Spiritual Healing Series: Where are my spiritual gifts?

This is my fourth post in the Spiritual Healing Series. In my first post I pointed out that Jesus was authoritative and strong, and that we have the same spiritual gifts that he had. The second post very briefly points out that Jesus did not earn his gift of healing through legalism or religion, but through a relationship with God. The third post depicts Jesus and God as one. Jesus had spent ample time in direct training through his relationship with God. The word of God grew within Him until it manifested in His physical life.

Again, the Bible clearly points out that we have all the spiritual gifts in Christ, so why aren't they manifesting in our lives? Even those of us who study God's word, are struggling with this question. Jesus said that his followers would do greater things than He, yet it's not happening. Jesus also said "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish , and it shall be done for you." What? Is that happening in your life?

Even though Jesus was authoritative and strong, He was also humble. He humbled Himself and gave up His own desires allowing God to work through Him. When He preached the gospel, thousands were healed physically and spiritually.

There are many who believe they have already done this. They live in the mission field, giving up most of their physical desires, working daily to spread the Gospel. Yet, something is missing and I believe the answer is found in Hebrews chapter 3 and 4. It's a place called God's rest.

Jesus considered Himself "In God." He also considered God to be "In Him." In order for us to be "In God," we have to take our seat "In Christ." This is the only way we will be allowed to enter God's rest.

The act of including each and every believer "In Christ" is already done. All who believe are already there. Yet, they spend their Sundays trying to earn their way in. It can't be earned. It is only a matter of opening your hands, opening your hearts and receiving the gift of grace.

For most, this isn't as easy as it sounds as there is one more requirement. Forget everything you know (or think you know) about God. Forget the legalism, religion and theology. Start all over with a direct relationship with God and take no man's word over His.

Forget what you see with your eyes, forget what you've felt with your hands. Forget what is right and what is wrong. Forget what you have been taught about yourself! Forget the past and forget the future; no more crystal ball. Live in a second by second "nucleus" so to speak in direct communication with your Father God.

It will definitely require that humble spirit that Christ so obviously had.

Foods that Heal Depression

Foods that Heal Depression: My mother is suffering from Lewy Body Dementia and, as you may already know, I have suffered in the past from depression. Therefore, I did some research on foods that are good for the brain. I used the keywords "foods that raise endorphins" and found this site from Honolulu Community College. I can't tell who the author is, so feel free to browse the site. It is straight-to-the-point and very interesting. Yes they are students, but comparing their research to that of others, they seem to be right on track.

Look for these foods in your market and start protecting and even improving your brain power. We'll be posting recipes and tips on these in the very near future.

• Intake plenty of anti-oxidant foods such as
• Blueberries
  
• prunes
• raisins
• blackberries
• garlic
• cooked kale
• cranberries
• strawberries
• raw spinach
• raspberries

• Omega-3 fish oil (seems to be good for just about everything including your skin, ladies! If you are like me and do not eat fish, try cod-liver-oil or an Omega 3 Fish Oil supplement.*)
• Salmon
  
• mackerel
• sardines

• What to drink?
  
• Regular tea (one Lipton tea bag will do perfectly)
• Green tea (but not powdered or bottled)

• What to Avoid?
• saturated animal fats
• polyunsaturated vegetable oil
• trans-fatty acids

• Last but not least
• Chocolate - Yes, it raises endorphins, but of course, use it moderately. Hey, how about a strawberry dipped in chocolate? Yum!!
  

*Some researchers warn against these types of supplements. If you are concerned, consult a nutritionist.

Come back! We'll be posting more on these foods that heal each week.

Foods that Heal

Foods that Heal is a discussion about scriptures (foods that heal the soul) and recipes (foods that heal the body). I know you have heard the phrase "garbage in, garbage out." That applies to your spirit as well as your body, so join us. Replace the garbage that has been pumped into your mind with healthy Biblical information and replace the garbage in your frig with healthy foods! You'll have fun and feel better!

Feeling Anxious and Depressed

So you are feeling anxious and depressed. Not much to live for? Can't think of anything that brings joy into your life?

Think about this. Write it down or print it out and carry it with you. Meditate on it for a few days or a few months if you have to.

John 3:16 (What does it mean?)

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

1. For God so loved (write your name here) - Get this into your head. For God so loved (write your name here)... For God so loved (write your name here)... Say it, think about it, shout it.

2. that He gave - He gave. He didn't take, He didn't squash, He didn't destroy, He gave. Let go of those lies you have been taught about Him. He doesn't steal, kill or destroy. He gives.

3. his one and only Son - This one speaks for itself. Would you give your only child for anyone?

4. that whoever believes in him - Whoever believes. Not whoever is perfect, whoever performs the best, whoever looks the best, whoever earns the most or even gives the most. Whoever believes.

5. shall not perish but have eternal life. - Eternal life versus eternal sadness, eternal confusion, eternal depression. Eternal life begins in this life. Choose to believe and choose eternal life.