I'm glad it makes a lot, so Nutrition Information per serving: 170 calories; 60 calories from fat; 7g total fat; 4.5g saturated fat; 5mg cholesterol; there's plenty to go around. 40mg sodium; 29g carbohydrate; 1g fiber; 26g sugars; 2g For more delicious Easter basket treat recipes, hop on over protein to VeryBestBaking.com

3 1 ¼ ½ 4 4 1 2

Very Best Fudge

Egg-Ceptional Easter Nests

(Makes about 4 pounds)

Makes 30 nests

cups granulated sugar can (12 fluid ounces) Nestlé Carnation Evaporated Milk cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine teaspoon salt cups miniature marshmallows cups (24 ounces) or 2 packages (12 ounces each) Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) teaspoons vanilla extract

Wax paper 1 2/3 to 2 cups (11- to 12-ounce package) Nestlé Toll House Butterscotch or Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels ¼ cup creamy peanut butter 2 cans (5 ounces each) chow mein noodles 30 to 60 foil-covered chocolate eggs, any flavor

LINE trays with wax paper. MICROWAVE morsels in large, uncovered, microwavesafe bowl on MEDIUM-HIGH (70%) power for 1 minute; STIR. The morsels may retain some of their original shape.

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Daily Dose cont....

Mix It Up With Jenny

If necessary, microwave at additional 10- to 15-second intervals, stirring just until morsels are melted. Stir in peanut butter until well blended. ADD chow mein noodles to morsel mixture; toss until coated. Using ice cream scoop that measures about 2 rounded tablespoons, scoop and drop onto prepared trays then immediately shape into nests. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Before serving, place one or two foil-chocolate eggs in each nest. Store prepared nests in covered container for up to 1 day. Nutrition Information per serving: 170 calories; 80 calories from fat; 9g total fat; 5g saturated fat; 0mg cholesterol; 75mg sodium; 19g carbohydrate; .5g fiber; 12g sugars; 24g protein Source: Nestlé

It's true - the kitchen is the heart of the home. Ever notice how people always gather there? Whether baking treats, making dinner or spending time with family and friends, the kitchen is my favorite place to be. Since my day job is Consumer Test Kitchen Project Manager for the Nestlé Test Kitchens, you can bet I love to stir things up. This column lets me pass along to you some of my best recipes, tips and baking secrets.

A new report shows the color of fruits and veggies eaten can be as important as the quantity.

- Heart-Healthy Snacking. A cup of tea with apple slices, a small piece of dark chocolate or a handful of nuts are all good, heart-healthy snack options. - Exercise. It's important to incorporate a minimum of 30 minutes of aerobic exercise into your daily routine. - Small Changes. Improving your heart health can be as easy as making small changes to your diet. Toss a handful of blueberries onto your cereal, add some chopped apples to your salad or snack on some grapes. - Meeting the Daily Goal. For those having trouble getting enough fruits and vegetables, natural, plantbased supplements can help close the "cardio phytonutrient gap." For more information on America's Phytonutrient Report: Heart Health by Color, the health benefits of phytonutrients and practical tips, visit www.nutrilite.com/color

Source: Nutrilite

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God’s Healing Herbs

By Dennis Ellingson, Pastor for The Fit Christian

Herbs from A to Z “Ask the Lord for rain in the springtime; it is the Lord who makes the storm clouds. He gives showers of rain to men, and plans of the field to everyone.” Zechariah 10:1

YAYYYY!!! March 14th marked a return to Daylight Savings Time and March 20th signaled the FIRST DAY OF SPRING. The light is back, the snow storms are gone, the spring rains have returned and the world, in the Northern Hemisphere, turns green . . . and I couldn’t be happier!

gingko good for the memory but it may also help with the irritating symptoms of hearing loss such as vertigo and tinnitus. More research is being done all the time regarding its benefits in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Ginkgo trees make stunning additions to the garden and are hardy for much of the United States.

I have been thinking about it for months. I have ordered new herb and vegetable seeds to try. I have thought hard and planned for how this year’s gardens will be better (and probably bigger) than ever. I am ready for six months of “dirt therapy.” I am equally excited to see more and more people becoming involved in gardens and the positive “grow your own” mentality. My question to you is, “What are you going to grow this year, besides another year older?”

The next herb is directed more for the guys and although women do use it. Ginseng is our next consideration. For many years Ginseng was considered an aphrodisiac and helped in the stimulating of sexual response. If it does that it is really only because it is a whole body tonic especially for the guys. I have taken ginseng for years combined with Royal Jelly.

In this part of this series we talk about three wonderful herbs that are of great benefit for all parts of the body that God has given you. Gingko is our first consideration. I just can’t quite remember what it is used for. It’s right on the tip of my tongue. Why can’t I remember? The reality is this, if I am taking my gingko I probably would remember. Gingko has been studied for years and pretty much proven to help with memory, especially your short term or working memory. This is the function that helps you to remember where you put your car keys and then where you parked your car at the mega-mall parking lot.

American Ginseng

Chinese Ginseng Siberian Ginseng

I believe it is these herbs and nutrients, plus green tea, which has helped boost my immunity system and kept me from the regular season of colds and the flu. Ginseng is a forest plant and there are numerous varieties of this plant found around the world. Ginseng is hard to grow and if you were to find it in the field please leave it alone. The plant grows slow and not in great abundance. It would be easy to deplete the world Working memory helps us in the day to day things we need source of ginseng without being careful stewards of what to remember for a short while. As we age or are deficient in God has given us. the right nutrients are working memory fades. This is where Gingko shines. Gingko trees are these truly unique looking These days most ginsengs, for commercial use, are grown in trees that were nearly lost to all of civilization until some nurseries. It is the dried root of the plant that is used. What I where discovered in China and transplanted around the notice most about using ginseng daily, is that it seems to world. I love the look of the leaf, fan shaped and leathery. It energize me for the day, providing me with more stamina for is from the leaves that the medicinal source comes, powdered all that I have planned. Women have used it to help with the or the oil extracted, capsules and teas are made. Not only is symptoms of menopause. Ginseng seems to help in the © 2010 The Fit Christian Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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control of cholesterol. I believe this, my opinion only, men over fifty should use it daily*. Ginseng seems to be a very safe herb, but don’t take it in the evening otherwise you might be up all night cleaning the garage or some other task you have avoided. Ginseng is readily available in capsules or teas. Check the contents and make sure you are getting true ginseng. Our last herb is truly one of my great favorites because it tastes so good. Grape, yep, these purple, red, and green beauties are a wonderful fruit and food source plus a powerful herb. Grapes, especially organic pure juice, are great for children. You know it to be true; kids have a penchant for sweet things. But there young teeth are very susceptible for tooth decay. A glass of pure grape juice a day can help to protect those young teeth and gums and give them the sweetness they desire.

The Painted Hills The Circuit Rider Series Volume One By Dennis Ellingson

Saddle Up for Some Great Western Adventure!

Grapes are being heralded as the new great cancer fighter because of the substantial antioxidants it contains. Grape is also high in fiber, tannins, boron, Vitamins A, B, C and calcium. Grape, in any form, is a whole body tonic. Now I am going to touch on what might be a touchy subject for you. That is the supposed benefits of drinking grape wine. First of all I am biased, I will admit it, I no longer drink alcohol and haven’t for over 25 years. I’ve done much alcohol and drug counseling over the years and I have seen way more of the negative impact of alcohol on our society than I would care to. We, as a people, have a blind eye towards the biggest drug problem in America–the acceptance and consumption of alcohol. The health benefits of wine are being touted all the time, and I suppose there are some. But the reality is this, alcohol kills. It has an adverse effect upon every molecule and organ of your body. Would you give your kids grape soda or grape juice? Duh, the juice of course. With that in mind, do yourself a favor and stick to grape in its most pure form. Finally, grapes have always been synonymous with abundance, especially that of what the Lord provides. Our Lord also gives us one of his greatest parables in that He is the vine and we are the branches. We stay close, partaking solely of Him and we prosper and are fruitful. “He is the vine and we are the branches, His banner over me is love.” *Just a reminder: If you are considering a new herb regime and are on any kind of prescribe medication best to check with your healthcare provider for possible complications of the medicine and herb.

In the Old West, it took great faith and bravery for men and women of God to share the gospel with pioneers and settlers. Battling hardship and danger, these courageous souls are honored in Dennis Ellingson’s Circuit Rider Series. The Painted Hills is set in the 1870s in The Dalles, Oregon, along the Oregon Trail. It is the story of a man in need of salvation.

ISBN: 978-1-60860-609-2 Hardcover $24.99

Grab Your Copy Today at a Bookstore Near You!

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Nancy’s New Beginnings Growing Strong in Broken Places– Dysfunction Junction

By Nancy Napolitano For The Fit Christian

greater compassion. Also, I have a stronger determination to succeed. And I have—just a little bit remains.

Life seems to be a series of trading one addiction for another. Conclusion—we all struggle with something and whatever its name, it vies for our existence. Why? Because if our Abuse, addiction, illness, or trauma—physical/emotional? physical bodies are spent, there is no way to carry out God’s Dysfunctional family? Welcome to my world, and the world spiritual business in this world. God continually opens my of most people. The longer I live the more I am convinced eyes to the plight of others engaged in this battle. that there are very few “functional” families. Everyone has a skeleton or two! If you feel you’ve suffered at the hands of Having recently attended a retreat (Texas Christian Nurses), loved ones, as you deal with your addiction: be it food, God opened my heart and my eyes to those nurses around me alcohol, drugs or other vices, you can be sure of one thing— with similar burdens. All engaged in the helping profession, your perpetrators suffered, too, or such would not be your all wounded in our journeys, brave souls. plight. Family patterns tend to be emulated. Swallow and One nurse in particular, Brenda Prewitt, I would like to digest that for a moment. In that, you will find forgiveness. recognize. Brenda has lost an amazing 150 pounds, “a whole Take it further and you find wholeness and reason—Reason person” as she so aptly puts it. My newfound friend deals to continue the battle. For as you do battle and your weak- with issues daily that threaten to sabotage her health and success, too. The layers of fat that have been shed represent nesses are revealed, you find strength. a protective shield built up over many years. In shedding this II Corinthians 12:9-10 ….and the Lord said “My grace is armor, she, too, is forced to come to grips with some very sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weak- “hefty” issues. I know the difficulties I have faced, my ness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infir- prayers are with her daily for her continued success. mities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. God did not remove Paul’s affliction, he promised to reveal his power in Paul. Paul wanted his affliction removed, but it didn’t happen. Having conquered cigarette addiction, wrestled with physical illness/depression, I now battle food. Throughout all of this, I am amazed how I emerge stronger. These experiences have not only made me stronger, but have enabled me to use those things I have learned in the process to help others. Isn’t that the Christian course of life? So often I am drawn to how different I am. In my 30’s and 40’s, as a nurse, working with severely obese people, all 110 lbs of me, lean and mean … the perfect role model, eating only those foods good for me, exercising daily … wondering how did those people ever allow themselves to become overweight? Now I am face to face with the very issues they struggled with--what insight! Aging slows metabolism, illness prevents always making the wisest decisions, then there are stress-related life issues, family/work. Humbling? Yes. Purposeful? You bet. I have greater understanding, and

Group picture of nurses, Alice, Nancy, Brenda, Carol and Kate

This much I do know, her encounters, as mine, with kindred spirits in this battle will serve not only to help others, but will glorify Christ. We are made strong in our weakness, for Christ’s sake. The more hardship we face, the more people we can relate to, the more lives we can touch and let God’s grace shine through. I’d say that’s a lot of opportunity. Now, for an update: I have managed to exceed my financial goal for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, over 3,900

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Nancy with newfound friend Brenda Prewitt

dollars. I now am up to nine and one half miles walking and I will cross the finish line in Nashville when April rolls around, and complete my first half-marathon. I’m not to my weight goal, yet, but I’m getting closer. The best part is, this weight loss is permanent! The weight I have lost has stayed off, though the process has been painfully slow. I just keeping doin’ the next RIGHT THING! We are all God’s works in progress.

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Spotlight: Bobbie Jo Kolb By David Luther for The Fit Christian

Bobbie Jo Kolb is a winning Fitness Model, Personal Trainer, Mother of Two, and Christian Youth Leader from Nampa Idaho. Let’s see what God is doing in her life. tian future husband took a chance on being unFC: equally yoked to you. Did he have an inside tip You were not raised in the faith, yet your Chris-

from God about you, or was he just a young Samson? (But his father and his mother knew not that it was of the LORD, that he sought an occasion against the Philistines: for at that time the Philistines had dominion over Israel. Judges 14:4). he did say it would be a problem in the BJK: Well beginning and, truthfully, I had no intentions on

Bobbie Jo with her daughter Riley.

being a different person. But once he started going Start with a moderate plan 3 times a week mixed weight to church I was curious what he was doing there. The Lord lifting and cardio, eating sensibly, respecting our bodies in a just spoke to me and I never looked back. way that the Lord would. It seems he was right, as you now share his faith Are there any fad diets or workouts we need to FC: and have become a light to the world. You are FC: avoid? both using this light to teach Sunday school and youth. What is the best lesson you can share with your OF THEM! Ha-ha ... No really it just comes BJK: ALL students? down to discipline and dedication, just as with anything in life. That you don’t have to be perfect, to have a BJK: relationship with the Lord. I think people really How can the church provide information and have a misconstrued idea of religion. It is about FC: encouragement as part of our regular activities? coming to the lord everyday and laying it down, striving for perfection but knowing it will not come in this world. think a start would be at church retreats or even BJK: Iweekend events for the families to do together, as You had a history in sports, yet bodybuilding well as pamphlets FC: took you by surprise. What can this type of sport discipline and encouragement.in the church that promote self offer to our Christian life?

BJK:

Well, just like any other sport it requires discipline. You get from it what you give to it. If you are eating bad you can tell, if you’re not training hard, you can tell it does not give rewards for lack of work! Spirit for the faithful. Is it time for the church to FC: rebuild the temple? We know the body is the temple of the Holy

I think there is definitely some rebuilding BJK: WOW... to be done. It starts with individuals and families. That’s why I love helping the women in the families. If I can get them motivated and excited about a new journey, I know they will tell their families about it. How can people begin to rediscover fitness sensiFC: bly, without going overboard? everyone will be a professional in this area. BJK: Not But as you had pointed out earlier, the body is the temple. We need to educate people about the significance of taking care of the tools and gifts the Lord had given to each of us, our bodies being a major one of those. © 2010 The Fit Christian Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

Has the word “fellowship” become fattening by FC: definition, or can we change that meaning by finding wisdom in the Word of God? it seems as though just getting together for BJK: Ia know small group means Dominos ... well once again by really digging in the Scriptures we will see the importance in taking care of ourselves in lots of ways. Just as you can indulge in the wrong spiritual “food” you can also indulge in the wrong nutritional food as well. The Bible is an endless book of knowledge waiting to be read.

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You do your own gardening, could this encourFC: age better diet and possibly even a little profit on the side too? it! It not only gives me time alone to think; BJK: II love can do it with the children and they gain some valuable tools from it as well. Once again you get back what you give to it. I garden a lot, so in the summer and spring I save lots of money. I also have a small winter garden as well. We take so much pride in eating the foods we nurtured and grew ourselves. a “Boot Camp” and I get imagFC: esYouofaremyoffering own military nightmare past. Do you have an easy starter course for us fearful fogies, and wimps?

with hard work and dedication you do not BJK: That need the “supplements” that some take.

well I actually just do the same routines, BJK: Ha-ha, What are some hazards for young people startslower and maybe not as hard core. FC: ing out in fitness sports and modeling? What does preparing for competition change in Oh there really are a lot. I guess some of the FC: your fitness planning? Is this a big change to BJK: opportunities you get are definitely worldly, so one’s lifestyle?

BJK:

you have to be on your guard not to be persuaded into a lifestyle that is un-godly. It’s not always easy! We I tend to stay close to my diet plan, but yes, no have to remember that we are a temple, and not to be sold to dinners out or nighttime snacks, it also kicks up sinful choices. the cardio quite a bit.

What can your Christian spouse or friends do to Tell us about natural bodybuilding competiFC: support your training lifestyle? FC: tions, and why they are important for Christians. (These are competitions that test for drug husband is awesome! As for friends, I always use.) BJK: My appreciate when I have a training partner but that’s not for everyone, ha-ha. It’s also nice to be it opens the door for seasoned veterans or BJK: Well invited over and have them understand that I eat a certain amateurs to compete against others that are close

to the same caliber as them, where it’s really up way, and I don’t always appreciate the spotlight on that. It’s in the air. Some un-tested contests have unhealthy standards nice when people ask how training is going. to live up to. A strong woman is described in Proverbs 31. (She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengthWhat can a Christian demonstrate by placing eneth her arms. Prov 31:17) Since the church is well in a non-tested bodybuilding competition? the bride of Christ, could this be an example to the whole church? (Guys too!)

FC:

of BJK: Yes course, to me it applies in the way that the church should be doing all it can to prepare for Christ. Working diligently in the field and gathering people for his cause. H

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Exercise the Right Way

Dynamic Warm-Ups A New Way to Warm-Up for Running

ÂŠ Chris Chapan

Dynamic warm-ups target muscles that are used specifically for running. These drill exercises will prepare the body for action. Warm-ups develop, teach, and prepare our muscles for what will take place when during running. The exercises increase blood flow, gradually increase body temperature, and prepare the joints, muscles, and skeleton for action. Overstretching can also be a problem since overstretched muscles often inhibit running performance. Traditional static stretches can cause micro-tears in the muscles which are detrimental to strenuous cardiovascular sessions, such as running. Athletes from former Soviet countries as a far back as the 1970s have used dynamic warm-ups before running. Performing these drills can reduce the risk of common running injuries. You might want to incorporate these dynamic warm-ups into your routine before your next run. Walking High Step Muscles Targeted: Gastronenmus, Soleus, and Hip Flexors

Fast walk sideways and alternate one foot in front and the other in the back. Complete 10 repetitions. Repeat 4 times in both left and right directions. Heel Walking Muscles Targeted: Soleus, Tibalis Anterior, and Gastronimus

Walk on your heels and make sure your heels touch the Extend your leg to your waist, high in the air. Move your ground. opposite arm to touch your leg. Continue with opposite leg and arm. Repeat ten times. Toe Walking Muscles and ligaments targeted: Abductor Hallucis, Flexor Walking High Step Digitorum Brevis, Abductor Digiti Minimi, Medial Plantar, Muscles Targeted: Gastronenimus, Soleus, and Hip Flexors, and Lateral Antar Bring your legs up to waist high with legs bent. Touch Walk on your toes, taking care to not touch your heels to the opposite knees to legs. Continue with opposite legs and ground. knees. Hurtle Steps Grape Vines Muscles Targeted: All lower legs muscles and back muscles Muscles Targeted: Hamstrings and glutes Imagine you are walking over a series of large boxes. Pick Fast walk sideways and alternate one foot in front of the up your feet and knees and go about 25 feet in one direction. other. Repeat by going the opposite direction in the same motion. Shuffle Muscles Targeted: Trapezius, Errector Spinae, Teres Minor Butt Kicks and Major, Lattismus Dorsi, Gastronemus, Soleus, and Muscles Targeted: Quadriceps and Glutes Tibalis Anterior Bend your knees and bring your lower legs to your glutes. Alternate and make sure you get an equal number of kicks on each side. H ÂŠ 2010 The Fit Christian Magazine.

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Protect your shoulders

Exercise the Right Way

By Dr. Todd McDougle for The Fit Christian

When any of us train, we want to see gains in our strength and power. Unfortunately, there often is an injury which blocks our success. One of the worst areas to experience an injury is the shoulder. With so many types of activities to choose from as an active person, there are lots of opportunities to create an injury to the shoulder. Bursitis, tendonitis, and muscle strains often plague those who seek fitness. www.MayoClinic.com is a great resource for these definitions: tion, and repeat the activities as previously Bursitis is a painful condition that affects the small fluid- noted for the third filled pads called bursae that act as cushions among your phase. Finally, do all bones and the tendons and muscles near your joints. The of the preceding condition is called bursitis when a bursa becomes inflamed. again in the opposite direction. You will Tendinitis is inflammation or irritation of a tendon — any be shocked with one of the thick fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones. how effective these The condition causes pain and tenderness just outside a joint. warm-up / stabilizaWhile tendinitis can occur in any of your body's tendons, it's tion exercises are! It most common around your shoulders, elbows, wrists, and will give you quite a pump! We have seen this style of heels. shoulder warm-up with the popular P90X CD programs found at www.BeachBody.com Strains are stretching or tearing of muscles or tendons, a fibrous cord of tissue that connects muscles to bones. Strains These simple pre-exercise measures may protect you from often occur in the lower back and in the hamstring muscle in initiating a shoulder injury due to failure to warm up. Please the back of your thigh. Strains can often occur in the shoulder note however, that there are also alignment issues in the as well with overtraining during pull-ups, lat pull-downs, neck, shoulder, elbow, and even the wrist that could also lead tricep dips, bicep curls and even with deltoid work. to shoulder pain. These issues are easily diagnosed and corrected by your Chiropractic Doctor. If you have any Now since we have defined some of the problems, it’s time questions regarding shoulder injury prevention or problems, to do a little prevention. The above injuries can and often do please don’t hesitate to send them to happen, unless you prepare for exercise. The fact is that Dr.McDougle@Comcast.Net warming up your shoulders before going full bore can actually be quite exhilarating and will protect them. Arm circles I am looking forward to hearing from you! Have a great day! are one of the easiest and most cost effective ways to begin the stabilization process. There are three phases to the shoulder-arm circle circuit. Begin with your arms outstretched to the sides of your body and begin making small circles in the air with your palms facing away from your body in a forward motion. Do these for about ten to fifteen rotations then expand your circle size for the same number for the second phase. Once this next phase is complete, use a palm and fingers down hand posi© 2010 The Fit Christian Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

Dr. McDougle is a Member of the International Chiropractors Association. He is on the Board of the ICA of Indiana, and is the Chairman for the ICA~I Insurance Compliance Council. He remains the only Chiropractic Doctor in Indiana to be Certified by Spine Corporation; the producers of the SpineCor Bracing system. Dr. McDougle has been involved with local, National, and International sports figures since 1997. He is the developer of the McDougle Multi-Release Pelvic Technique and has trained many Chiropractic Doctors in his methodology. Fishers: 317-770-5775

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Exercise the Right Way

Fool-Proof Weight Loss Methods

By Laurette Willis, Director of PraiseMoves, LLC www.PraiseMoves.com

“Fool-Proof Weight Loss”? Is that even possible? Yes. From a purely physical standpoint, there are a few things you can do that have been proven to absolutely work. Add to that several scriptural elements which include the Lord’s help, and you have “Fool-Proof” methods that can mean the difference between success and “same-old, same-old.” First, let’s look at the physical. Researches from the Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research followed more than 2,000 people who wanted to lose weight. They encouraged them to write down their meals and snacks throughout the day. The biggest single predictor of whether a participant lost weight or not was whether he or she kept a food journal. but ½ cup or about the size of a fist (he asked if it could be about the size of an open fist filled with pasta). Successful weight loss and weight management as a result of keeping a food journal beat out exercise habits, body mass Eating out has its drawbacks when it comes to portion-conindex or age. Interestingly, the number of pounds lost was in scious eating. A good rule of thumb is to ask your server to direct correlation to the number of days they wrote in their put half your entrée in a take-home container before it is diary or log. brought to your table. You’ll be less likely to open the container while seated at the table; you’ll eat less and probaKeeping a food diary is an eye-opening experience for those bly enjoy it more, feel less sleepy after your meal, and wind of us who think we “eat like a bird.” That may not be such a up with a quick lunch for the next day. wise comparison. Did you know that birds eat constantly and some eat one-quarter to one-half of their body weight per 3. Are you getting enough of the right nutrients? day? Anybody up for a fifty-pound hamburger with ten Keeping a food journal will also reveal to you the nutrition pounds of fries? Yikes! you are getting in your daily meals. Think you’re eating the recommended 5-9 portions of fruit and vegetables per day? Here are a few more reasons keeping a food journal makes Looking at the food journal for a week may reveal that good sense. ketchup was the fruit and vegetable du jour and Twinkies are a new food group. 1. Cutting back on between-meal snacks and “grazing.” Think back to what you ate yesterday. You may remember Make sure you’re taking your whole food vitamins every day breakfast, lunch and dinner, but do you recall everything you and add some concentrated greens (usually come in powate and drank yesterday? Even if you just took “a taste” of dered or granulated form) to sprinkle on your food to make something, each little taste adds up. Considering most up for the perfection we don’t reach every day. mouthfuls of food average 25 calories, six extra nibbles a day are an extra 150 calories, which can add up to an extra 15 4. What are your food triggers? pounds per year. Looking for that feeling of fullness food cannot fill (but Jesus can)? Bored? Lonely? Looking at a project to be 2. How much DO you eat in a day? completed and the temporary distraction of snacking keeps Writing it down is a wake-up call for many of us. Do you eat calling you to the refrigerator or candy machine? by the portion size, or by the plateful? Along with the notations about food, get a handle on the emotions that accompany unplanned snacking—or binges. My husband Paul (a.k.a. “Paul the Pasta Prince”) was crest- When you notice patterns, you can ask the Lord to help you fallen when he learned one portion of pasta is not a plateful change them. See “Weight Loss” page 34 © 2010 The Fit Christian Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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Weight Loss cont....

a living sacrifice to You, Lord, holy and acceptable which is This leads us to the best way to lose weight or make any my reasonable service. And I will not be conformed to this world, but by Your grace I am being transformed by the changes in your life at all: ask the Lord to help you. renewing of my mind on Your holy Word. In Jesus’ name I Commit your food plan to the Lord daily. pray. Amen.”

Exercise the Right Way

Keeping a food journal throughout the day is a great idea – and writing a food plan in your journal that morning or the night before is even better. Keep it simple, or detailed and close enough to you so you can refer to it during the day. Why? For two reasons:

Following these weight loss methods are absolutely foolproof because a woman who follows the Lord is NO FOOL! So if they’re so effective they can be considered fool-proof, imagine what a wise woman of the Word like YOU can do!

1. You’ve heard the expression, “Those who fail to plan, And now I'd like to invite you to get my free "Fit Favorites plan to fail.” By planning what you will eat, you’re less Devotional" and PraiseMoves FitNews. To get yours, go to likely to fall prey to last-minute choices made when blood http://praisemoves.com. sugar is low and thinking a bit fuzzy. 2. It will give you a plan you can commit to the Lord and ask Him to help you keep it. The wonderful thing is that He absolutely will help you.

© Laurette Willis 2009 Christian Fitness Expert and author Laurette Willis is the Director of PraiseMoves, offering fitness programs, DVDs, books and training for those interested in a Christian alternative to yoga, and fitness for spirit, soul and body at http://praisemoves.com . To follow Laurette on Twitter visit http://twitter.com/Fit4Christ and on FaceBook: http://facebook.com/praisemoves

“Commit your works to the LORD, and your thoughts will be established” Proverbs 16:3. I literally hold my food plan for the day up to the Lord during my Morning Prayer time. “Lord, I commit my food plan to You today. I trust You to help me walk in the fruit of the Spirit today, including self-discipline. I place my food plan, my whole day and my life in Your hands. I present my body

Making Mealtime Matter for Men

what's going into their body," says Bonci.

Now more than ever, today's men are facing a "male meal dilem- Here are some of her expert ma." Despite their desire to live and eat better, men are having tips for better eating. trouble finding convenient, satisfying foods that taste good and they can feel good about eating. Build Muscle: Look for protein-rich foods such as Their busy schedules only add to the dilemma. Men are now more nuts, beans or lean meats. physically active and involved with their families and communities Along with exercise, protein helps build muscle, which can boost than ever before. In fact a recent survey found that half of men said metabolism. their family requires more of their time and on top of that, 40 percent work longer hours. Even though they wish they could eat Fill Up, Not Out: Low calorie-dense foods, those that are higher better, it's no surprise that most of the time they end up reaching for in water content and offer more nutrients in fewer calories such as foods that are not good for them because they are stretched for time vegetables, fruits and soups are great for weight management. Pair Chunky Grilled Sirloin Burger with Hearty Vegetables Soup with ... or they're left hungry by diet dinners. a side salad for maximum "volume" impact. Some food brands are now responding. One of the most popular Make Family Time: Less time in the kitchen means more time to "man brands," Campbell's(r) Chunky(tm) soup, just revamped its spend with the family. A few nights a week opt for simple meals, line to help provide a solution to the dilemma by offering 23 soups such as soup and sandwiches that everyone will enjoy. that deliver a full serving of vegetables and 100 percent lean meat; Save Dollars: With the cost of food in mind, stretch your dollar by and many soups that provide a good source of protein. making meals at home or repurposing leftovers into brand new NFL sports team registered dietitian Leslie Bonci works with some meals. Eating at home helps with portion control, too. of the nation's toughest athletes, and she says that with all of the Get Your Zzzzzs: Be sure to get enough sleep each night to added responsibilities and activities most men are juggling, it's improve eating habits and concentration. Often, people make poor even more important to develop better eating food choices and overeat simply because of fatigue. Ideally, aim habits. for 7-8 hours on most nights. "There is no way that somebody can perform to the maximum if they don't take care of

For more information and tips from Bonci, visit ChunkySoupGamePlan.com. Courtesy of Family Features | Source: Campbell's® Chunky(tm) Soup

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to say nothing about others in the ministry, for good or bad. You do not know who lives behind our names, because God oseph had trouble when he told his dreams to his broth- keeps it that way. He alone can judge his servants. ers. Even today we can have a problem if we boast of what God has revealed to us. I think I lose support when I go on I still talk too much, as you see in my LONG bible studies. and on about my youth ministry ideas. I think some saints (Did I hear an “AMEN” out there?) I may learn silent, after turn against us if they become jealous or disbelieve the vision I learn strong? We should be there now spiritually, since we we hear from God. King Hezikiah also set a problem in have power in Christ. If we can be as Israel, instead of Jacob, motion when he showed off the treasures of the temple to the we don’t need boasting or decisiveness. We can have the Babylonians. He revealed too many of his secrets and trea- power of anointing from God in humility. sures to an enemy. Because I can trust my Christian brothers, I can share my At that time Berodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of struggles when I have a wrong to pray about. But I can only Babylon, sent letters and a present unto Hezekiah: for he share about my own failures. I am supposed to cover everyhad heard that Hezekiah had been sick. And Hezekiah hear- body else’s sins up, not to uncover them. That requires a kened unto them, and shewed them all the house of his private chat with them alone. Here is what I call “The precious things, the silver, and the gold, and the spices, and Matthew three step”: the precious ointment, and all the house of his armour, and all that was found in his treasures: there was nothing in his Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, (1)go house, nor in all his dominion, that Hezekiah shewed them and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall not. Then came Isaiah the prophet unto king Hezekiah, and hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not said unto him, What said these men? and from whence came hear thee, then (2) take with thee one or two more, that in the they unto thee? And Hezekiah said, They are come from a far mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be estabcountry, even from Babylon. And he said, What have they lished. And if he shall neglect to hear them, (3) tell it unto the seen in thine house? And Hezekiah answered, All the things church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto that are in mine house have they seen: there is nothing thee as an heathen man and a publican. Matthew 18:15-17 among my treasures that I have not shewed them. And Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, Hear the word of the LORD. Behold, So our pastor should not allow anyone to come with tales the days come, that all that is in thine house, and that which until the conversation was done in private, then with a thy fathers have laid up in store unto this day, shall be trusted witness first. The accused is always present for each carried into Babylon: nothing shall be left, saith the LORD. discussion. And of thy sons that shall issue from thee, which thou shalt beget, shall they take away; and they shall be eunuchs in the If I am keeping a vision or dream to myself, a secret, I can go palace of the king of Babylon. 2 Kings 20:12-18 about with the confidence of the Lord about my hopes. Perhaps we have only a glimpse of he vision, and not the full When Joseph learned to be the “strong silent type” he gained understanding. By revealing more than we know, we can the advantage over his brothers. He HAD the anointing from look foolish. When I graduated from ministry training school God, and didn’t have to brag about it. We should be careful See “Through the Bible” next page © 2010 The Fit Christian Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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Through the Bible cont...

And Jacob their father said unto them, Me have ye bereaved at my old church, I was expecting a prophetic word from the of my children: Joseph is not, and Simeon is not, and ye will take Benjamin away: all these things are against me. elders. We were passed over, and I was disappointed. I have since learned that I was to lose our home, our life savings, and eventually my wife. I might not have wanted to know all of that in advance. I feel that I am being used now in some of the things of my earlier visions. But I might have run away if I had known how much fire was needed to purge me of my flaws.

And Reuben spake unto his father, saying, Slay my two sons, if I bring him not to thee: deliver him into my hand, and I will bring him to thee again. And he said, My son shall not go down with you; for his brother is dead, and he is left alone: if mischief befall him by the way in the which ye go, then shall ye bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave. Genesis 42:-38

I have some hopes that would bring me huge pleasure. Some of them are at least partially revealed to me, but not in full. If I tell what I see now, I will probably only repel people. I have had the experience of sounding foolish a few times now. Not everyone will keep our secrets! I had more inner joy when I remembered to keep the vision inside for this season. I can wear this confidence with no more than a smile to the outside world. Or I can lose the smile to the little spirits that will try to tear the dream apart before its’ time.

Joseph had a few trials on his path, but God did deliver his vision in his time. Jacob would see his two lost sons again after all. Even the book of Job has a happy ending! We have to be ready to rejoice when we are down, just as much as when we are in the winning place. You are already seated in heavenly places by faith. You ARE more than conquerors, EVEN NOW. H

I do not know the time of my vision. Jesus did not know the time of his return either…only the Father knows! I do know that I walked in to a huge blessing when I asked about getting our group into the Ronnie Coleman Classic bodybuilding show. But that success was built on the knowledge and opportunity I gathered from Giana Holder and Brian Dobson. We can not produce fruit without the help of the body of Christ. We need to allow everyone to be close without being repulsive in an erroneous pride from partial vision. Joseph did not reveal himself or his dreams to his brothers when they came to him in Egypt. The time was not yet fully come. They could only tell their father that the ruler of the land wanted to see their youngest brother Benjamin. Israel could not yet see the plan of the Lord in this.

David Luther is a retired contract designer. He discovered great fitness help at the Metroflex gym in Arlington Texas, and with help from "Metroflex Gym’s Down-To-Earth Guide To Your Ideal Body" he is back in training in Mesa Arizona. He finds inspiration to manage diet, training, and daily trials in the great examples we interview, and in the scripture of Bible studies. These Bible studies are also inspiring an application for outreach. "Tabernacle Trails" is a pilot program on Meetup-dot-com balancing physical and spiritual growth. The Arizona wilderness offers an outdoor adventure that may bring the Bible to life through hiking and camping.

You may contact David at diluther@cox.net.

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For the Kingdom A scripture to help you focus on your Christian life. Meditate and pray on this verse from the Bible and see how it applies to your life, or how you should apply it. Ask the Lord for revelation and understanding on the scriptures and He will grant your request. “With all this going for us, my dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don't hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 The Message. You may have heard this scripture more often in the King James version rather than in The Message version, but The Message says it loud and clear. Here is the original: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV. I love this verse. It gives me encouragement when I am feeling overwhelmed and unable to do the work that is set before me. This verse tells us to be fixed in our direction and overflowing in the work that the Lord has set before us. This statement puts everything into perspective. What are you doing, and is it for the Lord? Sometimes even our work for the Lord can be overwhelming. I have those days when my plate is overflowing, and even though I enjoy my work, I feel overworked and I have to examine everything that is on my plate–what is for/from the Lord and what isn’t? What can I take off my plate? Sometimes, the answer is ‘nothing.’ But what I am learning is that some of those immovable things are not really for/from God, I made those commitments on my own. And for those commitments that are immoveable nor from God (like college classes), I learn from them. I learn to listen to my spirit when it was telling me not to go this semester. I learn to seek God in each and every detail of my life–being sure not to run ahead without first receiving an answer. He sees the future and what calamity can lie ahead by taking on too many commitments. However, God also has the grace to see us through our own blunders and pitfalls when we didn’t take the time to hear from Him, or when we just flat out didn’t listen, thinking we knew what was best. I thank God for that grace, and for the ability to learn from examining my overflowing plate of commitments.

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